On a recent evening, I was invited to sit on a panel alongside a couple of other gentlemen. Our mission was to share our experiences and answer a few questions on the challenges and joys of being a black man and father. Though some questions were shared with us beforehand, I hadn’t prepared much for the event. Little did I know, the night would be full of surprises and lessons learned.
One panelist sitting beside me appeared to be great at public speaking. I determined this by how he held the microphone close to his face so that his voice would project throughout the room of people with clarity and precision. He was good. For me, I consider myself to be an average speaker, and I am not often intimidated when faced with the challenge of speaking publicly. Well, all of that was off the table that evening. While I knew what I wanted to share, I felt a little speechless when it was my turn to speak.
As the evening came to an end, a feeling of regret washed over me. Despite being invited as a panelist to share my thoughts and experiences, I couldn’t help but feel that I had left a lot unsaid. It’s a shame, really, because I know what I felt inside could resonate with someone in that room. After all, isn’t that why we were all there? To share our unique perspectives and shed some light on what being a black man and father is like.
That evening was a valuable lesson in many ways. One of the key takeaways was the importance of preparation before speaking. Another lesson learned was the need to seize every opportunity and own the moment. As the saying goes, you only get one chance to make a first impression. Most importantly, I was reminded of the power of sharing my experiences and how it can change someone’s perspective. It was a great reminder not to waste any opportunity to connect with others and make a positive impact.
Imagine that, me at a loss for words.
DC Moss and Herbs offer an all-encompassing wellness experience that tends to your inner and outer well-being. This remarkable venture was brought to fruition by the visionary entrepreneur and business maven Denicha Crenshaw, hailing from the vibrant South Phoenix, AZ. With unwavering determination and a bold vision, she has embarked on a journey that transcends boundaries and stretches far and wide. From herbs to holistic remedies, DC Moss and Herbs is dedicated to elevating vitality and enriching life.
Denicha, a woman of many talents, is a proud wife and devoted mother to four beautiful children. After dedicating over two decades of her life to the corporate world, she realized that it was time to prioritize her passions and embrace the path of an entrepreneur. She seized the opportunity to pursue her dreams and established DC Moss and Herbs and her own travel agency. With a fierce entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering dedication, Denicha has transcended the norms and embarked on a journey of self-discovery and fulfillment.
For Denicha, entrepreneurship has always been a cherished aspiration, and over the past four years, she has transformed her dreams into a stunning reality. However, the path to selfemployment was not always smooth sailing. She parted ways with the corporate world after voicing her concerns against the management, which didn’t sit well with them. Despite this challenge, Denicha perceives it as a fortunate turn of events. As she puts it, “I consider it a blessing in disguise. Being my own boss has always been a lifelong ambition, and now, with the guidance of the Almighty, I am fulfilling that dream.” Her tenacity and resilience in the face of adversity have catapulted her toward a brighter and more fulfilling future.
DC Moss and Herbs is much more than a business venture for Denicha; it is a labor of love that stems from a profound personal experience. With the onset of the pandemic, Denicha, like many others, was concerned about her family’s health and well-being. Her father’s diagnosis with bladder cancer further heightened her anxiety, and she resolved to find an all-natural way to strengthen his immune system. Although Denicha lost her beloved father to the illness, her unshakable drive to help others only intensified. As she reflects, “Watching my dad suffer made me realize that there are cures for many diseases in nature, and I want to make that knowledge accessible to everyone.” Denicha’s unwavering commitment to research and holistic healing has led her to discover that natural remedies can be just as effective as conventional treatments. Her mission is to empower and educate others about the incredible potential of natural medicine in promoting optimal health and well-being.
When Denicha stumbled upon the wonders of sea moss and herbal teas, she knew she had to share the magic with the world. Drawing inspiration from her initials, she christened her business “DC Moss and Herbs” and set out to turn her passion into a thriving enterprise. Her foray into the sea moss market began with a fortuitous encounter on social media, where she saw someone in search of the elusive superfood. After conducting extensive research on its benefits, Denicha was convinced that she and her family needed it in their lives. However, she soon realized that sea moss was an acquired taste, and not everyone could stomach it. With her keen culinary skills and boundless creativity, Denicha found a solution - she transformed the sea moss into delicious apple sauce that would have even the pickiest eaters coming back for more. Her customers are now hooked on the flavorful concoction, and the fact that they’re getting all the amazing health benefits of sea moss is the cherry on top.
