Huami Magazine Chicago July/August 2021 by Terry Watson

CHICAGO

July/August 2021 Vol. 1 Issue 3

Chicago - July/August 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

Understanding PowerOr of Buts Your About Influence There Are NoThe If, Ands, It! There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

A Letter From The Editor

Now that I amfrom manythe years settled into fatherhood, I sometimes reminisce A Letter Editor on those precious moments when my son was only a baby. Though small and quite fragile, to make him tough and brawn, selfishly hoping A Letter fromI wanted the Editor that he would live out the hopes andarrive? dreamsAll that I had plans, for my hopes life. That What if tomorrow didn’t of your is whatand dads do, or at least I think they do. My son would eventually dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if grow up right eyes to be arrive? ato very man, which am quite everything thatmy you decided putgrown off until tomorrow never Whatbefore if tomorrow didn’t All of your plans, Ihopes proud happened? of. Still, I remindedwould of his dependence ontome and hisamother for beano reason save and dreams There wouldn’t have street to park on. for Whatrainy if everything while he was a child and our responsibility to understand and day, and you could someone theuntil trouble of making everything that youspare decided to put off tomorrow never provide for his needs.

promises. What your last happened? Thereif would be opportunity no reason toseemingly save for aexpired rainy today? What would you do? spare someone ofand making As aday, babyand andyou not could yet able to form words,the mytrouble son cried made other promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly baby sounds when he wanted to let us know he was hungry.expired When his I’ve been told that I[dad, often seem likeinstead, I do too What would you do?I am diapertoday? was wet, he didn’t say wet]; hemuch. cried. It was my I feel like I and am not doingthe enough and I’m firmtrying duty toHonestly, determine his need translate information heawas believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on been that I often seem likewas I dofed tooand much. to share. I’ve Thank Godtold I was able to, and my son caredme for. that I couldn’t handle. sometimes wonder how would Honestly, like Ihow amI difficult not doing enough and I’mlife a firm Though I can onlyI feel imagine it would have been for him had I behis if Icries chose to idle and accept whatthem. it presented believer inor knowing that God wouldn’t put anything to onme. me I ignored wassitunable to understand haveI found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity that couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge As adults and not babies, our methods of communicating our pains, be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I wants,have and generally boggled a baby’s cry.opportunity However, to meneeds is an aren’t adventure. What is the into worst that can happen? found that to be very boring. In my opinion, it doesn’t mean thatthat we are and not crying. we prideful If aI do nothing, I fail, if I try to IWhen don’t, butbecome instead learn and is blessing isn’t afforded everyone. A challenge shamed, it can be difficult to express what is truly hurting us, which something new about myself. yourcan pride and in to me is an adventure. What is Relinquish the worst that happen? causesIf us to internalize these issues andI don’t, not letbut them out. learn return acquire life. I do nothing, I fail, and if I try instead something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in When Godbest blesses His to be well or sourcewhen for others, it The advice ever given to ame happened someone return acquire life.children often comes with some form of influence. With influence, there is power told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so and the abilitypressed to impact life.doors Not understanding theonly power I have mysomeone’s way given through with a key that The best advice ever to me happened when someone of your influence is just as careless as someone who is driving a car at 100 hopeme provided. have also learned the today. difference between told to makeImy tomorrow happen In doing so miles per hour with their eyes closed. blesses and what cana burden with Iwhat haveGod pressed my me waywith through doorslife with key thatme only as well. I compareinterest it toalso knowing when to beinfluence confident and hope provided. difference between Influence attracts theI have oflearned others. the Because is often when to be quiet, because what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with associated with power, it oftentimes attracts weakness. What I am someone may getlike it confused knowing when toyou be confident and trying as to well. share;IIfcompare someoneitistotreating you wrong feel you are with being arrogant. when to be quiet, because being “hated on”, it might mean that person is actually crying out and someone mayhurting get it confused cannot convey what’s them. As Make youarrogant. tomorrow with Christians, webeing can’t ignore these cries. happen but mostand seek We should listen today, with our hearts importantly make count. God’s instruction on how toitrespond. Make you tomorrow Life is but a whisper and happen today, but most If you importantly are must in a position of it influence, we putmake ourselves in a fill count. yourselfLife withisthe love of God on position to hear what it but a whisper andaisdaily basis. I was able to determine telling us. we must put ourselveswhat in a my son’s needs wereto only because position hear what itI loved is him. God’s love gives us power and the telling us. ability to understand the cries and pains Terry L. Watson of others.

www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief

Terry L. Watson www.huamimagazine.com www.huamimagazine.com Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Editor In Chief

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On The Cover

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November/December 2014

On The Cover

Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844

CONTENTS

JULY/AUGUST 2021

CHICAGO

Kingdom Step Academy

Chess’Mia James

On The Cover

Althea McIntyre International Althea McIntyre

Gallerie Ukwensi at Ghent

Ukwensi Chappell

Leading The Way in Charleston

Eric Watson

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Asher Grady

Also Featured

Monica Hale She has drive and ambition. Meet the face and founder of Plush Homes Co. Realty. Little Rock, AR

Kelisa Locke She is taking on life at full speed, setting goals, and creating new opportunities. Davenport, IA Chicago - July/August 2021

