Huami Magazine Charlotte March/April 2021

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Rhonda Walking Into My Purpose

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Your Purpose Is Not A Laughing Matter There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

A Letter From The Editor

A long time ago, when I was a much younger man, and a student at the most prestigious school in the city of Greensboro, something A Letter from thehigh Editor happened to me that would change my life forever. This segment of time was during my fourth period English class, and the first week of a new school year.

What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes

and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if

Back then I was mischievous, very sarcastic, and a self-proclaimed everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never ‘class clown’. I would try to set the tone for my classroom amongst my happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy classmates with jokes, and I thought, the bigger the audience, the grander day, and you could someone troubleclass, of making my performance could be.spare However, in thisthe particular the teacher promises.

What if your last opportunity seemingly expired was a formidable opponent. She was short in stature, very elegant and full today?

What would youindo? of finesse, and seemed to lock on me like a torpedo before the tardy bell even sounded. Her name was Mrs. Kerr, and I would soon learn that she I’vetobeen that I often seem like I do too much. wasn’t one play told around.

Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm

One day while in Englishthat class,God I began to getput comfortable execute believer in knowing wouldn’t anythingand on me my form of cheap humor.

I led off with a cough, and a slight sneeze; that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would silly acts that pretty well with getting audienceto into position. be ifusually I choseworked to sit idle and accept what it my presented me.

I But my act was snuffed out immediately.

“Don’t you sneeze or cough in have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity my. Take that outside”.

Those were the spoken to me and I is a blessing that isn’t afforded to words everyone.

A directly challenge knew she was serious by the way Mrs. Kerr stared into my eyes. From that to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? point on, I never laughed in her class unless I was led by her permission to If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn do so. I must admit that my ego was a little bruised, but I would eventually something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in get over it.

return acquire life.

In so many words, she helped me to understand my purpose in no The best advice everappreciate given to me happened laughing matter.

I genuinely Mrs. Kerr. Shewhen helpedsomeone me to told me to make my tomorrow happen today.

In doing somatter, understand the English instruction she provided was not a laughing and IIor anyone else wouldn’t prevent the learning growth of other have pressed my way through doors with and a key that only students. hope provided. I have also learned the difference between

what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with

Asas thewell. school year progressed, I beganwhen to look to my and fourth I compare it to knowing toforward be confident period English class and spending time with Mrs. I soaked up every bit when to Kerr. be quiet, because of information that she had to offer, studied every poem, and recited them someone may get it confused back to her with precision, and made it a with being arrogant. point to show her that she changed my life by stopping me from robbing myself of Make you tomorrow sound instruction.

happen today, but most make it me count.

Mrs.importantly Kerr obviously loved and Lifestudents, is but a whisper and her other thousands of them we must put ourselves in a of she encountered for several decades teaching.

She is to myhear hero.what Students position it is like me all deserve a hero telling us. such as Mrs. Kerr in their classrooms, either in the form of a peer or instructor. She helped me to understand that my purpose was no laughing matter.

Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder Terry L. Watson

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On The Cover

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

CHARLOTTE EDITION

CONTENTS

Author

L Michelle Jewell

On The Cover

Broken To Life Ministries Rhonda Crowder

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She Has A Gift For Listening

Darnita Samuels

24

14

Entrepreneur Guru

Germany Inke

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Khaderrick ‘KD’ Linton

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38

Also Featured

Jay Maxwell With a can of spray paint as his weapon of choice, he is Meantime Max Greensboro, NC

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Mia Collins She is spicing things up with her own line of seasonings.

Little Rock, AR

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Charlotte - March/April 2021

CDB Scholarship Foundation Inc Though it was a tragedy, his legacy lives on through his foundation.

Philadelphia, PA

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HuamiMagazine.com 5

Rhonda Walking Into My Purpose

By Laci Ollison Photos by Still Shots Photography

Rhonda Crowder is no stranger to struggle. Throughout her life she has seen plenty of heartbreak, pain, and let down. But despite all the things she has gone through, Rhonda has managed to blossom and build herself up into a thriving entrepreneur and businesswoman. She has done this with the help of God, her family, and the encouragement of her children.

Presently residing in Monroe, NC, the mother of two says her children are the biggest reason why she felt the need to push herself to be the woman that she is today. “My children are my why. They’ve seen me broken, they’ve seen me in tears, and they’ve seen me in pain. There was once a moment in time where all I knew to do was cry, and my children were a witness to that. There was a time when I laid on my face and cried because I didn’t know what to say because I was so broken. I only knew the Lord’s Prayer, so I said that. My son was three and a half at the time, and he would lay beside me and kiss me,” she says.

Continued on the next page

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As challenging as it was for Rhonda, she knew she had to preserve and endure. Though there were moments when she didn’t have the words to say, more less answers, she shares it was her faith that pulled her along and provided her with the strength to stand. “God had to break me in order to give me life again.”

It was from her brokenness that Rhonda found a new outlook and meaning to her life. That’s where Broken To Life Ministries began Rhonda shares.

