A L W A Y S A C C E P T I N G N E W C L I E N T S
God Never Runs Out of Options
A Letter From The Editor
There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!
There is one thing that I know for sure will happen in life, and that is tough times will come. Yet, I have learned that tough times will not always last. As difficult as life can be at times, we are blessed to know that we don’t have to go at it alone. Even when we fall to the lowest of places, God promises us by His word that He is always willing to help bring us back up.
A Letter from the Editor
What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What would you do?
It is also refreshing to know that regardless of how many times we fail, God’s grace never runs out. With this sort of insurance policy intact, our ability to conveniently seek repentance and forgiveness for our shortcomings might become well utilized. All I can say is thank God for grace.
Everything that happens in life is often associated with a lesson. There is something we must have to learn, or the difficulties we face may actually be preparing us for something bigger and a whole lot more challenging ahead. Even though giving up and walking away feels like an easy and appropriate answer, that may not always be what is best. If you ever feel like you have run out of options, just remember that God hasn’t.
I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in return acquire life.
During the moments when I felt like God might not be listening, I tended to lean toward my own understanding. My reasoning was more aligned with what the world thinks instead of what God has promised. It’s all spiritual, and in those moments, surely my behavior couldn’t have pleased Him.
As confusing as it may sound, I’ve learned to stay patient in my unrest, as God does some of His best work there. We don’t have to come up with all of the answers, and even when the light can’t be seen at the end of the tunnel, it will make its appearance at the right time. I know that God’s timing is a lot more meaningful to me than what I think I need. I thank God for grace.
The best advice ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet, because someone may get it confused with being arrogant.
Make you tomorrow happen today, but most importantly make it count. Life is but a whisper and we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is telling us.
Terry L. Watson
Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder
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Little Rock, AR
January is Cervical Cancer Month
Arkansas Deptartment of Health
Little Rock, AR
Significant Literacy Milestone Achieved Little Rock School District
Charlotte, NC
We Are Honoring Community Leaders Huami Magazine Awards Gala 2025
The Difference In Who Provides Care. Learn more about my experiencce of becoming a caregiver to my Mom.
Greensboro, NC
She is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one beautiful baby. Her name is Princess Kelly.
Black Boys Empowered Rashan T. Dudley
Contessa’s Home Care Agency Contessa Woods
Thompson & Boyd Marcius Atkinson
The Hair Companion Coach Alisha Davis
January is Cervical Health Awareness Month
January is Cervical Health Awareness Month. The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) BreastCare program coordinates efforts with a statewide network of providers offering no-cost cervical and breast cancer screenings and follow-up services.
Cervical cancer is largely preventable with Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination, and routine pap tests to detect pre-cancers. Data for 2024 is not finalized yet, but estimates show 140 Arkansas women will have been diagnosed with cervical cancer, and 50 women will have died due to cervical cancer. The state currently ranks as 10th lowest for pap tests that can detect cervical cancer and 10th lowest for HPV vaccination among girls 13-17 years old that can prevent cervical cancer. While cervical cancer screening rates among women in Arkansas have improved over the years, we still have a long way to go in improving the screening rates.
Cancers diagnosed at late stages (III or IV) are generally associated with poor outcomes and higher treatment costs. Women who are diagnosed at earlier stages have a greater chance of survival. Cervical screening services are imperative for early detection and better treatment outcomes. Cervical cancer can often be found early, and sometimes even prevented, by having regular screening tests. If detected early, cervical cancer is one of the most successfully treatable cancers.
Women ages 21-64 can be screened for cervical cancer regardless of ethnicity or nationality through the ADH BreastCare program. Since its inception, the BreastCare Program has enrolled about 145,300 women for breast and cervical cancer screening and diagnostic services. Additionally, the program provides educational information to communities about the importance of regular cervical cancer screening.
For more information about cervical cancer screening, call 1-833-693-2942 or visit www.ARBreastCare.com to see if you are eligible and to find a provider. Chances are there is a BreastCare provider near you.
Goodwill Industries of Arkansas joins Little Rock School District to focus on Early Childhood
The Goodwill Industries of Arkansas and the Little Rock School District Early Childhood Department are joining forces to support early childhood education and workforce development.
Officials with the Goodwill Industries of Arkansas said the partnership will focus on expanding access to quality early childhood education, enhancing professional development opportunities and fostering a supportive learning environment for children and adults.
“The LRSD and Goodwill partnership will provide families the support needed to make their dreams a reality,” Ester Jones, director of Early Childhood Programs for the Little Rock School District, said. “We will work together to find pathways for families to connect to the appropriate resources and ensure their children receive a quality education.”
Officials said the partnership will provide employees and Excel Center students an opportunity to pursue careers in early education and obtain Child Development Associate certifications, professional early childhood development training and more.
