Huami Magazine Charleston May/June 2021 by Terry Watson

CHARLESTON

May/June 2021 Vol. 1 Issue 4 FREE

chef

Carlos Brown

Saving Hospitality - The Next Generation Charleston - May/June 2021

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May/June 2021

CALIFORNIA

CHICAGO

MILWAUKEE

TRIAD

CLEVELAND

MISSISSIPPI

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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 that never ends. I am the second youngest child in a family of six, with two additional big sisters. With this arrangement, the amount of stories to share are plentiful. Even more, the steps that I’ve taken have painted its own picture, validating my individuality and uniqueness, and eventually revealing what I am purposed for. There is a saying “what you don’t know, can’t hurt you”. For me, learning what God has destined for my life and not responding according to His desire is sort of an opposite parallel to that adage, meaning once I learned who I was supposed to be, every act of disobedience that followed has been painful. I have taken part in a lot of things in life. I have been acknowledged for some, and for some I have not, and in my dusty collection one might find a few plaques, trophies, certificates, and awards. Though, I haven’t received many accolades, yet I know they’re coming. I confess that I once believed they would, I am now at a place where those items just don’t do it for me. I realized such symbols of merit have only provided short moments of enthusiasm, and any mental record of them are fleeting. If I have no memory, then it’s like it never happened.

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L Watson

Publisher

Terry L. Watson Writer Ellen Richardson Writer Dillan Teabout Writer Dorjea’ McClammey Writer Jessica Rogers Smith Writer Tamara David Hendricks Writer Seawards Dawson Photographer Fredrostar Productions Photographer

But when I slowed down and allowed my life to get into alignment with what God 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 lose its value; and that is God’s favor. I realized that when God blesses me, the sensations are unending, and the benefits will open doors I can have open on my own. When I walk with God, and that means allowing God to lead me, every desire, want, and need appears to just fall in place. I have learned that awards and accolades are good but being in alignment with God has way more value. What God gives us will last, a whole lot longer than anything the world gives us. He promises not to keep any good thing from us, and all we have to do is trust in Him. For me, being loved by God is the purest form of an award and accolade, and one the world will never be able to duplicate or measure up to.

Terry L. Watson 4

CHARLESTON

CONTENTS

Every 1 Voice Matters

Sherrika Myers

On The Cover

God Grace Is Sufficient

Jarell Smalls

Giving Back In Arkansas

Dr. Michele Wright

MAY/JUNE 2021

Anything Is Possible

Jonathan C. Harris

Fullwood Mobile Detailing

Derrick Fullwood

Also Featured Phylica Parrish

Arkansas

She Is Ready To Listen Tenethrea Buffington

Greenville

Loving Her Life and Building Her Legacy Angela Chambers-Lee

Huntsville

The GreenHouse Effect Project Bhrea Jefferson

Learn more about Virginia’s favorite realtor. Richmond, VA

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Charleston - May/June 2021

Cutest Baby Photo She is a real cutey. Introducing Harper Brooks

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Charleston - May/June 2021

Carlos Brown

Saving Hospitality - The Next Generation By Terry L. Watson Photos by Jeremiah Drummond

Executive Chef Carlos Brown is Founder & Chief Executive Officer of C3Culinary Group LLC. The extremely talented chef has accomplished a great amount in his career and shared his rewards with many. He has owned and operated various restaurants, and traveled around the United States, cooking for anyone who has an appetite for good food. He began cooking at the young age of eight. By the time he was 16, he was declared to be a professional. “It started at home. I was raised by two great women, my mom, and grandmother,” he says. Fast forward, he eventually created the Chef Carlos brand which includes Gullah On The Go, Private Stock, Kitchen by Chef Carlos Brown, Authentic Shrimp & Grits Cafe by Chef Carlos in Atlanta, and Charleston SC. His arsenal includes Celebrity Chef, Restaurateur, Hospitality Consultant, speaker, personal and private chef, philanthropist, multi-product developer, and author. Now, he has set his sights on giving back to his roots in Charleston, SC. He has founded a camp for young and aspiring chefs. It’s called the C3 Camp, Chef Carlos Culinary Camp. It is a two-week summer camp of great food and fun-filled activities. It allows the campers and young chefs to put their cooking skills to the test.

