CHARLESTON
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Jan./Feb. 2021 Vol. 1 Issue 2 FREE
Tasha Hope Continues To Carry Her Charleston - Jan./Feb. 2021
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There Are No Your If, Ands, Buts About It! Make 2021 BestOrYear Yet!
There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!
A Letter From The Editor
A Letter from the Editor
Well, we can finally put the year of 2020 to rest. I am grateful for what last year presented. Every test and each challenge served its purpose in A Letter from the Editor my life. What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes
and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if
As iteverything states book Psalms in chapter 119: ithopes was that youofdecided tothe putbible, off until tomorrow never Whatinifthe tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, good that I was afflicted. I will add to that message and share that happened? would beano reason to save a rainy and dreams There wouldn’t have street to park on. for What if my afflictions me appreciate being in 2021. day,have and made you could spare someone theuntil trouble of making everything that you decided to put alive off tomorrow never
promises. What your last happened? Thereif would be opportunity no reason toseemingly save for aexpired rainy
I would like to take this spare opportunity to encourage every listener to today? would you do? day, andWhat you could someone the trouble of making make promises. this year your best one yet. Let go of the baggage that you have What if your last opportunity seemingly expired been carrying around forthat all too long. Unnecessary baggage has the I’ve been I often today? Whattold would you do? seem like I do too much. ability to adversely affect our futures. What is the use in starting fresh Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm and new, if we continue to share our lives with things that don’t add believer in knowing that God seem wouldn’t on me I’ve been told that I often like put I do anything too much. value, things that depress us, and the things that want to remind of who that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would Honestly, I feel am trying not doing enough I’mThis a firm we used to be and wholike weI are to move awayand from. may bepeople, if I chose to sitthings, idle and accept whatput it presented to believer inmaterial knowing that God wouldn’t anything onme. me I involve and even some parts about ourselves have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes would that you instinctively know doesn’t belong. wonder It is not ahow partlife of who we are is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I becoming.
to mefound is an adventure. What is the In worst that can opportunity happen? have that to be very boring. my opinion, If aI new do nothing, I fail, and if I try to I don’t, but have instead learn is blessing isn’t afforded everyone. A challenge In this year,that let’s do the unthinkable. If you been setting on something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in it to me an adventure. What is the thattowards can happen? a dream, whyisnot give that dream some lifeworst and work making return acquire life. If Imore do nothing, I fail, and ifBring I try Iitdon’t, become than just a dream. to life.but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in Clean up your mess. Inever my home, of happened the ugliest sights me The best advice given one to me when for someone return acquire life. is a sink fullme of dirty dishes. expectshappen for his children told to make myGod tomorrow today. to In operate doing soin excellence. youadvice have any unfinished try acleaning up. For me I have pressed my way through doors with key thatitsomeone only The Ifbest ever given tobusiness, me happened when personally,, Iprovided. am going to attempt to trythe andtoday. clean my up hopeme Imy have also learned difference between told tonot make tomorrow happen In mess doing soall in one day. I know It will take some time. I also understand that it will never blesses and what cana burden with Iwhat haveGod pressed my me waywith through doorslife with key thatme only become complete without an effort on my part. as well. I compare it toalso knowing when be confident and hope provided. I have learned the to difference between whenlife tocan be quiet, what God blesses me with and what burdenbecause me with Finally, in this new year I have decided to forgive. It starts with may get it confused as well. I compare it to knowingsomeone when to be confident and forgiving myself for all of my self inflicted problems. Instead of with being when to bearrogant. quiet, because blaming others, I have decided to hold my own self accountable. someone may get it confused “Terry, I am sorry. I should have Make youarrogant. tomorrow with being known better. I promise to love myself happen today, but most unconditionally and without reservations importantly make it Make you tomorrow for the rest of my life.” I owecount. it to myself Life is but a whisper and today, but most to do so.happen we must putmake ourselves in a importantly it count. position hear what ithave is been Life is buttoaothers whisper and I will also forgive who telling us. wefor must ourselves in a a problem me put in my life. Allowing their infractions space positionto tooccupy hear what it in is my life will only rob me of the opportunity to telling us.
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live. Letting go of the and pain will Terry L.hurt Watson On The Cover add years to your life. It’s 2021 and there Photo by Shaw Photography Group Editor/Founder is a whole world to conquer. Open your Want To Advdertise? Terry L. Watson On The Cover heart to what God is doing in your life and Please call Photography 336-340-7844 Photo by Shaw Group Editor/Founder November/December 2014 Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844 have your best year yet!