“We’re thrilled to partner with LRSD to create a clear pathway for our employees and Excel Center students to pursue careers in early childhood education,” GIA Sr. vice president and chief mission officer Edie Stewart said. “One of the most beneficial wrap-around services provided by The Excel Center is our drop-in center that provides free childcare. This partnership not only benefits our students but maybe more significantly impacts their children who are seeing the importance of education being modeled by their parents.”
Information provided by Arkansas Department of Health Information provided by Little Rock School District
Little Rock School District Achieves Significant Literacy Milestone Education
The Little Rock School District (LRSD) has achieved a significant milestone based on the latest ATLAS assessment results and cut scores. The Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) announced that LRSD has surpassed the performance threshold outlined in Ark. Code Ann. § 6-15-2913, which triggers additional Coordinated Support from the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). As a result, LRSD will no longer be required to participate in quarterly Act 1082 check-ins with the district support unit.
Under Arkansas law, DESE provides Coordinated Support to districts where 40-49% of students score in the lowest performance level on the prior year’s state summative reading assessment. The latest results demonstrate that LRSD’s scores have improved beyond this threshold, signaling a positive trend in student achievement and academic progress.
“This is a momentous achievement for our district and a testament to the hard work of our students, educators, and families,” said Dr. Jermall Wright, Superintendent of the Little Rock School District. “We are proud of the progress we’ve made and are committed to maintaining this upward trajectory toward sustained academic excellence.”
This milestone highlights LRSD’s ongoing commitment to improving literacy outcomes and fostering a culture of learning and growth. The District acknowledges the vital role of community partnerships, innovative teaching strategies, and dedicated educators in achieving these results.
www.lrsd.org
Information provided by Little Rock School District h
Candace & Company
“All Things Candace”
By Terry L. Watson
Photos Provided by Corrie Wilson
Candace Culbertson describes herself as a little girl from the hood. She was born and raised in North Little Rock, AR, and her life was molded in the Pike Avenue community. Pike Avenue is a poverty-stricken community, and due to a lack of resources, Candace wasn't offered the best quality of living. Candace shares, “My mother was a great mother, and she had a lot of love to give. However, as a single mother of three, we struggled. I didn’t grow up with the best examples or role models, so I had to look outside of what was available to me and decide who I wanted to be. What I knew for certain is that I didn’t want to be a product of my environment. I wanted more out of life.”
Candace’s quest for more would introduce her to experiences far beyond the borders of North Little Rock. After she graduated high school in 2010, Candace made an attempt to attend college. She failed, mainly due to her not being focused. “I failed several semesters, and my GPA was so low that I could no longer receive financial aid. My next option was to pay for college out of pocket – which of course I couldn’t afford to. Soon I realized the need for stability in my life. So, at the age of 21, I enlisted in the United States Air Force. That decision was the best I could’ve ever made for the direction of my life,” she says. “The military taught me so much discipline and provided me with structure that molded me into the woman I am today.”
Candace would eventually return to school and become a Deans List student. She pledged Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. as a Spring 16’ initiate and graduated from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2017 with a Bachelors Degree in Sociology and Nonprofit Leadership. Candace followed that feat with a Masters Degree in Human and Social Services. Educated and accomplished, she was ready to change the world.
In 2017, Candace also founded a nonprofit organization called Youth Development Initiate. She says the organization’s guiding principle is to inspire and instill social and educational skills in youth. Although she is not currently fulfilling her passion as youth advocate, Candace says it’s definitely something she desires to resume in the future. “I truly feel that my purpose is to serve underprivileged people, and I also believe I am still serving in other areas of my life” she says.
Today, Candace’s duties have evolved. She is a mother, a captain in the Arkansas Air National Guard, and a seasoned Real Estate Agent. “In my military career, I hold a high responsibility as a commissioned officer. It’s not just for the work or commitment to serve the state and country but also the people, specifically the younger airmen. I serve as a representative and mentor to many of the minority airmen. I hope that my accomplishments serve as an example that they, too, can excel.”
Those same values run parallel with Candace’s Real Estate business. She works as a Realtor in Central Arkansas with buyers, sellers, and investors in real estate transactions. Candace shares that her services are not limited to any one group of people, and she strives to assist anyone who is interested in buying or selling a home. “It brings me great pride when I am working with clients who never thought homeownership was within their reach. My mission is to “Own Your Vision,”. Whatever goals a person sees for their life, I help them to “OWN IT!” We are only limited by our inability to believe in our very own potential,” she says.
When people see the name Candace & Company, Candace wants them think “All things Candace.” Her vision doesn’t stop with only one specific thing, and she adds that when she looks at the name, it’s reminds her that she is a force. “Candace & Company reminds me that I am literally a walking brand and that I need to carry myself like a woman who is about her business. My name holds weight as far as I am concerned,” she says.