“Through brokenness God has allowed me to see myself, see connections, and what needed to be connected and what didn’t need to be connected.”

Broken To Life Ministries has produced some great things for Rhonda. She has authored and published a book, Broken To Life, which she details her trials and triumphs through 14 chapters beginning with the onset of brokenness, and concluding with her being set free. She also serves as a motivational speaker, evangelist, and is a trusted ear to many.

In chapter two of Broken To Life, Rhonda shares, “There is a time when you must stop falling out, shouting, smiling in one’s face then talking about them behind their backs and just plainly be honest and have a conversation without being disrespectful and controlling. Most of all, one must look at their own flaws. We must realize that we are representing the name of Jesus.” She concludes in chapter 14 by saying, “If we claim that God is a big God, and he can do all things, then we need to act like it and put his name before everything and seal it with a deal like you have won the lottery!”

Rhonda is a 2004 graduate of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. She has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication, with a concentration in Public Relations. “Some people call me Evangelist, but I just say I’m a child of God,” Rhonda says while smiling. “I just thank God for the anointing on my life because it takes a lot. People don’t realize that you go through a lot when you have an anointing on your life.”

Rhonda said that it has been the anointing on her life and the power of the Holy Spirit that has given her wisdom to operate in her calling. “My favorite verse in the bible is Jeremiah 29:11; For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future.”

It is that same verse that helps Rhonda understand what to do when she isn’t always sure.

“I lean on that in times of fasting and prayer. I ask God what does He want me to talk about, what do you want me to say.”

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“

The Power of being Broken allows God to refill the cup of life, the oil of the anointing and Holy Spirit where you have been emptied.

“

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More than anything, Rhonda hopes that through her life and experiences, others will find hope and push through their own set of challenges. She also encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to follow their calling if they genuinely want to be successful in life. “You do what God asked you to do and He will make sure you have everything you need and desire. Don’t strive to be like others around you. Stop doing what they’re doing and see yourself in whatever you desire to do. Whatever your situation is, if it’s not fitting, don’t make it fit. Find the place where God wants you to be.

At some point you must stop focusing on everyone else and what God has asked you to do. While you are focusing on everyone else, you will miss what you’re supposed to do, and you’ll be stuck watching everyone else climb,” she says.

Rhonda also says that it’s important to not listen to those who may have negative opinions. “Cut the naysayers out. When you start asking what other people think, everyone is going to have a different opinion. It’s going to put you in the center because you feel like you have to please everyone. But when you start to pull away from people, God will put the actual people that you need in your life close to you.”

Although Rhonda can encourage and uplift others, it took her a long time to get to this place.

“I thank God for restoring. I asked God ‘why me’. I had to learn how to love myself. I had to learn how to enjoy myself. I had to turn to God.” Currently Rhonda has started an educational consulting business, as well as a performing arts center called Power Moves Performing Arts Academy. Though currently not housed in a brick-and-mortar location, there are plans to do so. Through Power Moves Performing Arts Academy, Rhonda would like for kids to be able to come and learn about theater, and learn how to get to the next level, including college all while reaching for the stars.

Moving forward, Rhonda plans to share her ministry and programs with anyone who would like to be a part. In addition to many obligations and duties she already has, Rhonda is also a singer. She has been featured in major publications and on platforms such as iHeartRadio. To learn more about her, please contact her directly. To purchase a copy of Broken To Life, please visit www.amazon.com to do so. It is also available in paperback and Kindle form.

Rhonda Crowder

336-419-6432 Facebook: broken2lifeministries Instagram: broken2lifeministries` Email: broken2lifeministries@gmail.com

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HuamiMagazine.com Charlotte - March/April 2020

Darnita Samuels You Talk, I Will Listen

By Dorjae’ McClammey Photos by Still Shots Phootgraphy Introducing Darnita D. Samuels. Hailing from Detroit, Michigan, she relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina in 2008 to begin her journey of becoming the amazing therapist she is. Now, she even has her own practice to match.

Officially known as Darnita D. Samuels, MSA, MA, LMFT, she’s established her private practice on a foundation that specializes in marriage and family therapy. This also includes individual, couples, pre-marital, marriage, and family therapy servicing ages from 18 and up. Darnita holds many degrees including a Bachelor of Art in Public Relations, Masters of Science in General Administration, and a Masters of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy.

Now what got her into this field is quite an interesting story.

Darnita shares that while out grocery shopping back home in Detroit, she was looking for her favorite cereal, which is Apple Cinnamon Cheerios.

Of course, she asked a gentleman for help but instead of helping her, he quickly turned the conversation around describing his problems and what he was currently going through in life. When he asked what he should do she replied, “you should find someone to talk to” which he then replied, “well aren’t you someone?” This caused her to stop and think. This was the first time this has happened to her, and it continued to happen many times after.

Darnita herself had benefited from the services of a therapist, which gave her a realistic idea of what a therapist does. I learned that it wasn’t someone giving you all the answers and telling you what to do.