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CHARLESTON
CONTENTS
JAN./FEB. 2021
Arkansas SILC
Dr. Fransha’ Anderson
On The Cover
She Holding On For A Donor Tasha Johnson-King
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Author, Coach, Speker,
Sophia Casey
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Lead(H)er
Tyneka Howard
Huami Magazine Cutest Baby
Skylar Harper
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Also Featured
Wiley L. Day Jr. He is bringing entertainment and events to his community. Huntsville, AL
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Timothy M. Joe This professional artist has magic in his hands and brushes. Huntsville, AL
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Charleston - Jan./Feb. 2021
Tasha Ratcliffe Meet the faces Heaven Scent Cleaning Company Indianapolis, IN
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Charleston - Jan./Feb. 2021
Tasha Hope Continues To Carry Her For Tasha Johnson-King, giving up has no place in her life. Currently residing in Saint Stephens, S.C., the 44-year-old wife and mother of three is great need of a kidney donation and transplant. She has been on dialysis since March 23,2005 and has been waitlisted for a kidney donor at three hospitals and is currently waiting to be waitlisted at four others in the state of South Carolina. For anyone who knows Tasha, they would say that despite of every challenge that she is facing, her outlook on life remains loving and optimistic. “I’m a very kind person and love to donate to others, especially to children,” she says. Her journey began in 1995 after she found out that she was born with only one kidney. “The whole time I was pregnant I didn’t have any complications or negative symptoms of only having one kidney. That changed when I went for my six weeks checkup after giving birth. My protein levels were through the roof. From there I had extensive tests done. Soon the news arrived that I only had one kidney,” she says. From that point on, life began to change for Tasha. “I was only 20 years old at that time and in 1998, I found out my kidneys were failing. I was given medicines to help slow the failing process. The medicines did work for a long time, but as years passed my medicines didn’t work as well as they once did. I was getting sicker and sicker. I was only 28 years old and wasn’t ready to start dialysis. I already knew what the treatment would be like and I was scared to start. I also knew that it would make me feel better,” she says. As time passed, Tasha shares that couldn’t take the misery of being sick and made the decision to start. “I was so sick and tired until I just couldn’t do anything, and I knew that it was passed by time for me to begin.
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Life has happened for Tasha in even more ways. While on dialysis treatment, she gave birth to a son. Understandably, the pregnancy was challenging but her baby was born healthy and breathing on his own. “God is awesome. I was my doctors first patient who got pregnant while on dialysis. Not only that, but my tubes were also cut, tied, and burned for seven years and I still got pregnant. Only God can perform these kinds of miracles,” she shares. Today, Tasha is full of life. “I love the fact that I’m still alive and able to raise my 22-year-old daughter who is intellectually disable, and my nine-year-old son. My life inspires me the most because I’m still living and know that others have lost their battles,” she says. She’s had to have a Thigh Graft, which is her last lifeline. Often, she is drained after dialysis sessions and unable to play with her nine-year-old son. She also suffers from low blood pressure. After that happens the only thing she can do is go straight to bed. That is not a good position to be in because after treatments, it’s required that she run so that she can flush the toxins and fluid out of her body. Not doing so can make her sicker and swell up with fluid. “All I can do is pray that I feel better,” she says. Even though her journey has been challenging, Tasha says there isn’t much she would change. “I would have like to have more kids closer together in age. I always wanted a big family but what I have is what God wanted me to have. This journey has made me a stronger person and made my faith even stronger,” she says.
“It was very rough for me from the beginning. I was in and out of the hospitals. I had access infections and access clotting. I also had to endure surgeries to repair or replace my accesses. I kept reminding myself that life does get better.” On MARCH 23, 2005 Tasha’s journey began. “It was very rough for me from the beginning. I was in and out of the hospitals. I had access infections and access clotting. I also had to endure surgeries to repair or replace my accesses. I kept reminding myself that life does get better,” Tasha says. After all that she has experienced and been through, Tasha professes that she is still healthy. She doesn’t have heart damage from all the perm catheters that have been placed in her neck and chest. Even more, the rest of her organs are in good shape and working well. “This is a blessing, especially after almost 16 years of being on dialysis,” she says.