The C3 Camp is a two-week summer camp of great food and fun-filled activities. It allows the campers and young chefs to put their cooking skills to the test. 7

With this camp, he is teaching the campers the same craft that has carried him throughout life. With the program, the campers will learn how to cook a variety of foods, and also gain farm and Botanical Garden education. They will also experience hands-on cooking, acquire 0skill development, and participate in demonstrations. This will also allow them to create and prepare appetizers, soups, salads, entrees, and desserts, all while utilizing a variety of ingredients. The cultures that are celebrated through these cooking experiences are Southern, Mexican Fiesta, Chinese, French, and Italian. The campers will also learn how to prepare meals for brunch, and get an understanding of the food standard measuring system Safe Serve, and provide them with cooking tips and learn about kitchen safety. Additionally, they will be taught valuable life skills such as effective communication, social responsibility, and financial accountability. They will also be able to participate in college and school tours. The camp will not be all about learning, it will also give the campers a chance to have fun. They will play summer camp cooking games and even compete in the “Chef Challenge”.

www.chefcarlosbrown.com

Chef Carlos shares he has a mission and vision to build bridges for the next generation, through education and training. “Bringing the mission and vision to life was the defining factor for founding and establishing my nonprofit,” he says. As a chef that believes in “Food that Makes You Smile” and “Saving Hospitality” he created the Chef Carlos brand which includes Shrimp & Grits Cafe, Gullah On The Go, and Private Stock,Kitchen by Chef Carlos Brown. He is also the visionary behind The Executive Chef’s Extensive Vitae. “What inspires me is helping young people achieve goals through the discipline of arts. I want them to have a chance to win,” he says. Chef Carlos says, “One of the greatest lessons my mother taught me was the importance of cooking with your soul. People know good food because they can taste the love in the food. As a child, while my brothers and sisters were out playing, I was in the kitchen watching as she cooked for our family. She never measured ingredients, and never followed recipes. S he instinctively knew what ingredients went well with others and how to bring out the best flavors in foods. Watching my mother, I knew early on what I wanted to do in life — become a chef. h This is my passion!” To learn more about Chef Carlos Brown and the C3 Camp, please visit their website.

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Every 1 Voice Matters

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Photos and Information Provided by Every 1 Voice Matters

Sherrika Myers is the founder of Every 1 Voice Matters. Every 1 Voice Matters is a community outreach nonprofit that helps kids break down communicative and social barriers such as stuttering, self-esteem and bullying to improve their quality of life. She has developed innovative measures including an online animated series where kids can learn to pronounce, spell, and demonstrate new words. There is also a children’s book series with its first published book “Herbie’s New Home”, and a learning app coming soon. They also have the C.L.A.S.S. (Core Life & Academic Social Skills) School Assembly Program. Every 1 Voice Matters values being a pillar in our community through our yearly back to school events where we give away thousands of backpacks filled with school supplies and our yearly Popup Santa Christmas Giveaway where we surprise ten to 20 families with Christmas gifts. Sherrika is a national speaker and educational outreach facilitator who travels across the country helping schools to close interpersonal and social gaps that often lead to effects such as bullying and low academic performance. She speaks to thousands of kids through interactive school assemblies and educational presentations infused with transparency and easy-toimplement principles.

Sherrika seldom spoke to people due to fear that she would expose her stuttering and be teased. It wasn’t until middle school that she realized she had to do something about it. One day in 6th grade, she had to do the morning announcements over the loudspeaker. She could barely say her name, much less read the announcements. She was petrified to say anything more because now the entire school knew she was different. From that day on, Sherrika was determined to figure out how to get her stutter under control. Eventually, with a lot of patience, she learned techniques that helped curb her stuttering. Sherrika always wanted to help kids who stutter because of how it affected her life. Her grandson, Lil Herbert, also stutters. Wanting to spare him and other children from some of the difficulties she experienced during her childhood, Sherrika has made it her mission with Every 1 Voice Matters to help those with speech impediments. She wants them to know they are not alone; stuttering can be conquered and that they can find their voice. Growing up with a stutter was hard and Sherrika always wondered why this happened to her. Now, she has the reason—Every 1 Voice Matters—your voice matters.