Alton Edmond Learn how he is making an impact in his community. Cocoa, FL

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Chicago - July/August 2021

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Althea McIntrye Althea McIntyre is the founder and CEO of Althea McIntyre International. Her focus is to help established Christ-Centered Female Coaches, Consultants, and Experts own their value. Most importantly, she helps her clients fully monetize their Godgiven gifts and grow profitable Spirit-led businesses. A former resident of Washington, D.C., but now back home in Chicago, IL, Althea has been coaching professionally since 2005. Before then, she worked as a Corporate Certified Public Accountant for nine years. She received her coaching training and certification from The Coaches Training Institute and obtained a Masters in Organization Development, with an emphasis in Leadership Development from Loyola University Chicago. “I am a Kingdom Driven Entrepreneur Certified service provider. When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with close friends and family, ministering in dance, indulging in the latest fashion trends, working out, reading, and traveling internationally; particularly Jamaica, the native home of my parents,” she says. Continued on the next page

The products and services offered by Althea McIntyre International are designed for established Christ-Centered Female Entrepreneurs who are seeking a stronger faith and making a real impact through their business, all while bringing in more profits. Althea says she landed her first client by sharing her new career direction with 100 members in her personal and professional network. That was then; now, her reach has grown significantly. Presently, Althea coaches and mentors clients through On-Demand Training, Private Business Coaching, Group Masterminds, and In-Person Business Retreats. These events often occur at luxury hotels around the world. Being self-employed has its advantages. Althea says she loves the opportunities to partner with God and make a living utilizing her God-given gifts. “I am grateful for all that I am. I’ve helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and executives trust God more and increase their incomes doing meaningful work they love. As I witness my clients’ success and transformation, I know that I am showing up in the truest form that God has planned for me. That alone inspires me to continue to rise to my next challenge and God-given assignment,” she says. Life has presented several challenges to Althea also. She was blessed with amazing parents and being raised in a happy and loving home. She learned about the love of God at an early age and applied these principles to the way she lives her life. So it was an easy decision for her to move back home to Chicago from Washington, D.C., to be one of her father’s caregivers after he was diagnosed with a terminal disease. She was only returning the love that shaped her life. That is just the kind of person Althea is.

“As I witness my clients’ success and transformation, I know that I am showing up in the truest form that God has planned for me. That alone inspires me to continue to rise to my next challenge and Godgiven assignment.”

www.altheamcintyre.com 8

For anyone who is considering entering the world of entrepreneurship, Althea offers some wise advice. “Don’t go at it alone. Partner with God in your business and learn how to trust Him with your business. Be obedient to His instruction. Also, hire a business coach to avoid unnecessary and costly mistakes. Doing it alone is the hard way,” says Althea. Moving forward, Althea reveals God has shared some of His plans for her business with her, which she’s excited about. “In many ways, I feel like I’m just getting started. I know God’s best is yet to come. I just launched a free Online Training course called ‘How To Enroll Ideal High-end clients with one Spirit-Led call, email, or conversation’. I also have a book that is scheduled to be released this fall. I’m excited to see the impact it has,” she shares. To learn more about Althea McIntrye International, please visit her website. h

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Chicago - July/August 2021

KelisaLocke The Tree of Life District Inc.

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Kelisa Locke

A native of Davenport, IA, also known as “Quad Cities”, Kelisa Locke has built her life on a foundation of family and love. She is a genuine nurturer to heart and shares her passion with anyone who welcomes it. The mother of seven beautiful children and two grandchildren has enjoyed the blessing of life and weathered a few storms as well. Yet, she is humbled and equally ambitious for what her future may offer. “The sum total of my lifes’ experiences have helped develop my education and profession as a social entrepreneur. I have an extensive background in early childhood education, cultural awareness, and community development, locally and abroad. I have a passion and desire to assist in resolution in breeches within humanity and conflicts with socio-economic growth and progress,” she says. Currently, Kelisa is pursuing her degree in Cultural Anthropology. These attributes assist Kelisa with managing her company, The Tree of Life District, Inc. She offers health and wellness products and services, food preparations, and made-toorder entrees that encourage better eating and lifestyle changes. She also specializes in traditional comfort cuisine with a choice menu of vegan, vegetarian, and pescatarian, all of which can be custom-made according to taste. Kelisa’s entrepreneurial journey began with her taking control of what life has already offered. “I took my experiences from 2005 to current, including my first catering service, to cooking overseas from 2008- 2011 and working as a general manager for a “dine-in” restaurant in 2017. After the Coronal Virus pandemic swept across the country, I knew I needed to create a business that would help with meeting the essential needs of others. It was March 2021, and that’s where the brand name (A Taste of Goodness) originated,” she says.

Continued on the next page

“My children see what it takes to do what I do. I am blessed to have them cheer me on and celebrate with me each step of the way. I have a familyowned business, which means they must help run it from time to time.”

