Huami Magazine California May/June 2021

CALIFORNIA

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May/June 2021 Vol. 1 Issue 2 FREE

Robert L. Jamison California - May/June 2021

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May/June 2021

CALIFORNIA

CHICAGO

MILWAUKEE

TRIAD

CLEVELAND

MISSISSIPPI

CHARLESTON

HAMPTON ROADS

NY/NJ

CHARLOTTE

HUNTSVILLE

RALEIGH/ DURHAM

DETROIT

PHILADELPHIA

ARKANSAS

INDIANAPOLIS

RICHMOND

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Awards, Accolades, and Alignment A Letter From The Editor Sometimes I reflect on where I have come from in life. With each reflection, the feelings are always different from one another, and it makes good sense for them to be. There are peaks and valleys; good moments during the valleys, and even bad ones when I thought things should have been great. I guess you can describe it as a roller coaster ride A Letter from the Editor that never ends.

There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

I am the second youngest child in a family of six, with two additional What if tomorrow didn’t arrive?

All ofofyour plans, hopesis big sisters.

With this arrangement, the number stories to share and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on.

What if own plentiful. Even more, the steps that I’ve taken have painted their everything decidedand to put off until tomorrow never picture, validatingthat my you individuality uniqueness, and eventually happened?

There would be no reason to save for a rainy revealing what I am purposed for. There is a saying “what you don’t day, and you couldFor spare someonewhat the God trouble makingfor my life know, can’t hurt you”. me, learning has of destined promises.

What if your last opportunity seemingly expired and not responding according to His desire is sort of an opposite parallel today? would youI learned do? to that adage,What meaning once who I was supposed to be, every act of disobedience that followed has been painful.

I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much.

I have taken part a lot of things in life.

I have and beenI’m acknowledged Honestly, I feelinlike I am not doing enough a firm for some, and for some, I have not, and in my dusty collection, believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything onone me might find athat fewIplaques, trophies, certificates, and awards.

Though I haven’t couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would received accolades, yetand I know they’re I confess that II once be ifmany I chose to sit idle accept whatcoming. it presented to me. believed they would, I am now at a place where those items just don’t have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity do it is fora me.

I realized such symbols of merit have only provided blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge short moments of enthusiasm, and any mental record of them is fleeting. If I to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? have no memory, then it’s like it never happened.

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 But when I slowed down and allowed my life to get into alignment returnGod acquire life. with what has purposed for me, everything that I gave value to

before, I used as a foundation to stand on to obtain that which will never best given to Ime happened whenGod someone lose its The value; andadvice that isever God’s favor. realized that when blesses told me to make my tomorrow happen today.

In doing soI can me, the sensations are unending, and the benefits will open doors I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only have open on my own. When I walk with God, and that means allowing hope have also learned theappears difference between God to leadprovided. me, every Idesire, want, and need to just fall in place.

what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and I have learned that awards and accolades areto good but being in when be quiet, because alignment with God has way more value. someone may get it confused What God us arrogant. will last, a whole lot withgives being longer than anything the world gives us.

He promises notyou to keep any good thing Make tomorrow from us, and all today, we have tomost do is trust in happen but Him. For me, being loved by God is the importantly make it count. purest Life formisofbut an aaward and accolade, whisper and and one the world will never be able to we must put ourselves in a duplicate or measure up to.

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L. Watson

Publisher

www.huamimagazine.com Teyah Glenn Editor In Chief Writer Terry L. Watson Writer Terry L. Watson Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Ellen Richardson Writer Dorjae’ McClammey Writer Writers Jessica Rogers Dixon Writer Tonya Terry L. Watson

Collier Photography Alana Allen Photographer Tamara Smith Bernard Smith Dove Photographer Jeuron Fredrostar Productions Photographer Photographers Perfect Lenz Photography Todd Youngblood Photography

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ShawWant Photography Group Still Shots Photography Send An Email or Call Today

Who Shotya Photography huami.california@gmail.com (336)340-7844 Layout Howard Gaither Photography

Mykel Media Company Linda Bennett

mykelmedia@yahoo.com (336) 340-7844 HUAMI MAGAZINE is published quarterly by the Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any portion of this publication is prohibited without written permission from the publisher prior to doing so. Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility for statements made by individuals featured or advertisers. Comments concerning this publication Greensboro, NC may be submitted to the editor by 2021 All Rights Reserved E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com terry.editor@yahoo.com or to Mykel Media Company, LLC P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2014 All Rights Reserved

position to hear what it is telling us.

Terry L. Watson

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Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder

On The Cover

Photo by Shaw Photography Group

CONTENTS

MAY/JUNE 2021

CALIFORNIA

High Status Consulting

Sheka Johnson

On The Cover

5 Stars Music Group Concert Series Robert L. Jamison

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Living Her Dream

Angela Chambers-Lee

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Alvin D. Ford

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Tenethrea Buffington

VendMe Co.

Ready To Listen

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Also Featured Rita Hinton

Milwaukee, WI

She Is Ready To Listen Tenethrea Buffington

Huntsville, AL

The GreenHouse Effect Project Bhrea Jefferson

Yonkers, NY

Soapsation Bathtique Evonne Hardee

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Savanah Bleu has expanded their brand to include men. Now there is Savanah Bleu 4Him Dallas, TX

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Cutest Baby Photo She is a real cutey.

Introducing Harper Brooks

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Robert L. Jamison HuamiMagazine.com

California - May/June 2021

Information and Photos Provided by Robert L. Jamison

Musical Producer and Healthcare Professional Robert L. Jamison gather top performers together for a televised Breast Cancer Musical Concert, that will be aired live on Comcast-Xfinity Channel 17. Proceeds raised will be used to benefit The American Cancer Society Executive Producer Robert L Jamison, Founder of Alternative Healthcare LA and Memphis native is on a journey to help fund Breast Cancer Research with his upcoming televised Breast Cancer Musical Concert on Comcast - Xfinity Channel 17 Memphis, Arkansas, and Mississippi, powered by Life In Entertainment.