Denicha’s heart swells with joy when she hears customers share their success stories. “It’s a blessing to hear someone say, ‘I’m losing weight,’ or ‘my blood pressure has dropped for the first time in 20 years thanks to sea moss,’’ she says. The sheer satisfaction of helping people feel their best is what drives her to keep going and pushing harder.
Denicha is a go-getter who always has a plan. She listened to her mom’s advice and saved up enough money to start her business without any major struggles or challenges. “Thank God, I was able to pay my bills while figuring this out,” she says. Unlike many other businesses that suffered during the pandemic, Denicha’s business actually grew because people were focused on staying healthy. Now that the pandemic is slowing down, she’s shifting her focus to marketing and expanding her product line to include sea moss-infused goodies that customers will love.
If you thought that Denicha’s sea moss and herbal teas were the only things that she sold, then think again! DC Moss and Herbs offer a variety of natural products that’ll have you feeling like a whole new person. From raw sea moss to syrups and hair and body products, she’s got you covered. But if you’re looking for something extra special, then you have to try her sea moss-infused body butter. This incredible concoction was born out of an accident when Denicha suffered a burn while mixing one of her other products. However, what came out of that mishap was something truly special. When she went to the doctors for treatment, they were amazed by how fast her sea moss-infused body butter was helping her heal. So now, you can have the same experience in the comfort of your own home.
Denicha’s family is her rock-solid support system, inspiring her to pursue her passion for wellness. They always have her back, like when she attended a busy event where she couldn’t fully tend to her products. As she scurried around, she was pleasantly surprised to see her daughter pitching in, confidently selling and promoting DC Moss and Herbs. It was a heartwarming moment that reminded Denicha of the unwavering love and support of her family, standing by her and her business without any hesitation.
Denicha is always looking to the future; her next venture is no exception. With her family as her biggest inspiration, she is currently building her third business as a developmental disability provider. Her sister’s disability opened her eyes to the need for better care and support, and Denicha is determined to make a difference. She plans to expand her business by sending out other DDps who can provide the same high-quality services that she does. For Denicha, success is measured not just in financial gain but in the positive impact she can make on the lives of others. As she looks ahead, she is excited about the prospect of continuing to bless her community and improve the lives of those around her.
For anyone looking to start their own business, Denicha’s advice is to never give up. “Follow your dreams even if you have a downfall; keep going.” To learn more about DC Moss and Herbs, please visit their website. h www.dcmossandherbs.com
The focus of NVision Source Technology is to integrate technology that will support other businesses. Their products are designed to serve corporations and organizations throughout the southern region of the United States and abroad. These may include churches, productions, and others that require heavy tech work for major live events. They also specialize in networking infrastructure, architecture, audio, video, and more. John emphasizes that customer satisfaction remains their top priority, and in addition to creating products, they offer customer support around the clock, 24 hours per day, seven days a week.
John’s journey to where he is today began long ago. He had always been interested in technology and electronics and loved working with his hands. Before starting NVTS, he owned a few companies; however, as time went on and the more he worked, he realized there was a considerable need for tech integration and support companies in Mississippi. He shares, “We started out of necessity. I felt there weren’t many opportunities, especially for blacks in Mississippi, and I wanted to change that narrative.” Eventually, he dissolved the previous company, moved to the Gulf of Mississippi, and established NVision Source Technology in 2002. Today, NVTS offers many opportunities for black people in his community who may be interested in tech.
When asked what a typical day at NVision Source Technology involves, John describes the experience with one word, “everything.” Their primary focus is always the clients, helping current ones, finding new ones, and checking in on old clients. “It’s never just one job, and we’re done. It’s so much involved in this business.” John and his team designed almost every product from scratch. Their theme is “We are your technology partner,” meaning they arm clients with all technology needs.
Through his company, John has made connections all over the world. He’s serviced clients in Canada, Thailand, South America, and more. Even when he’s not on the clock and traveling for himself, he still connects with those in his field. “When it comes to technology, we can’t always limit ourselves to what’s acceptable here,” he says. John strives to help other tech companies, whether it’s brainstorming, consulting, or being hands-on with a project. “The bigger the project, the better the team,” John says.