As a business owner, Kelisa says she loves being able to take care of her clients. She does this with love and with each meal that is served. “My clients appreciate the quality of ingredients, and customer satisfaction is the number one priority for me,” she says. Kelisa would also like to expand and provide additional products and include software to make her orders easier to process. She’s optimistic and believes it will happen in due season. Kelisa is aware of the impression she has on her children, both as a mother and entrepreneur. “My children see what it takes to do what I do. I am blessed to have them cheer me on and celebrate with me each step of the way. I have a family-owned business, which means they must help run it from time to time. Witnessing my success and failures will help them as they grow into their career paths and future endeavors.” The advice she offers to other aspiring entrepreneurs is this: “Be prepared for the obstacles that you may face. Business plans are a must if you are going to need start-up cost capital from a lender. Be prepared to invest your own money also. You will be your greatest investment, so count up the cost and go for it. Though you may want to, please don’t give up when challenges arise because there will always be a solution. And don’t get too frustrated with the process because hard work pays off. And finally, try to stay focused on the short goals because they will help you reach the overall goal, which is establishing your business.” In the future, Kelisa plans to continue scaling her business to reach full capacity. She’s currently in a soft launch phase but is preparing for an eventual grand opening at a later date. To learn more about The Tre of Life Inc, please visit their website. h

Chicago - July/August 2021

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Chicago - July/August 2021

Ray Resources LLC Bringing Resources Foward By Dorjae McClammey Photos by Sen-Soray Johnson

She is Sen-Soray Johnson or Ray for short. This ambitious, always thinking “outside the box” businesswoman is also the founder and CEO of Ray’s Resources, LLC. On the surface, her company is a staffing agency whose focus is to pair qualified candidates with employment opportunities throughout the City of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In addition, Ray’s Resources provides support and exceptional customer service for candidates seeking employment and companies/ organizations. Created just this year Ray’s Resources was not exactly what Sen-Soray dreamt of when she first started. She even had second thoughts about launching a business and shares, “I was going to focus mainly on resume writing, job training, and job etiquette. However, when I partnered with another amazing organization, Brittney Blackmon and Geneva Byrd of B&B Consultants, Ray’s Resources was elevated to another level.” B&B assisted Ray with placing CBRF’s, CNA’s, and Directors, Lead Teachers, Clerical Workers, Bartenders, Security Guards, and more. They even helped aspiring entrepreneurs with getting their businesses off the ground. When asked what inspired her to start Ray’s Resources, she stated, “I’m trying to help our community as much as I can. I noticed a lack of tools and resources for the younger generation in the City of Milwaukee. There was a void in the simple things, such as teaching them the fundamentals like essential job skills such as resume writing, job etiquette, financial literacy, and professionalism. “I felt like this was something we all needed; working together is our culture, and by doing so, we can create jobs and ensure our families are taken care of as well.”

Continued on the next page

Ray prides herself on being well-rounded and diverse. Ray’s Resources provide a long list of opportunities for clients between the ages of 18 and 64. Through their partnership with Generation of Excellence and Latanya Baker, they can offer training to their clients in the areas of teacher training, childcare, warehouse, welding, and engineering, along with CBRF and CNA. “Bringing resources forward” is Ray’s motto, and it describes what she loves most about her company. She wants to ensure her community is aware of the programs and services that exist. “I am committed to meeting the needs of others, whether directly or as a conduit to someone who can meet their needs,” she shares Ray believes that some people are not working, possibly due to a lack of support and access to necessary information. This is why she informs everyone in the community she meets about the available essential resources. Among her many accomplishments, she states her proudest one is finally opening her own office space located at 6633 West Mill Road. This center includes other business owners that help other entrepreneurs and is also where Ray’s Resources hosts its training. “I love being surrounded by so many positive women and men who all have the same focus, healing our community, stopping the violence that surrounds them, and providing the youth with better education and job training opportunities,” Ray says.

“I love being surrounded by so many positive women and men who all have the same focus, healing our community, stopping the violence that surrounds them, and providing the youth with better education and job training opportunities.”

When asked what her testimony is, she stated, “I finally found my niche. I have been surrounded by so many people who have their own businesses, from cooks to chefs to hairstylists and nail technicians, welders, plumbers, you name it. I always felt like I was being left behind because I didn’t know what my calling was. I had to stop and sit down with myself to see exactly what I was good at. I learned that I was good at resourcing and helping people find certain things.” This year was my time to reflect on myself, to learn, grow and find myself along the way. I feel that I have finally found my purpose.” This year was my time to reflect on myself, to learn and grow, and find myself along the way. I feel that I’ve finally found my purpose.” As for what the future holds for Ray’s Resources, the owner plans on building better contracts with the inner city, including hospitals, healthcare facilities, local daycares, and schools. Ray also plans on offering transportation and uniforms for her employees. She says, “for those who don’t have a vehicle at the time, we can pick them up and drop them off at their job sites.” Of course, we would all love to see Ray’s Resources grow to a larger scale, but at the moment, she wants to keep her focus in Milwaukee.

