Huami Magazine Arizona Nov./Dec. 2022

ngelia

www.ladyespecs.com

Yesterday Prepared Me For What’s Next

It seemed like only yesterday when the first edition of Huami Magazine was published. In November 2007, a vision given to me by God became my reality. I have shared the story of publishing Huami Magazine, first having a conversation with God, then taking the leap and stepping out faithfully in response to God’s call. Still, I often reflect on the first edition and become reminded of how awesome God is.

While I was confident in my ability to fulfill the assignment, I admit I didn’t have all the answers initially. Ten years earlier, in 1997, I researched the magazine publishing industry, specifically in the Triad area of North Carolina. I did this to learn more about what is required to publish a magazine, including how to manage a publishing company, etc. Amongst all of the information obtained, I never inquired about how to support my new media company financially. That would eventually pose a problem for me and Huami Magazine.

Finances and their availability is vital to the survival of any business. I self-funded operating costs for quite some time, especially in the first few years of existence. However, all of a sudden, things changed. Huami Magazine would enjoy the love and support from unlikely sources, including individuals who never exhibited an interest in the product. Doors would soon open and opportunities flowed. Things were looking up for Mykel Media Company, LLC.

As the face and founder of Huami Magazine, I worked hard to spread brand awareness. During this time, there were other challenges I would face, but having the support of the magazine wasn’t one of them. Sales were so good that everything needed to keep our doors open, we received it. God saw something good about Huami Magazine and He made provisions to ensure

The message that I want to remind the readers of Huami Magazine is simple. When God gives you an assignment, He will also make provisions for you to see it through. All that we have to do is show up for the assignment.

Terry L. Watson

www.huamimagazine.com

Terry L. Watson Publisher

Monica Montgomery Writer

Joy Rogers Writer

Terry L. Watson Writer

Dorjea’ McClammey Writer

Tamara Smith

Felecia Reed Photographer

Bernard Smith Photographer

Nini Michelle Visuals Photographer

Howard Gaither Photography

(336)340-7844

Email Want

336-340-7844

Mykel Media Company LLC Greensboro, NC 2022 All Rights Reserved Scan

Marvin F. Cockrell

Music makes his world go around. Learn more about his journey through life and music.

St. Louis, MO

If you are in need of home repair service, she is here to help. Learn more about her journey in business. Hampton Roads, VA

Marcus Boyd

He is using his platform to change lives and bring awareness. Meet the new face of Autism. Atlanta, GA

The World Traveling Photographer Angela Malbrew

Arielle Middleton

I Can See You

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Felicia Reed Photography

It all comes down to what is seen through her eyes.

Arizona-based photographer Angelia Malbrew describes herself as a woman of God. She is also determined to create a life she loves and a legacy she can be proud of.

Angela is a loving wife, mom, daughter, sister, friend, mentor, educator, and successful entrepreneur. She is the oldest of two amazing daughters to her parents, whom she says were both solid and dedicated examples.

Angela attended school in the hospitality state of Mississippi. In 2011, she made a move to Arizona and continued her education. Today, she is the owner of Angelia Malbrew Photography LLC. “I am a traveling luxury portrait photographer with a flare and a passion for making my clients look and feel like celebrities. I offer luxury portrait experiences by rolling out the red carpet and offering a full-on celebrity affair,” she says.

Angela realized her love for photography many years ago, and making a career out of it only made sense. She shares, “I developed a love of photography when I received my first Polaroid camera when I was around 12 or 14 years old. I began taking photos of my family and friends at school, and little did I know that would be the start of something beautiful. My late father, Clayton, was a huge influence in my life, and watching him take everyone else’s photos at family gatherings is one of the reasons I fell in love with art. My cousin, the late Nate Edwards, motivated me and was never too busy to help or push me to become an amazing photographer.”

The excitement her clients express when they see her work is something Angela says she loves about photography. “I love how their faces light up like a kid at Christmas when they see the back of my camera. I love how they get excited and cry when they see their images upon delivery. I also love being an artist blessed by God to create art and freeze time. I love what I do more than I could ever articulate, and I know I was born for this,” she says.

Understanding her purpose and being able to enjoy the success she has, Angela would be remiss not to honor those who have impacted and inspired her the most. Her late grandmother, father, and mother ensured she would be upstanding, successful, and well-rounded. “I do what I do and keep going because God has an amazing purpose for me. My husband and family have been very supportive and kept me going when I needed them most. I owe it to them and myself, as well as other little brown girls that see me as an inspiration to be the best I can be.”