Candace says she always saw herself doing real estate, a vision that was realized as a young girl. “I’ve always been fascinated with riding through neighborhoods, critiquing their craftsmanship, and even inside and outside décor. Of course, that’s surface level, but as I learned about homeownership and benefits like equity, it stayed with me,” she says.
She was first licensed as a Realtor in Nashville, TN, after moving to the “Music City” with big city dreams. “I had ambitions and aspirations as long as Tennessee, literally! Then Covid-19 unexpectedly came and put many things on hold for me. However, I didn’t allow my passion for real estate to sit idle. While I was in real estate school, I also found out I was pregnant with my daughter. That news was something I wasn’t prepared for. I had yet to start the new life that I desperately wanted, and I was disheartened by the fact that I continued the generational curse of becoming a single parent. Since I moved to Nashville without knowing anyone after my daughter was born, I made the decision to move back home to be around family. While it was tough for me to move back to Arkansas, I can’t help but feel like it was in alignment with what God had for us next. My real estate career soared during my first year back home in Arkansas, and it has continued to rise each year after. Even more, I am a multimillion dollar producing agent. My next goal is to venture into homebuilding,” she says.
Candace & Company reminds me that I am literally a walking brand and that I need to carry myself like a woman who is about her business. My name holds weight as far as I am concerned.”
When asked what she loves most about what she does, Candace shares that it’s the opportunity to help others. Whether it’s helping a buyer find their starter, family, or dream home or helping a seller close one chapter to start a new one, she enjoys every aspect of the process. “In a world where not too many people have support, I love seeing others accomplish their goals and being in their corner,” Candace shares.
While she has enjoyed many successes in her life, Candace admits that none of it would be possible without God. She adds, “It may sound cliché, but God has had the greatest impact on my life. I can’t recall the exact moment, but I felt it at a young age that I was called to be higher than my circumstances and greater than any adversity I would encounter. I’ve overcome so much that I know I wouldn’t have been able to without God. There’s a bible verse, Proverbs 16:3 “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” As long as I am including God in my plans and acting in according to His will for my life, I know I will continue to succeed.”
Candace also credits her daughter for being a source of inspiration. Candace says because she knows her daughter is watching and looking up to her, she is motivated to be the best version of herself. “My daughter inspires me to work harder, stay resilient, and make choices that reflect the values I want her to carry. Knowing that I’m shaping her understanding of strength, integrity, and grace pushes me to lead by example. She is my greatest source of purpose, and her presence reminds me that everything I do isn’t just for me but for the foundation I’m building for her future.”
As a black woman in a predominately white male industry, in both the military and real estate, Candace has faced challenges that have required her to navigate biases and stereotypes. She confesses that she has encountered assumptions about her abilities or expertise based on her appearance rather than her qualifications, which made her feel like she had to work twice as hard to prove her worth. “Knowing that representation matters across any field fuels my determination to pave the way for others, inspire diversity, and redefine what success looks like. This is how I face challenges like these. I am passionate about using my platform to demonstrate that excellence knows no boundaries,” she says.
For others who may follow a path similar to hers, Candace offers some sound advice. She says, “Start with a clear vision, remain authentic to yourself, build a strong network, be teachable, and be ready to work hard. Most importantly, don’t ever give up on believing in yourself.”
Looking ahead, Candace reiterates that there are some great things on the horizon. She shares that she will continue to allow God to lead her, knowing that everything is possible with Him. With her grit, faith, and determination is promising to be amazing, so stay tuned!
My daughter inspires me to work harder, stay resilient, and make choices that reflect the values I want her to carry. h
Alisha Davis
Real Natural Solutions Hair Care
By Terry L. Watson
Alisha Davis of Little Rock, Arkansas is known as the Hair Companion Coach. She is a woman who lives by faith and declares that God helps her through every challenge and obstacle. While life may knock her down from time to time, she doesn’t stay down. Full of resilience and determination, she gets back up, knowing that God has equipped her for the assignment.
Alisha is a graduate of Central Little Rock High School. She graduated from Central Little Rock High School and attended the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff. She obtained her cosmetology license from Eaton's Cosmetology School and received her Cosmetology instructor license from Paul Mitchell School. She is a former natural hair salon owner, owning one of the top natural hair salons in Little Rock. In a seven-year span, Alisha trained and serviced over 200 clients a month.
Alisha is also the visionary behind the Real Natural Solutions product line, products designed for individuals with natural hair. “With my product line, I provide products and services to women with natural hair. Many people just provide services, but I am also a natural hair stylist who has mastered my craft while focusing on meeting the needs of my clients,” she says.
Photos Provided by Corrie Wilson
In 2009, when the natural hair movement arrived in Little Rock, Alisha’s interest peaked. It was during that time that I began to explore the idea of launching a natural hair product line and opening a salon that would cater to those with natural hair. In 2015, the idea of owning a salon began to take shape. In 2016, she opened the doors of her salon in the Hobby Lobby shopping center located on Markham Street. Her product line, Real Natural Solutions, was birthed two years later.