Ray Resources LLC 414-795-8772 16

MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

Asher Grady The son of Jessica and Justyn Grady

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

Deputy County Administrator of Public Safety 18

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Chicago - July/August 2021

By Gamal Williams Photos by Calvin A. Brown

A young man is hanging out in his neighborhood with some friends. The group are approached by two officers, and what started as a calm conversation, quickly turned hostile. One of the officers told the group to leave the area and go home. The teenager informed the police that he and his friends were in their neighborhood already, then pointed to his home just a few houses away from where they stood. He told the officer that was where he lived. It was to no avail. The boy complied and began to leave, yet as he passed the officer, the officer began to harass him. The officer accosted and grabbed him, then slammed him to the ground despite protests from neighbors and his mother as she ran screaming towards the situation. The boy was arrested for disobeying an officer, fingerprinted, and pushed through the court system, before all charges were later dropped and his record expunged. During his 27 years in law enforcement, Eric Watson, the former Charleston County South Carolina Deputy Sheriff’s Office Deputy Chief of Operation, fought against occurrences like the one above. After college, Eric began his law enforcement career as a Detentions Deputy at the Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center in North Charleston, SC. After three years in corrections, he received a lateral transfer to become a Deputy Sheriff for the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office. With tours as a patrol deputy, a detective in the Criminal Investigations Division, patrol supervisor, the Office of Professional Standards, and Sheriff’s Office spokesperson along the way, Eric rose to the rank of Chief Deputy of Operations, one of the highest command positions in the Sheriff’s Office. Stories of unjust arrests are all too familiar within the African-American community. There are far too few stories like Eric Watson, a Black man holding one of the most powerful positions within law enforcement. Yet the first story is what motivates Eric Watson. Why? Eric Watson was that boy. “When I was arrested, they didn’t even tell me what I was arrested for. I didn’t find out the charge until we got to the station,” recalls Eric. “The worst part was, there were two Officers; one was White, the other was Black. The Black Officer started teasing me when I was in the back of the police cruiser crying, saying ‘look at the little baby cry.’ When we got to the station, I challenged the Black officer and protested that I was arrested on a bogus charge. When he asked where I actually lived, I showed him my I.D. I lived at 18A Washington Street, and they arrested me on Washington Street. He knew he was wrong, but they threw me in jail anyway.” Eric defines the incident as pivotal, not just because he was arrested on a false charge, but because while he sat in the police cruiser, he heard the real reason why he was in handcuffs and on his way to the police station. Continued on the next page

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Chicago - July/August 2021

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“While we were enroute to the station, the Black Officer asked his partner ‘what happened back there?’ The White Officer responded, ‘I don’t know, I just snapped.’ It was in that moment I decided that this (becoming a cop) was what I wanted to do. I needed to know what they knew and what gave them the right to just take someone’s freedom unjustly. I used that to motivate me.” “Being a Black Officer anywhere in this country, we bring a unique approach. I grew up in the projects. I didn’t have access to quality education or real tangible jobs. I grew up in a drug infested, poverty stricken environment,” he explains. “But on the flipside, I am a first generation cop. My mother didn’t want me to join, my family and friends didn’t want me to join. Being a cop, my community looks at me as an outcast, as an individual that took part in an organization that for decades has oppressed our community. But my counterparts in law enforcement don’t see or understand the why: why people are committing these crimes, why they are doing what they are doing.” Eric developed and implemented a mentorship program within the Sheriff’s Department, aimed at new recruits (mostly White), to teach them that it is important for law enforcement to relate to the community, to understand them, and treat them as human beings. New recruits joined Eric at food drives and other community outreach programs. “I told my new recruits that the people that trust us the least, need us the most. It is important that we develop that trust,” Eric proudly stated.

In 2020, Eric was offered a new opportunity: to leave the Sheriff’s Office and create a new directorate as the Charleston County Deputy County Administrator of Public Safety. From his new position, Eric continues his efforts to improve police relations and their attitudes towards the African-American community, and vice versa. He now manages Emergency Management, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Charleston County 9-1-1 Consolidated Dispatch, and the Awendaw Fire Department. He also serve as a law enforcement liaison for Charleston County Government. One of the innovative ways Eric has deployed his power and vast experience in the field, was to help identify new strategies to deescalate situations where the deployment of police may not be the best course of action. He has also served on multiple nonprofits boards and volunteers his time mentoring youths as a way to give back to the community. This past August, in partnership with the South Carolina Department of Health, Consolidated Dispatch began utilizing mental health counselors in the 9-1-1 call center to identify situations where a mental health professional would be better suited to respond vice the police. Additionally, he procured a $4.4 million budget increase for EMS, allowing for raises, better resources and equipment, and the hiring of additional staff. It’s this type of insight and forward thinking that can give us hope a better relationship between the African-American community, and not only the police, but all state and local emergency services can and will be better. “I didn’t enter this profession to become a millionaire; I entered it to make it (law enforcement) and my community better than when I got into it.” h

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Chicago - July/August 2021

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Chicago - July/August 2021

Edmond Law LLC Not Every Superhero Wears a Cape By Ellen Richardson Photos by Michael Robinson

One of the most talented attorneys in the state of Florida is not your average superhero. Alton Edmond, Owner and Founder of Edmond Law LLC, knew from the time that he was five years of age that he wanted to be a lawyer. “Since I was 5 years old, I knew that I wanted to be an attorney, which was not going to be easy since I was a kid growing up in the projects of Harlem, Florida, who lived with a single mother on a fixed income,” said Edmond. For this dream to become a reality, this real-life superhero would have to break all his family’s generational curses and even disregard the surroundings that he was raised in to achieve what some may consider the inconceivable. “I have to admit that pursuing this path was not easy at the beginning, but after a high school guidance counselor told me that I would never be a lawyer I made the decision that I was not going to let anyone, or anything stop me from being what I wanted to be.” As he continued to stay focused on this dream, Edmond would find himself at the University of Florida and eventually Florida A & M College of Law where he became inspired by the many African American professionals who made this University what it is. “When I went to law school I faced a culture shock because when I went to the University of Florida I only had three black professors, but when I got to law school I was taught by people of color from Ivy League colleges and all over the nation. This was one of the first times in my life that I could walk onto a campus and be inspired by black professionals and black excellence, which gave me the realization that I could also be an inspiring professional for other black youth,” he said with a twinkle in his eye.