And while only a few materials utilized in the tech industry are manufactured in the U.S., John uses his connections in other countries to help build his business in Mississippi.
As a small business owner, John has encountered a few challenges here and there. Some have been a lack of acceptance and support, especially from people who don’t fully understand the scope of his capability. “Being a black man from Mississippi, most people judged me and assumed from the outside looking in that I do not have the complete knowledge to run my company,” he says. John’s solution was to let the company speak for him. Rather than label himself as the founder and owner, John runs his business from behind the front line per se. He titled himself the ‘Technology Director’ instead of being recognized as the owner of NVST. “I feel this is a better way to help my company continue to grow and open opportunities for me, my team, and other young black minds wanting to get started in the field. The bottom line is to provide an opportunity or avenue for people to make money, especially those who look like me. Sometimes you have to put yourself in the backseat. If my being out front reduces the opportunities for other people, then what did I really accomplish?”.
Owning his own company is something that John loves. He shares that he loves the ability to build opportunities for others. Growing up, nobody thought that someone who looked like him knew anything, so to create an opportunity and show other young black men that there is no limitation, no matter where or who you are, is confirmation of his purpose.
Tech and electronics are all John knows. It is what keeps him inspired and motivated. Moving forward, John and his team plan to implement several new products and design some of their own. He plans to invest in other tech and marketing forms to keep up with the growing field. He has also partnered with the Mississippi Applied Tech Association to bring awareness to the state’s need for more technological products and jobs. He currently serves as the organization’s president.
If you are looking to follow in John’s footsteps, his advice for you is to remember that this field can become very difficult. “Be ready to work long, hard hours. This industry is constantly changing and may require you to reinvent yourself. Please remember to keep your individuality and stay humble. Most importantly, always know that your drive for change has to outweigh your need for success,” he shares.
To find out more about Mr. John Jenkins and NVision Source Technology, please visit their website.
“Sometimes you have to put yourself in the backseat. If my being out front reduces the opportunities for other people, then what did I really accomplish?”
Arieale Munson is a dedicated and compassionate leader who uses her talents to benefit her hometown of Memphis. As a mother of two and a native of North Memphis, she understands the importance of giving back to her community. That’s why she founded and serves as the executive director of Operation Taking Back 901, a non-profit organization committed to providing economic and educational opportunities for the youth of Shelby County.
Arieale’s non-profit offers a variety of programs to support the growth and development of young people in the community. From school visits that cover topics like peer pressure, life skills, mentorship, financial literacy, and community development to events that provide backpacks filled with supplies and coats to students in need, OTB 901 is making a tangible difference in the lives of young people. This year alone, they have adopted two schools and provided students with over 300 backpacks and 60 coats.
The non-profit organization has been making a remarkable impact by mentoring over 185 young ladies, and sharing stories of triumph, such as Arieale’s journey as a teen mom. By going inside schools and speaking to students, Arieale emphasizes that their past mistakes do not determine their future. Her message of hope is particularly significant to the students as she hails from the same area and wants to inspire them that they, too, can overcome any obstacle. Arieale’s success proves that regardless of one’s situation, with determination and hard work, anything is possible.
Operation Taking Back 901, under the guidance of Arieale Munson, recognizes the importance of community involvement and aims to offer various resources to make Memphis a better place. To this end, the non-profit hosts a range of events, such as vision board parties, tea parties for young ladies, food giveaways, and the much-anticipated Back to School Bash. The organization shines a beacon of hope and opportunity by offering attendees free school supplies, food, and valuable community resources. Operation Taking Back 901 endeavors to bring these resources directly to the community, ensuring equitable access for all. Beyond events, the non-profit’s work extends to promoting and supporting business workforce and economic development, mental health education, and social services. By leveraging these resources, Operation Taking Back 901 seeks to make a lasting impact and empower individuals and families to thrive.
Since its founding in 2016, Operation Taking Back 901 has had an immense impact on the Memphis community. To date, the organization has provided services to over 7,000 people, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Through word of mouth, the community has continued to spread awareness about OTB 901, enabling Arieale Munson to partner with other organizations, further expanding her reach. Her hard work has not gone unnoticed, as the City Council and Shelby County Commissioners have recognized her. Her dedication has also led to the receipt of numerous grants and awards, including recognition from the state of Tennessee and former President Barack Obama. Arieale’s commitment to improving the lives of those around her has resulted in a powerful and lasting impact on the community she serves.