Alisha describes herself as someone who enjoys serving and helping others. “I am just a little girl who grew up off John Barrow Road in the central part of Little Rock, AR, who dreamed of doing hair like my grandmother, Helen Davis, and starting my own business. I am a single mother of two kids, having an eighteen-year-old son and twenty-three-year-old daughter,” she says. Alisha had a great example of what hard work looks like. Along with her two other sisters, she was raised by her father, whom she says ensured they had everything they needed.
At the beautiful age of 97, Alisha’s grandmother is still pouring wisdom into her protege. Even at the age of 80, Alisha’s grandmother continued to do hair, a remarkable example of resilience that has been passed on to Alisha. “As a young girl, I watched my grandmother do hair, all while raising four kids alone. Her husband passed away when I was a young girl, and she never remarried. I learned how to persevere simply by watching my grandmother,” Alisha says.
So, who or what is the Hair Companion Coach? Alisha says, “I have witnessed a lot of women get frustrated with their hair and I wanted to offer them some help. That is how I became the Hair Companion Coach. I teach people how to get control of their hair within three months, guaranteed. Especially if they are using my product line,” she says.
Alisha shares that she finds inspiration in many of the seasoned and professional stylists who have paved the way for her and another stylist. These are individuals whom Alisha describes as “old-school stylists”; she studied under them and learned the art of customer service and how to run her business efficiently. “I worked with Lois and Rays for 17 years. Lois taught me so much about doing hair. She taught me how to press hair, how to do natural hair, and more. She also had her own product line. I also worked with Tamela McElroy and Cece Campbell, both of whom worked with ISOPlus and are still styling hair today. These legends taught me so much about the business side of styling hair,” she says.
Alisha’s success has happened due to her commitment to invest in herself and her craft. She often partakes in continued education classes and studies and partners with other successful people in her respective industry to gain insight and knowledge on how to take her business to the next level.
Being a business owner has come with its share of challenges. Alisha has encountered her share and has found ways to overcome them. “I found myself managing every role in my business. I have been the maintenance person; I have managed customer service, I have trained others, I’ve managed advertising, and so many other roles. It can be a whole lot for just one person. Instead of allowing myself to become defeated, I try to find solutions. I also take time for myself. There is only one me. I have learned that I can’t do it all, and leaning on the assistance and help of others has been very helpful,” she says.
For those who may follow in her path, Alisha shares some good advice. “Keep the faith and take care of yourself. You must always have several backup plans. You must also be a good manager of your finances. Customer service is very important. You may be good at what you do, but if your customer service isn’t good, it can hurt your business. My business has grown by leaps and bounds merely due to word of mouth, all of which has been made possible by my commitment to providing solid and good customer service consistently,” she says.
Moving forward, Alisha plans to boost the online sales of her product line. She also plans to spend less time behind the chair and travel more. With the way things are happening in Alisha’s life and business, anything that she puts her mind to is destined to succeed. To learn more about the Real Natural Solutions product line, please visit their website.
“I am just a little girl who grew up off John Barrow Road in the central part of Little Rock, AR, who dreamed of doing hair like my grandmother, Helen Davis, and starting my own business.”
Black Boys Empowered Inc.
By Terry L. Watson
T. Dudley
Rashad T. Dudley is a proud Detroit native, social entrepreneur, and advocate for empowering Black boys and men. He comes from a family deeply rooted in resilience, having experienced significant personal losses, including the tragic murders of his father and brother, which shaped his understanding of the challenges many Black boys face. Rashad’s experiences growing up in Detroit and Inkster have instilled in him a unique perspective and a strong drive to create safe, uplifting spaces for others.
Rashad is a scholar and lifelong learner. He graduated from Morehouse College in 2020. He then earned a Master of Science in Youth Development Leadership from Clemson University in 2022, where he honed his expertise in designing impactful youth programs. Currently, Rashad is pursuing an MBA in Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Wayne State University, focusing on expanding his initiatives and fostering innovation within his work.
Beyond his professional and academic achievements, Rashad is passionate about family, community, and mentorship. He draws strength and inspiration from his upbringing in Detroit and remains dedicated to giving back to the city that raised him. Through his work, Rashad hopes to inspire a new generation of leaders, helping them overcome adversity and realize their full potential.
Rashad is also the founder of Black Boys Empowered (501c3). He is the author of Dear Black Boy Co., Dear Black Boy: A Guide to Self-Empowerment and Building Healthy Habits. Black Boys Empowered focuses on providing mentorship, scholarships, community service opportunities, and wellness initiatives for Black boys in Detroit. Their key programs include an Annual Scholarship Program. Each year, BBE provides Black male high school seniors with scholarships to help them pay for tuition at HBCUs. They also offer community service opportunities (including our quarterly neighborhood clean-up of our adopted road) throughout the city of Detroit. Dear Black Boy Co. is a health and wellness brand that features Rashad’s children’s books, Dear Black Boy: A Guide to Self-Empowerment and Building Healthy Habits and Dear Black Boy: Positive Affirmation Coloring Book, and wellness products and apparel designed specifically for Black boys.