It involves someone helping you find what’s best for you and helping you to come to an understanding that you can handle and manage,” she says. After this grocery store encounter, Darnita began to realize her true calling, and eventually she would take steps that would make this a reality for her.

Now, one thing I learned from my conversation with Darnita is that she is not one to give up, ever.

When trying to enroll in the counseling program at Central Michigan, she always seemed to hit a roadblock. Not to be discouraged, she kept pressing.

She found the MMFT program at Pfeiffer University, and there she received her masters.

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I just ask the right questions and pose good scenarios, my clients actually have to put in the work.

It is a privilege to see my clients grow and change, and not only themselves, but for their families as well.”

While at Pfeiffer, Darnita realized two things, she wanted to own her own clinic, and own an ice cream shop. Yes, you read that right, an ice cream shop. One reason would be the shop would work as an incentive for new clients. Firsttime clients would get a free scoop of course. The second and more important reason is to help the community, mainly students from public schools. She told us when she attended Cass Techinical High School, she had to do a co-op, meaning she had to work while in school. As a student, she had to gain 200 hours of work experience to graduate. While this was hard, it also helped students learn about the work environment, work ethics, and how to manage a work-life balance. With the shop, she hopes to show students what it’s like to build and own their own business, the good and the bad. “Not just the luxuries of it all, but the blood, sweat, and tears that come with it,” she said. “Working at the shop will show students how to manage, budget, and most of all, the art of customer service, which I feel will help them excel better in school and after they graduate.” Darnita would also use this to adopt students who are struggling. “Those kids get to come in and create their own scoop of the month, resell that scoop and whatever profits are generated, goes back into the school, which in turns inspires that student to continue to work harder during the school year and even after they graduate,” she says. The shop can also be used as a place for teachers, faculty, and the PTA to work or consult outside of their school.

With everything she has planned you may wonder what keeps her motivated to continue this journey, the answer, her family and her clients. Darnita states when it comes to the change, she helps others make in their lives, she never takes full credit for, “I just ask the right questions and pose good scenarios, my clients actually have to put in the work,” she says. “It is a privilege to see my clients grow and change, and not only themselves, but for their families as well.”

Speaking of family, Darnita also dedicates all her hard work and motivation to her family back home in Detroit, especially her grandparents, and also her parents. “They have come through a lot and this is done in honor of them because without them there is no me. They were the ones who instilled in me a strong work ethic, continuing my education, and making sure my dreams became a reality, so for that, I make sure everything I do along this journey honors them,” she says.

Continued on page 18

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In the past, therapy has been perceived as sort of a taboo in the Black community and Darnita recognizes that. So, to help advocate for therapy, she works to make new and existing clients feel as comfortable as possible.

She doesn’t use the big terms that everyone may not understand, “I want to make it so relatable. That is why my slogan is let’s just start with a conversation, let’s just talk,” she shares. She also wants to break down the wall clients may have up, so they do not feel judged or diagnosed.

She does this by making her sessions as easy and painless as possible while still highlighting the important things learned. Additionally, she makes sure the environment is stress-free and allows her clients to have a little bit of free reign with the tools she provides such as blankets, pillows, and stress balls. If a client wants to lay down or sit on the

floor, they can do that, as long as they don’t fall asleep. She made it very clear she will wake you right back up. Another thing she does is not tell people she is a therapist when she’s out in public. She sort of lets them figure it out on their own. “People will come to me and strike up a conversation and as it’s going, I will mention that maybe they should go talk to someone. Yet, before they put up a fight, I make sure they understand their feelings are valid and more importantly they’re not crazy,” she says. At the conclusion of these conversations, she often shares that she is a therapist, allowing them to see for themselves that going to therapy is easier than it may seem.

Darnita wants to make one thing clear. “Though going to therapy is currently ‘the thing to do’, it is very much real and that you need to make sure you know what you are going for. You can get amazing results if you put the work in and don’t play the game, so please don’t just play the game because you’re taking an appointment away from someone who wants to be there.”

Darnita is pleased with the path she has taken in life and the accomplishments that have come. However, let her tell it, her proudest accomplishments are having a successful business, and being able to honor her family while doing so.

Regarding what is in future for Darnita, you can expect to see her practice spread across the nation including more therapists of different specialties such as acupuncturists. They will more than likely be accompanied with an ice cream shop of hers right next door, once she learns how to make some ice cream that is.

Darnita D. Samuels MSA MA LMFT darnitasamuelsmft@outlook.com 919-807-1692 Instagram: ddsmft_therapist 18

His Legacy Lives On

By Gamal Williams Photo by CDB Scholarship Foundation Inc

How does one turn tragedy into legacy? When the Butler family experienced the tragic murder of her father, the question wasn’t first and foremost in Khadijah Butler’s mind. Craig Butler’s life was an inspiration to Khadijah. Her face lights up when speaking about him. “My father was a family man; he was the life of the party. He was big on having a moral compass, and how my sister and I were to be perceived in the world. He was also a very giving man. He was murdered when I was 19, shot in the groin by a 14-year-old boy over a dispute. Yet, in that short amount of time in my life, he dropped so many jewels on me,” she shares.