Arieale’s unwavering commitment to Memphis and its residents extends beyond her non-profit, Operation Taking Back 901. She selflessly serves on the foster care review board in Shelby County, provides invaluable life coaching and self-esteem-building services, and even authored two books, “When Pleasing Has No Purpose” and “I Am the Change,” which are read in schools across the county.
One of the primary challenges Arieale faced was securing funding for her organization. However, she met this challenge head-on by being resourceful and persistent, continuously fundraising and seeking help from her community of like-minded individuals who shared her passion and vision.
Despite the obstacles she’s encountered, Arieale’s passion for helping young people in her community remains steadfast. She’s deeply moved by the positive impact her work has on the youth in Shelby County, inspiring them to lead with a renewed perspective on life. Seeing the once-uninspired and silent rooms filled with smiling faces after her events, and witnessing the joy and gratitude of students receiving the support they never knew was available to them, continues to fuel her unwavering dedication to her mission.
Arieale’s family is the cornerstone of her motivation and success. Her children have been her constant support system and have always believed in her dreams. “Even when others saw me having a child at a young age as a mistake, my children saw it as a blessing. They have been with me every step of the way, providing me with the strength and inspiration needed to pursue my goals,” she says.
Arieale’s journey as a young mother has given her a unique perspective and understanding of the challenges facing the youth in her community. She often shares her story as a testimony to others, explaining how her early motherhood gave her the determination to help other young people in her area. Her family has been the driving force behind her mission to help others, and she is forever grateful for their unwavering love and support.
Looking ahead, Arieale envisions a future where Operation Taking Back 901 can provide even more comprehensive support for women and children in need. As part of this vision, she plans to establish a dedicated resources center that will offer a range of services, including counseling, educational programming, and life skills training. This center will serve as a beacon of hope for those who have experienced abuse, teen pregnancy, or other challenges, providing them with the resources and support they need to overcome adversity and thrive. By expanding her organization’s reach in this way, Arieale hopes to create a brighter, more empowered future for the people of Memphis.
If you’re looking to follow in Arieale’s footsteps, here’s a piece of advice that might help: remember that not everyone will believe in your journey, but that’s okay. It’s your journey, after all, so own it! Don’t be afraid to promote your business and spread the word about what you do. You never know who might be listening and how they could help you grow. And even if you feel like your biggest critic, try to showcase yourself and your talents as much as possible. Believe in yourself, even when it’s tough. Look in the mirror every day and remind yourself of your goals. Remember that perseverance is key and don’t give up, even when things get difficult.
“Even when others saw me having a child at a young age as a mistake, my children saw it as a blessing. They have been with me every step of the way, providing me with the strength and inspiration needed to pursue my goals.”
29Eleven Photography
By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Natasha Hughes
She definitely has an eye for creativity.
Natasha Hughes is the owner and face of 29Eleven Photography LLC. Based in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, she says the meaning behind this name came of her company comes from the scripture in the bible of Jeremiah 29:11 (I alone know the plans I have for you, plans to bring you prosperity and not disaster, plans to bring about the future you hope for.) Natasha says that God kept bringing her back to this scripture. “The whole book of Jeremiah is about being chosen, being selected. It was so fitting for how and why God was using me. He was showing me things far beyond my wildest dreams.”
Natasha is a 33-year-old woman that dedicates her life to helping others in any way possible. No matter who you are, she loves seeing the smiles on other’s faces. She also loves to sing, laugh, and enjoy life, which often involves being around family and friends. While she has no children, she has a heart for children and older adults. She has spent the last ten years of her career working in a nursing home. Natasha has also served in the children’s ministry since age 20.
Educated with a bachelors degree in Healthcare Administration, Natasha says that photography was never a plan for her life. “Never had I thought about it until I began seeking God about my purpose. All my life, I have struggled with identity. It’s like I could speak life into everyone else but myself. Everyone always looked up to me as a role model, but I never saw in myself what others saw in me. In 2020 during a spiritual fast with my church, God began to speak to me about photography. At first, I ignored it, but the Holy Spirit quickly showed me God’s plan. During the fast, He showed me how I viewed myself and how others would be viewed through the lens. God also showed me how He would use me behind the lens to tell my clients’ stories,” she says.