Some of the challenges Angela says she has faced in business is trying to prove herself to those that aren’t familiar with the process of being photographed professionally. “Luxury isn’t cheap, and cheap isn’t luxury,” she says. Another challenge is educating and advising her clients about how important it is to have professional photographs and legacy portraits. “Sometimes, when people are used to doing things a certain way, it takes a bit of convincing and several connection advances to win them over. That’s ok, and I am here for it all. I welcome challenges.”

In the future, Angela plans to take the world by storm, create more memorable portraits, and offer exceptional service to all that step in front of her camera. She also plans to continue taking her brand of photography around the globe. “I want to photograph people in every part of the world. My clients, fans, and viewers may miss the chance to travel, so I want to show them the world through my eyes. Keep watching, I am on my way,” she says.

Her advice to those who may follow a path similar to hers is to pray, work hard, pray some more, keep moving, and never give up on your dreams. She also says to stay humble and always find a way to give more than you take. h

K-9 Safety Consultants LLC

By Monica Montgomery Photos Provided by Flem Peacher VI

Family is essential to Flem Preacher Sr. He is the sixth Flem Preacher in his family and the second generation of leadership in the K-9 Safety Consultants firm.

K-9 Safety Consultants LLC was launched on January 29, 1985, by founder Flem Peacher V of Detroit, Michigan. K9 Safety Consultants is a household name and brand people can trust. K9 Safety Consultants has trained private firms, law enforcement agencies, celebrities, athletes, and the general public. The “K9 Safety Method” enhances the relationship and communication between dog owners and their furry friends.

Flem Peacher VI, the company’s CEO, and his wife, Talitha Peacher, the company administrator, along with his sister, Flemesha (Peacher) Armstrong, president, are in charge of securing the family-run company for the next generation.

The founder of K-9 Safety Consultants was Flem Peacher V. This business was not just a job but a calling. Birth from tragedy, the founder Flem Peacher V built a legacy that would span over forty years.

“Our story started with a near-fatal mauling. When my dad was around thirteen, he was walking down the street, and a neighbor’s pit bull got loose. The vicious attack left my father close to death. Needless to say, that experience traumatized him. After surviving that attack, my father was terrified of dogs. It didn’t matter what kind. He couldn’t be around them or see them. If someone said the word, he would panic, looking around to see if there was a dog nearby. My grandfather was concerned and didn’t want his son to continue to live in terror. He firmly believed that the best way to get over your fear was to face them head-on. So, my grandparents bought my father a puppy. This helped him see that not all dogs were the same. As he bonded with the dog, my grandparents noticed that he had an unusual gift for training the dog. This confirms that everything happens for a reason. If not for the attack, the talent my father possessed may have never been revealed.”

After overcoming his fear, Flem’s father fell in love with dogs. Everyone around him noticed his unique gift of reading a dog’s behavior. They also noticed that he could train dogs to perform practically anything on command. Through experience, he began to develop what is known as the “K9 Safety Method.” This method has been proven and used worldwide to transform millions of dogs into model citizens. “After marrying my mother, my dad moved to Arlington, Texas, and went on to receive many specialty certifications. Including Schutzhund training.”

According to the United Schutzhund Clubs of America or USCA, “Schutzhund is a German word meaning “protection dog.” It refers to a sport that focuses on developing and evaluating dog traits that make them more useful and happier companions to their owners. Schutzhund’s work concentrates on three parts. Many are familiar with the obedience work of the American Kennel Club’s affiliates and will recognize the first two parts, tracking and obedience. The Schutzhund standards for the third part, protection work, are similar to those for dogs in police work.”

Upon returning to Detroit with his wife, young son, and daughter in tow, Flem’s father, saw the need to add another layer to the training of personal security dogs. “When my father moved us back to Detroit recognized that the dogs had to be able to discern their environment. With the crime rate as high as it was, the animal couldn’t properly protect its owner in the streets of Detroit if they weren’t trained to do so. So, he trained them in real conditions.”

This led Flem’s father to go door to door, offering his services. “He went from house to house asking people to let him transform their dogs. And that’s how it started. One house, one client, one dog at a time.” Eventually, word spread about the success Flem’s father was having, and their clientele grew. By the time Flem was ready to take over the business, the Peacher name was known by dog owners across the country.

One of the many things K-9 Safety consultants prides itself on is that they not only train the dog, but we train the owner. “What makes us unique is that we train the client and their dog. Because the dog is only as good as its handler, and the handler is only as good as the coach. As coaches, we have to educate and empower the handler. Once the owner or handler has completely bought-in to the theory behind what we do, you see a different kind of relationship between the dog and its owner.”