The trial of her father’s murderer took a toll on Khadijah. “My first year at Temple University was tough. The trial was over the summer; it was on television and in the newspapers,” she says. She remembered her father’s lessons on education and fearlessness and stayed the course. After graduating summa cum laude with her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology (the study of the mechanics of body movements), the native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, saw herself working for her hometown team. “I initially wanted to be an athletic trainer for the Eagles! I thought it would be such a cool thing not only as a woman, but as an African-American woman,” she says. When Khadijah went to ply her craft, the hurdles necessary to break into the NFL as an athletic trainer left her a bit discouraged.

“I had to decide and learn how do I pivot. Initially, I though about nursing, but then an old friend said ‘Why don’t you get into clinical research? You have such a big heart and already give back so much.

That is an industry you don’t see us in,’” Khadijah says. The idea intrigued her. “I thought ‘Okay. I could still use my degree. I could still focus on science. I could be a part of a new medical treatment or medication that could help people, especially with what’s going on today with COVID-19. Plus, I saw that there wasn’t really a lot of African-American women in that field.”

Undeterred and renewed, she decided to recommit herself to school and obtained her Master of Science in Management from Rosemont College. “I get my work ethic from my father, my fearlessness from him,” she shares. Khadijah accepted a position as a Project Data Manager for Clinical Research Organization, an opportunity that became extremely fulfilling for her. Yet, despite all of her success, Khadijah felt she could be doing more. It was then

she remembered the life of someone that molded her into the strong, black woman she is today, her father.

Khadijah wanted to honor her father’s memory while helping the youth of Philadelphia. “We all know the gun violence that occurs in Philly, the educational gaps that exist in America, and when I think of the 14-year-old boy, who is now a man and still in prison, I wondered how could I tie all of that together to honor him? I wanted to redirect our youth on education and not gun violence,” she says.

In January 2020, Khadijah started the Craig D. Butler Scholarship Foundation with the goal of providing scholarships to deserving students. According to the Craig D. Butler Scholarship Foundation website, the CDB aims to aid young adults from under-served populations to pursue higher education. Each year, the CDB Scholarship Foundation will seek future high school graduates to offer financial support as they pursue their dreams in the aftermath of gun violence. The CDB Scholarship is an annual, merit-based competition, that focuses on instilling philanthropic values in ambitious, driven, goal-oriented individuals.

“I didn’t want to make the scholarship centered around what happened to my dad,” Khadijah explains, “but so many people became connected to my story. I decided if I was going to start a business, I wanted to do something to memorialize him. I toyed with the idea for years, then finally decided to just do it. I said, ‘This is the time!’ I wanted to do something to give back and build our family legacy,” she says.

Khadijah smiles now when she talks about her father, because it always leads to discussions of the CDB and how his legacy lives on. “It’s been twenty years since his death, and I miss him, but I am giving back to Philly and getting his name out there in a positive light through the scholarship,” she says.

Hard work. Sound morals. Giving back. Principles that define who Craig D. Butler was as a man, husband, and father, and now his legacy lives on thanks to his daughter for future generations to emulate.

To learn more about the Craig D. Butler Foundation, visit www. craigdbutlerscholarship.com or you can email Khadijah at info@ craigdbutlerscholarship.com. h

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HuamiMagazine.com Charlotte - March/April 2020

By Dillan Teabout Photos by Todd Youngblood Meet the woman whose desire is to bring out the best in people. Being yourself and not worrying about the opinion of others is her focal point.

At first glance of Germany Inke, you will notice that she is embellished with tattoos and piercings. She takes pride in the saying “don’t judge a book by its cover,” something that many people fall victim to on either side. “People have thoughts and parts of their mind that they won’t discover because they don’t want to be seen as a weirdo,” Inke said. “So, I walk around happy as the poster child of weird people even though I think we are the normal ones.”

Germany Inke was born in Dayton, Ohio and was raised partly in Ohio and Georgia.

Currently, she resides in Charlotte, NC. She made the transition to the queen city nearly eight years ago as a means to start fresh and to regain her focus.

Inke studied psychology at Phoenix University and is currently studying to obtain her master’s degree. She owns a consulting business called “Germany Inke & Co.”, where she incorporates her counseling skills with her consulting to bring out the greatness in people.

“Part of what I do is mentor and empower small business owners and regular individuals. I build up selfesteem in others, so they will be able to grow within a craft or talent with confidence,” she says. For most of her clients, that newfound confidence propels them into establishing a business of their own.

The motivation to help others started from counseling young girls in Ohio. From her own experience, Inke believes that therapists do not fully address the needs of their clients in regards to growing and preparing them for success. This concern is one of her main areas of focus.

“What I do is point out people’s strengths. Most people have things they dream of and can’t get out of their minds,” Inke said. “A lot of those people think they don’t have it in them or possess the drive to pursue it. I don’t believe that is true and I work diligently to help them see it as well.”

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“I was created to help and serve others. My mother helped me to realize this and it’s my responsibility to do just that, every day.”