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Today, Tasha needs a kidney transplant. For this to happen she will have to be connected with someone who is a match for her. “Donating gives us a better chance to live longer and be healthy. No more machines to keep us alive, no more being drained and sick. Donating a kidney or any other organs would be the best gift you could ever give to someone to live. Donating is never a little gift it’s always a big gift and a huge blessing to do for anyone,” she says. For others who are in a similar situation as she is, Tasha advises them to stay strong and to not give up. In the future, she plans to continue to help others who need guidance before, and while on dialysis. Obtaining information about dialysis from someone who has gone through the experience can help someone deal with the process a lot better. Her plans are to be off dialysis and have a new kidney soon. She also plans to and live a healthier life with her family. Additionally, she has plans to travel more, especially out of the country. h
To learn more about how to assist Tasha Johnson-King with her search of finding a mathing kidney donor, please contact at: tashajohnsonking@gmail.com
Gene
Blackmon Prestige Barber College By Terry L. Watson Photos by Still Shots Photography
He has made it a priority of keeping his business in the same neighborhood that he grew up in near the Phillips Avenue area. Gene Blackmon is the owner and director of Prestige Barber College in Greensboro, NC. Founded in 2011, Prestige provides an opportunity to aspiring professional barbers. Gene brings several decades of knowledge and experience to Prestige. Upon graduating from barber school, himself, he spent some time as an apprentice and eventually progressed to opening his own barbershop in Greensboro. He did not stop there. Soon he would be the owner of several shops, and the co-owner of others. Being a business owner isn’t the only thing that matters to Gene. As a son, father, coach, and community activist, he is actively involved in the affairs that matter in his community. He has spear headed several campaigns that have addressed the needs of others, including transforming Prestige Barber College into a drop off location for supplies and resources for those who were affected by a tornado that ravished the eastern part of Greensboro in April 2018. Prestige Barber College often provides free haircuts for citizens, as well as partnering with other organizations for back-to-school events and more. They have also provided Covid-19 testing on site. Giving back and being involved is especially important to Gene. “I offer hope and opportunity. With Prestige I am giving our students an opportunity to become entrepreneurs through the industry of barbering. We funnel many of our student to the barbershops that we own in Greensboro,” he says. Now with an enrollment of 30 students, Gene has obtained ownership of the building and remolded it as well.
Gene shares that he wanted to ensure that he would bring something positive to his community. “I am a firm believer that in order to increase the value in our community, we must keep our businesses in our community. It was an honor to open a school in the neighborhood that I grew up in,” he says. Gene also wanted to emphasize the importance of what a trade program, such as barbering is. “A trade can instantly make someone an entrepreneur. Trades have been just as, or even more valuable as a four-year degree. Trade programs have a minimum cost as compared to a four-year degree program,” he shares. As things move forward, Gene plans to empower everyone he encounters knowledge, encouragement, and education. He also plans to increase enrollment at Prestige Barber College. “Our opportunities are available to everyone who is serious about making barbering a career choice,” he says. To learn more about Prestige Barber College, please visit their location, or contact the school directly. h
Many of the goals for Prestige is to increase enrollment and grow their scholarship fund to assist others. They also offer in house financing, which enables them to meet the needs of almost who is interested in attending. “Prestige is for the community. We are a resource that offers hope. We offer haircuts and mentorship, but also work vigorously to meet the needs of our community,” Gene says. Charleston - Jan./Feb. 2021
Prestige Barber College 2006 Phillips Avenue Greensboro, NC 27405 336-398-7537 www.prestigebarbercollege.org HuamiMagazine.com
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SPEAKER + COACH + TRAINER + AUTHOR
Photos and Information Provided by Sophia Casey
Many people offer solutions, few deliver results. As a certified coach, authorpreneur and corporate trainer for several leaders, Sophia Casey does so much more than support individual and corporate clients with problem solving. Sophia helps leaders of all caliber get transformative results that literally catapult their businesses and organizations to the next level. Having served as Director of First Impressions for a task force for the former Vice President of the United States, her innate ability for excellence, execution and acceleration allows her to meet individuals right where they are—then help them soar! Featured in SUCCESS magazine, on CBS, NBC, Fox News, and SiriusXM radio, for more than 30 years, Sophia has served as an agent of change for followers around the world. As a featured voice on Amazon Alexa, it’s no surprise that Sophia has successfully served on various levels of leadership. Having started her journey as Director of an education center, Sophia has been fortunate to serve as head of several training organizations in the federal government, including her tenure as Director of Enterprise-wide Training for more than 10,000 engineers, attorneys, and analysts. A Professional Certified Coach through the International Coach Federation (ICF), her love for mentoring and coaching soon blossomed into her signature leadership development model: Leadership, Ownership, and Accountability (LOA ®). Her studies at UCLA and Johns Hopkins University taught her the importance of higher education and the value of relating to everyone as a leader. Having grown up and taught in some of the toughest neighborhoods in the nation, Sophia is forever committed to empowering leaders to transform their professional and personal lives, despite external circumstances, and to do so with ease and flow. This commitment led Sophia to create the Ease & Flow Leadership Academy, an online learning school for individuals and corporations.