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Chicago - July/August 2021

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After graduating from law school and passing the Florida Bar Exam on his first attempt, Edmond would begin to see his childhood dream come true. “After becoming a fully licensed attorney I wanted to become involved in criminal law because I came from a very poor, minority community and there were many things that I witnessed that I did not feel were right when it came to the criminal justice system, so I wanted to do my part to help make a change,” said the future superhero. Using his desire to work as an attorney who could inspire a change on a state level, Edmond would attempt to return to the place where he served as a law school legal intern to become a prosecutor. “The funny thing is the Florida State Attorney’s office in Orlando, Florida wouldn’t even interview me the first go around,” he said. “It wasn’t until I had obtained a job already that I was interviewed by the Brevard County state attorney’s office.” Although he would not be hired at this office or in the position that he had planned, God’s new plan would give Edmond the opportunity to serve as a defense attorney. As his new path would emerge, Edmond would begin to serve as an associate defense attorney for two law firms before becoming an assistant public defender for the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida. “I loved this job but was let go after wearing a Black Lives Matter necktie, which my boss thought was a political statement instead of a human rights issue,” he said. Although this would seem like a setback to most, this opportunity became a step up for the man who would not let anything stop him from achieving his dream. “Two days after I lost my job I started my own law firm.” Founded in Black History Month of 2017 Edmond Law, LLC offers criminal litigation, juvenile delinquency, criminal traffic violation, business/contract law and even the preparation of last will and testaments. “I became an attorney because I wanted to become an advocate for people that cannot advocate on their own and I wanted to be the voice for the voiceless people of society, and this is exactly what I built this firm to become,” said Edmond. In his efforts to inspire others to empower others to achieve their own personal goals, this defender of people and voice for the voiceless also took this time to expand a motivational speaker, workshop, and events organization that he began after graduating from law school. “Edmond Inspiration, LLC was founded with the goal to motivate others to overcome what holds them back,” said Edmond. Whether this involves poverty, bullying, low self-esteem, racism, and many other forms of adversity, I speak and hold workshops to provide the hope that people need to hear.” Despite starting this as a for profit company, Edmond is now turning this into a non-profit organization that assists children from his hometown of Harlem, as well as children from Emma Jewel Charter Academy, in Cocoa, Florida, in obtaining scholarships. “I am on a variety of community boards in Brevard County, FL, but the one that is the nearest and dearest to my heart is Emma Jewel Charter Academy, which is a charter school that was established in one of the poorest areas of Brevard County. This K-8th grade school takes in children who are failing at other public schools, and we help them not only become educated, but we also support them in other areas where they have been struggling. My goal is to use my speaking company to give a scholarship to one young man and woman who grew up in this school, so that they can go on to college. I also want to help a young man, who is growing up poor in Harlem to go on and achieve his dreams through a good education.”

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Chicago - July/August 2021

As if these efforts to help others were not enough, Florida’s own superhero has also done his part to continue supporting those who are wrongly accused, primarily in the black community. “On June 6, 2020, I helped to organize the largest peaceful human rights protest that had ever taken place in Brevard County,” said Edmond. “The local news reported on this, there were helicopters flying around, but we were blessed to have the FBI, ATF and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to monitor threats and keep the estimated 50,000 protestors, and other area businesses safe.” Along with holding one of the most successfully peaceful protests of its kind, Edmond also put forth his effort to improve the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office last year. “I became a candidate for Brevard Sheriff in 2020, who was trying to do my part to rectify some of the social justice issues that are going on in this county sheriff’s office. This effort included my efforts to assist this department in locating the funding necessary to install body cameras on deputies that would provide evidence for future court cases.” While Edmond has yet to be elected to the political side of the Brevard County justice system, he is definitely making a difference and we at Huami applaud this superhero. He is an inspiration to us all! h

Alton Edmond Edmond Law LLC

630 Brevard Avenue - Suite B Cocoa, FL 32922 321-285-9505 www.edmondtriallaw.com 27

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Chicago - July/August 2021

Kingdom Step Ahead Academy, LLC By Terry L. Watson Photos by Chess’Mia James

It’s all about the kids for Atlanta, GA resident Chess’Mia James. This loving woman and mother enjoys the very thought of family and strives to live a life pleasing unto God. This is precisely the kind of love and compassion required to lead the young minds she encounters at Kingdom Step Ahead Academy. Also known as KSA, they provide early childhood education for children ages (3-5) in the community of Covington, GA, and surrounding areas. Their curriculum teaches everything from Bible scripture reading, literacy, arts and crafts, early math, social studies, science, green screen videography, and camera presence. “Our mission is to get students a step ahead in their education and prepare them for their future,” James shares. James’ journey of becoming the face of KSA began when she decided to be obedient to what God had called her to do and embrace her educational convictions. “In January of 2019, my Shepherd, Dr. Gabriel Allen Powell, instructed me to leave my occupation at that time. Of course, I did not want to listen because that was my source of income, and I had a one-yearold daughter. So, I told God, “If this is in your will, then you are going to have to show me through someone else that doesn’t know me as well as my shepherd knows me.” The very next day, my co-worker approached me and stated, “I had a dream about you last night, and you were leaving the company”. I cried, but in my obedience, I surrendered and said, “Yes, Lord!” I attained a master’s degree from Central Michigan University in 2018. This educational venture became a highlight for me, as I held a 3.8 GPA and was recognized as Magna Cum Laude. As time passed, I knew there was more for me to do, so I continued to seek God for direction, and He delivered. In February of 2019, I walked away from my job and became a stay-at-home mother,” she shares. KSA was birthed from prayer and meditation. One day, while soaking in God’s presence, James says the idea of starting a preschool fell into her lap. “I heard God so clearly, and I immediately enrolled in school to pursue early childhood education. I enrolled in January 2021, and I completed my certification with honors in May 2021,” she says. Continued on the next page