K-9 Safety Consultants’ “both sides of the leash” approach to training gives them success with dogs that most people won’t work with or own. “We are known for dealing with the dogs that most people have given up on,” Flem explains. “We have partnered with rescue organizations and taken on dogs sentenced to be euthanized. We’ve found that most people don’t know how to handle or respond to dogs with behavior issues. Like us, dogs have emotional issues and trauma, but they cannot express it the way we do. That’s where our approach excels.”

Flem and his sister Flemesha were raised watching, helping, and being trained by their father in the family business. Their mother was the executive administrator, and their father the CEO. Just like his name, Flem knew that K-9 Consultants would be passed on to him one day. At the age of twenty-one, he and his wife were newly married and had just purchased their first home. They were starting their new life together, and Flem was preparing to take up the torch when the recession hit.

“It had always been my dream to run the business, but because of the recession, there was no business. Our clients had to choose between paying basic utilities and paying for dog training. All I could do was stand by and watch our business, legacy, and my father’s hard work dry up. My father did everything he could to keep the doors open, but eventually, in about 2007, the banks foreclosed, and K-9 Safety Consultants was no more,” Flem confessed. With fewer clients, employees were laid off. “It was the toughest period in my life. We lost our home and our car. We lost everything. I’ve been a certified master trainer since I was thirteen. I didn’t know anything else.”

After losing everything, Flem found himself at what he said was his lowest point. “I had to work, so a friend connected me with a job as a part-time lunch aid, making $8.00 an hour. I was at my lowest point. My parents were multi-millionaires, so I never knew the kind of struggle I was experiencing. God was humbling me. Ministry wasn’t on my radar then, but God had plans.”

Taking the job as a lunch aid, Flem trusted that there was something bigger ahead. Like his dad, it wasn’t long before people noticed his unique talent. “The students at my school were rough. But they needed someone to give them structure and show them that they cared. Although I was just an aid, I didn’t sit by and allow them to be disrespectful. I knew how to give constructive discipline, and people took notice.”

Even in his dark place, God showed favor to Flem. Within ten years, he went from being a part-time cafeteria aid to Dean of students. “I didn’t want there to be a reason I couldn’t progress, so I went to school to show myself approved.” After losing everything, Flem and his family were finally starting to stand on firm financial ground. But the dream he thought was dead was only sleeping.

“K-9 Safety Consultants had closed physically, but it was always on my mind. So, once I made decent money and we were stable, I started training dogs again. I started just like my father did. I went door to door.” It wasn’t long before K-9 Safety Consultants was back in business with over two thousand clients. Flem could leave education and go full-time into the training business again.

The company continues to prosper and be a blessing to its community. They won the business of the year in 2022. And through their K-9 Cadet program, they have mentored twenty-five hundred children and youth, ages nine to eighteen, because the Peacher family legacy is bigger than dog training. They have also granted scholarships to students who what to further their education.

“This has truly been a rollercoaster ride, but I wouldn’t do anything differently. God has blessed us beyond measure with a life and legacy that I pray will last another forty years.”

“It had always been my dream to run the business, but because of the recession, there was no business. Our clients had to choose between paying basic utilities and paying for dog training. All I could do was stand by and watch our business, legacy, and my father’s hard work dry up.”

Lomax Tax & Financial Services

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by B Smith Photography

Kenya Lomax-Sims of Greenville, SC, is known as the “Queen of the $100 dollar Tax Return”. She is also the owner of Lomax Tax and Financial Services LLC, a full-service accounting firm dedicated to helping clients with their tax needs.

In addition to being a business professional, Kenya is a loving mother and wife to her husband Gregory, a union that has spanned ten years. Together, they have five kids; Antonio, Stephen, Erin, Nairuby, and Gregory Jr., and one grandson, Caidyn. Kenya grew up in a loving, religious household with an entrepreneurial spirit. Furthermore, being a business owner did not come by happenstance as her father, mother, cousins, and husband owned or still owned a business.

Her father was a pastor, businessman, and restaurant owner. From there, Kenya saw the good and the bad of running a business but still received the spark to start her own. Her mother opened Lomax Hats and Tax Boutique, and a cousin also ran a tax business. These two extraordinary ladies helped Kenya realize that she also wanted her own in the tax world.

“We may be a small operation, but we have a big heart. We love our clients, and they love us back. This is what I love most about being a business owner, being able to serve others.”

Kenya began her journey from humble beginnings. With the help of her cousin and the motivation from financial gain, Kenya worked hard to create her tax firm. She worked with her for two years before working with her mother until she became an independent operation. Kenya worked job to job every tax season until being able to work it full-time in 2004. She would rent office spaces until God blessed her with space to call her own. “God has been the anchor to everything I have done,” she confesses.