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“Our mission was originally founded on promoting the development of fluency, communication, coping skills and building proper speech techniques, self-esteem and self-confidence for children who stutter. Now, our mission has expanded to being a resource for all social and communicative barriers for children through education, online programs, community outreach programs and events. Some of our programs consist of therapy, empowerment, community awareness and development, reading, tutoring, counseling, and mentoring. Every 1 Voice Matters (E1VM) is a tax-exempt organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and is classified as a private operating foundation as defined in section 4942(j)(3),” she says. Sherrika and E1VM launched the Lil Herbie animated Series on YouTube where kids can learn to pronounce, spell, and demonstrate new words with the animated character Lil Herbie. The Lil Herbie Virtual School provides support in Math, STEM and reading for children in Kindergarten through 5th grade. Elected officials, local leaders, actresses and storytellers have been special guests. They have also launched their first book of many, “Herbie’s New Home.” The main character Lil Herbie, stutters and has to meet a new group of friends when his family moves from Maryland to South Carolina. Lil Herbie is afraid the new kids will laugh at him because he stutters. They have also decided to bring Lil Herbie to life. “The Lil Herbie Mascot represents the little child inside of me because I once stuttered, my grandson who stutters, and any individual, especially children who are going through any issue. There is a Lil Herbie inside of all of us,” Sherrika says. h

www. every1voicematters.org www.lilherbie.com

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MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

Harper Brooks The daughter of Camille Brooks

To submit photographs to be placed in the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby feature, please send a detailed email to huami.cutestbaby@gmail.com

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By Ayana Bryant Photos by Dr. Michele Wright

Who is Dr. Michele Wright. The best way to describe her is to say that she is loving and has a special place in her heart to serve others. She is also an engineer, best-selling author, former CEO of the American Red Cross, entrepreneur, and Executive Director for National Cystic Fibrosis for African Americans. This is a businesswoman who has continuously strived for success and pushes herself to new heights. A native of Tuskegee, AL and now based in Little Rock, AR, Dr. Wright is continuing to build her legacy and uplift younger generations while doing so. A graduate of Tuskegee University with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering Dr. Wright decided to continue her education post-graduation. Receiving her master’s in engineering management and industrial engineering from the University of Tennessee Space Institute becoming the first African American full-time student to earn this degree. She then went on to earn her doctorate from the University of Arkansas in public policy with a double specialization in health and leadership policy. Raised by two loving parents Dr. Wright was always taught to work hard and push herself to be successful. Her father, being the provider of the household is the one who encouraged her to become an engineer and inspired her to always strive for greatness. Today he still works at Tuskegee University helping students in the biology department get into medical school. Her mother also played an integral role in her upbringing, nurturing her and her siblings and making sure that they all did what they needed to do to reach their full potential. Both working in synergy to raise her is what she says has made her into the successful person she is today. Dr. Wright values the impact of service within her community, her engineering background is what inspires her to support underrepresented students in the STEM field. She serves as the President and board chair of the Milton Pitts Crenshaw Aviation Training Academy which aids young people in looking for opportunities to pursue careers in the aviation and aerospace industry. She is also a board member of the Arkansas Mentoring and Networking Association which is another nonprofit organization that helps to promote opportunities for underrepresented STEM students in the state of Arkansas. Dr. Wright has started a very important business, My Water Buddy Inc. and foundation. The mission of My Water Buddy is to promote the benefits of drinking water to children and their families for a more fulfilling quality of life through a healthy body. The vision of this company is what inspired her to author and create her very own children’s book The Water Tales: Life Lessons from My Water Buddy and Family. Along with this book Dr. Wright launched a podcast which won the 2021 Accolade Global Film competition award. Alongside her husband she has also started the National Organization of African Americans with Cystic Fibrosis which was established in 2019.