In addition to her consulting business, Inke is also a baker. She also owns a desserts company, called Dirty Desserts, and makes CBD-infused treats which offer better alternatives for treating anxiety and insomnia, rather than just taking pills. Her products are THC free, an ingredient found in marijuana, and have proven to be safe for consumption and quite effective. Her typical clients are those who may be suffering from a trauma or ordeal associated with PTSD or other related disorders.

The biggest inspiration in her life is her late mother. Her mother’s willpower motivates Inke to keep pushing through trials and tribulations. “She was the matriarch of my life. She was someone who went through a lot, but still exhibited great strength and courage,” Inke said. “Nothing bad that ever happened to her kept her down. or stopped her.”

Her biggest accomplishment is selfmastery and teaching it to others. Inke has personally saved a couple of people from committing suicide. Her mission is to be the voice people can’t seem to find for themselves.

Projects coming from her in the future are published books, and a pajama line.

On March 1st, while celebrating her 42nd birthday, she will also embrace everything that she is. The first step of her doing this will be dropping a new line called “Sassy Mouth.”

“I don’t swear often, but the new line will have little fun stuff that my mother would say was the funniest in the world,” Inke said.

Germany Inke & Co.

101 N. Tryon St. - Suite 607 Charlotte, NC 28246 704-534-4897 Germanyinke.co@gmail.com 22

Inke also has a podcast called “Germany Inke & Co.” where she talks about different things people face in life, while making it relatable by giving examples of experiences she has faced herself. At the beginning of her podcast, you will hear her say, “I’m Germany Inke, your sister, baby mama, cousin, best friend, boo thang.”

This is her personal tagline and says she expresses this because she was taught to be all things to all people, all in an effort to save somebody.

While the future appears to be bright for her, when it is all over, Germany Inke wants people to remember her as a dependable, loving woman. “I was created to help and serve others. My mother helped me to realize this and it’s my responsibility to do just that, every day,” she says.

To learn more about Germany Inke, please visit her website or contact her directly.

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Author

By Fanta Dorley Photos by Todd Youngblood Entrepreneur, Entrepreneur Consultant, multi-level marketer, radio show host, author of three collaboration book projects, and motivational speaker. These are some of the ways to describe L. Michelle aka Lynnette M. Jewell. If you allow her input, she will say she’s a diamond in the rough and is taking the nation by storm with priceless, and purposeful precision.

As the founder and CEO of L Michelle Enterprises, she has a philanthropic soul and finds ways to give back to her community through a personal community organization she helped organize. Her organization assists with daycare and afterschool assistance, and partners with another organization called HOPE for Humanity. She also serves on their Board of Directors.

Born in the suburbs of Southern Maryland near the outskirts of Washington DC, L. Michelle is no stranger to hard work. Having a mother who was a teacher, and a father that was a business owner, learned how to be a boss at a young age. “Being a teacher’s child, I always had to work hard in school. Yet, I still found time to get into mischief with my family and friends,” she says.

Charlotte - March/April 2021

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Even though she is an only child, being surrounded by that village motivated and shaped her. “Grandma taught me how to love and make sure nobody wanted for nothing,” she says.

“Everyone in the family had their area of expertise and learned from each other. “Others learned from watching my dad, how to start and run their own business.” This is where the entrepreneurial spirit was planted into her mind, beginning with buying penny candy, packaging it together and selling it to school mates.

As she progressed in life, she realized there wasn’t much that motivated her or inspired her to do better. She wanted more, and the only way to get it was to go get it. So, she prepared for greater and headed south to the Queen city of Charlotte, NC. In Charlotte, she began to explore newfound passions in her life. “The move opened new doors in my life and gave me a newfound purpose,” she shares. “I have always been a leader since I was a child. I was president and founder of my own motorcycle club called, Beltway Ryderz MC (2007-2012).”

She is an active member of The Order of Eastern Star and two other organizations within and has participated in many talk shows and more.

As her new life was still unraveling, Lynnette searched for additional avenues for personal growth. One that she emphatically ruled out was being a teacher, just as her mother was. “I could not be a teacher at all. I saw all that my mom went through and even helped her out with her class a couple of times. I would not be able to take it,” she says. It made more sense for her to get involved with communications, because broadcasting was in her blood by way of father. He worked with people like Cathy Hughes, Founder of WOL 1450 am Radio Station in Washington, DC and Petey Greene, of which allowed her to meet many other great pioneers of the broadcasting industry around the Washington, DC Metropolitan area. These experiences inspired her to start her own radio show: The L. Michelle Show.

Launched in 2016, the show shines a spotlight on people making a difference in their community and changing lives while doing so. L Michelle strives to include meaningful and relatable guests. “You never know who is watching. The information that is shared can potentially add great value in the lives of our audience.”

While she has enjoyed the thrills of entrepreneurship, it hasn’t come without hardships. “There was a point in which after a divorce and losing my house because of a so-called good friend that scammed us, I battled with the thoughts of suicide, anxiety, and the feeling of not being accepted. The struggle was real. I went into a great depression for about two weeks while going through my divorce. These dark times were not going to be a permanent place for me, mainly because I knew that something greater was inside of me, and

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because of my steadfast belief in God. Once I took the time to pray and ask for direction, God showed me a glimpse of what he had in store.