I dream big because I know:

Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us. Ephesians 3:20

Her passion for Early Childhood Care Education ignited when she began teaching her toddler educational fundamentals. After discovering this, James’ way of teaching landed her toddler with the ability to recognize numbers, letters, colors, and shapes. By the age of one, she could adequately place them all on the learning boards. Additionally, James has always been intrigued by American Sign Language. To further her interest, she has studied ASL to teach it to her two-yearold. “There are no limitations to learning in my book. Every moment can be a moment of teaching,” she says. Coming from a place of working for someone and now finding herself responsible for the growth and development of children has been life-changing for James. She shares, “My mind is blown away as I know that God handpicked me to build in the kingdom. I am following the will of God in my life, and the fact that God called me to do this job is what keeps me going.” God has made a way for James to impact the lives of others. “I love how I can pour into the little innocent minds of young people and share my lifes experiences. I love to see toddlers get excited, smile, and laugh. It warms my heart. I also like that I can do what I love and have my daughter right beside me.” In the future, her plan is to have one of the largest and most effective academies in the state of Georgia. Her advice to anyone that may follow in her footsteps is t0 keep going, stay organized, and keep God first. “Don’t look for the finish line, but take it one day at a time, and eventually you will get there if you keep walking and be obedient to the Holy Spirit,” she says. To learn more about Kingdom Step Academy, please visit their website. h

P.O. Box 226 Porterdale, GA 30070 www.kingdomstepahead.com

Gallerie Ukwensi at Ghent 32

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Chicago - July/August 2021

“Black is not the absence of color, it’s a particular color…there are seven (colors of black). They all may look the same, but when you stack them on top of each other, the variations are more pronounced. That means I have a palette that is just as complex as any other color on the spectrum.” -Kerry James Marshall Artist, from the film Black Art: In the Absence of Light By Gamal Williams Photos by Ukwensi Jones

Black artists and their work have long been marginalized as untrained, uneducated, and lesser than their White counterparts. The terms “Black art” and “Black artists” by definition prove this marginalization. The artist is seen as Black first, and then through a less than approving lens, their work is viewed in its own little box, unworthy of comparison to the likes of a Rembrandt, a Van Gogh, a Picasso, or a Warhol. The aren’t seen as impressionists, abstractists, sculptors, cubists, expressionists, or realists. They are merely Black artists that make Black art that only Black people could understand and appreciate. Ukwensi Chappel sees art as art. In 2018, Ukwensi Chappell opened Gallerie Ukwensi, located in the Ghent District of Norfolk. Ukwensi (he explains it’s pronunciation in his energetic tones as “Oooo, Quincy”), opened Gallerie Ukwensi to do what other gallery’s wouldn’t: expose and educate people to the beauty of art crafted by Black artists. A tour through his gallery reveals something deeper, something powerful and beautiful, rooted in centuries of exclusion. Ukwensi takes the time to greet every customer, young or old, Black, White or purple, rich or poor. He doesn’t just greet people; he engages with them. Ukwensi, or “Uki” as his friends call him, watched as I marveled at the beauty held on his walls. As I leaned in to admire a piece, Uki would offer the story behind the art, revealing something special and personal about the artist that inspired the work. When asked why he knew so much about not only a particular piece, but the artists themselves, he said “Most gallery’s in the area didn’t greet me when I came in, and if they did, they didn’t tell me about the art. But every piece has a story, and every story was an experience by the artist.”

Ukwensi’s art, rich abstracts made of layers of crushed glass and pigments suspended in clear enamel that form 3-dimensional kaleidoscopes, line the main wall. Uki calls his work “My windows to your imagination.” No matter what you think you see in his work, its correct. I told him I saw a deep sea scape in one piece; an alien world in another. Uki smiled and tilted his head. “If that is what you see, then that’s what it is. It’s your imagination.” As we continued the tour, I was astonished to discover the backgrounds of some of the artists. High school teachers, college students, and working class people’s work hung amongst artists that made their living solely through their art. What was more surprising, was that they weren’t all Black. “Yes, my plan was to become the #1 gallery for Black artists because they don’t get a shot. But I wanted to highlight all artists,” Uki explains. “If their art spoke to me, I wanted them in here. We have Black, White, Asian, and Hispanic artists.” At the conclusion of our tour, Uki offered me a glass of wine or water. He then sat in the soft, leather couch below one of his pieces in the lush seating area in the heart of Gallerie Ukwensi. We were soon joined by two other artists featured in the gallery. Artist Gia Labidi, a dynamic powerhouse of triumph and beauty, and self-taught painter Ralph Thomas, whose infectious energy and slight Southern twang lights up any conversation. Gia and Ralph had no business to conduct. They were merely stopping by, an action I soon found was welcomed in Gallerie Ukwensi. To Uki, Gia and Ralph weren’t just business partners, they were friends, each with a mutual respect and appreciation for the others.