Robert is a Los Angeles resident and relocated to LA nine years ago with an idea to have musical events that will bring the community together for one purpose. To raise money for cancer research. Dr. Jamison, a Behavioral Health Director and two-time Real Men Wear Pink Candidate, and the all-female Funk band KLYMAXX with Legendary Cheryl Cooley are connecting with cancer survivors across the country to help shed light on the ongoing challenges they face, especially throughout COVID-19.

On October 17, 2020, Klymaxx was featured on 5 Stars Music Group Concert Series on SimulTV a Worldwide Digital Television Platform. In a previous article SimulTV CEO Steven Turner stated, “We are so excited to provide the platform for this concert to be aired on for the benefit of Cancer Research and to have such an amazing, talented group that I certainly remember from my youth getting back together and in the arenas again for this cause. Everyone has been touched in some way or another by this terrible disease, the only way to stop it is together and I believe we WILL find a cure someday soon.

SimulTV is an OTT, OTA, and IPTV network founded as a division of Interconnect Media Network Systems by CEO Steven Turner in 2011, currently broadcasting more than 130 live channels worldwide with up to 4K quality.

Streaming videos, thousands of movies and Videos On Demand, as well as popular channels including Sony Movie Channel, GetTV, NEWSMAX, Bloomberg News, InfoWars, HDNet, AXSTV, CineSony, Kid Central, Mythos, The X Zone, Battery Pop, Thrillerz, Euronews, Dimensions, and over a hundred more channels.

5 Stars Music Group Concert Series on Comcast-Xfinity is moving beyond awareness. We are determined to lead the charge to diversify breast cancer research - the inclusion of diverse participants is necessary to ensure reliable, widely applicable results. Robert wears pink throughout October and supports the American Cancer Society Real Men Wear Pink Campaign in honor of his little sister, Donna Smith Wilkes - a two-time Breast Cancer Survivor and in memory of others that lost their battle to this horrible disease. In 2012 Jamison created a Breast Cancer Musical Concert Series to show his support for women around the world who are affected by cancer. Inspired by his beloved Mother Mary V Lewis who lost her battle to Stage 4 Lung Cancer on September 6, 2012.

Executive Producer Robert L Jamison states, “We need everyone to support The Sisters of Power 4 Woman Breast Cancer Musical Featuring Klymaxx with the Legendary Cheryl Cooley May 29, 2021, on 5 Stars Music Group Concert Series on ComcastXfinity Channel 17 Powered by Life In Entertainment Brought to you by Rjai’s and LadiVee’s Production. Let’s focus on real people in our research because all people can be affected by breast cancer.”

Get a complimentary Breast Cancer Gift Bag and 30 seconds television spot with your $500.00 sponsorship. Proceeds to benefit The American Cancer Society. In addition, you can get a Klymaxx Gift Bundle for only $99.99! Autograph CD’s The Sisters of Power 4 Woman and Klymaxx Live CD, and picture.

Klymaxx Original Member Cheryl Cooley started guitar lessons at the age of 11. She went onto learning music composition, orchestration & arranging at Crenshaw High School in Los Angeles, then onto earning a degree in commercial music at Los Angeles City College.

After graduating college, Cheryl was playing in various local bands. When she was rehearsing at a studio in Hollywood, she was approached by some girls that said they had been getting together with an all-female band called KLYMAXX (AFB) and wanted her to come and start rehearsing with them.

Eventually, Dick Griffey, president of Solar Records went to see the band rehearse and signed them immediately to a contract that would spawn 5 albums. Cheryl wrote the music to the demo song that got KLYMAXX the record deal and was the first single called, Never Underestimate the Power of a Woman.

SimulTV also offers a Set-Top Box (not required for subscription) which is small enough to fit in a back pocket, enabling viewers to take it with them on the road anywhere in the world. A subscription also provides the ability to connect two additional devices - a mobile phone, tablet, computer, or television. SimulTV apps are free in the Google Play and Apple App Store. h

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Sheka Johnson High Status Consulting

By Terry L. Watson and Teyah Glenn Photos by Collier Photograpy

For some, life can often get off to a fast start. There may be plans in place, and dreams are just beginning to be acted upon when things suddenly change and what was once important, is moved further down our list of priorities. This is just the kind of narrative that Sheka Johnson has experienced.

As a teenager, the Charlotte, N.C. native looked up to her grandfather for encouragement and direction. She says he taught her how to look for certain summer jobs and not settle for the ones that teenagers typically get. By doing so, at the age of fourteen she served as an assistant at City Hall, helping people in Uptown Charlotte with different city projects.

Within this position, Sheka learned how to manage a business and the basic functions of running one. The information she obtained in this role would eventually pay dividends for her later in life, Sheka finished high school and set her sights on obtaining a degree from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

As life would happen, within three years into pursuing her degree in Business Management, she became pregnant and decided to step away from school so that she could prepare to be a new mom.

After having her first child at the age of 20, Sheka entered the world of entrepreneurship. “Being a single, young mother is what pushed me. I didn’t have a backup plan. I wanted to spend as much time with my child as possible, but I needed to be able to afford that experience. Being a business owner seemed like the best avenue for me to take,” she says.

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Her first stint was with bail bonding, and next, she opened a childcare center.

“I enjoyed working with children, and opening the childcare center allowed me to make money and take care of my child while doing so,” she says. Her next move was to attend nursing school, where she acquired her degree and became a Licensed Practical Nurse. With that accomplishment under her belt, she opened a home health care business that has been in operation for nine years.

With her home healthcare business, Sheka says it all about helping her clients, many of whom are senior citizens and disabled individuals. “Because I am the owner of a home healthcare business, I can hire qualified professionals, ensuring that the needs of my clients are met,” she says.

With all the things Sheka has ongoing, she still finds the time to do even more.

Her newest venture is High Status Consulting LLC. With this, her goal is to offer and provide consulting and coaching services to existing and aspiring entrepreneurs. Her services are designed to help them either get their business off the ground or assist them with making their business operate more efficiently.

She does this by identifying bottlenecks and waste and areas where opportunities to grow may exist. Additionally, Sheka offers talent management services.

“My intention is to impact every life that I am privileged to meet. I genuinely love helping others achieve their dreams.