While I was sitting down by the water thinking about riding my motorcycle off into the water.

But the pressure from the divorce, family, and the motorcycle community was just too much to bare until I got up and heard God’s voice very clearly.

That’s the day I decided to live and give God all the Glory,” she says. Introducing L Michelle, the author.

Her next book was called, “I Am A Survivor: From Tragedy To Triumph”. In this production, L. Michelle recalls major points of her story in which she was abused, and other times when she was the abuser. From that lesson, she has encouraged many people to seek help and simply talk about it. “This is what really starts the healing process.

Being a survivor is not a bad thing, not admitting that you are a survivor is what’s bad,” she says.

The follow-up book to this one is called, “Wake Up Winning: No Matter What”. This book provides affirmation and motivation to be your best self. “’I Believe is all the affirmation you need to get you started,” she says. All of her writings and books can be purchased directly from her website.

L Michelle is a strong believer in the passages that iron sharpening iron. She also believes in being a constant student and personal development. “Look at the gaps in your fingers.

That should remind you that you should always be open to learning. A former teacher, Ms. Mclean always told me, “Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do anything”. Until this day, I keep that advice to the forefront of my mind,” she says.

When asked about what advice she would give others who may be struggling to find their place in life, she mentioned the following. “Life is a puzzle, and we are still trying to fit in. If you are like you, you will fit in. Find something that relaxes you and relieves stress. If God told you something, make sure to write and say it. It was one of the best things you’ll ever hear. If you don’t believe in something, you won’t believe in anything. If you cannot look at yourself in the mirror, there is something wrong. And finally, you must be able to encourage yourself.”

Keep an eye out for this world changer as she continues with her next book that is based on the biblical scripture, Psalm 56:1-13 is based on my life.” Her aim is to write what heals her and helps others.

Moving forward, her focus will be on rebranding The L Michelle Show and sowing seeds in other people’s lives. She also plans to establish her own publishing company and encourage others to write their own story. “Everyone should have a book. Everyone has a story that should be told. If not for you, then it is for someone’s h healing.”

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L Michelle Jewell The L Michelle Show Founder and CEO of L Michelle Enterprises 301-659-9766 www.lmichellejewell.com Instagram: lmichelleshow Linkedin: lmichelleshow Youtube: The L Michelle Show Twitter: lmjewell68 29

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By Trea’Sure Prince Photos by Keisha Heggie Jay Maxwell, also known as Meantime Max, was born in Newark, New Jersey to a creative household. He later moved to Greensboro, N.C., and attended James B. Dudley High School. After graduation, Maxwell went on to attend Winston Salem Barber College and obtained his professional barber’s license. He eventually became a successful barber in the triad area.

Maxwell was the youngest of three and has two older brothers. He was raised by a single mother and stated that his mother did her absolute best to make sure that she would raise strong black men, even if she had to do it alone. “My creativity was inspired by “school-teacher mother,” he shares. “She has always been artistic, and her gift eventually rubbed off on me.” To keep him busy, Maxwell’s mother allowed him to assist with creating bulletin boards which ignited his passion for a larger scale of art.

“I did not want my artistry to be put into a box. I enjoy how random they can be, as well as the freedom of expression my artwork provides.”

Other than seeing his mother taking art courses in college when he was younger, Maxwell hasn’t had any former training but has always been passionate about street art and graffiti. Unfortunately, his interest led to some trouble and mischief. As a teenager, he was charged for painting the wall of a local grocer, Winn-Dixie. After that, he decided to put a stop to it. After his break from street art and graffiti, he evolved to draw and create mixtape covers for other artist and musicians. He also created flyers for a rap group of which he was a member of at the time. Life would happen and he stopped painting graffiti and street art. Then something horrific happened in our country that would inspire artists from all walks of life to become involved.

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After hearing the news of George Floyd’s murder, a black man who was killed at the hands of a white police officer in Minneapolis, MN, the country responded with swift anger and emotions. Many businesses, including those in Maxwell’s home of Greensboro boarded up their business out of fear of being damaged by vandalism. Turns out, that many of these infractions weren’t being committed by the protesters who marched in peace in response to the killing of Floyd. But instead, were being carried out by criminals.

The city started allowing local people to paint on the plywood boards. While taking his daughter to go painting, Maxwell noticed there just were not enough black artists out there participating. So, he got busy and soon many of his works dawned the building of downtown Greensboro.

Later the city of Greensboro established a Street Mural Program. It was a huge accomplishment for him to be invited to participate in the “One Love” project in downtown Greensboro. Artists painted “One Love” on Davie Street. Here, he met a lot of the big-time artists who were in town to contribute to this unified cause.

Maxwell has a variety of artwork that he does. His artwork ranges from graffiti and wall murals to canvases and poetry. Mainly his creative energies lead him to create large street art. He described his creativity as “a free bird flying.” “This comparison may be cliché but, it is accurate.”