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Realizing that this is much more of a calling than simply a career, Sophia stands firmly on her faith and her commitment to transform communities worldwide. Yet building a legacy for her children, and her children’s children, Sophia authored both an eBook entitled, K.I.M. – Keep It Movin’: 10 Steps to Let Go and Fly, as well as Ease & Flow: A 31-Day Journal to Get Clear, Connected, and Courageous About Life. In addition to the release of her first novel, Fierce Vulnerability: A Colored Girl’s Truths, Trials, and Triumphs, in August of 2020, Sophia continues her commitment to supporting women’s global empowerment. A featured speaker for the Women’s Economic Forum, a conference where over 1,500 women from 110 countries attended, her stories of hope and healing leave a distinct mark on the hearts and minds of others that cannot easily be erased.
As a young professional, who was once told that she was too young, too black, or not smart enough, Sophia has not only shattered glass ceilings; those ceilings have now become her floor. Using her perfectly imperfect gifts to catapult herself to great success—and help others do the same—Sophia was selected to host the upcoming Sophia Casey TV Show. Far from your average life coach or basic business mentor, she will not stop until she supports you with winning in business and life. h
For interviews or booking, email sophia@sophiacasey.net , or visit www.sophiacasey.net 12
NEW RELEASE & BOOKS: ABOUT FIERCE VULNERABILITY Fierce Vulnerability – A Colored Girl’s Truths, Trials and Triumphs, is the story of four powerful women, Jean-Marie, Ava, Vanessa and Simone, living the dream of Black affluence in Washington DC. Each woman, in her own time, begins a dark journey to the underbelly of this dream. Ava is a ball busting powerhouse in the political sphere. Hers is a constant battle to prove her self-worth. Vanessa does her best to keep up her perfect appearances while catering to her own demons in silence. Simone shows us the cost of being superwoman and what becomes possible when we lean on our communities and our roots to lift us up. Jean-Marie struggles with vulnerability and the personal power it brings through personal losses and challenges. We come to know them each through their own distinct voices. We come to see them more fully through the eyes of their sisters. It is through their collective perspective, friendship and sisterhood that we learn who they are and develop a sense of what it takes to claim freedom, power, and fierce vulnerability for ourselves.
ABOUT THE EASE & FLOW JOURNAL Research shows that daily practices of getting thoughts down on paper and getting present to what you are grateful for, can reduce stress and overwhelm. We created this 31 day journal to support you in doing just that releasing all the clutter of your thoughts and exchanging them for empowered ones. We've even included daily structures to help you focus on your most important tasks, move your goals forward, and a space to capture things you are grateful for. As a bonus, if you get stuck with what to journal about, we included over 50 journal prompts to inspire you to let your thoughts and dreams pour onto the pages with ease and flow. We can’t wait for you to experience it.
REVIEWS “Coach Sophia is so full of positive energy and effective solutions! This is actively helping me move and I love it. You need this in your life.” - K. GIFFIN Relationship Coach “I had the pleasure of meeting Sophia and buying her book at a networking event. I’m so glad I did. It’s so much more than a journal. I look forward to writing in it daily to express my moods, to reflect on my goals, and plan my day! Buy one for yourself and all your friends.” - PAMELA HART VINES Filmaker/Videographer
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Wiley L. Day Jr. Day II Entertainment, LLC iNcrowd, INC
By Terry L. Watson - Photos by AEB Talent Agency Day II Entertainment, LLC. is a company that sponsors community events for the betterment of all mankind. It’s their goal for its partakers in these signature events to be able to enjoy magical nights with life changing experiences. Their mission is to develop a support structure that creates an environment that brings families closer together, all to mitigate the negative pressures of society. Owner and operator, Wiley L. Day Jr. says he loves creating a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere for mature crowds. “With a night of pure bliss on the minds of the crowd, we also infiltrate a much-needed area in our society; the community,” he says. Wiley L. Day Jr. is a native of Huntsville, AL. He was born to Wiley and Yolanda Day Sr. He is the youngest of six siblings, with four sisters and one brother. Wiley is a highly innovative and motivated person who takes pride in work. He has nearly 15 years of extensive experience in business organization, process design, business process improvement, marketing, management, and Behavioral Intervention. He has managed enterprise-wide development, delivery, implementation, support and sustainment of processes, projects, and business solution. In addition, he has aided in managing companies’ enterprise-wide development, delivery, implementation, support and sustainment of processes, projects, and business solutions.