Rashad says the journey of Black Boys Empowered began with my personal experiences growing up in Detroit and Inkster and my deep understanding of the systemic challenges that Black boys often face. As someone who lost my father and brother to gun violence, I know firsthand the emotional toll of loss and the lack of accessible resources for healing and growth in underserved communities. “These personal tragedies, coupled with my professional experiences working in youth development, inspired me to create something meaningful that could address these challenges head-on,” he says.
The decision made by Rashsad to launch Black Boys Empowered was centered on his desire to provide mentorship, resources, and opportunities tailored specifically for Black boys in Detroit. “My vision stemmed from a desire to create a space where young Black boys could feel supported, valued, and empowered to succeed despite the obstacles they might face. I drew from over a decade of experience in roles such as Dean of Climate and Culture, Youth Programming Director, and Director of Enrichment to design programs and initiatives that focus on mentorship, leadership development, and wellness,” says Rashad.
Photos Provided by Rashad
“My vision stemmed from a desire to create a space where young Black boys could feel supported, valued, and empowered to succeed despite the obstacles they might face.”
The idea also grew from a broader reflection on the societal narratives surrounding Black boys. Rashad says he wanted to combat the negative stereotypes often placed on them by providing a platform that celebrated their brilliance, creativity, and potential. Black Boys Empowered was envisioned as more than just a program—it was a movement to uplift an entire generation. His vision has expanded over time to include initiatives like the Dear Black Boy Co. wellness brand, scholarships for HBCU-bound students, and community service programs. The driving force behind all of these efforts has been his unwavering belief in the power of mentorship, education, and community to transform lives. “By addressing the needs of Black boys holistically— academically, emotionally, and socially— I created a legacy of empowerment and resilience.”
Rashad is also passionate about creating spaces where Black boys feel seen, valued, and understood. Growing up, he didn’t always have access to the kind of mentorship and resources he now provides, so being able to offer those to others is a powerful way for him to give back. He loves fostering environments that challenge stereotypes and show the world the brilliance and resilience of Black boys. The opportunity to rewrite narratives and shape a new generation of leaders is something that drives him every day. Lastly, Rashad takes pride in the creative aspects of his work. He loves turning his ideas into impactful realities and knowing that his efforts are making a lasting difference in the lives of others.
One of the most significant hurdles Rashad has faced in building his program has been securing consistent funding to sustain and expand programs. Nonprofits like Black Boys Empowered often operate in a competitive funding landscape where resources are limited, and Rashad has had to work tirelessly to identify grants, build relationships with donors, and creatively fundraise to support his initiatives. Ensuring financial stability while maintaining the quality and impact of the programs has been an ongoing balancing act. Another challenge has been navigating stereotypes and societal biases. As someone who works to uplift Black boys and men, Rashad has had to challenge misconceptions about what Black masculinity and success look like. Building a brand and organization that celebrates Black identity while countering negative narratives requires intentionality, persistence, and strategic messaging. Breaking through these barriers to gain broader community and institutional support has been both a challenge and a deeply motivating mission for Rashad.
To tackle the challenge of securing consistent funding, Rashad has worked to diversify his revenue streams. He applies for grants tailored to youth development and education initiatives, partners with local businesses and organizations for sponsorships, and organizes fundraisers that resonate with his community. Rashad has also leveraged his storytelling skills to craft compelling narratives about Black Boys Empowered’s impact, helping him attract donors and supporters who believe in his mission. Additionally, he is exploring creative revenue models, such as the BBE apparel line, which not only generates income but also promotes the organization’s mission.
Moving forward, Rashad shares that he envisions expanding the impact of Black Boys Empowered and evolving his personal and professional ventures to create a lasting legacy of empowerment, education, and community engagement. He adds, “One of my primary goals is to transform Black Boys Empowered into a foundation that will oversee multiple initiatives aimed at supporting Black boys in Detroit and beyond. This includes establishing a prestigious scholarship program for HBCU-bound students from metro Detroit.” Rashad also plans to launch the Dear Black Boy health and wellness brand as a subsidiary of the foundation, providing resources and products designed specifically for Black boys’ well-being.
His advice to others who may follow in his footsteps is very clear. Start with a clear purpose and build a strong network. He also advises you to stay true to your community and, most importantly, leave a legacy.
h
Contessa’s Home Care Agency and Staffing
By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Contessa Woods
Contessa Woods of Greensboro, NC, shares that she has always dreamed of owning a home care agency. Initially, she thought her college degree would lead her down a different path. However, she says life guided her exactly where she needed to be.