It is also important to Maxwell to produce pieces that are purposeful. “I did not want my artistry to be put into a box.

I enjoy how random they can be, as well as the freedom of expression my artwork provides,” he says. In his pieces, he also wanted to stop making black men look like victims. Maxwell stated, “I wanted to give black men their power back.”

One of his most memorable experiences or works came about a year ago when he lost a good friend of his. Maxwell decided that he wanted to make him into what seemed to be a “black superman” like figure. This piece was very emotional for him, so emotional in fact that he had to stop and take breaks to help keep himself maintained. He also wanted to make sure that he got this particular piece done exactly right. It was done such as it should be, and the finished work has been applauded by onlookers and friends of his deceased friend.

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So, what lies in the future for Mr. Jay, “Meantime Max” Maxwell? He plans to use the art to catapult other projects that he has been working on, and he would like to continue selling more canvases. As of right now, Jay Maxwell is continuing to pursue his passion for art. He is also a local barber who owns a barber shop and has been working on producing music.

“Meantime Max” is simply a jack of all trades.

If you would like to support artist Jay Maxwell, he uses Shopify, but he accepts direct messages on Instagram where he goes by the handle “MeantimeMax” for serious inquiries. h

Follow Jay Maxwell on Instagram @meantimemax Charlotte - March/April 2021

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Will & Nanette

It’s Family, It’s Furniture, and Love

By Fanta Dorley Photos by Tim Boone Jr. and Nanette Carter “I want to provide a place where people can come and feel at home, before they even make a purchase”.

That is exactly how LeaVies Furniture makes every customer feel; like they are coming to visit family. From the friendly greeting with cookies and lemonade, to the vibrant handpicked furniture pieces for sale, LeaVies is a place that matches your vision with a furniture shopping experience. Clients feel like family because the company is founded on the foundation of family.

Brother and sister owners, Will Maberson Jr and Nanette Carter, also known as the “Furniture Duo”, always had an interest in being entrepreneurs. Growing up in Summerfield NC and watching their family members run their own businesses, encouraged them to follow in the family footsteps.

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Will and Nanette’s grandparents on each side thier families, owned successful local businesses, The Chavis Handy Corner and The Bargain House in Summerfield, N.C. They have vivid memories of going to their grandfather’s store after school and playing until time to go home as customers came and went.

Their first introduction to running a business was working at their mother’s Janitorial and Catering business. Nanette continued to help her mother as she also had a great experience modeling for Dudley Products and other companies. Will moved back home from Washington DC after their father’s passing.

After getting married to her husband Lawrence and working at a local company for 22 years.

Nanette decided it was time for a change. “It was time to do something that made me happy instead of just having a job,” she says. “I remember talking it over with my husband and deciding to take a leap of faith and start our first furniture boutique.”

Their journey began with Lawrence stepping in, he worked at various furniture showrooms where he was able to pick out bargained pieces to be resold at our small boutique. “Things were going well. We finally had a small place to display our collection.

Unfortunately, Lawrence had a stroke that caused changes in operating the business and Will stepped right in to help, “Nanette says.

Lawrence would eventually recover, and Nanette transitioned into more personal home decorating and personal shopping. Through their diligence their family began to take notice and encouraged Nanette and Will to expand. They would quickly outgrow the first location and looked for another. After careful consideration they decided upon a property that had been in the family for years.

With every blessing there comes a test. To open the new location, they had to go through rezoning and many other obstacles. With lots of support from the community and family they were able to get through the process of residential to commercial.

With that change came the new name of LeaVies Furniture Boutique, named in honor of their beloved grandmother Leavie Maberson.

Located at 7906 Summerfield Road in Summerfield, N.C., LeaVies opened its doors on November 7th, 2019 in the middle of a pandemic.

Nanette says,” My mom encouraged us to open.

She just wanted to be here to see it”. By faith they opened the boutique and do not regret it. They opened their doors debt free, and the building was gifted to them. Most of the large furniture is purchased upon ordering. There are multiple accessory and handcrafted pieces from local creatives. LeaVies gives those business owners a platform to display their items to a faithful and consistent clientele. As one looks around the Charlotte - March/April 2021

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boutique, they will see custom body scrubs, wax melts and artwork. The items transform the small quaint farmhouse into a comfortable, contemporary, welcome home experience. “people always say the experience they feel when they walk through the doors is pleasantly unexpected.”

As co-owners of LeaVies, Nanette and Will strive to grow the company in a way to help the community more. Growing up in their family, you were taught to love your neighbor and do what you can for each other. The family values also extended to providing important financial lessons that they follow to this day.

“I remember being taught not to “live beyond your means and remember to always have savings and less waste”, she says. With those lessons, the duo learned to work hard, save, and understand the value of money.

The duo received much support and business capital needed from a much-loved fairy godmother, who can say they have that” she laughs, we are blessed.” Because of the solid foundation they can operate the business with the level of personalization they have dreamt about. “when a customer calls and asks for a particular piece, I have what they want in mind as well as some items that can go with it. They trust me to put it together, “she says. “Some combinations can be described as traditional with a twist or country with a little bling. However, all services are custom to the client’s needs.”

