Huami Magazine Dallas/Fort Worth Nov./Dec. 2023

DALLAS/FORT WORTH

®

Nov./Dec. 2023 Vol. 2 Issue 12

Luxe Care Senior Health LLC Dallas/Fort Worth - Nov./Dec. 2023

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Your Voice is Your Ticket A Letter From The Editor

Everything that will come to us in life is connected to our voice. The word of God shares there is power in what we speak.

We can speak about things that can change our outlook and circumstances: greatness, healing, abundance, prosperity, deliverance, victory, etc. With the same voice, we have the option to speak of detriment and destruction.

I am reminded of what my mother told me as a young boy, “Be careful what you say”. When faced with adversity throughout my life, the outcome has always been connected to what I said.

Whatever thought I allowed to reside in my mind about a situation, my actions would align with it. If I believed that I could win, I won; if I thought I couldn’t, I did not. It all came down to what I spoke to myself.

Imagine the challenges and adversity Brain Surgeons face within their profession. They are asked to care for patients who have suffered trauma to their head that involves bleeding, swelling, and ultimately life-threatening conditions. The degree of difficulty in their actions within the operating rooms is off the meter; still, they must remain calm and complete their assignment. If the surgeons spoke doubt and were unable to care for their patients, they would fail. They would fail if they allowed fear and disbelief to dictate their actions. Instead, they must speak with assurance, and by doing so, their confidence in their abilities will arise. It all comes down to what they speak to themselves.

God speaks to us, and He doesn’t expect us to be quiet.

Whatever you want and need, open your mouth and speak. Your body language should speak for you. How we treat others speaks for how we feel about ourselves. You will only go as far in life as your voice will take you.

Your voice is your ticket to the greatness that God promises. Speak about what you expect to happen in both moments of gaining and relinquishing and giving and receiving, as the impact effect is the same. We must use the voices God gives us, as it pleases Him when we do.

Terry L. Watson 4

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L Watson

Publisher

Marrissa Dick Terry L. Watson Dorjea’ McClammey

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CONTENTS

NOV./DEC. 2023

DALLAS/FORT WORTH

The Cooking Besties

Tyler Williams

On The Cover

Luxe Care Senior Health LLC Patrice Martin

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AC Creationg Events & Decor

Ann Steele-Chambers

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Tracy Thompson Speaks

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Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

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Tracy Thompson

Autumn Thornton

Also Featured

Tracie Lee Dreadloc’s require regular maintenance and proper care. She has developed a line of products just for them.

Jacksonville, FL

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Dr. Yvonne Henderson She has devoted her life to serving God and keeping a promise to her mother to never quit. Learn more about her journey.

Missouri City, TX

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Charronda Hairston Learn more about the face and founder of Radiant Dreams Healing & Gifts.

Ocean Springs, MS

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Luxe Care Senior Health LLC

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Patrice Martin

Two nouns fittingly describe Houston, TX, resident Patrice Martin: hustler and go-getter. The resilient and ambitious mother has overcome many challenges in her life. One was relocating to Houston after Hurricane Katrina ravished her home of Marrero, LA, in 2005. Being the woman she is, Patrice hasn’t allowed life’s challenges to slow her; if anything, her obstacles have made her stronger.

Patrice is a mother of two sons. She has pursued higher education to study Criminal Justice and Psychology at Liberty University.

She is also the owner of Luxe Care Senior Health LLC. Her company provides a range of services catering to the well-being of the elderly population. These include personalized care plans, assistance with daily living activities, medical monitoring, medication management, nutritious meals, and recreational activities. Additionally, she offers a supportive and compassionate environment to ensure the comfort and safety of her residents.

Patrice shares she began her journey in the care home business after witnessing the need for compassionate and comprehensive eldercare services. “Motivated by a desire to provide exceptional care, I started my business by researching the industry, establishing a business plan, acquiring the necessary licenses, and setting up a facility that meets the highest standards of comfort and care for the elderly. My vision for caring for the elderly stemmed from various sources. These were connected to my experiences with aging family members and a genuine passion for providing quality care. I also recognized my community’s lack of comprehensive and compassionate care services. As my educational background in Psychology influenced me, I gained insight into the importance of mental and emotional well-being in the aging population.”