Many people I meet are often at a place where they are thinking about giving up on their business. I help to redirect that type of thinking into something positive and show them how to make their business work. With entrepreneurship you can’t give up, you have to stay with it.”

There are many perks to being an entrepreneur and Sheka’s favorites are financial freedom and having free time to spend with her family. She also enjoys meeting people.

“I intend to impact every life that I am privileged to meet,” she says. “I genuinely love helping others achieve their dreams.

Many people I meet are often at a place where they are thinking about giving up on their business. I help to redirect that type of thinking into something positive and show them how to make their business work. With entrepreneurship you can’t give up, you have to stay with it,” Sheka says.

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Just as many perks come with entrepreneurship, some challenges come with it as well. For Sheka, she says the Covid 19 pandemic forced her to find ways to stay in operation. “I had to find adequate staffing, which was difficult because many people were not interested in working because of the pandemic,” she says. Still, she pushed on and was able to keep going.

Her drive and determination have been passed down to her daughters, both of who are entrepreneurs owning the beauty company, Chosen 1 Studio, and Drilled by K. Sheka serves as mom and business coach to her daughters and navigates them through the world of business, using the experience and knowledge she has already obtained.

Sheka’s goal for the future is to mentor and coach young black entrepreneurs. “Even if they don’t want to own a business, I want them to know that they should still have some type of entrepreneurship. I want to let the youth know that there’s a difference between being a business owner and being an entrepreneur. I want to expand my online presence as well,” she says.

“Normalizing black wealth is my ultimate goal.”

A piece of advice that Sheka would offer to others who follow in her footsteps would be to stay passionate about your business, and never give up. “You should only take advice from those who have traveled in the same path that you are seeking to go in,” she says.

If you are an entrepreneur and in need of business coaching services, contact Sheka with High Status Consulting. She might just have the answers to help you get your business to the next level. h

Sheka Johnson High Status Consulting 704-659-1108 www.highstatusconsulting.com

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Suesy Coils Care It’s all about the hair; healthy and beautiful hair.

Secquoyah Lacy, also known as SuesyCoils, is a 24-year-old Micro-Influencer and entrepreneur that resides in Milwaukee, WI. Secquoyah was born and raised on the south side of Chicago, IL, and is the middle child of four. Being a business owner, it is hard to believe that she was once a shy, reserved, independent, and protective young person. She shares, as a young girl growing up, I was known for my hair. However, I didn’t realize the true beauty and confidence that accompanied it.”

Even with compliments and admiration for her hair, Secquoyah experienced doubt and even hatred at times. She describes it as a love-hate relationship.

“I would never wear it in its natural state, though my father encouraged me to and embrace the kinks and coils. Still, I never would. I honestly thought he was crazy. I always feared that it would appear short or ugly, or nappy,” she says. Secquoyah’s viewpoint completely changed as a college student at Illinois State University. There she studied Sociology and due to the lack of attention, care, and resources, the way she saw and handled her hair changed.

At Illinois State University she didn’t have her mom to take her to hair appointments every two weeks. She didn’t have a proper diet, nor was she educated on how to keep her hair healthy. She experienced severe hair breakage and allergic reactions to mainstream products. Once she realized the source of the issues she had with her hair, she took matters into her own hands and became a self-described “research queen”. “This is where I fell in love with all things natural. The overload of information about essential oils, herbs, meditation, reflection, and how they can help heal the body sparked a sense of intrigue within me. I found myself constantly sharing tips, remedies, and products I made with things around me. My initial thought was why not get on YouTube and help to inform and inspire others. I knew I wasn’t the only one who lacked the proper information about hair care. I wanted to help everyone I possibly could, and so this is how SuesyCoils was born, with the intention to share my knowledge about hair, and share natural ways to take care of your body,” she says.

The SuesyCoilsCare is a truly diverse line of hair care products and includes the basic essentials for taking care of your hair. There is the Coil Crack™️ Hair System, the Coil King Collection, the SuesyCoilsCare Bonnet, SuesyCoilsCare Skin, and various Coil accessories. The Coil Crack™️ System consists of Shampoo bars, Conditioner, Hair Growth Oil, Edge Control, and Twisting Cream. The products

in the Coil Crack™️ Hair System are infused with fenugreek, rosemary and other natural ingredients that are designed to relieve dry/ itchy scalp, promote hair growth, stimulate, and repair damaged hair follicles, and rebuild and strengthen hair shafts, thus making detangling easier all while leaving your hair strands moisturized. Secquoyah says “after just one wash, you’ll be addicted.

My two best-sellers are the Coil Crack™️ Hair Growth Oil- RollerBall and the SuesyCoilsCare bonnet.”

She shares The Coil Crack™️ Hair Growth Oil- RollerBall stimulates hair growth, moisturizes hair and scalp, may prevent hair loss and breakage, treats dandruff, treats premature graying, kills bacteria on the scalp, and improves scalp health.

It is infused with fenugreek, rosemary, lemon, peppermint, tea tree, and lavender. The RollerBall bottle is good for braids (of any kind), short beards, edges, bald spots, and traveling. The massaging from the roller ball helps stimulate growth as well. This application will not leave your fingers oily.

The SuesyCoilsCare Bonnet has a satin thick wide stretchy band, good for laying edges. It is big enough to secure braids and will stay on your head all night. So, no more waking up with your hair all over your head. It’s soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic. The SuesyCoilsCare Bonnet has even been worn by celebrity influencer, Dream Doll.

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So how did Secquoyah get started. She shares she launched SuesyCoilsCare in May 2019, right after graduating from Illinois State University. “SuesyCoilsCare literally fell into my lap. It was not my intention to start a business or sell products at all. I solely made products for myself and planned to create tutorials to share with the world on YouTube. Yet, friends and family would request products and encourage me to sell them,” she says. But she hadn’t made the connection yet. Graduation came and she had no idea of what she could do that would bring in reasonable finances. However, something was happening in her dreams while she was sleeping. She shares, “I saw my logo, product labels, recipe ideas and so much more all in my sleep. Every time I closed my eyes, I had dreams and had to wake up and write down the ideas that naturally flowed to me. Soon I started to breathe, live, and dream all things SuesyCoilsCare I knew it was what I was supposed to do. It was my purpose.”