Nanette’s decorating skills have kept her working at the Dynacon a local event center for ten years. She gives her all for both businesses.

Of course, the love they have for people does not just stay in the building. LeaVies is greatly involved with causes for the community. They take old furniture and give it away to the needy and donate furniture items to churches for silent auctions and other functions.

So, as you visit that acre of land adorned by the country wheelbarrow, short walk bridge, Ms. Margaret’s magnolia tree and comfortable rocking chairs on the front porch, just get ready to receive your lemonade and feel the welcome home. Always know they are looking out for you the same way they have looked out for each other all through the years. Hopefully, they will be able to take a vacation soon, but for now, they are loving every minute of having their own business.

7906 Summerfield Rd Summerfield, NC 27358 (336) 740-2867 36

They are the furniture duo on the rise. To learn more about LeaVies Furniture, please stop by and see what they might have for you.

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Mia Collins

Let Her Spice Up Your Life

By Terry L. Watson - Photos by Mia Collins What is the use in eating if the food doesn’t taste good? Pose that question to Mia Collins and she would probably present some spices direct from her product line, Mia’s Oh So Good Seasoning.

Mia is sort of a down home girl from Arkansas, who is currently living the Vegas life in Las Vegas, NV. Her mission is to add flavor to every household, one jar at a time. “I would like to see Mia’s Ohh So Go Seasonings collaborate with major retail markets and expand to other countries throughout the world. She isn’t too far off the mark, as her products can be purchased in 36 states, and two countries (United States and Jamaica).

Mia’s intrapreneurial spirit was planted into her life as a child. “I am inspired mostly by my mother and father. I lost both parents before I was age 25. My mom passed away when I was 16 years old on Mother’s Day, a day I will never forget. I grew up seeing my mom as an entrepreneur.

She did nails and makeovers for women, and always worked hard to provide a good life for us. Thinking about her drive, truly keeps me motivated,” Mia says.

The official name of her business is Mia’s Ohh So Good Seasonings & Cookware. It was established in 2015 and according to Mia, the rest is history. “After 14 years in the food industry, I wanted a change, so I went back to Corporate America. However, my customers still wanted that flavor. Some friends suggested I start selling my seasonings as a side hustle. The orders started to flow in, so much so, that I needed a website to track them. Next, I launched Uncle L’s Errthang Seasoning, and in 2017, we rebranded and Mia’s Ohh So Good Seasonings was created,” she says. Over the years, additional flavors have been added to Mia’s brand.

While Mia offers a variety of seasonings, her best and top seller has been her Errthang Seasoning. “People love it because it’s good on Errthang. I currently carry 14 Flavors. My top five are Errthang, Apple BBQ, Ranch Steak & Garlic, and Peppercorn Herb. I also carry Zesty Lemon Pepper, Cajun Hot, Salt Free, Yo Favorite Burger, Spicy Taco, Spicy Errthang, Cheesy Popcorn, Fish Fry, Spicy Garlic Pepper, and Chili in a Bag,” she says.

Her cookware line was launched in January 2021. Pre-Seasoned cast iron skillets were the first items to debut. They were a huge hit and sold out of inventory in just week one. Fortunately, she has restocked them and can be purchased directly from her website. To compliment her cookware, she also offers Mia’s Ohh So Good Recipe Book, oven mitts, and aprons.

Like most other businesses around the country, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted Mia’s business, but not in a negative way.

While many businesses struggled during the pandemic, Mia says she was positioned to win. “More people were doing home cooking, to be safe. People wanted to add a new flavor to their meals, and we were in position to meet their demands. We updated all our social media information, developed new and improved logos, including packaging.

We also were fortunate to receive sound mentorship and collaborate with other businesses. We reached a new audience by doing tradeshows in 2020, which help to expand our audience, and capture a new market in the process,” she says.

Business has been good for Mia, and while she wouldn’t change much about her journey, there is one thing she admits she could have done differently. “I wish I would have researched my website more before going with what I have. I’m working on implementing an E-commerce website that will allow me to reach a bigger audience and increase my resources,” she says.

For anyone who may be thinking about starting a business, Mia offers the following advice. “Do your due diligence and research the industry that you are entering. If possible, incorporate your business and follow legal guidelines that are in place. And most importantly, try to collaborate and connect with like minds as much as possible,” she says.

In the future, Mia is looking forward to expanding her cookware line of cast iron skillets to full cookware sets. She is also a lady who understands the power of numbers. “I am looking to participate at tradeshows with 25,000 or more attendees,” she says. She also has five new Food Ambassadors on her team that are helping to promote her brand around the United States. They are in Memphis TN, Philadelphia PA, Las Vegas NV, Little Rock AR, and Shiloam Springs AR. h

www.miasohhsogoodseasoning.bigcartel.com

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MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

Khaderrick “KD” Linton The son of Meyakka Sturdivant and Derrick Linton

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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