Wiley earned a master’s degree in Human Development. He would later acquire the role of Behavioral Interventionist in the inner- city school system of Huntsville. Wiley has uniquely identified a way to combine his education with his career experience. By doing so, it landed Wiley on a fast track thorough a Management Leadership program, where he gained a lot of experience and expertise very quickly. Each event Day II Entertainment, LLC. offers is always focused on benefiting the community. “From our long list of charities selected, we will ensure that a portion of the proceeds will be spread evenly to help our community evolve into the city that God wants it to be,” he says. Some of the services offered include Entertainment Consulting, Signature Events, Career Development, Producing/Writing/Directing, Fashion Consulting, Stage Plays, Fashion Productions, with host. Another part of Day II Entertainment, LLC is the iNcrowd, INC. It’s a nonprofit component of Day II Entertainment, LLC. The corporation was organized for the purposes of sponsoring community events, programs, and organizations. It receives a portion of the proceeds from Day II Entertainment LLC’s events. The founders are Wiley, along with Janique Raper (intern), and Tiffany Holden Akaysia Barbee. Everything began for Wiley back in 2002. “That was the beginning of my entertainment journey. I Identified a corner of the market that was untapped, and I went after it. Here in Huntsville, there was no such thing as a lingerie show. We took off from there,” he says. Wiley and his company offer services such as creative, writing, producing, and direct fashion productions, from the beginning to then end. “We take talents with absolutely no experience and even experts, and train them to perform in productions,” he says. Continued on the next page
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Some of the other services offered are Entertainment Consulting that provides a full evaluation of a proposed project, and with a placement component. There is a Signature Events tool that produces a host of events that are staples in the community. These are events that benefit both the producer and community equally. Next is the Career Development package that is tailored to a specific talent to make them successful in the career of choice. There is a Producing/Writing/Directing where they outsource their services. They also offer Fashion Consulting which assists others with coordinating fashion items in their event. And finally, there is Stage Plays, and Fashion Productions. Wiley shares what he loves about his ventures. “I love utilizing the gifts God gave me to create something that the people of the world can share in and enjoy. It’s my ministry. My Grandmother, Palmer Williams, Tyler Perry, and my near-death experience have all inspired me to push for what I love. I hope to become so good in this area that no one can ignore me,” he says. Wiley says he gets satisfaction from watching those he’s trained up, surpass the expectations he had for them. “Giving someone that hope in themselves to go beyond their dreams and helping people find identity in their passion through their gifts is what it’s all about. My purpose it to push people into their true destiny and calling. Knowing that God is pleased with the work that I am doing really makes me happy,” he says. His advice to those who may follow in footsteps is to be persistently consistent and have urgency about action. “Trust yourself and understand the difference between vision and sight. Always thank God for what you have and trust Him for what you need. Most importantly, let your faith be bigger than you fear, and be still and know that He is God,” says Wiley. As life moves forward, Wiley says he will continue to trust God and stay the course. He also plans to move Day II Entertainment and the h iNcrowd throughout the country, one state at a time.