Patrice loves caring for others, and that has a lot to do with the success of her company. She often expresses a deep sense of fulfillment and joy in making a positive impact on the lives of her residents. She adds that the opportunity to provide compassionate care, foster meaningful connections, and contribute to the well-being and happiness of the elderly is one of the most rewarding aspects of her profession. “I just love making my residents smile and feel at peace,” she says.

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What inspires her? Patrice says, “I find inspiration in my kids and the people I love the most. I also find inspiration in the resilience, wisdom, and life experiences of the elderly individuals I care for,” she says. Her life has been impacted by her business as well. “I’ve always been the child to sit and talk to my elders since I was seven years old. I have always learned and obtained wisdom from them, their stories, and experiences.”

I’ve always been the child to sit and talk to my elders since I was seven years old. I have always learned and obtained wisdom from them, their stories, and experiences.”

The career field that Patrice has chosen comes with unique challenges and strict parameters for her to adhere to. Yet, Patrice has effectively prepared herself and her staff for them.

She shared that some of the challenges she has faced are ensuring regulatory compliance, managing staffing issues and turnovers, and maintaining a high standard of care. Another one is handling unexpected medical emergencies and death.

“It is understandable for us to get close to our residents, and it’s difficult to see them leave or pass away,” she says. Other challenges are adapting to changing healthcare regulations and managing the financial aspects of running a care facility.

Maintaining her emotional well-being and that of residents and staff members has also been a significant challenge.

Under Patrice’s direction, Luxe Care Senior has implemented thorough staff training programs and fostered a supportive and compassionate work environment. She has also focused on staying up-to-date with relevant regulations, fostering open communication with residents and their families, and establishing robust financial planning and management systems.

“Flexibility, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement are vital in successfully navigating the challenges I encounter,” she says.

Patrice shares that her journey has happened as it should have and admits she wouldn’t change anything. “I’ve been blessed to care for my clients. I desire to get up and learn every day. I love my clients, and every one of them is special in their way.

As the future happens for Luxe Care Senior Health, Patrice says she will expand her business to open more care homes and initiate a day habilitation center for those who aren’t eligible for her services through their insurance providers.

This expansion, Patrice says, will lead to a broader reach and provide comprehensive care to a greater number of individuals in need. “By broadening my services, I will have the opportunity to significantly impact the lives of even more individuals who require specialized care and support,” she says.

To learn more about Luxe Care Senior Health, LLC, please visit their website. h

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Tracy Thompson Speaks

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Tracy Thompson When she opens her mouth, It is a great idea to listen.

Tracey Thompson of Houston, TX, is a woman of many talents. In addition to being a wife and mother, she is an author and a woman who believes that knowledge is power. Tracy shares, “My family is indescribable; they are unique. They are often associated with various aspects, including love, support, belonging, shared experiences, and mutual responsibilities. Additionally, they are commonly characterized by a deep and unconditional love.”

Tracy is also the face of Tracy Thompson Speaks.

Her company offers various business solutions, including virtual office space, meeting facilities, print and promotional materials, marketing and branding, public relations, social media management, business coaching, financial literacy, credit repair, and real estate funding.

“My products are designed to propel every entrepreneur,” Tracy shares. “The Thompson Enterprise is here to serve the entrepreneur on the rise. We serve dreamers who simply need to understand the step-by-step process for achieving their next goal.”

Tracy says she started her entrepreneurial journey in high school. She was doing hair every weekend and changed courses because she wanted to be a mortician. Then, she changed up again and decided to start a few businesses as well. With her degree in hand, she launched her mortgage business. Seventeen years later, Tracy opened a total of five businesses, and with that success, she retired from corporate America.

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Tracy says she loves the opportunity her companies provide her to help and serve others. “Helping people is what we are designed to do. If I can change one person’s life, I pray they will also pay it forward,” she shares.