Being an entrepreneur, Secquoyah has faced some challenges. One has been scammers who are not playing fair in the world of business. She counters their efforts by carefully researching potential business-related transactions prior to sending any money out. She is also challenged running a business in itself and understands that it takes a lot of courage and confidence to keep pushing forward. And she is doing that very well.

www.suesycoilscare.com

She says what she loves most about her business is the chance to help other people fall in love with their hair and gain self-confidence. She also loves the opportunity she has to inspire and encourage others who look like her. “The fact that I can inspire others, truly inspires me because I know I have so many people watching and rooting for me. I can’t wait until I am in position to help other young women pursue their dreams as well. I am also inspired by my father who passed away in January 2019. From day one, he encouraged me to embrace my naturalness and look how far it has gotten me. I am very appreciative of the way my life panned out, but I wish I could have him here on this journey with me. He is my inspiration, and I keep going with that hope that I am making him proud,” she shares.

Her advice to anyone who is thinking about starting a business such as hers is to try every single idea. “Make sure you test and trust your products before putting them out.

You should always be 100% confident in whatever product or service you offer. Know what you’re talking about and be confident. Always be willing to learn and share what you know. When you put good in the world, good returns back to you,” she says.

Moving forward, Secquoyah plans to launch SuesyCoilsCare Skin, which will be a product line of various skin care products, face bars, sugar scrubs, face masks, and more. She will also launch the Kiddie Coils Collection, a product line for children.

She is also coming out with a specialty hair oil line that targets a specific problem. These oils will be released accompanied with educational information to further her initiative to be transparent about what’s in her products. h To learn more about SuesyCoilsCare, please visit her website.

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Alvin Ford VendMe Co.

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By Ellen Richardson Photos by Alvin Ford

Let’s be honest. Who didn’t love candy and snacks when they were growing up? Certainly not Huami Magazine’s very own real-world candy man, Alvin Ford. The owner of Detroit, MI’s own VendMe Co. vending machine company hails from a long line of entrepreneurs that never relied on other business owners to help them find success in the work world. Beginning with his great great grandmother and grandmother; who owned their own herbal tonic business; as well as his grandfather; who owned a line of small businesses including a couple of bars, a party store and served as a landlord for a couple of rental properties, Alvin Ford knew that he wanted to start his own business that would both lead to success and would make others lives better. This desire led to the birth of Metro Detroit’s premier vending company that supplies candy, healthy snacks and beverages to businesses throughout this growing area.

“Seeing my grandparents operate successful businesses while I was growing up inspired me to do the same, so I decided to start selling candy,” said Ford. “I would start out by buying a box of candy and selling individual packages in barber shops, to my family and friends and even classmates as early as middle school.”

After continuing his successful candy selling business all the way through high school, Ford would eventually find himself moving into the vending machine business. “I actually stopped selling candy for a little while but was led back in the direction of food sales while I was in college obtaining a business degree. This is where I started learning all about opportunities in the vending machine industry,” he shared.

Before long, this born to be tasty treat vendor was investing in vending machines with more than just candy.

“When I started setting up vending machines in the Metro Detroit area, I knew that I wanted to provide a product that would do more than just cure a sweet tooth. I also wanted to supply local businesses with machines that offer a wide variety of healthy and traditional foods to choose from,” said Ford.

“Seeing my grandparents operate successful businesses while I was growing up inspired me to do the same, so I decided to start selling candy.”

From one vending machine to two, Ford would eventually give birth to his dream of owning his own small business.

Now, just six months after starting VendMe Co., which offers sleek new vending equipment with a full line of healthy and traditional snacks, the newest member of the Ford entrepreneur family is quickly making a name for himself with area businesses, hotels/motels and even a nationally known chain of retail appliance and electronics stores.

“It is funny because this business almost started off as a lemonade stand when I was a kid, but after deciding to sell what I love, which was candy, it morphed into something that I love doing now!” exclaimed Ford. “Who would have thought that selling snacks at the barbershop as a kid, then out of my locker in middle school and even out of my backpack in high school would have turned into a vending machine company with contracts and national clients? God amazes me more and more as time goes on.”

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Along with becoming one of the newest small business success stories in his home city of Detroit, MI, Ford and his company are also doing their part to give back to others within his community. “Part of this company’s mission is to help others who are interested in starting their own vending machine business,” said Ford. “When I started this business, I knew that I wanted to be the kind of inspirational mentor that my grandparents and even my parents, were to me, so we also provide both mentorship and training for those who are interested in starting their own vending machine business.

In fact, I often assist people in setting up locations and even help them get the proper machines for these businesses to get them started.”

Along with giving birth to his own vending machine franchise, this business oriented young man is currently serving as a Business Analyst for the Nation’s No. 1 Wholesale Mortgage Lender - United Wholesale Mortgage Company and is preparing to graduate with his Master of Business Administration from The University of Detroit Mercy. After which, Ford will be joining the world’s largest e-commerce retail giant, Amazon, as an area manager.

“It is kind of cool that I will be working at Amazon and running the vending machine company simultaneously because I believe that one day these companies can someday work together to grow worldwide,” stated Ford.

You would think that a man with both a full and part-time job as well as completing a master’s degree would be satisfied with just focusing on himself and his career. If that were true, we would not be talking about Alvin Ford. Along with a heart for providing tasty treats and owning his own business, this real-life candy man also has a passion for leading others to the restoration power of Jesus Christ.

“I know that I have a lot going on in my life, but I also know how important it is to follow a calling that I received when I was a young man - helping others find Christ,” said Ford.

After starting this journey by becoming a minister at his family’s small church, Ford would eventually decide that he wanted to share the good news of Jesus Christ with more people. This desire would lead him to yet another mentor - Bishop Clarence Langston. As this successful, yet humble businessman would begin his tutelage under the Founder and Senior Pastor of Word in Action Christian Center he would continue to rise through the ranks to become a well-known minister at the famed Detroit church.