With over 30 years of experience, she has worked in nearly every aspect of healthcare, gaining valuable insight and expertise throughout her career. Today, she is the owner of Contessa’s Home Care Agency and Staffing. Her company provides Companion Care, Private Duty, Respite Care, and Facility and Hospital Staffing. Their services include Feeding, Bathing, Dressing/Grooming, Laundry, Medication Reminders, and Preparing light meals.
Contessa is a devoted wife and mother of five. She has been married to the love of her life for 20 years. Contessa graduated from James B. Dudley High School in Greensboro, NC, in 1993 and began her healthcare journey by becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Levels I and II. She followed that feat by earning her certification as a Medication Technician. Contessa’s formal career began at Moses Cone Extended Care, where she worked as a CNA for two years before transitioning to their Emergency Department, working there for 11 years. While working in healthcare, she also owned a Companion Care Agency and pursued a degree in Healthcare Management. Contessa later paused her education to focus on her family and support her three sons as they graduated from high school and went off to college. She later returned to school to earn her second degree in Business Administration, with a minor in Health Services Management and a certification in Medical Office Administration. It sounds like she has accomplished a whole lot while being a wife and mother.
Contessa shares that shortly after earning her second degree, she reached out to a friend to see if they could do a free internship at her facility. “When I went in for the interview, I was unexpectedly offered a full-time position as an Assistant Business Office Manager. I accepted the role but made it clear to the director that I planned to stay for only one year. During that time, I consistently prayed, spoke affirmations, and asked God to reveal my purpose. Ten months later, while on vacation, I received a call from the director offering me a promotion. I told her I needed to pray about it and discuss it with my husband. After careful consideration, I declined the offer, even though I had no concrete plan for my next step. I simply knew I had to trust God. Two weeks later, while sitting in my office, I felt God telling me, “It’s time to move.” I immediately called my husband to ask if we’d be okay financially if I left my job. His response was unwavering: “Leave your job and do what?”, Contessa says.
“Ten months later, while on vacation, I received a call from the director offering me a promotion. I told her I needed to pray about it and discuss it with my husband. After careful consideration, I declined the offer, even though I had no concrete plan for my next step.
She eventually decided to start a home care agency, of course, with her husband’s support. The couple agreed to live on a strict budget and Contessa put in her 30-day notice that same day. From there, she committed to building her business and following the path she felt she was called to take.
Contessa says that she loves to be able to provide help to others and provide jobs in her community. She understands the importance of giving back and often contributes to her community by donating to local high schools and supporting community events. Additionally, she mentors and counsels women on leadership development and achieving entrepreneurial goals. She also appreciates the opportunity to educate families on the importance of home care and the process that it takes to get their loved one’s care. “I educate families on Long Term Care Insurance, Power of Attorney, Trust, and Beneficiary Accounts. I love being able to inspire, motivate, and push my employees to their highest potential.”
Family and the love and inspiration they provide are some of the things that are truly important to Contessa. She shares that over the years, she’s had the privilege of caring for most of her family, and it’s truly humbling how much they trust her when it comes to healthcare and business decisions. She adds, “My mother, who passed away nine years ago, had a profound impact on both my life and career. She always believed in me and reminded me that I could achieve anything I set my mind to, as long as I was willing to work hard. She often told me I was smart and a dedicated worker, and her words have stayed with me. An hour before she passed, she told me she loved me and was so proud of me. Those words are a constant source of motivation, and I’m grateful that I can continue to honor her legacy and make her proud.”
While building her business, Contessa has faced a few challenges. One was ensuring they provided exceptional care while keeping the business financially sustainable. She says, “Home care can be expensive for clients, yet operational costs like wages, supplies, and compliance requirements are high. I manage this challenge by regularly reviewing my budget and optimizing operations by using technology like scheduling and billing software. We also work to educate clients on additional funding options, such as long-term care insurance or Medicaid waivers, to make services more accessible. I also focus on managing client and family expectations because providing care does not just mean meeting medical or daily living needs but also addressing the emotional concerns of clients and their families. We provide clear care plans, regular updates, and a system for addressing concerns quickly. I also make it a point to make personal visits and truly listen to clients and their families to build trust and maintain strong relationships.”
Contessa says the next phase of her company focuses on securing staffing contracts with hospitals and facilities, including Assisted Living, Memory Care, Alzheimer’s Units, and Skilled Nursing Units. Additionally, her goal is to share her expertise by speaking on panels both locally and globally about the Home Care and Healthcare industry.
“My mother, who passed away nine years ago, had a profound impact on both my life and career. She always believed in me and reminded me that I could achieve anything I set my mind to, as long as I was willing to work hard.”