One might ask what pushed Tracy to be the entrepreneurial force she is today. Her response is very clear. “My financial situation impacted my life. It forced me to be persistent and consistent in changing my situation. Our situations are in God’s hands. If you continue to push through the trials, your situation can change. I wanted to see that change, so I knew I had to make an effort. With prayer and me trusting the process, it was changed.”

Tracy says her family, including her husband, kids, and other family members, inspire her to be all she can be. “They provide emotional support, care, and affection. I love getting those morning texts; my kids are my true cheerleaders. My husband always inspires me to push harder and to go to the next level, and with him on my side, how can I not go harder,” she says. Additionally, Tracy acknowledges her mom, dad, sister, and nieces as a constant source of love and support. “My family offers a sense of belonging and creates a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can find love, acceptance, and understanding. We are a crazy bunch, but I wouldn’t trade them for anything in the world.”

Building her brand has required a lot of resilience and patience from Tracy, yet, she says, she wouldn’t change how things have occurred. “Trials and tribulation are meant to push your journey. If you didn’t have any hiccups, how would you learn? I look back over the years, and the growth I see now is remarkable; I know God is always in control, so I know there is more to come, and I am ready for it,” she says.

Tracy’s plans for the future include continuing her quest to be a bridge for those who might be unsure of their next financial step. From blended families to entrepreneurs, she says her team is working to roll out programs that make accessing those solutions easy. She concludes by professing that 2024 is going to be an amazing year. We concur. h

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“The Thompson Enterprise is here to serve the entrepreneur on the rise. We serve dreamers who simply need to understand the step-by-step process for achieving their next goal.”

www.tracythompsonspeaks.com Dallas/Fort Worth - Nov./Dec. 2023

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The Cooking Besties

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Tyler Williams There is something about good food that makes one’s heart smile. In regard to Indianapolis, IN, native Tyler Williams is making some moves and raising eyebrows in the local culinary community.

Tyler is the owner of The Cooking Besties, a fullservice catering company that specializes in doing just about anything to meet their client’s requests.

They primarily cater to small and large organizations within Indiana and provide catering services to private clients. Tyler and his team also offer traditional buffets, private dinners, charcuterie, brunch, and dipped treats.

Tyler is the son of Rick Williams and Michele McFarland. He has lived in his childhood home in Haughville, IN, for almost 21 years. He has three siblings, Jessica, Jordan, and Bryce, and one niece, Jalayah, and two nephews, Charles and Levi. Tyler graduated from Cardinal Ritter High School and earned his undergraduate degree in Tourism, Events, and Sports Management with a minor in Business Foundations from Indiana University. In 2021, he returned to school and earned a Graduate Certificate in Organizational Leadership and Human Resource Management from Purdue University.

The Cooking Besties started in 2020, right in the middle of Tyler’s mother’s kitchen. He says, “I was laid off from my corporate job in May 2020 due to COVID, and a former childhood friend mentioned the idea for us to cook, and I instantly was against it. I’ve always enjoyed cooking for my family, but cooking for others and for money kind of made me nervous. I finally gave in to the idea of cooking and came up with the business name by joking and asking, “What are we going to be called…….The Cooking Besties?” On that day, we became The Cooking Besties and started doing bi-weekly comfort food meals. Those meals Dallas/Fort Worth - Nov./Dec. 2023

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became popular, and often, we had a line wrapped around my neighborhood. That’s when I knew we were on to something. The following year, we secured our first large catering contract with Eskenazi Health Center and provided over 700 charcuterie boxes for their employees. The rest is history.

Tyler shared that he has always dreamed of owning a restaurant. “I would sit it in my 7th grade Algebra class and map out the design of my restaurant, create menus, and write down my crazy ideas. I’ve always been a dreamer, so I would write it down whenever I had a thought.” Those thoughts would eventually become Tyler’s future, which is the title he gave them.

“My Future.”

“I would sit it in my 7th grade Algebra class and map out the design of my restaurant, create menus, and write down my crazy ideas.”