As he continues to walk this road of success, Ford has just one suggestion for those who are walking a similar path. “No matter what your dream or calling is, do it scared and have faith that God will make a way,” said Ford. “Be sure to also invest in yourself by finding the right people and knowledge to help you get down the road further and faster than you could ever imagine.”

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To learn more about Alvin Ford visit his website.

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Licensed Professional Counselor and Mindset Coach

Elevate your thinking, Elevate your life

By Ellen Richardson Photos by Seawards Dawson

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer – Psalm 19:14 (English Standard Version).

Ever since she was a child growing up in Bearden, AR Tenethrea Buffington knew that she wanted to help people.

While this desire would once upon a time begin to lead this Lover of God and His people towards a law degree, the current professional counselor quickly found the path that her Heavenly Father had for her while in college.

“I originally went to college with a dream and a vision to become an attorney,” said the bubbly Mrs. Buffington. “The funny thing is it didn’t take long for me to realize that was not what I really wanted to do with my life.”

While taking a different trajectory so early in their college career can leave some students spiraling out, this would not be the case for this born communicator. Instead Tenethrea would find her calling after taking both a psychology and communications course her freshman year. “During this time, I fell in love with the whole concept of helping people learn how to communicate effectively and talking through things,” shared this born people person.

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As she continued to follow her passion, Tenethrea would obtain her Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies, in 2002, and would move quickly to pursue her Master of Science in Counseling, in 2005, from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. After also obtaining a postgraduate certificate in marriage and family therapy from the University of Arkansas in Little Rock this deeply caring, nonjudgmental woman would begin to see her career as a Licensed Professional Counselor take shape. During this time, the Christ centered woman also began to pursue a career in ministry.

“While in college I started working with kids at a church called Fellowship of Champions, in Fayetteville, AR, where I became a Youth Minister for their Victory Zone program. During this time, I began to learn how to become a mentor and counselor to the younger generation, which was instrumental in my becoming a counselor for families and even couples who often have children of this age,” said Tenethrea.

Along with developing a passion for teaching and counseling others, the young woman from a little town in Arkansas developed another dream – to become an actress. “When I was a child and all the way up into my adult years, I had a secret dream to act, and it was during my time working inside this church that my pastor seemed to give this dream the spark that it needed after calling me a star!” exclaimed the artist now known as Tenethrea Buffington. “I actually started this dream through a small film that was filmed in Arkansas, called The Phone in the Attic, in 2014 and this eventually led to my next big life decision.”

As she continued to pursue her latest passion, the newly divorced mother of a 3-year-old would decide to start a new life in Atlanta, GA. Despite moving to pursue a new dream/career in acting, which included taking some acting classes,

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obtaining an agent, starring in a PSA for an area nonprofit, being featured on some print work for the Atlanta Transit system and even seeing her daughter Brielle land an acting role in an Amazon Prime movie called Mixed Emotions Vol. 2, Tenethrea never strayed far from her goal of helping people through therapy.

In fact, along with chasing her newest acting dream Tenethrea also gave life to a new business that gives Christian women a fresh start and perspective in Christ. “915 Enterprises is based upon a six-week online course that I developed called W.O.R.T.H, which is centered around my book called Who Told You That? Both this study guide and course focus on topics like identifying unhealthy limiting beliefs, forgiveness, recognizing your talents and goal setting, learning how to see yourself in a healthy place, building confidence and so much more,” said the woman whose own goal it is to set God’s daughters free from what holds them back.

Along with this course, Tenethrea also offers one on one counseling and life coaching for women who are ready to overcome feelings of anxiety, poor self-esteem, anger, relationship issues, communication problems, overcoming a negative identity and even moving past feeling stuck in a certain area of life.

“For so long, even in religion, women have been viewed as those who need to stand to the side, be quiet and play nice no matter what their feelings or thoughts may be. I don’t believe that is why God created women to be here on this earth,” stated this purpose lead woman. “Instead, He has a plan and a positive message for each one of us to share and I just want every woman to know that. This is in despite of something that they may have gone through in their past or is going through in the present. As a woman, who has had my own life journey, that has included its own hardships, I know how to relate to these women, and I feel like this is what God has called me to do.”

“For so long, even in religion, women have been viewed as those who need to stand to the side, be quiet and play nice no matter what their feelings or thoughts may be. I don’t believe that is why God created women to be here on this earth.”

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Along with counseling, encouraging and motivating women through her business, this experienced therapist also offers cognitive behavioral therapy to women, men and children through Lifestance Health as well as couples therapy through Atlanta Couple Therapy. “I really connect with women, but I also enjoy helping anyone who needs to work through something,” said Tenethrea. “The truth is, we all need to do our own soul work and we often get lost in being there for other people and bury what is going on inside of ourselves. Therefore, I make it my goal as well as my advice for anyone out there who wants to be a good person, and who may want to be someone that reaches out to others, to talk with someone like me to work through their issues before bleeding h on others.”

To learn more about Tenethrea Buffington visit her website.

Tenethrea Buffington

To schedule an appointment with Tenethrea, please send an email to tenethrea@gmail.com or visit www.tenethreabuffington.com

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Evonne Hardee Soapsation Bathtique

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By Arielle Kilgore Photos by Evonne Hardee

Being all-natural has not proven to be a trend, but a way of life for most people. Evonne Hardee and her business SoapSation Bathtique in New York caters to having everything natural so your skin can be the best of the best.

A native of Brooklyn, Evonne started her business on faith and determination. Today, it continues to operate on the very same foundation.

SoapSation Bathtique is an all-natural body store that specializes in making organic products for the skin. Hardee also makes gift baskets full of bath bombs and goodie bags for catered events like baby showers or birthday parties. Her bestseller includes a honey oat milk soap that helps with dry skin or individuals who have eczema. Other products include body oils, cupcake soaps, and facial soaps. Everything is made by hand herself and is specialized to the customer’s needs and wants.

“I do everything myself. It’s my therapy. It’s my happy place. I can make soap in my sleep. It’s just second nature to me at this point,” she shares.