Ukwensi Chappell Gallerie Ukwensi at Ghents 424 W. 21st St. Suite 101 Norfolk, VA 23517 757-756-4480 www. gallerie-ukwensi.com

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Chicago - July/August 2021

“I was driving by on lunch one day and saw the gallery,” Gia Labidi, a sculptor and painter for more than 20 years recalls. “I gave him my card so I could be on the list to be notified of the opening. He called me not too long after and wanted my work.” Gia’s work has been displayed nationally and internationally. “Uki wants to give us a voice. He is endearing and whomever walks through that door, he engages with them.” There was pain in her voice when she spoke that last sentence. When asked why she felt Gallerie Ukwensi was important, the pain is put into words. “The only place we could be seen, was in Black gallery’s. Its irritating that White artists are just artists. They aren’t labeled,” Gia stated, “…and our art isn’t supported. It’s been 20 years since there was a black owned gallery in Ghent.” Ralph Thomas, who taught himself using paint-by-numbers kits, echoes Gia’s sentiments. “Most times, art gallery’s don’t even want to

speak to you if you’re a Black artist. They look at you like ‘Oh, you doin’ Black art.’ I’m like ‘No, I’m doing art that’s just as good as anything you have up in here!’” Uki nods in agreement. Then, the gallery door swings open, and three ladies enter. They are young, Black, maybe in college or attend Maury High School up the road. Uki politely excused himself and his eyes squinted as his smile pushed his cheeks into them. They are a bit surprised that not only were the greeted so fast, but that the towering man that approached them smiled. They smiled back then walked with wide eyes and gaped mouths as Ukwensi highlighted every piece. They were learning, enjoying, experiencing, and it all started with two words from Uki: “Hello. Welcome.”

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Chicago - July/August 2021

Monica Hale Sold By Monica

Plush Homes Co. Realtors

By Ayana Bryant Photos by Randall Lee

Makeup Artist: Francys Patricia Alanis - Eyelashes: Candace Thompson Stylist: Ty Jackson - Hair: Cierra Vance Yates

At a very young age Monica Hale understood that her life’s calling would be to help people. In what capacity exactly? That was to be determined. However, life experiences, unexpected struggles, and a powerful, prophetic voice would all eventually lead her to finding her true purpose. Today, the wife, mother, and businesswoman is the owner and CEO of Plush Homes Co. Realtors. Monica was born and raised in Little Rock, Arkansas. After gaining fifteen years of experience in property management, Monica decided that she’d conquered that field and wanted to elevate her career to the next level. In 2013, Monica enrolled herself in real estate school. While this was an exciting time in her life, things didn’t go as planned. When she took the real estate exam, unfortunately, she did not pass the first time around. This hurdle discouraged her, but she didn’t let the dream die there. Monica remained focused on her goals and pressed toward the mark, returning to sit for the exam four years later. Continued on the next page

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Chicago - July/August 2021

In 2016, Monica met a woman who she said “prophesied over her life.” “This woman spoke love and light into me, giving me the encouragement and confidence that I needed to realign myself with God and my true purpose,” she shares. That prophetic word was just the push Monica needed to restart her journey for her real estate license. After many nights of studying along with a sincere determination to succeed, Monica passed her real estate exam in July 2017 and began working at her first brokerage. The remaining pages of Monica’s story would now start. Within the first thirty days at the brokerage firm, Monica sold her first home. She continued to push herself and eventually became the top producing agent as she continued her real estate journey with another brokerage. While still working in property management and working at the brokerage part time, Monica decided it was time to commit to her dreams fully and follow her purpose. So, in August 2019, she quit her fulltime job and began her journey to becoming an Executive Broker. Three months later, she passed the Arkansas Real Estate Broker Exam and began building her legacy.

As Monica set her sights on her future, things began to happen pretty fast. In June 2020, she launched Plush Homes Co. Realtors, operating as its Principal Broker. Things were set in place and Plush Homes Co. Realtors immediately claimed its place in the real estate arena. With a growing staff of 25+ agents, this brokerage is well equipped to handle any future home buyer’s needs. They currently offer commercial property leasing, credit repairs, transactions with both sellers and buyers, and listings. When asked what she loves most about her company, her answer was “building it from the ground up.” “I enjoyed starting from scratch. From picking the name of the company to finding an IT (Information Technology) person, and even securing the location; the whole experience was more rewarding than franchising another company,” says Monica. Although the Covid 19 pandemic negatively impacted many businesses and industries, real estate wasn’t necessarily one of them. Monica says the pandemic was more helpful than anything for her company and ironically gave her business a boost. “All of a sudden, there were so many buyers that surfaced, mainly due to the low-interest rates,” says Monica. The demand eventually became more significant than the supply leading to a shortage in inventory within the real estate market, not only in Arkansas but also around the country. This trend has continued as the inventory of homes remains lower than the number of prospective buyers searching for homes. Continued on the next page