Wiley L. Day Jr. Day II Entertainment, LLC - iN Crowd AL (256) 417-1710 day2ent.llc@gmail.com Instagram: @incrowdal
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Skylar Harper
MAGAZINE
Cutest Baby
The daughter of Kelvin and Margo Harper
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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Tyneka Howard Faith, Fitness, Relationships, & Career By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by Nick F. Nelson Instagram @Brandpreneur
Tyneka Howard started her military career at 19, and last fall, retired after 20 years of service in the U.S. Air Force. During her tenure, she spent most of her time guiding, mentoring, directing, and leading airmen, both men and women. In the last few years of her military career, she would meet young female soldiers who looked at her as a mentor and someone they aspired to be – confident, assertive, and successful. The majority of women felt misplaced and unsure if they had made the right decision in joining the armed forces. Navigating within a maledominated organization was oftentimes quite challenging so Howard would ‘adopt’ several ladies and mentor them on how to effectively adapt to military life. “I knew exactly what they were going through because I started at the same place they did. I knew they felt displaced and were trying to find themselves. Many also struggled with how to carry themselves as a lady. Because, uniform aside, we’re ladies first,” Howard confirms. The veteran grew up a preacher’s kid, a lifestyle that presented her with a strong foundation and an environment that others may not always experience; Not better, but different. I’ve heard testaments that children of the clergy are usually raised at the hands of solid God-fearing parents and they must answer to everyone in the church. A few stray from the path, like anyone else, and others grow to be strong, faith-filled servants with direction and purpose. Howard proved to be the latter. And her peers apparently saw that leadership quality in her. As she approached the last five years of her military tenure she began mentoring high school students, mainly girls, who were facing real challenges that she was unaware of. Continued on the next page Charleston - Jan./Feb. 2021
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“I would just go in with a servant heart and want to work with people. It didn’t matter who it was, it was just where I was supposed to be.” A lightbulb went off in Howard’s head with the realization that there was a huge void in the community and help was needed to guide the younger generation. Howard looks youthful and she feels that contributed to young women seeking her out for advice. She attests that her youthful look is achieved by living a stress free life. Last year, the Martinsville , VA native sought to start her organization, Lead(H)er under her parent company H2G Leadership Group, which stands for Howard 2nd Generation. Lead(H) er focuses on Faith, Fitness, Relationships, and Career. This summer she plans to host more workshops and social media live events for her clients and those she hopes to attract. She’s also planning to increase her website and blog posts to grow her following and reach more people. “For ladies, the leadership will come after the knowledge and education. But I also like to focus on communication and how people are receiving your message. Are you just talking or are you communicating? There is a difference. You have to be able to articulate what you want and not be shy about it.” With Covid-19 affecting all of us in different ways, Howard crafted a previous workshop entitled “Covid is making me crazy”. The attendees log into a video conference platform with a code and simply talk and help each other work through their thoughts. They attempt to uncover their dilemmas and help fill each other’s voids. It’s no surprise that many are having a tough time with the lack of social interaction and physical touch. Howard aims to help them work through their feelings.
“There was a huge void in the community and help was needed to guide the younger generation.”
The ladies Howard mentors tend to be between 14 year to 25 years of age. “The biggest issue I’m seeing is the lack of direction and foundation in the home. And because homelife and it’s makeup looks a lot different, children are exposed to certain topics and conversations much sooner than they should be. This year Howard plans to also incorporate families into her organizations structure. Focusing on communication within the family unit can aid in building the foundation that the younger members need. Within her own family unit, her 13 year old son has taught her how much different boys and girls tend to communicate. “My son is quiet and calm. I can tell him something and he’s okay. He’s easy with lots of patience.” Studies show that girls tend to have more words in their vocabulary by a certain age and tend to react to news differently. Continued on page 20
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“My five year plan is to create a camp-style Lead(H)er lock-in at different locations to serve my community in Raleigh, NC. Think 4-H camps.�
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Charleston - Jan./Feb. 2021
“My five year plan is to create a camp-style Lead(H)er lock-in at different locations to serve her community in Raleigh, NC. Think 4-H camps,” she says. The unfortunate introduction of our current pandemic forced Howard to tap into her ideas sooner than she expected and take a look at her business plans to see how she should operate. Instead of opening in June, H2G was introduced in April. “God works in such a way and I became restless enough to start working on and refining my idea. I was able to meditate and have such a clear headspace of where I wanted to see my business. She simultaneously started the corporate side of her business that handles communications and marketing for companies and how they can better communicate with their employees and clients. Continuing her quest to bridge the gap and network with other ladies to bring the second generation along and add value to their lives is at the forefront of Howards mind. At the rate she’s moving, it seems that she’ll accomplish that goal in no time. h
Tyneka Howard H2G Leadership Group
Lead(H)er – Faith, Fitness, Relationships, & Career 202-709-6447 www.h2gleadher.net Email: tyneka@h2gleadher.net Instagram/Facebook: @leadher10 LinkedIn: Tyneka Howard 23
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Heaven Scent Cleaning Company By Terry L. Watson Photos by Timothy M. Joe One of the first steps to a new start, is to start from a clean plate. Tasha Renee Ratcliffe of Indianapolis, IN is the owner of Heaven Scent Cleaning company. Launched in 2019, she offers various services that include Basic Cleaning, Covid-19 Cleaning, Deep Cleaning, and Eco-Friendly Cleaning (using all-Natural Products). She also offers specials to her clients who are senior citizens. Tasha is a daughter, sister, and friend to many. She describes herself as an overcomer. She is also a strong, and motivated woman who is a devout lover of God who willingly opens her heart to others. Professionally, Tasha is the CEO of her company, as well as a Life Coach, Mentor, Community Leader, and Minister. “From Trauma To Triumph. I say this often because it gives me so much motivation. No matter what I’ve gone through in life, I know I can make it because God has a plan for me,” she says. It’s obvious Tasha gets her strength by way of her relationship with God! “I strive to be my very best every day, even when obstacles hit home,” she says. One of those such obstacles happened nearly two years ago with the passing of her late husband, Robert Lee Ratcliffe Jr. “Losing my husband was very tragic, scary, and it was unexpected. I felt hurt, traumatized, left out, unsure, and sad. I was hopeless. How could God only give me three years with such a loving, faithful, educated, and Godfearing man? How could I begin to start over? This question hunted me down daily. I prayed every day that God would provide for me, and that He would give me strength to press forth in life,” she shares.