Evonne started her business by giving out soap and other products to her family and friends. Her party favors turned into a business in 2016. “At some point, I decided to let me stop what I’m doing and revamp what I’m doing so I can turn it into a business,” Evonne explains. Likewise, the same year Hardee became homeless. Her determination for creating products and passion for making more effective skincare drove her to keep going.

“It was a struggle, but I kept it going. And I overcame anything that was in the road to stop me,” she says. From then on, the number of batches she produced turned from once a week, into six batches a week for her growing, hungry customers.

Having something real is important to Hardee.

She was always a nature girl and experimental when she was young growing her passion for chemistry and the science behind beautiful skin from Earth’s properties. Research, time, and passion have driven her business and provide her with sustainability. Hardee explains that YouTube and other quick sources are not the keys to a growing business. Dedication and persistence plus engaging with your clients can determine how successful you are going to be. The hobby she formed brought her peace and fortunately helped many people feel amazing about their skin.

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Although Covid-19 proved to be a challenging year for smaller businesses, SoapSation Bathtique rose to the top. Her secret? Covid provided a better connection between Hardee and her clients. It allowed her to focus on the specific needs of her customers with skin problems and show people the light of using things from mother nature to heal your skin.

“Everything that you need for your skin is actually here on Earth. Like it’s in your garden.

It’s everywhere. There are so many natural oils plants, stuff that you can use to moisturize and cleanse and take better care of your skin,” Evonne says.

Most of the products on the shelves have emollients and chemicals that can erode your skin or make skin issues worse, specifically in African American communities. These chemicals can irritate the skin and increase the problems that we already have. Representation matters in the black community. It is the ability to have options and those options be safe and effective.

As an African American woman, it was important for Evonne to have a business that her community could trust and also see progress.

Black communities, especially in starting or growing businesses, experience culticutlure, the annihilation of businesses that carry the same product. The idea of culticutlure can spread doubt and fear of multiple successful black businesses. However, Hardee stands by keeping your dream alive so other people like us can have options and obtain a better lifestyle.

“We need something to help sustain us. To sustain our natural beauty,” she says. It does not matter where you start, she explains the necessity to keep going through hard times.

“And you have to understand that there will be hard times, but if you’re passionate enough about it, you’ll overcome those hard times.

There’s nothing that we can’t do!”

Evonne continues to grow her business with pop-up events starting in New Jersey in June of this year. Providing consistent and quality customer service remains to be one of her highest priorities. You can learn more about Evonne and many of the wonderful products she creates by visiting her website. h

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Jonathan C. H arris Anything Is Possible 34

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Jonathan Harris

For author Jonathan Harris, he has proven that anything is possible. In just one year, he transformed his appearance and embraced the responsibility of living a healthier life and dropped 100 pounds. For many, that can be an impossible feat, but for Jonathan it all coincides with who he is, an achiever, overcomer, and conqueror.

In just one year, Jonathan shed 100 pounds.

Born and raised in Fort Washington, Maryland, he is no stranger to leadership, hard work, or success. At the young age of ten years old, he was featured as a guest weatherman for a day on a local new station, Fox 5 DC News.

He was the high school Valedictorian of his graduating class, and has earned many awards such as the Forty Under 40 for Prince George’s County, MD. He is also a TEDx Talk speaker, and TEDxFortWashington Founder. He has been recognized by the American College Personnel Association (ACPA) Outstanding Men’s Program and is the recipient of the Kiwanis Club Citizenship Award.

After high school, he attended the University of Delaware where he ironically fell in love with his Resident Assistant (RA) job and working with students. After college, he had a major career switch and decided to pursue a career in higher education. That led to his first degree granting HBCU, Lincoln University.

With some much already accomplished, Jonathan found time to do even more. In 2016, he authored his first book, Master of Ceremonies: A Male’s Guide for a Successful Life. In 2020, he did the unimaginable and wrote two books, on the same day: Growing Gents and Girls With Pearls. He then started his own publishing company, Harris Publishing, LLC, so that he could help more aspiring authors.

Jonathan shares, “My debut book, Master of Ceremonies: A Male’s Guide for a Successful Life, has been added to several popular bookstores including Barnes and Noble, eBay, Amazon, Books-A-Million, Apple Bookstore, and many more. The book is about how to take ownership of your own life and improve your self-worth.” His second book, Growing Gents, reached the top 250 for best-selling books for the ‘books for boys’ category. His third book, Girls With Pearls climbed to the top 500 for best-selling books for the ‘books for girls’ category in just its first week on the Amazon best-selling book charts.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, I realize that families need help in providing educational and fun materials for their children. As a young African American male author, I am excited to provide new content for them.”

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Jonathan shares that Growing Gents teaches boys at an early age what it means to be a gentleman. “Imagine a world where all little boys grow up to be kind, thoughtful, punctual, and helpful. This is what I wanted to capture,” he says. “Girls With Pearls is the perfect book to instill great qualities that will last a lifetime.

This effective, beautiful, and colorful book shows young girls the importance of using manners, treating themselves and others with respect, and following their dreams. A lot of children’s literature gives a message through a fictional story, but we do not have many children’s books that are self-help and offer a powerful message.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I realize that families need help in providing educational and fun materials for their children. As a young African American male author, I am excited to provide new content for them.”

Master of Ceremonies A Male’s Guide For A Successful Life

Growing Gents

Girls With Pearls

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Jonathan says he is inspired by those who will follow after him. “Since I was a child, my late grandfather, William Kirksey always told me that nothing in this world was designed for its own use. Meaning an apple tree doesn’t grow apples to eat the apples themselves. I know that I was put on this earth to make things better for the next person,” he says. “I have a lot of young people who look up to me, including my godson, nephews, mentees, cousins, students, and those who read my books. They remind me that quitting is not an option. As a black man, I constantly think of past slaves who were beaten, jailed, and even killed for learning how to read and write, so becoming an author means the world to me. The same way my ancestors worked hard to make sure I had better, is the same way I want to pay it forward for the next generation of people. My goal is to leave the world in a better space than I found it.”