“I enjoyed starting from scratch. From picking the name of the company, to finding an IT (Information Technology) person, and even securing the location; the whole experience was more rewarding than franchising another company.” While her journey has involved a few challenges, Monica says she wouldn’t have it any other way. “The journey I’ve traveled hasn’t been easy, but it has been rewarding. This profession isn’t for everyone; however, if you can commit yourself to pushing through the difficult times, you can and will be successful,” she shares. “The biggest piece of advice that I would give to anyone who is considering a career as a Realtor is to stay encouraged. It’s important to always congratulate and reward yourself for your accomplishments. You may have to work harder than others at times, but don’t give up. If you fail at something today, it doesn’t mean it’s the end of the road. Pick up the pieces, dust yourself off, and try again.” Moving forward, Monica hopes to expand Plush Homes Co. Realtors throughout the United States. “I won’t name what states we are considering at this time, but there are a few specific places that we have our eyes on,” she says. “Who knows, Plush Homes Co. Realtors might even become a franchised company one day. Let’s see what God has in store for us!” While Monica is the owner and CEO of Plush Homes Co. Realtors, she wanted to give a huge thank you to her co-CEO’s Destinee and Delvin Hale. They were the driving force behind her motivation to start this amazing business! She shared that if it had not been for her daughter and husband, there would be no Plush Homes Co. Realtors. To find your dream home or for more information on this great black-owned business, visit their website or contact them directly.

415 N. McKinley Suite 1020 Little Rock, AR 72205 501-817-8511 www.plushhomesco.com 40

Chicago - July/August 2021

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Chicago - July/August 2021

Nicholson SMN Square, Inc. By Arielle Kilgore Photos by Shawn Nicholson

A company is only as good as its leader. Without a great guide, the company or business can experience stagnant or depleted growth. Shawn M. Nicholson, a business leadership coach, helps other companies, small businesses, and individuals obtain the successful leadership they wish for. Ultimately, his coaching can provide inevitable prosperity for all who work with him. Shawn is the founder of SMN Square Inc., located in Richmond, VA. It is a consulting/coaching business that helps the executives of small companies, organizations, or non-profits find sustainability in their corporation by learning how to communicate effectively, self-awareness of employees and directors, and have sustainable habits that can grow their staff. As a result, the seven-month program gives the company a chance to rise within themselves and be better clients for their customers. “I’m a third-generation entrepreneur on both sides of my family, my maternal and paternal. I often tell people that I knew exactly what I wanted to do, even at the age of eight. I wanted to be a business owner.” Shawn grew up watching his father and his father’s brother manage a business in construction. In that time, he watched as they led other employees and gave instructions that helped build the company. Although he did not choose his father’s business, he learned that you must care and provide great leadership among your peers to receive wealth and successive victory. “We provide the building blocks for success, and I model that off of literally building a house. In building a house, there is a lot of underground work that has to be done to have a good solid footing to pour the foundation on,” Shawn says. Shawn provides different pathways for individuals to take, like one-on-one coaching or team leadership activities. He also provides an assessment and stakeholder interviews that help determine the kind of leader you are and what needs to be worked on for the corporation at hand to stay above water. In light of this, the time and effort put into the transformation is not his only reason to help, but it’s Shawns’ drive to change institutions that keep him going.

A small business in stature, SMN Square, Inc. provides connections from corporate friends and other business stakeholders for individuals who need more guidance. His philanthropy draws more customers every day because his prerogative is not self-derived. It is to provide the best help most efficiently and sufficiently possible. “To see them flourish and be successful and sustainable, that’s the greatest joy there. It’s truly a blessing to be able to see my vision come to pass,” he shares. As SMN Square, Inc. grew in time and clients, their only challenge was not the pandemic but a previous event in U.S.history--the Recession. It was then that Nicholson had to liquidate most of his assets due to a slowing economy. It was his building blocks and firm foundation, he explains, that carried him through this rough time. He eventually acquired back what he lost but would still like to grow in capital and connections. His goals go beyond the vocational schools he has established in Richmond and Hampton, VA. There are plans soon to have another vocational leadership school internationally in Cape Town, South Africa. He hopes to expand himself way past the borders of America so other people may have the same opportunities for advancement. “I’m trying to expand with [vocational schools] and create more trades there. I’m trying to create more entrepreneurs and establish more business,” he says. SMN Square, Inc. extends their generosity outside of their clients. Shawn offers his expertise to colleges in his area like Stratford University and Virginia State University Reginald F. Lewis College of Business. VSU, a local historically black college, partners with Shawn to help bring the next generation of black entrepreneurs and great business leaders. “I love working with those young people there. It’s a variety of affluent, self-driven students that are excited about the world of business,” Shawn explains. His guest appearances consist of him teaching the theories of business and practical knowledge of the world today. His other contributions are to the J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College board in dual enrollment and the workforce. Soft skill training and participating in hiring events in like manner are other ways Shawn and his company give back to those who sow into him.

Shawn M. Nicholson 877-367-4359 www.smnsquare.com

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Chicago - July/August 2021

Additionally, strategy, innovation, and vision are core pillars for SMN Square, Inc. to push their clients to be better. “My goal is to be able to duplicate and replicate myself across the country, across the globe, if you will. Regardless of where they are in their respective places, that other person can have the same success and the same sustainability. The same outcome as what I’ve been able to have through my experiences and my failures,” Shawn says. To learn more about SMN Square Inc., please visit their website. h

Chicago - July/August 2021

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