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Tasha’s circumstances changed; she says the moment when she decided to go to grief therapy. “My therapist saved my life! Getting in a positive headspace blessed me. From that point, I knew it was time to start over, finally,” she says. Though that period of her life was difficult, Tasha found a new joy in life as a brand ambassador and CEO of several companies she launched. These are Heaven Scent Cleaning Company, the Be You Movement, Pressed Youth Center, and Legacy Boutique that is scheduled to launch in Spring of 2021.
“I’ve always loved cleaning, so I thought why not get paid for it. By doing so I would be able to supply jobs for others, and grow into a multimillion-dollar company.” The foundation of Heaven Scent Cleaning Company began from a Vision Book that Tasha and her late husband created. “I’ve always loved cleaning, so I thought why not get paid for it. By doing so I would be able to supply jobs for others, and grow into a multimillion-dollar company,” she says. Her business grew from small residential clients to large commercial and Small Business, and even religious arenas. Being a business owner provides Tasha with some benefits. “I like the flexibility and the freedom of creating new ideas. I am also grateful that I can supply jobs for others, she says. “Though every part of this process isn’t easy. I am faced with various challenges such as finding quality staffing and funding through small business loans. The is the blessing that God has given me, and I will not complain. I am inspired by my late husband and I am determined to succeed.”
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As the future unravels, Tasha points to her five-year goal. “I want to expand and create more jobs within my company. I also hope to take part in more training so that I can provide more products and services. h
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Akayshia Estee AEB Talent Agency Making Your Dream a Reality
By Terry L. Watson - Photos by AEB Talent Agency Akayshia Estee of Huntsville, AL is the face and founder of AEB Talent Agency. AEB Talent Agency provides a platform to create various avenues for talented individuals who want guidance on building his or her career. Whether it’s acting, singing, dancing, or a fashion model, this trendsetting entity can make it happen. From fashion shows, productions, commercials, photo shoots and video shoots, you name it, AEB stands firm and are determined to meeting and exceeding their client’s expectations. To sum it up, Akayshia states. “We get it done!” Continued on the next page
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Two of the key ingredients to running a successful business is a strong foundation and determination. For Akayshia, she has a good serving of them both. “I am first and foremost a mother. I love my family and everything that I do is for them. My children are my motivation and always will be. They know what their mom does for a living, and they can enjoy the experience as well when they are able to tag along. It’s positive exposure to something that may possibly open their eyes to something greater. My second love is the business. I am a self-driven and a strong-willed person of many talents, and because of this quitting is never an option for me. I love guiding others and giving them the push to do better. I give 110 percent in any and everything that I do. I am constantly striving for perfection, and that is a must. I also understand that nothing comes easy and that is the reason why I go so hard,” she says.
AEB Talent Agency started blooming in 2018. Akayshia began by working with different talents in the Huntsville area. There, they were able to present its first fashion show on December 2, 2018. The business has changed a little. Now AEB is more focused on cultivating and guiding the careers of their contracted clients. With more businesses, AEB has also faced its share of challenges. “Some of the challenges I face in business is making sure I am connected with other business minded people. We have to realize we are not in competition with each other and be willing to work together to build up one another without ulterior motives,” she says. To ensure that AEB remains relevant, Akayshia has implemented several goals. One of the goals of AEB Talent Agency is to provide a nurturing environment for their clients. They also work diligently to book opportunities and provide access and exposure. Akayshia says that her brand and name are always on the table. Yet, she makes it look easy simply because she is so passionate about building up others. “I love the fact that I am able to utilize my talents to help others move forward. My intention is Instill perseverance, determination, and focus into my clients. If you don’t believe in yourself, how do you expect the spectators too,” she says. “My advice to anyone who may follow in my footsteps is whatever you do on your journey, do not stop. Do not give up or give in and stay focused. If it isn’t beneficial, consider it a distraction. You are in control of how successful you are in life,” she says. Moving forward, I plan to explore and expand not only with AEB Talent Agency but with myself.