Hybrid Comforts by Marc, LLC
By Terry L. Watson
Provided by Marcius G. Atkinson
Marcius G. Atkinson of Greenville, SC, describes himself as an over-zealous people pleaser. Marcius is the eldest of two sons, born to James and Brenda Atkinson. He and his brother were military brats until they graduated from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. Marcius shares, “My parents were raised in a segregated south. They raised my brother and I in their own worldview that was guided by their past. The world that I grew up in was less difficult than my parents, and my son’s life is a little less difficult than my own. I try to begin every day by remembering my brother’s spoken word about my father, “…try to be better than you were yesterday.”
As a cook, a host, and a friend, whatever he offers of himself, Marcius tries to offer the best of that version that he can give. Pleasing and serving others are things that come naturally to Marcius. He shares, “I realize that my lineage and my life has been in service of another. No one finds that to be a high calling, but my greatest joy comes from giving something that I made to someone else and seeing their joy. I am a servant, and I want to learn how to better serve.” Through a course of curiosity, education, and life consequences (both negative and positive), he has found a vehicle through a company he founded, Hybrid Comforts by Marc LLC, that allows him to do such.
Hybrid Comforts by Marc LLC offers a natural, organic skin-care alternative. The base of Marcius’s company is one body butter. He says, “My body butter contains four butters and five oils, and is currently totaling fourteen ingredients for sensitive skin. For those who are aware, the Comedogenic Rating of my body butter is 1.36. It is topped off with a light scent of lavender and tea tree for calmness and a natural disinfectant. My product can also be scented with one of my fragrances, essential oils, or blends. Additionally, I offer a sugar scrub. Through a series of mistakes and errors, I developed an aloe whip and made a buttercream as a by-product. By infusing Ayurvedic Herds into other oils and adding those ingredients to the body butter, I created a hair maintenance line with butter and a cream conditioner/moisturizer. I also offer a non-aluminum natural deodorant.
The beginning of Marcius’s business begins with a separation. He adds that there are no kind words to describe a divorce. “The one description that rings true is that a divorce is the tearing of the soul. Once my soul began tearing, I was able to find something to hold on to. A divorce with my ex-wife and custody battle with my son’s mother were wars on different fronts, and this idea was the only thing holding me together,” he says. The idea of starting his company wouldn’t let him go, and he says that after failing countless times, he finally had a breakthrough.
“The vision began with a hobby, and it evolved into being an example for my son. Once the Covid lockdown occurred, I was working from home in close proximity to him. He aspired to be a commentator or gaming Youtuber. I had been watching and listening from afar, and I wanted to learn about the pros and cons before he got involved. Being able to stream is one thing, to do it successfully and to not incur any mishaps was another, and I wanted to be able to guide if necessary. While learning about the process of becoming a streamer for my son, I learned more about the different qualities of different kinds of butter and oils. Through a series of weeks at YouTube University, I learned about several recipes for body butter and the pitfalls of streamers,” Marcius says.
Unfortunately, he had learned the information for naught, as his son did not want to pursue that anymore. Still, Marcius had the knowledge. College and trade school talks had begun, and to Marcius’s surprise, his son stated that he wanted to be an entrepreneur. The final part of the vision came as the result of a conversation Marcius had with his brother. “In describing some of the things that I had learned over the years, and the results thereof, he asked if I had watched the television show, Shark Tank. I had heard of the show, but I didn’t watch it. As we continued to talk, I resided in being committed to being a good example to my son.”
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When asked what he loves most about his business, Marcius says it’s the opportunity to learn. “I am a true nerd at heart. Throughout the process, and even now, I am consistently learning. Because of my future aspirations, I am still learning about the different properties of different oils. As a content creator, I am learning about different picture taking and video capturing techniques. My father bought the encyclopedia Britannica for my brother and I; the old leather-bound books from A-Z. One of the things he kept stating was an old colloquial term about hiding knowledge. I didn’t particularly like everything that I was studying at the time, but being introduced to a topic that I found interesting and being able to research its origins, I found peace,” he says.
Marcius also credits his father as his first source of inspiration. He shares that his true ability of discipline and dedication comes from him. “Loving a man is hard when they were not taught to communicate as I was made to. When my father died, I had a laundry list of promises that went unchecked. It took losing him for me to understand some of the words that kept repeating in my head.”
Marcius also finds inspiration in his son. “Once he said that he wanted to become an entrepreneur, I had already started cataloging information about the inception of Hybrid Comforts. In a conversation, I remember telling him that he would have to talk to people, face his fears, and become a version of himself that he wasn’t displaying. So I decided to show him with my efforts,” he says.