Along with success comes challenges and downfalls and Dr. Wright has had her fair share. “The biggest challenge that I have faced in my career is being taken seriously and valued as an African American female and moreover as an African American female leader,” she says. Overall, she still believes in embracing what comes because the struggles that we endure will always present bigger and better opportunities. “You know the saying take lemons and make lemonade? I took my lemons and grew a lemon farm.” When asked who or what has impacted her life the most, her immediate response was her relationship with God. She also feels that everyone around her has collectively impacted her life like pieces to a puzzle. Her parents instilled her with training, values, and beliefs that she feels has transformed her into the woman she is today. She also recognizes the influence and support of her husband. The last 20 plus years of their marriage has provided her with balance and a partner to “pick up the baton”. “Without the support of my husband I wouldn’t be the wife and mature woman of God that I am today,” she shares. In the future she is looking forward to continuing her growth and becoming overall wiser, better, and stronger. Ultimately, she says that she looks forward to making an impact in the lives of others. Her mission in life is to make a difference in the world that will not simply last for today but for generations to come. Dr. Wright believes in the significance of paying it forward and says that is what she was put here to do. h

“The biggest challenge that I have faced in my career is being taken seriously and valued as an African American female and moreover as an African American female leader ........You know the saying take lemons and make lemonade? I took my lemons and grew a lemon farm.”

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Charleston - May/June 2021

Virginia’s Favorite Realtor By Jalessa Rogers Photos by Phylicia Parrish Pride and joy in helping people is something that Phylicia Parrish carries with her every single day in her as a real estate agent. Other attributes that define Phylicia are her discipline, work ethic, honor system, and transparency. Born in Killeen, TX to two active military parents, Phylicia and her older brother spent their younger childhood years in Germany and different parts of Texas, until her parents retired from the military and moved the family to Virginia. Growing up as a military brat, Phylicia credits her parents with being sound role models and instilling within her the importance of being a woman of her word. Combined, her parents served over twenty years in the military, and it would have made perfectly good sense for her to follow in her parents’ footsteps, but life would have a different calling for her. During her teenage years while living in Newport News, VA, she became the “big little sister” to her old brother as she had an inert nature to take care of him and protect him, something that is a big part of her business today. As a real estate agent, it is her goal to assist her clients with whatever need they may have, and ensure they get the best possible experience while working with. While many may see the experience of buying or selling a home as routing, for Phylicia it more than that. She shares how often relationships and bonds are formed with her clients, lasting beyond the moment of closing and the ink dries on the contract. Continued on the next page

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With a lot of hard work and consistency, Phylicia has enjoyed a lot of success “I have sold millions of dollars in real estate, while doing it part time, but my biggest accomplishment is that every single client is satisfied with my service because I really care about them. My clients walk away knowing I had their back,” she says. So how did the journey begin for Phylicia? After graduating from Woodside High School in 2004, she attended Thomas Nelson Community College until she felt like her time wasn’t being used wisely. So, she decided to get her real estate license instead. The hustle and bustle of being a military brat would again come into play, as it helped her to connect with her clients in regard to relocating their family at any moment, something that happens with the purchase of sell of a home. Today, Phylicia is an agent with Keller Williams in Richmond, VA. She says, “If you are looking to buy, sell, lease, invest, commercial property or anything else, I am the agent for you. My niche is first time homeowners, and sellers of slightly distressed homes. There is something so personal about helping someone find their very first home. Being able to focus completely on them and finding their dream house at an affordable is one memorable moment that we may never forget.” Phylicia truly exemplifies her tag line “Virginia’s Favorite Realtor”. Her services are available to all of Virginia and Maryland under the Keller Williams Realty umbrella. For further information and if you are looking for a home in any of the areas, she services you can her directly or visit her online. h

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Jonathan C. H arris Anything Is Possible 20

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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.” Charleston - May/June 2021

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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

www.authorjon.com 22

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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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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. In order 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 a 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.” Continued on the next page

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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 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 definitely 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.”