In addition to being an accountant, Kenya is a real estate agent and life insurance producer with the Posey Group. Those additional skills have made Lomax Tax and Financial Services a full-service center capable of offering tax preparation, life insurance, and home sales. Lomax also provides free financial literacy consultations and tips to help others acquire the education and preparedness needed to operate a business effectively.

Launched in 2005, Lomax Tax and Financial Services is a small firm whose motto is, “Everyone is a name and not a number.” Kenya understands the needs of her clients and strives to ensure everyone who walks through her doors feels appreciated and welcome. “We may be a small operation, but we have a big heart. We love our clients, and they love us back. This is what I love most about being a business owner, being able to serve others. From birth, I was taught how to serve. Before you lead anyone, you have to know how to serve,” she says.

While there have been many great things Kenya has experienced as a business owner, she has also encountered some challenges. One of these was acquiring the needed capital to finance her business. Yet, she remained determined to succeed and persevered; by doing so, Lomax Tax and Financial Services LLC exist.

Kenya shares that her desire to leave her children a legacy is what keeps her going. As she continues to grow, Kenya plans to make Lomax Tax and Financial Services a one-stop shop for everything taxes, financing, and real estate. She also wants to dispel any misconceptions others may have about the tax system. “Most people dread all things taxes and deathly fear the IRS. With us, there is nothing to fear. We are not the typical tax office that shuts its doors on April 15th. We are always accessible and will help each client every step of the way. This includes tax planning and tax preparation,” she says.

Her advice to others who may follow a similar path as she has is very clear. “No matter who you are, no matter what you have done, there is no limit to what you can do. I learned from my past that no matter how bad it gets, that nothing is too hard for God, and He will always make a way. I began in the back of an office building and eventually obtained the whole building. God opened up endless doors for me and allowed me to continue to work through Him,” she says. “If you desire to enjoy a career such as the one I have, I advise you to start working for a tax preparation business first and learn how to do the business. Be ready when it’s your turn to step out because it can come any minute.” To learn more about Lomax Tax and Financial Services LLC, please contact them directly or visit their website.

Cockrell

By Joy Rogers Photos Provided by Marvin Cockrell

Marvin Cockrell of St. Louis, MO, is regarded as a musical genius. He is the man and the mind behind Music Focus LLC and Focus The Band. “I remind people to remember where talent comes from; mine comes from God.”

Marvin is a husband, father, member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc, and the youngest of seven children. He was born in Birmingham, Alabama, and moved to East Saint Louis, Illinois as an infant. As life progressed, he soon began playing the piano at seven and the saxophone at nine. “My parents began piano lessons with me,” he shares. “For the first year of piano lessons, my parents also took them to help get me acclimated.” Although his parents ultimately ceased their lessons, they encouraged Marvin to continue.

Marvin was encouraged to be an entrepreneur at an early age based on his family’s accomplishments. He is the son of an electrician and a seamstress. His biological mother owned a dry cleaner. His uncle, Leroy Garrett, was the founder of WEUP, the first Black-owned radio station in the state of Alabama and the first Black-owned 24-hour radio station in the United States. At age ten, Marvin had his first garage band, and played his first wedding at sixteen. The ambition for Marvin to be successful was innate.

“I love bringing people together and making them happy, and for me, music does that.” Marvin attended and graduated from East Saint Louis School District. After high school, he attended college and majored in music. At age twenty-two, he allowed his gift of music to be utilized for the benefit of others and began teaching and teaching elementary music for nine years. He also taught music at the middle school level, including Jazz Band, Concert Band, and Marching Band.

Many of Marvin’s students would eventually become his band members. With two music videos to date, his videos are rooted in messaging that aims to inspire and uplift. “Our World speaks to the political landscape as well as past and present-day struggles,” he says. Marvin has always found ways to implement music to address the various transitions in society and his personal life. One of his productions, St. Louis Bounce, is inspired by the loss of his late mother, who passed away in 2011. “Music helped me deal with the depression I felt after losing my mother.”

Marvin cites his marriage and having a family of his own as one of his most significant accomplishments, His daughter played the keyboard in his very first Jazz concert in 2004. “There is a sense of pride and joy when I can witness former students and family begin careers in music,” he says.

Navigating the musical landscape in Saint Louis and East Saint Louis has been challenging, and Marvins shares that, “Musically, it has been difficult to find managers and people to network.” From composing R&B in the brand 80s and 90s, Dr. Seth Brownridge collaborated with Marvin to create music. The Breeze was formed with the addition of Carl “Guitar” Watkins.

The band began to transition between 2002-2004 and eventually parted ways. Marvin Cockrell Music Focus became the business and Focus became the band. Marvin praises his wife Vivian for her support and assistance in promoting Music Focus. “If it wasn’t for the support of my wife, I would not be here five CD’s later.”