After wrestling with what God has shown her, Natasha finally stepped out on faith and began to serve other local photographers and her business. “Serving her business while putting myself aside at the time is truly why I believe my business is so successful today,” she says. In March of 2022, her brand was born.
29Eleven Photography offers general photography services such as family, wedding, newborns, family, and branding shoots. Natasha says her favorite captures are couples. She also enjoys the different encounters she has with people from all over the world. From young to old, single to married, Natasha captures their stories. “You get to see others conquer things that I never imagined someone would’ve had to face,” she says.
Natasha says her business has been impacted mostly by her Aunt Sherry. This person taught her faith, family, and the value of yourself and education. “Her life alone modeled what I wanted to be as a mother, wife and friend. Her words of wisdom throughout my life are why I am the woman I am today.” She shares that Theresa Brown of T.A.G Imaging has impacted her life and career also. “She took the time to teach me everything I needed to know. No matter how big I get, I will always remember where it all started. Before the name, before the camera, she was there,” Natasha says.
As a photographer, Natasha says she has been challenged with shooting newborns and children. “You must have a special craft for that service. It’s easy to tell an adult to look here and smile, but there’s so many techniques required with newborns. Practice makes perfect and I understand that everyone has to start somewhere right,” she explains.
Her advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs is to just leap! “Stop worrying about all the things you need to have in place. I am a witness that God will send others along the way to help you. I had no camera, but my boyfriend believed in me and surprised me with one for my birthday. I had no name, yet God placed it in someone’s heart to pay for my LLC. I had no clients, but my godsister booked me for the whole weekend for her baby shower and maternity session. I charged a client $60 for a session, but they blessed me with $500. I have been blessed because I took that leap. Don’t worry about who is for you because God will always reveal, remove, and replace. Just Jump!”
For Cassandra Faulk tailoring isn’t just a skill; it’s an art and a calling. Cassandra’s Alterations is one of Charlotte, North Carolina’s finest alteration services. In business since 2006, Cassandra and her team of experts are dedicated to demonstrating excellence with every stitch.
As a child, Cassandra had watched her grandmother making clothes and decided she wanted to make clothes too. “I am self-taught,” Cassandra explains. “When I was about ten years old, I asked for and received a sewing machine for Christmas. Then I came down with the flu. Since I couldn’t go to school, I asked my mother to buy me a dress pattern and some materials. I cut it out, read the pattern, and made the dress. I’ve been sewing ever since.” To say that Cassandra was a natural is a major understatement.
By the time Cassandra entered high school, she had reached a level of mastery beyond her years. While her peers were learning to do cross stitches in Home Economics, she made her own clothes and assisted the sewing teacher. “My real first job was doing alterations in a men’s clothing store in my hometown of Lumberton, North Carolina. My sister-in-law ran the alterations department, and I came in under her. That’s where I learned how to do alterations,” Cassandra explains.
After graduating high school, Cassandra left Lumberton for Kings Business College in Charlotte, North Carolina. “I was attracted to Kings College because of its fashion merchandising program. I was interested in designing, making, and altering clothes. The next best step was attending a school where I could indulge my passion and natural gifts. Charlotte was also close to home. But when I got there, I realized it was more on the merchandising side of things,” Cassandra shared. She worked for a while in a department store in the merchandising department. Finally, she decided that was not the place for her.
Cassandra stayed in the Charlotte area because, in the late 1970s, Charlotte had much more to offer a young woman looking to make her way in the world than her hometown of Lumberton. “After realizing that fashion merchandising wasn’t what I wanted, I moved on to the corporate area. I’ve worked in a bank as a teller and done clerical and administrative work. Still, I can’t say I was passionate about any of those jobs,” Casandra explained.
Although it was clear Casandra was a gifted seamstress and tailor, life got in the way, and she found herself stepping away from her first love. “I still made the occasional outfit for myself, but as I tried to balance work and a social life, I found I didn’t have the time to commit to sewing that I had before,” Cassandra said.
Sometimes life can take us on adventures, but destiny can not be denied. Cassandra found this to be true. After years of office work, the sewing bug bit her again.