Jonathan shares that being an author has afforded a lot of opportunities. “I have spoken with schools, churches, mentoring programs, and on many other platforms. I have been blessed to have some pretty impactful conversations with the youth about self-esteem, friendship choices, healthy relationships, finances, spirituality/ religion, education, and much more. Due to my transparency with them, many students have opened up about some challenging situations in their lives,” he shares.

In the future, Jonathan plans to publish his fourth book, and organize a book tour. He is also considering running for public office. On top of that, he is looking forward to becoming a husband and father one day. h To learn more about Jonathan, please visit his website.

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BhreaJefferson The GreenHouse Effect Project

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Fredrostar Productions Many words can be used to describe Bhrea Jefferson. Also known as Bre, at heart, she is a nature-lover. Her foundation is solidified by being a wife to her husband of six years, DonTaye. Together they share two sons, DonTaye Jr and Dallas. At 28 years of age, the Chemical Engineer and two-time business owner/entrepreneur is striving to make her impact on the world and her community by way of her newest venture, The GreenHouse Effect Project LLC. Bhrea was born and raised in Huntsville, AL. Still currently residing there, Bhrea fully understands what she does can influence and inspire others, so she lives her life to be a role model for young girls. She is also passionate about bridging women in business together, while also pursuing her dreams. She has a go-getter attitude when it comes to doing business and exemplifies what it means to be a servant for God, as she lives her life serving others.

The GreenHouse Effect Project is a non-profit organization that was founded in Huntsville, AL. Its purpose is to educate, empower, inform, and include women to obtain the dream of entrepreneurship. Bhrea says, “I aspire to collaborate with other women and show the world that we are more alike than we realize.” The GreenHouse Effect Project is symbolically the same as a real Greenhouse for plants. A traditional Greenhouse is used to shield crops and plants from excessive cold or hot temperatures while maintaining a stable environment year-round. It also makes it possible for the plants to grow outside of their natural environment. With the GreenHouse Effect Project, Bhrea incorporates the same theory. “Experienced or seasoned businesswomen act as the (glass or plastic) exterior, shielding aspiring entrepreneurs from harm’s way with advice and business solutions. We maintain a warm, comforting, inclusive environment year-round, which allows everyone to grow equally, bettering ourselves and achieving our goals. What’s special about The GreenHouse Effect Project is we can support, uplift, and encourage one woman at a time,” she says.

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So how did Bhrea’s journey begin? She says she started gathering ideas and brainstorming in October 2019. After organizing her thoughts and ideas, she launched The GreenHouse Effect Project on March 4, 2020, just before the world shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “I initially started the business idea of having functions in person with women in my community, but became impossible because of the pandemic,” she says. Still, Bhrea was able to press on.

Bhrea shares she has devoted her life to helping others mainly due to the grace that God has shown her. “I have survived things that were sent to destroy me physically, mentally, and emotionally. In my darkest hours, I figured out a way to pull myself out, flipping my frown back into a smile. When I thought I completely lost myself in pleasing other people, I found a way to reveal and find my true identity once again. When we hit rock bottom, I don’t think we as women, give ourselves enough credit for being our own coach, counselor, chef, doctor, therapist, and everything in between. When our family and friends are hurting, we are there to fix and heal them, but who heals us? At my worst state, my source of strength has come from my Bible, devotionals, and meditation. I thank God for strengthening me so that I can still be here today,” Bhrea shares.

Understandably, to do what Bhrea is doing, one must have love and compassion for others. Often, Bhrea is connected with new people, and because of this, more women in her community are networking and making new connections. “I’ve asked God to take away my fears, nervousness, and timidness, and use me as a vessel to serve my community,” she says.

There have also been some challenges that Bhrea has overcome in her business. She shares, the first business I started was with my husband as a used car dealer. I didn’t anticipate getting a cold shoulder or negative energy from the people I thought loved me the most as I climbed the success ladder. It’s funny how when you’re doing average or bad, people love you. Yet, when you’re trying to excel in your career and provide better opportunities for you and your family, hate can emerge. Sometimes the hard work is overlooked, and the fruits of our labor are only noticed. Times when I thought I would have been congratulated, I wasn’t, but instead, I was shunned. However, I didn’t allow that to stop me from loving.”

For other entrepreneurs who may follow in Bhrea footsteps, she offers some advice. “Chase after your dreams with all that you have and don’t stop. Remember that nothing lasts forever. Whatever you’re going through, it can’t last forever.

It’s just a season. The only way that you will fail in life is if you quit, so don’t quit! When you’re sitting in your bed at night contemplating whether you should keep going or not, just go!

Don’t let anyone force their insecurities on you to make you feel you aren’t worthy enough to enjoy every ounce of success that comes to you. If God gave you the vision, it is for you, and only you to understand,” Bhrea shares.

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Moving forward, Bhrea plans for The Greenhouse Effect Project to be the go-to place for women in entrepreneurship.

She plans to launch a successful talk show titled, Mauve’ Convos on the YouTube platform. She also hopes to build more economic strength in her community and would like to expand her business to other states and produce her own line of products. “Through my journey in entrepreneurship, I found running a business and being business-minded is a language. I want to bring forth the ups, the downs, and the ins and outs of being a woman behind a business. I have a lot of great plans for the show, and I can’t wait to share with the world!” h

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SAVANAH BLEU 4HIM

By Terry L. Watson Photos by David Gort Photography

Savanah Bleu is up to something again. While their signature line of handbags and accessories have made their name in the fashion world, it only seems right for them to add a men’s line. And so it is. Introducing Savanah Bleu 4 Him. Rita Hinton is the face of Savanah Bleu. She can be best described as someone dynamic and determined. She is the middle child of Ray and Dorothy Hall and was born in Dallas, TX in April of 1969 and raised in a small town in West Texas.

She has always been ambitious and independent in her thinking. At the age of 50, she received her bachelor’s degree in Business Management with a minor in Small Business from the University of Phoenix.

Rita shares that she is a hard worker who has decided to work hard for herself. Her entrepreneurial experience began with her selling jewelry. “I love jewelry, accessories, and fashion. When I dressed up, women would always ask me where I purchased my jewelry, or my handbag, and sometimes even my attire. One day I was sitting at a restaurant eating lunch, and a young lady approached me and asked where I purchased my earrings. I couldn’t remember because I had them for quite a while. However, she asked to purchase them right off of my ears. And so it began,” she says.