Living out his dreams is what Tyler says he loves most about The Cooking Besties. Every day, he gets to wake up to cater. He says his prayer to be self-employed, successful, and booked has become his reality. “It’s the best feeling in the world,” he explained. He also appreciates his family and friends’ support and the business referrals. His church family has also played a significant role in Tyler’s success as they have pushed him to keep striving for better and offering help anytime he has large events. It takes a village, and Tyler says he is grateful for the one he has.

One challenge of running your own business is to ensure that it’s profitable. For Tyler, he manages this kind of issue when he’s pricing catering packages and ensuring they yield the right return. “There have been times where I have walked away with less than I am supposed to earn, but it was simply because the math was not mathing! We now have systems in place to make pricing out our items much easier and accurate,” he says.

He also acknowledges his mother for inspiring him.

“I am the product of a single parent, and my mother goes above and beyond to ensure my siblings and I have the best. She has helped me scale my business by always finding areas of improvement and ensuring that everything I do in the business has a certain level of excellence,” Tyler says.

Tyler’s business journey, he shares, has forced him to trust God, and he says that God hasn’t failed him yet. “God has been extremely faithful to me, and all I can say is thank you.” Looking ahead, he plans to continue running his catering business and even open a brunch restaurant.

To learn more about The Cooking Besties, please visit their website. h

Tyler Williams The Cooking Besties www.besties.com 317-292-4379

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AC Creations Events and Decor LLC

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Ann Steele-Chambers

Ann Steele-Chambers of Charlotte, NC, is a Certified Wedding and Event Planner. She has a Bachelors and Masters Degree in Social Work. Her values are based on her love for family and providing her clients with the very best experience possible. She is married and has two children, ages 9 and 11.

Ann is also the owner and designer of AC Creations Events and Decor LLC, which is also based in the Queen City. AC Creations Events and Decor LLC offers various unique and professional design and decor services such as Wedding planning, Wedding day coordination, Décor Services, Event Planning, Event day-of coordination, Photography, Musicians, DJs, live bands services, and more.

AC Creations Events & Décor has enjoyed five years of business. Under Ann’s direction, the company has built many relationships and partnerships with venue owners and vendors. Ann shares the vision to launch her company came from her mother, father, and aunt.

I love the planning process of interacting with different vendors and being able to take my client’s visions and turn them into reality.”

It takes a lot of effort to produce the kind of events Ann and her company does. More than anything, Ann expresses her passion and love for serving. “What drives my passion for weddings and event planning is seeing all the months to a year of planning come together. I love the planning process of interacting with different vendors and being able to take my client’s visions and turn them into reality. I also appreciate the love my brides express when they trust me and my creativity,” she says. “Be creative and surprise me with your décor skills”.

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Go for your dreams and understand it will not be easy. Don’t worry about what people say about you. Stand out, be different, shine like a star, and walk with courage.

Ann has faced her share of challenges like any other event planning business. The biggest one she shares is encouraging her clients to invest in their events. “Getting my clients to spend money on great quality and professional event services is challenging. I share the cost of my services with them, and I don’t waver. I stick to my prices and understand that not everyone will be my client. I also know that not all money is good money. I know my worth and value,” Ann says.

Ann’s advice for other aspiring Event Planners is very positive. She says, “Go for your dreams and understand it will not be easy. Don’t worry about what people say about you. Stand out, be different, shine like a star, and walk with courage. And always shadow other wedding and event planners, attend seminars and trainings, and invest in your business. Don’t ever give up, and pray every day for strength.”

AC Creations Events & Decor LLC has recently partnered with Venue Project 1610, located in Charlotte. With her newest moves, Ann says her goal is to take her business to a different level, eventually doing higher-end weddings and events in other cities and states. “Once you book with AC Creations Events & Decor LLC you will never forget about the wonderful experience you had with our team,” Ann says. She affirms her company’s success and legacy by stating, “AC Creations Events will be known for my gifts and talents. My professionalism will always speak for itself.” h

AC Creations Events & Decor LLC accreationseventsandecor@gmail.com www.accreationseventsanddecor.com 704-661-1998

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Dr.