It’s apparent the path for Marvin hasn’t always been clear, yet the journey from the beginning of the musical pursuits were ordered for him to live out his purpose. “God has a plan for me and doors keep opening,” he says.

Some previous challenges for Marvin regarding management and publicity were alleviated when his very own daughter Dr. Maurya Dominica became his business manager. As such, Music Focus has an enhanced social media presence and visibility. As Marvin reflected on his journey as a musician, he realized that everything was predestined by design. He relied on his spirituality to aid him in overcoming the obstacles he encountered and shared, “Through prayer, perseverance, and determination, I was able to get my music out there.

Additionally, Marvis was given a proclamation from Tishaura O. Jones. the Mayor of the City of Saint Louis. Beginning in 2023, the month of August will be “Marvin Cockrell, Music Focus Month”. In honor of this proclamation. Marvin desires to continue impacting the Saint Louis community through musical entertainment and education awareness. Various workshops, activities, and performances will be held to commemorate Music Focus during August in the St. Louis Area.

Focus’ music has been played on various national radio stations and is available on all major streaming platforms. Mavin is recognized for starting the first Suzuki string program for preschool and kindergarten in the East Saint Louis School District. Recently, he played internationally in Rome, Italy, and Paris, France. Marvin currently serves as the Musical Director for Greater Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church.

During his career, Marvin has opened for greats such as the late Dennis Edwards of the Temptations, and Will Smith and played alongside Cameo and Saint Louis Saxophonist Tim Cunningham.

Marvin’s exhilarating passion for composing music is apparent in his everyday walk. Amazingly, the words spoken to him by his father have manifested. Marvin shares he is thankful to his father for the push to begin music lessons, “He was an electrician, he would be on the ground getting dirty, but he told me I would be in a suit and tie,” Marvin says.

In the future, Marvin plans to write two or three more cd’s and continue to host and conduct various workshops. These will focus on music education, playing, writing, leading a band, and the business of running and managing a band. Marvin desires to continue working with artists of various ages to inspire his writing and teach the next generation of young musicians. He is working on a music project to bring out the energy and passion he experienced in Barcelona, Paris, and Rome. “These three cultures greatly influenced my music and me as a person.” In addition to traveling and creating more music, Marvin hopes to cultivate an environment in St. Louis where music transcends all racial, socioeconomic, age, and access boundaries. h

Sunshine Home Improvement, LLC

By Monica Montgomery Indoor Photos Provided by Jerryck Jacob Outdoor Photos Provided Ryan N. Dyson

It’s common knowledge that black women can wear many hats, but can they all do it with a smile? Arielle “Sunshine” Middleton is proof positive that yes-we-can. She has a full-time military career and manages other skilled positions as a landscaper, carpenter, and artisan. Her most important job is as a single mother of five-year-old twins. In March of 2022, she formally launched Sunshine Home Improvement LLC. Arielle’s new company combines her love for people, her skill as a carpenter, and her artistry to create affordable design dreams for her clients.

“My reasons for getting into this were purely personal and selfish,” Arielle explains. “I’ve always been a very thrifty person. I try to do everything on a budget. I decided I wanted some new furniture pieces and home décor, but everything at these stores is so expensive. Even the marked-down and clearance items are still ridiculous. I’m like, ‘This isn’t a sale!’” she laughs.

As needs must, Arielle discovered thrift stores. “I found some gorgeous pieces for cheap. Even the not-so-beautiful items had the potential to become special with a little TLC. Usually, I could restore or upcycle items for little or nothing, and I enjoyed the work.”

Arielle’s passion for décor and restoring furniture was an outlet, so she took every opportunity to practice it. “After I finished my projects, I started doing things for my friends. When they would move, buy a new home, or want a change, and I would hear them say they needed a coffee table or a nightstand, I would think, ‘I can do that.’ So, I would find a five-dollar table, restore it and give it as a gift.” To her surprise, people loved her work.

After a year of impressing her friends with her ability to restore and transform items into something extraordinary, Arielle’s friends encouraged her to take the next step. “I had been doing my little transformations for friends for about a year when they were like, ‘Girl, you should make this a business.’ The thought had occurred to me, but my reality at the time was that I had a full-time job in the military, and I was a single mom with twins. I figured starting a business was a pipe dream way down the road,” Arielle explained. Then the pressures of life happened.

It’s no secret that our service men and women deal with highly stressful situations daily. Arielle has traveled the world with the military and has seen her fair share. When her future was uncertain, she turned to crafts as her outlet. “As I continued to think about it, there was a lot to consider. I was having trouble with my job. I didn’t know where my military career was going, and I was finding the craft work as a form of release,” says Arielle. “It turned into a mental health thing. Painting and crafting helped me stay balanced and sane. The feeling I got from sitting and painting was like talking to a counselor. It became my therapy.”