“In around 1985, I started working in an alterations shop in the Singer Sewing store in Charlotte. I worked there until I had my youngest son, which was about four years. When I started working again, I went back to banking. To be honest, I kind of lost my passion for sewing for a few years,” Casandra shared.
It would be a while before Cassandra dusted off her sewing machine again. When she did, she found she hadn’t lost her passion; it was unfocused. “I realized that although I could sew and make clothes, alterations were what I was passionate about,” she confessed.
“I realized that although I could sew and make clothes, alterations were what I was passionate about.”
You wouldn’t be alone if you wonder about the difference between a seamstress and a tailor. Most people don’t understand the difference between a seamstress or seamster and a tailor. There is actually a big difference. According to MerriamWebster, a seamstress or seamster is someone whose occupation is sewing. A tailor is someone who alters garments.
“A tailor has the challenge of disassembling a garment, then putting it back together after adjusting the size and/or length. All while keeping the original design,” Cassandra said with eagerness. “Love it because it’s like a puzzle. The goal is to make the garment look like it has never been touched.”
In 2000, with a newfound direction, Cassandra focused her natural sewing skills on alterations. “I started with small projects and initially worked out of my bedroom,” Cassandra explained. As she rediscovered her gift as a tailor, word got out. Cassandra found that her side job had outgrown her bedroom. “At the time, I was working for a property management company. I found out they had office space in the building I worked in, so I moved my part-time business doing alterations there. I didn’t want to continue to have clients in and out of my apartment.”
For six years, Cassandra worked both jobs. “Initially, I worked the property management job from 8 AM till 5 PM. Then I would go upstairs and work my business from 5 PM till 9 PM. Eventually, I worked both jobs part-time. Then in 2012, my corporate job gave me an ultimatum saying I needed to return full-time. I had become bored with office work, so it was an easy decision.” Cassandra has never looked back.
“Sewing is therapeutic to me. I would almost say it’s spiritual,” Cassandra explains. “There is just something about doing what you are meant to do that gives you peace.”
Cassandra’s business is booming, and she’s looking to take her tailoring business to the next level. Since rediscovering her calling to work with garments, Cassandra has extended her business to becoming a clothier. As a Clothier, she designs styles and suits for her clients, sends them off to be sewn, then makes any needed alterations. She also has partnerships with two bridal shops because wedding gowns are her specialty.
“The job of a tailor is essential to ensuring that the bride and groom look and feel their best on their special day. I get to be a part of that,” Cassandra says.
With individuality and creativity pouring out of every facet of life, Cassandra sees more reasons for the revival of tailoring. “Most designers don’t do alterations, which makes my job even more important,” Cassandra explains. “I help make those unique suits and gowns personal for the wearer.”
The work is detailed and time-consuming, but Cassandra loves the challenge. She sees herself and others like her as guardians of a lost art. “You’d be amazed at how little people understand the job of a good tailor. Your work speaks for you, and reputation is everything in this business.” Cassandra has two part-time workers, but she does most of the alterations herself. “I would love to hire another tailor, but everyone has their own way of doing things. I can respect that, but if my reputation is on the line, I want to ensure that work holds up,” Cassandra explains.
One way she hopes to bring back the art of alterations is mentoring. “I’ve worked with the local community college and had interns, but I hope to start sewing classes open to the community soon. It would be basic sewing lessons, but I hope to inspire and guide the next generation of designers, seamstresses, and tailors who, like me, have a natural talent and desire to become skilled artisans. I want to build a legacy in the next generation to carry on this kind of work,” Cassandras explains.
She concludes with an attempt to reach the minds and hands of those who may follow her path. “I hope to open a second location, and I’ll need workers who will embrace my vision and follow my design. I won’t always be able to carry the load, but maybe I can help shape future tailors so that they can carry on in excellence.”
To learn more about Cassandra Faulk, please visit her website.
Demhaj Poetry Lounge is a spot where coffee and community collide.
Bridgette Williams is an entrepreneur who allows divine inspiration to guide her, and it hasn’t steered her wrong yet. Currently, she owns two thriving businesses. Bridgette’s latest product of divine intervention is Demhaj Poetry Lounge, located in High Point, NC.