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Savanah Bleu Handbags was launched in 2009. Rita began by first dipping her hand in selling costume jewelry. She then added handbags and soon it became her best-selling product. She shares what has helped her business more than anything are the prices. “I’ve always told myself that I would not put a price on a bag that I could not afford. I passionately believe that every woman should be able to afford a nice quality handbag. Therefore, my prices are for all incomes and my target group is women that want to look good, stylish, and classy.”

Savanah Bleu 4Him 4HIM is the brother company to Savanah Bleu. They specialize in men’s accessories including jewelry, overnight bags, and cigar accessories, and are adding new items daily. It was first launched in November of 2020. “My male friends kept asking men when I would have something for the men. They were supporting my business and buying handbags for their mothers, sisters, and spouses, and because of their support, I felt it was time I rewarded them. So, I did a relaunch in March of 2021. When I first launched, I only had a few pieces of jewelry, but nothing was

catching anyone’s attention. I then remembered I had once carried the Ostrich bags on the Savanah Bleu side and thought maybe I could revamp by adding the bags. I was speaking with my partner Darryl Bates and he suggested we conduct a photo shoot, and that he would model for me. The photo shoot was amazing, and we were on our way with Savanah Bleu 4Him,” she says.

The main attraction for Savanah Bleu 4Him is their Getaway Collection Ostrich Duffle Bags. These bags are made of vegan leather and are very classy, and distinguished. They are perfect for a quick getaway whether it be in town, a road trip, or a quick flight out of town. Savanah Bleu 4Him also specializes in Shamballa bracelets and Stretch Beaded bracelets. Rita shares, “These beaded bracelets are so exquisite and unique.” “They are specially designed for Savanah Bleu 4Him by our designer, Cormeer White of Queen Goddess Shine. We also specialize in Invicta Watches for men, these watch designs are handpicked by myself and my partner.”

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Rita shares how she loves the distinguished look Darryl is gearing towards and compliments him for his ideas of a more upscale line for men, which she says are working very well. “I love the whole look, everything from the products to the merchandising, I love it all!”

So how does Rita plan to grow her new line? She shares, “We have so many ideas coming into view, but we plan to add more products as far as accessories go. People love the visual of products, they want to see how the product would look on them, so more photos of the merchandise with our models,” she says.

To learn more about Savanah Bleu 4Him, please visit their website. h

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TLC & Bella’s Academy of Cosmetology

By Arielle Kilgore Photos by B Smith Photography

Angela Chambers-Lee, also known as Dree, owns two successful businesses in Greenville and Mauldin, SC. The salon Touched by Dree and TLC and Bellas Academy of Cosmetology have molded talented tonsorial artists and helped others form their path. The school includes classes for becoming a Cosmetologist, Esthetician, and Nail Technician.

As a stylist, Angela specializes in cuts and color. To be enrolled in the program, the student must have a high school diploma, their driver’s license, and another form of identification for the school. Angela’s school allows young girls starting at the age of 16 to apply. Each program consists of its own cost with the Cosmetology school starting at $15,000. Her Nail Technician course starts at $4,000. Lastly, the Esthetician program starts at $5,500.

Promotions are in effect from time to time to cater to her students for more affordable options. The tuition for each school covers the books and classes needed, and kits are available at an extra cost.

Her professional journey began in 1991. Since then, Angela has been a licensed cosmetologist for over 30 years. She has also taught other stylists and artists her craft for over 18 years. The gift to style African American women’s hair is a skill everyone needs to possess. Angela wants to train people like her to be the best at doing hair. She shares, “I want to be remembered for helping any and everybody to be a better version of themselves,” she says.

“I want to be remembered for helping any and everybody to be a better version of themselves.”

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Though well seasoned, Angela began styling hair at the young age of 11. “It was the “Ah-Ha” that inspired me. I was encouraged by the before and after transformations of my clients, and their responses. I truly had the passion as a young girl. I have grown to realize that my passion is also a gift,” she says.

With the onset of Covid 19, Angela had her doubts about opening a new business during this tough time.

Although the business was a self-made dream, she had her doubts. One of her students encouraged her to consider the opportunity. “She said, “What’s the thing that’s stopping you right now? I said well it’s a pandemic.

So, of course, I’m not thinking about spending money right now,” Angela explained. But eventually, her insight changed and on February 22, 2021, she opened her business and became the first African American female in Greenville, S.C. to have their own cosmetology school.

“We’re making history right now,” she says with enthusiasm. Her business has been blessed in a pandemic, more than she could imagine. The joys of teaching other beauty professionals are endless. Her main motivation and dedication are to her students as they graduate and are guaranteed jobs straight out of her program. The goal for both her salon and cosmetology school is to produce eventual entrepreneurs. I want my students to have the confidence to open their own,” she says.

The school and its owner stand by this statement alone, “Don’t Be Ordinary! Dare To Be Original!” She says, “Nobody can be you better than you. You can only be yourself.”

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In November of 2015, ChambersLee lost her main supporter -- her mom. Before she passed, she told her daughter that she will never be satisfied till she had something to call her own. “Those words have never rung more true. I turned the key to my own salon and it’s amazing to see things come full circle,” Angela said. The same doors that she, unfortunately, had to close were opened again in 2016. From then on, her salon was named after her mother in remembrance, Annie Bell Graham.

As a history maker and rule-breaker, Angela knows that there is a calling on her life. It is paramount that she shows other people and her daughters and son that you can be successful in whatever you do as long as you put forth the effort and the time. “There are many nights I stayed up, and I didn’t even go to sleep. But that’s how much time I put into building my business,” she says.

Angela is leading by example, and showing her students and colleagues that what God gives you, He expects for you to share with others.

“Teaching someone my craft is not enough. My true legacy will be how I helped them to become better than me,” she shares. h

TLC & Bella’s Academy of Cosmetology 2301 Wade Hampton Blvd.

Greenville, SC 29615 864-373-9857 www. tlcbellasacademyofcosmetology.com

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