In effect, Arielle turned something basic, and a fun hobby into something she believed was life-saving. “Standing on the other side, I decided to launch the business as a birthday gift to myself.” Not wanting to jump into the deep end right away, Arielle decided to start small, but thanks to social media, her business grew overnight.

“I thought I would start with getting a few business cards printed to see if people were interested, but a couple of TikToks later, I’m getting clients from across the DMV (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia). Next, my friends all got together and sent me to the Black Business Expo. As a result, I’ve just signed my first major contract with a brokerage design firm Red Door Realty.” Arielle will be designing and building custom closets and pantries for million-dollar homes.

The amazing thing about Arielle’s story is that she had never picked up a hammer before joining the military. “One of my many jobs in my military career was as a combat engineer. It was the first time I had picked a hammer or a saw. As an engineer, I became familiar with woodworking, concrete, and building design, because my group’s job was to build schools from the ground up. So, when I started doing the small projects, my muscle memory kicked in, and I realized I actually knew what I was doing. I could actually do this.”

With newfound confidence, Arielle went out and “thrifted” some tools, dusted off her building skills, and began her journey as a carpenter. Her skills as a designer and artist came from where most great gifts and traits stem… her mother. “I got my natural ability to paint and design from my mother. She studied art, and I learned a lot from watching and being around her. My natural talent for art and design and my skills as a builder have made this an easy process.”

Although Arielle’s original purpose for discovering her talent was selfish, it has become a passionate desire to help people who don’t have much money to spend on décor or home renovations. “My mom used her artistic talent to build a business as a nail art designer. She owned her salon for over twenty years. Plus, she had an eye for beautiful things. She could put together amazing combinations. So as a kid, I grew up in the high-end stores as she purchased the odds and ends that brought her visions to life. As an adult, I go into these same stores, and I’m like, I’m not paying that much for that!” Arielle laughs. “I decided I’m going to go over here and get the old table that the person originally bought at the highend store and make it live again.”

Believing that having a beautiful and comfortable home shouldn’t have to cost a fortune, Arielle began to respond to what others were saying. “I kept hearing about how expensive it was to do simple renovations or interior designs. I started asking, what are these people charging? Some of these prices out here are ridiculous. My main focus in launching the business was to provide people with affordable options for getting the home of their dreams.”

Arielle’s resourcefulness and desire to deliver dreams on a dime pushed her to find quality materials at a discounted rate so she could pass those saving on to her clients.

“I discovered ways to get discounted wood and paint. I upcycle furniture so clients have nice pieces without having to go and pay the new prices. I go to home sales, where people have gutted their old kitchens and put in new stuff. I repurpose the old stuff into a new laundry room for someone else at a fourth of the cost. Giving customers these options to help them achieve their goals without breaking the bank is what I’m all about.”

Since launching the business, Arielle has been busy, but there were obstacles. “It’s one thing to do the work. I love when I finish a project, and the homeowner sees it for the first time. It makes the long nights worthwhile. My biggest issue was understanding the business side of things.” At thirty-three years old and fifteen of those years spent in the military, Arielle didn’t have much exposure to what it takes to build a business.

“Getting my LLC and all that paperwork done correctly was a struggle. It was such a struggle because I had no clue what I was doing. I thought all I had to do was go online, file paperwork, and pay a fee. Thankfully I had recently hired an accountant who reached out to me the day before an important deadline and told me everything I needed to do in less than twenty-four hours. Now that was stressful,” Arielle explained. “I didn’t have anyone to talk me through those critical parts. I wish I’d had a mentor to help explain what needed to be done. Thankfully I could get everything done before I faced any penalties.”

As Sunshine Home Improvement continues to grow, it remains small and personable. “When people call, they talk to me. I mow the lawns and hang the pictures. I work with contractors for larger jobs, but for the most part, it’s all me,” Arielle said.

The future is bright for Arielle. In five years, she will retire from the military, and Sunshine Home Improvement will be her focus. In the meantime, Arielle plans to continue to do what she can to help people create dreams on a dime.

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Dymetra Caskill

Dymetra McCaskill of Denver, CO, has a unique eye for detail. Her ability to look at a blank canvas and create works of art has propelled her to being one of America’s top African American interior designers.

Along with being a mother, grandmother, sister, and daughter, Dymetra is the owner and founder of Urban Esthetic Interiors, LLC. As a black designer, you will notice hints of cultural esthetics, vibrant colors, and warm textures. She describes it as a whole vibe!