Continued on the next page

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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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Fullwood Mobile Detailing 30

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By David Hendricks Photos by Jerry Barbry

You can safely call Derrick Fullwood the Neighborhood Detailer and Pressure Washer. The area of Raleigh, N.C. has been blessed with a man who is truly dedicated to his craft. This is a man who will do everything in his power to make sure that your vehicle looks brand new by the time that it leaves his presence. That man is Derrick Fullwood, the owner of Fullwood’s Mobile Detail and Pressure Washing. While he spends a lot of time washing and detailing cars, Derrick still finds time to talk about many of the things that are important to him, such as his life, family, and serving others. Derrick, who is also an ordained minister, is from the small town of Bolivia, which is in Brunswick County, N.C., and sits between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, right on the South Carolina border. “I’m a country boy at heart but I have managed to do quite well in a city setting,” he says. Derrick grew up in two parent household. He was the third child out of four. His father has been a pastor since Derrick was four years old. “We would listen to secular music but when Daddy came around, we had to cut it off,” he said. Their household was close knit and his father kept it all in order. Derrick obtained his formal education at South Brunswick High School in Boiling Springs Lakes, N.C. Next, he enrolled at Saint Augustine’s University in Raleigh. His next step was to North Carolina Theological Seminary where he received his associates, bachelors, and master’s degrees. He has come a long way since the days of his childhood. Now, as owner of Fullwood’s Mobile Detail and Pressure Washing, he oversees his own in-house operations. His company offers services such as shampooing, bussing, light restoration, and paint restoration, just to name a few. Fullwood’s specializes in cleaning cars, trucks, buses, RVs, and more. Their services also include house pressure washing, and industrial size generators, those that are utilized in hospitals, malls, and many commercial facilities.

“I’m a country boy at heart but have managed to do quite well in a city setting.” Continued on the next page

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While Derrick was at Saint Augustine’s University, he realized that he needed a job. Soon he began washing cars, something that he was fairly good at, mainly because he frequently washed his dad’s car as a kid. He eventually got a job detailing cars and used that opportunity as a steppingstone to owning his own detailing business. Nearly fifteen years later, Derrick’s business is still prospering. He shares how he loves being an entrepreneur and the freedom it affords him. “I asked God to help me feed my family and do His work at the same time. I am able to do this with my ministry. Often while my staff and I are working, I will use that as an opportunity to pour into them and share how God has blessed me, and how He wants to bless them as well,” he says.

Fullwood Mobile Detailing and Pressure Washing 919-673-6332

www.fullwoodmobiledetailing.com

While the Covid-19 pandemic has affected many small businesses adversely, even causing many of them to shut their doors, Derrick says it made his business flourish even more. “This period has produced more business than ever before. It has been a blessing for me. Google has also been a big help due to all the great reviews I have received. Often times, there is a two-week waiting list to get serviced. I am grateful for that.” In response to the pandemic, Derrick came up with a brilliant idea to provide his clients with a 100% zero contact service. Customers would leave their keys in the car, and all payment forms are electronic, eliminating any in person contact. This adjustment helped his business to remain in operation while still meeting the needs of his customers in a safe manner. The future is even brighter for Fullwood’s Mobile Detailing. Derrick hopes to get away from the physical labor himself and start working from the office. He plans on finding workers that share similar characteristics as him. These include being responsible, honest, having integrity, and being a server of people. A bonus would be someone that has Christ in their life. To learn more about Fullwood’s Mobile Detailing and Pressure Washing, please visit their website. h

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Charleston - May/June 2021

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 on others.” h 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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BhreaJefferson The GreenHouse Effect Project

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Fredrostar Productions There are many words that can be used to describe Bhrea Jefferson. Also known as Bre, at heart she is a nature-lover. Her foundation is solidified with 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 own 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 really special about The GreenHouse Effect Project is we are able to support, uplift, and encourage one woman at a time,” she says. Continued on the next page

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’s 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 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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