The name Demhaj is significant for many reasons. “When I first conceived the idea of the coffee shop, I remember thinking about how much love and joy my son brought me so that I would name the business after him. I wanted people to feel what I felt in a way. My son’s name is Jahmed, so I said I would name the shop Demhaj (Dem-hage),” Bridgette said with a little lift.
“The first time the idea about a poetry lounge and coffee shop came to me, I was a young mother and met a woman named Teresa at the social services department,” Bridgette shared. “I was sitting in the waiting room, and there was this older woman staring at me. So, I smiled and introduced myself. We started talking, and she told me she was a poet.” This intrigued Bridgette because she had been writing poetry since she was thirteen years old.
When I first conceived the idea of the coffee shop, I remember thinking about how much love and joy my son brought me. I knew I would name the business after him. I wanted people to feel what I felt in a way.”
“Writing was a therapeutic outlet for me. I have drawers full of poems I’ve written over the years.” As a result of Bridgette’s passion for poetry, she and Teresa found an instant kinship that exists to this day. “Teresa was one of the first people I shared my vision about the poetry lounge with. I told her I wanted to create a space where people could come together and express themselves while enjoying each other’s company. I asked myself, ‘What brings people together? Coffee.’” The idea came to Bridgette in 2003, but it would be eighteen years before she would see it come to life.
“It’s funny how you plan to do something, and God redirects you,” Bridget laughed. “In middle school, I was part of a mentorship program. A young lady from North Carolina A&T State University came, and she had such a positive effect on me. She made me want to do something with my life. I was so inspired by her that I wanted to become a mentor.”
After graduating high school, Bridgette started at Winston-Salem State University in Winston-Salem, NC. Still very passionate about helping others through mentorship, she enrolled in a program to become a certified mentor. “Rebuilding the Walls of Hope was the name of the faith-based mentorship training program I attended. Marie Carter led it,” Bridgette explained. Her goal was to start her own mentorship program for troubled teens eventually. But when she started planning, Bridgette was led in a different direction.
“When I say led, I mean God literally redirected me to something completely different from what I thought I wanted to do. I was playing around with names for the mentorship program, and God started dealing with me about a home health care agency,” Bridgette said, laughing as she remembered the unexpected and confusing shift. “Before I knew it, God had given me a name and a plan on how to start a home healthcare agency. I knew it was God because I had no idea how to start or run this kind of business.”
In 2006 Faithful Nurses Healthcare Inc. was born. It’s been seventeen years since Bridgette followed God and launched her first business, and it’s still going strong. After starting the home healthcare agency, Bridgette switched her degree to nursing. But the demands of being a young wife and mother caused her to leave college a year short of graduating.
“Life was very demanding during that time. Anyone who knew me before then knew the “happy, fun-loving, and easy-going” Bridgette, but I think somewhere along the way, I lost my spark,” Bridgette admits.
In 2021 Bridgette found herself as a single parent. Bridgette was living life with no net or restraints for the first time in over twenty years. Over the years, she continued to share with her family and friends her vision for the poetry and coffee shop she had affectionately named after her son all those years ago.
Newly single, with her only son in college, Bridgette was in unfamiliar territory. “Everything was different. I was on my own, my son was independent, and for the first time in twenty-one years, I could think about what I wanted and what would make me happy. I won’t say it was easy,” Bridgette admitted. “I had to overcome the fear of failing. This would be the first time I did something like this alone. After what I’d gone through, I wasn’t ready to have one of my lifelong dreams fail.”
Bridgette decided to step out on faith, putting everything she had behind her new business venture. Since her son had heard her say for years that she would open this café, he didn’t take her seriously initially, but after seeing the energy she was putting out, he soon got on board.
“It seemed as if as soon as I chose to trust God with my dream, he put everything into place,” Bridgette shared. “Since opening the Demhaj Poetry Lounge, I have my smile back. The spark that made me, me, is back, and I’m grateful. From the moment a customer walks in, I pray they can feel the love, peace, and genuine joy I feel daily. Demhaj is not just a place to get great coffee. It’s a place where people from every walk of life can come and feel comfortable expressing themselves, meet new people, and enjoy being part of something beautiful.”
To learn more about Bridgette Williams and the Demhaj Poetry Lounge, please visit their website.
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MAGAZINE Zoelle Alaiya Scott
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The daughter of Charita Jackson