With her company, Dymetra offers one-on-one, personalized design experiences and collaborates with her clients to create what she describes as a beautiful space.

Dymetra was born and raised in Denver. There she attended school and obtained a Business Management degree. All of her family resides in Denver, including the matriarch of her family, who is now a great-great-grandmother. Dymetra is also a lover of music and says, “If you come to my home, there’s always music playing and candles burning. I’m always tinkering around with something design related,” she says.

Urban Esthetic Interiors, LLC came to life in 2020 during the Covid 19 pandemic. “I worked full-time as a flight attendant, and because of the pandemic, I was temporarily furloughed. During that time, I was able to divert all of my attention to interior design, develop a business model, improve my skill set, and work,” Dymetra says.

When asked what she loves about having her own company, she says it’s all about the art of design. “I love beginning with a blank canvas and using my imagination to create a work of art. There are so many moving parts, which can be challenging at times, but that is what drives me. I test the limits with each project, make bold choices, and experiment with new trends.”

While Dymetra says she is inspired by her friends and family’s support and encouragement, she specifically acknowledges her mother for being the most significant source. Dymetra says her mom was the first to let her use a miter saw, which she thought was just a “guy thing” at the time. “I gained confidence, and it allowed me to feel limitless,” she says. Growing up, Dymetra says her mother would always rearrange furniture and have beautiful plants throughout the house. She shares that everything had its place. Even more, Dymetra’s dad is a pretty good designer in his own right. “Dad designs with class and deliberate pieces. His home shows like a model home, and I always wanted that for my space,” she says.

Additionally, Dymetra says that all things visually beautiful inspire her. “My son, who mimic’s my feature wall ideas, inspires me. My four-month-old grandson, who greets me with bright eyes and the happiest smile, inspires me. My sisters, who consistently root for me, inspire me. My aunt, who always eloquently encourages me, inspires me. My gramma, who covers me in prayer every day, showers me in love, and shows me how a fierce black woman moves and shakes in this world inspires me,” she says.

Things are going great for Dymetra, and she says there isn’t much she would change about how things have happened for her in business. If anything, she says she wishes she would have started sooner but also that she firmly believes that everything happens when it’s supposed to happen. “I’ve encountered some challenges and made plenty of mistakes; however, the beauty lies in knowing they are learning lessons. I’m creating my own formula, which makes me unique, bringing about some uncertainty, but it’s a beautiful mystery. I’m hopeful and excited about what’s to come,” Dymetra says.

Her advice to others who may follow a path similar to hers is not to allow fear to keep you from leaping. “Keep some of your thoughts and plans private, and if you decide to share them, do so with those you know will encourage you. Remember, we’re always students, so we never stop learning. This is a constantly evolving business, so be prepared to operate consistently with your creativity. Whatever your dreams and desires are, release them into the wind. Allow yourself to imagine all the possibilities, keep your intentions pure, and enjoy the ride.”

By the sounds of it, Dymetra has a bright road ahead of her. Futuristically, Dymetra plans to add to her existing brand, which will include designing commercial spaces and offering my products through retail. “If I’m not in your city, I would love for anyone to have access to an Urban Esthetic Interiors experience,” she says.

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The son of LaSaudia Moore

Braxton Moore

Nini Michelle Visuals

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Nini Michelle Visuals

Nia “Nini Michelle” Ross is a selftaught Black Woman photographer from the Bronx, New York, but currently resides in Silver Spring, MD. Nia’s shares that it’s her goal to put the overlooked at the forefront of beauty.

Nia attended Virginia Union University and studied Senior Mass Communications with a focus on Public Relations. Today she is the owner of Nini Michelle Visuals.

Nia’s career in photography began in Norfolk around the time of her freshman year in college. “I was set on being a videographer but the demand for pictures was high, and I could use the extra cash. My focus got serious when I transferred schools and became good friends with a staff member who also did videography. He introduced me to a photographer who owned a studio in the area. Shortly after, I began working at the studio as a photographer and the rest is history.

Some of the services Nia offers are studio and on-location photography. With the Studio service, She includes an hour of shooting time, two looks, one backdrop, five retouched images, and an expedited turnaround time. As for Onlocation, she includes the exact same perks yet with one look instead of two. Clients can also add additional perks such as Creative Direction, more people in the shoot, and more.

www.ninimichelle.com

Nia says she loves making people feel beautiful. “I love the excitement of planning the shoot and finally watching it all piece together before my eyes. I love that moment when the client receives the retouched images and is in awe, their confidence shoots through the roof, and they are so grateful for the products and services I provided,” she says.