Lastly, Marcius also finds inspiration in himself. “Rarely, do I recognize how far I’ve come. Goals in my life have been reduced to tasks to accomplish other goals. Once I reach the finish line of one goal, it’s the start of another. Minutes, days, and even years go by, and I never take the time to say, “Good job!” I know in my heart that I am a servant. I have served others’ objectives, desires, and pursuits. I have failed and picked myself up again. I have made mistakes. I failed to recognize that I have kept going, no matter what. So I have to look to myself sometimes.”
For those who may follow a path similar to Marcius, he offers some clear advice. He says, “Do you know that inner-voice that tells you every time that you’ve messed up? The one who reminds you of your failings when you have a great idea? Ignore it, and remember all the times that you have started from nothing for someone else. Why can’t you do it for yourself? My biggest struggle has always been overcoming myself and the overthinking that I do. If you are someone like that, why are you waiting for permission from someone else? I did that, and it’s a waste of time learning and perfecting your craft. Learn how to hone and then market your skills. Many people have skills that they are afraid to show.”
Looking ahead, Marcius shares that he is focused on shaping what he has already done. Before his formula became vegan, he came across some people who had an adverse reaction to Cocoa Butter and Coconut Oil. Recently, he has started working with an individual with a specialized formula to substitute those ingredients for Cupuacu Butter and Argan Oil. He is also working on a soap formula. His final objective is to market his products to other small businesses. “I do not wish to stop selling, but I do wish to coordinate with different crafters to provide their services,” he says. h
Loving a man is hard when they were not taught to communicate as I was made to. When my father died, I had a laundry list of promises that went unchecked. It took losing him for me to understand some of the words that kept repeating in my head.”
Learn More About My Experience of Being A Caregiver For My Mother
By Terry L. Watson
CHAPTER NINE: The Difference In Who Provides Care
For the caregivers following the “Becoming A Caregiver” series, my heart continues to go out to you. The assignment is not an easy one. Even more, regardless of any arrangement, when you are committed to ensuring that your loved one gets and receives the highest quality of care and attention, there isn’t much that will get in the way of your goal to see it happen. Any who, I am speaking for myself, and that is how I feel.
One of the most disheartening feelings I have experienced along this journey always happens when I arrive to visit my mom while she is in the care of others. As her primary caregiver for over eight years, I have a pretty good understanding of what good care looks like. I also know what slack and neglect look like.
While my mother is under my care, it has always been my goal to meet her needs first and always before mine. When she is thirsty, hungry, uncomfortable, or whatever else, I make it my goal to meet her need before it becomes a need. Anytime when I fall a little behind on my assignments, it becomes obvious, and Mama never hesitates to let me know that I am slacking.
With that said, as our family has depended on the assistance of others to provide care for my mother, finding consistency between caregivers has been very challenging. I believe it has a lot to do with how a person approaches their job. I believe that it also has a lot to do with how people feel about them. If you truly love yourself and love people, then that same level of compassion will show up with caregiving. If someone lacks compassion, they should never work in a customer service-dependent field like caregiving. Furthermore, if they lack professionalism, cleanliness, good time management skills, and good attention to detail, then caregiving is not for them as well. That is just my opinion.
Seeking the assistance of others to provide caregiving services for my mother was one the hardest decisions I have made since she suffered her stroke. While she may encounter dozens of individuals on a daily basis, there always seem to be about two or three that exhibit all of the above-mentioned qualities. I wish that I could say that it gets easier with each passing day, but to be honest, it doesn’t. For me, I find hope in being just as committed to caring for my mother today as I was when I first began this journey. I make my concerns and expectations known, and my Mama and I work together by trusting God.
I decided to share my experience as a full-time caregiver for my mother to consult, console, and inform other families who may be going through a similar situation. As a son, caring for my mother never feels like work; if so, it is a labor of love. Please continue to follow this message, Becoming A Caregiver, in Huami Magazine. I hope that sharing my experience will help others. From one caregiver to the next, God Bless You!
Huami Magazine Community Awards 2025
Charlotte Marriott Center City - Charlotte, NC
We are coming to the Queen City of Charlotte, NC.
Please mark your calendars for June 7th, 2025, as the Huami Magazine Community Awards will take place at the Charlotte Marriott City Center. Following up on our first gala of 2023, we are excited for the opportunity to present Black Excellence from various parts of the Huami Magazine network, which covers more than 23 states around the country.
Community Leaders, Business Leaders, and NonProfit Organizations will be honored and recognized for the great work they have done and continue to do in their respective communities. There will also be some great speakers, good food, and entertainment. This a formal, black tie event, and one that you don’t want to miss.
The evening will begin with a Red Carpet Reception at 5:30 pm. The Gala Reception will start at 6:30pm
For more information, please call 336-340-7844. Seating is limited and group packages are available. Tickets are on sale and can be purchased at the link listed below. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For sponsorship information, please send a detailed email to mykelmediaco@gmail.com h
www.read-huamimagazine.com/awards-gala-2025
Princess Kelly
The daughter of Dominique and Latisha Kelly