Facebook: AEB Talent Agency Instagram: @aebtalent @akayshia_estee (818) 934-3530 30
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Timothy M. Joe I Love Art......Really
By Terry L. Watson Photos by Timothy M. Joe How does he do it? When artist Timothy M. Joe begins working on a blank canvas, that’s exactly what it is. A blank canvas. However, when he puts his tools down for the last time, the results are breath taking. It might can make someone to believe there is magic in his hands, or something magical happening with his brushes. Timothy is a self-taught artist who raised in the rural town of Greensboro, Alabama. He is also a third-generation black angus farmer. He also holds a mechanical engineer degree of which he obtained from the University of Alabama. “People are intrigued that I am both a professional artist and an engineer,” he says. He now lives in Huntsville, Alabama with his wife and two children. Officially, the name of his business is Timothy M. Joe Fine Art. “I produce Original artwork in oil, soft pastels, and watercolor,” he says. “I am Online Art Instructor, and I also sell commissioned art.” Timothy shares that art is more than a hobby for him, it’s his calling. “I see beauty in common places. Everyday things that usually would not get a second glance can become beautiful works of art. There is a message in every scene, whether it is a location, personal belonging, or building. I like to capture these scenes and put them on canvas. I paint to show my appreciation of what God created and share what He put in my heart. I am compelled to create art that has a soul. The soul holds our emotions and memories.,” he says.
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For Timothy, art is what gives him purpose and provides an outlet to express himself. “There are so many beautiful subjects that should have a place on my canvas or any other painting surface. My mission is to capture these hidden treasures before time erases them completely. I am compelled to show the younger generation of how life was and raise appreciation of what is often overlooked,” he says.
“There are so many beautiful subjects that should have a place on my canvas or any other painting surface. My mission is to capture these hidden treasures before time erases them completely.” Timothy’s love for art started when he was just four years old. He would sit in his families living room with crayons all over the floor, coloring on brown paper grocery bags. It wasn’t until his first-grade teacher saw his picture when someone else realized that he was quite the artist. Those words started him on a journey that has lasted a lifetime. Naturally, Timothy has a love for art. “I love listening to the testimonies of my clients on what a painting means to them. I also love the commissioned art I receive. Commission is usually for a parent or memorial for a loved one. One example of a commission I did was for a painting of a white flower in the afternoon sunlight. My client picked this particular flower with her grandmother until her passing. Those are the paintings that stick with me for many years,” he says. Continued on the next page
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Timothy can see art in almost anything. He says that he is mostly inspired by the narrative in every scene that he paints. “Whether it comes in the form of an abandoned home that’s falling apart, family heirlooms, or landscape, I am able to make a connection. My role is to remain receptive and be ready to take a quick reference picture or sketch it in my art journal,” he says. “I love learning the history about my subject and gain the appreciation that helps me create meaningful art. Creating a beautiful painting is nice but painting the same scene with an understanding of the history is what I am after. I believe the backstory of my subject is just as important as the color I choose to paint.” Understandably, art itself has impacted Timothy’s career as well. “The reception at my first solo art exhibit had the biggest impact to my art career. I created a body of work of historical landmarks near my hometown. Hearing all the backstories from the town people was amazing. These are the kind of experiences that keep me energized to make more art,” he says. For other artists, or anyone who is headed on a similar journey that Timothy has, he offers some advice to you. “Find your artistic voice. There is an art style unique to every artist and there is a corresponding audience your work is meant for. Paint only what moves you, and always make that your top propriety, not money. You should also be visible. Don’t let fear stop you from making appearances at art shows. Trades shows offer a unique and greatly beneficial experience and discussing your art with strangers is a tremendous way to grow in your craft,” he says. Though the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way artist maneuver in the art world, Timothy has pivoted and found new ways to stay relevant and busy. One way is conducting more online workshops. “I am at the point in my career where I have accumulated enough knowledge to share with artist of all skill levels. I want to help them avoid some mistakes I made and coach them to be the best artist they can be,” he shares.
Timothy M. Joe Fine Art www.timothymjoe.com
To learn more about Timothy M. Joe, please visit his website. h
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