Nia shares that one of the reasons she chose photography as a career path was the lack of representation amongst black women in her field. “I wanted to photograph Black women as I saw them, like royalty. As a black woman, I yearned to see us in magazines, and I decided to do something about it,” she says.

Nia says the photography industry is male-dominated, so for a woman who is also Black, she is typically the last option. “This can be discouraging for some, but I use it as an opportunity to go harder. I’m so appreciative of Polly Irungu, Founder & CEO of Black Photographers, who makes it her mission to create a lane for us and ensure we’re being hired,” she says.

She offers sound advice for those who may choose a path to follow like her. “As cliche as it may sound, never give up. It gets better. There are times where you feel like no one appreciates your art, but you have to remember why you started to stay grounded. As you grow, you develop goals that may seem impossible to reach, but nothing is impossible. Reach for the stars and you will receive the galaxy,” she says. h

A Voice For Autism

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Marcus Boyd

As a young boy, Marcus Boyd was perceived as someone without a voice. Today, Marcus’s voice is heard and recognized on various levels and platforms. “I create and make things from nothing,” he says. The young folks say they got it out of the mud, but for me, I made a rose from concrete,” he says.

While he has Autism, Marcus doesn’t allow his condition to slow him down. Eleven doctors once told him in two states that he was brain dead and would never get an education. Those same doctors said to him that he would never talk or function on his own, that he would never cook or do anything for himself, and would rely on the assistance of a caregiver. Yet Marcus has defied their predictions; Marcus Marcus is a leader, a visionary, a goal-getter, a brand hustler, and an empire grinder.

Marcus says his past was horrific and full of challenges. “I was beaten, bullied, I had my ribs broken, I was peed on and even left for dead. He has lived in 17 foster homes, 16 group homes, 16 mental hospitals, and four inpatient centers. He has been homeless and ate from dumpsters as a means to survive. At his lowest point, Marcus tried to commit suicide, but God had other plans for him.

Marcus says he never imagined that he would become a brand and that others would be interested in his life. He knew he wanted to help change lives and help change the status quo of how people perceive Autism. In doing so, he has become an international, five-time award-winning Autism Activist. He works with governors, mayors, city council members, state senators, organizations, and foundations to produce rights, laws, and benefits for Autistic individuals and families in the United States and around the world. “I am using my testimony as a light to give hope to others who may be going through what I did. I want to bring acceptance, inclusion, awareness, justice, and new opportunities for Autistic families,” he says.

So, how did Marcus begin? He shares it was during August 2017. He had already been diagnosed with Autism and rapped about his condition in some of his music. The music was fine, but he knew he had to take it to another level. He connected in Atlanta, GA, with Manisha Holiday, who he calls his Godmother. Manisha, a celebrity PR, encouraged Marcus to focus on sharing his story of being Autistic rather than his music. During that time, Marcus’s interest was music. Still, his ability to survive was more important, so he took Manisha’s advice and began using his platform to bring awareness to Autism and individuals infected by it, and the rest is history.

Marcus shares that he could not do all he does without God’s blessing. “With all the blessings God is allowing me to be a part of and do, I give God all the glory and honor. I worship His holy name because He is the reason for this season,” he says. The platform that Marcus is blessed to utilize, he says, is one of the things he loves most. “I love the amazing, incredible people I meet and the stories I hear. Having Autism and speaking up for Autism and the millions of voiceless individuals and their families is priceless. I spent fourteen years of my life being nonverbal and battling other conditions associated with Autism. Now I get to use my voice to help bring real change,” he says.

Being an Autism activist is not easy work, Marcus shares. “There are autism advocates who advocate for their child, family member, or a friend, and those who are actively on the battlefield operating with limited resources. I come from the projects and the ghetto, where grinding is celebrated, and few are educated, and that presents challenges for me.” One of the essential things Marcus has learned is to invest and believe in himself.

Along with God, Marcus acknowledges his grandmother as his greatest source of inspiration. “I couldn’t put a price on what my grandmother has done for me. She looked past my Autism, loved me, and forced me to tap into my own greatness,” he says. Marcus also says that his best friend, Queen Carter, for showing him how to love. He also says that Queen has greatly impacted his brand and cause. He shares other sources of inspiration: Gary Sinatra, Manisha Holiday, Tracy Bumpers, John Mcclung Jr., Minista Todd, Jacquetta Quashie, Tina Bridges, Veronica Tess Myers, Alexander Myers, Jessica Nash, Kathy Taylor, and Dorothy Carr.

As life continues to happen for Marcus, there is no telling what will happen next for him and his brand. In the meantime, Marcus will continue to use his voice and testimony to uplift others and fight for those affected by Autism. He encourages those interested to keep watching and believing in God’s plan. h