Yvonne Henderson

Author. Publisher. Servant

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Dr. Yvonne Henderson

Dr. Yvonne Henderson of Missouri City, TX, is a woman whose hands are involved in a lot of things. She owns D.I.V.A. Designs, LLC, Transitions Publishing, and a nonprofit organization, Divine Ministries. Most recently, she launched her Educational Consulting Firm, C & Y Consulting.

With D.I.V.A. Designs, Yvonne makes clothes that exude expression. “I offer custom clothes for men, women, and children. I have made more things for women than men because when they hear the name, they automatically assume it’s for women,” she says.

With Transitions Publishing, she publishes books that change lives. Her products include workbooks, journals, textbooks, devotionals, and self-care journals.

Yvonne launched her first non-profit in 2018 and held her first conference and Gospel Arts Workshop, Love Lifted Me. “I had been to several conferences, and I noticed it was not easy to find food because the facilities would not be near any restaurants, or everything ran so close together that you did not have time to get food,” she shares.

Divine Ministries, Yvonne says, is an organism designed to do God’s will through His divine guidance. “The first thing we will do is host a Women of Worth Conference in February 2024. This conference is designed to help women discover their worth and fulfill their purpose. I am also compiling an Anthology that will be released at the event. Seven women have signed up to share their stories about how they discovered their worth. The book and a self-care journal are available for pre-order,” she says.

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Yvonne is the youngest of three and the daughter of Rev. Wayde Henderson, Sr., a former correctional officer and preacher.

Her mother, Ruth A. Henderson, was a seamstress and a jack of all trades. She is a native of Wilkes Barre, PA, but was raised in Champaign, IL. She graduated high school in 1983, and instead of attending college, she chose to work. Her educational journey started in 1990 when she attended Hinds Community College, the only HBCU Junior College. She graduated Valedictorian with an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts. She married in 1996 and had her only son. She continued her educational pursuit and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Governor State University with a Board of Governors Degree in Liberal Arts in 1999. She later attended Olivet Nazarene University, where she received two master’s degrees in Elementary Education and Administration. She also obtained a Doctorate in Education in Curriculum Design from Argosy University of Chicago and has worked as a teacher for over 20 years, specializing in Reading and Writing.

After the passing of my parents and her son’s father, Yvonne moved to Colorado in 2013 for a fresh start. She would become a top sought-after Mime in the Christian arena and conducted her first Gospel Arts Conference and fashion show. Things were looking up for Yvonne, and she stepped out on faith and relocated to Texas in 2019 for yet another start. She says, “The Covid 19 pandemic hit, and I was stuck trying to figure out what to do. I created a Podcast for teachers to express themselves called Teacher Talk 2uesday with Dr. Yvonne. I discussed issues affecting teachers, students, parents, and administrators.”

Yvonne says she loves the creative part of her businesses.

“Everything that I do requires some creativity. I am right-brain dominant, and that is the side your creativity is housed in, so that’s what I love to do the most; Create and pull it out of others,” she says.

Losing her parents seven months apart, Yvonne says, impacted her life more than anything. “My mom made me promise her on my birthday in 2007 that no matter what happened, I would not quit. I had previously quit my Doctoral program to help my dad care for her when she was in the hospital. She passed away a month later from a heart attack, and seven months later, my dad passed. All I could hear was, “Promise me no matter what happens in your life, you won’t quit.” I still live by that today, and it has changed my life forever,” she says.

She also says her son inspires her. “He has seen me struggle for so long; I can’t give up now; I must let him see that hard work and perseverance pay off. The race is not given to the swift nor to the strong but to the one that endures until the end. Ask the tortoise and the hare,” Yvonne says.

For those who may follow a journey similar to the one Yvonne has, she offers some advice that may help along the way. “Know your worth, follow your dreams, and never give up.”

Looking ahead, Yvonne plans to stop teaching and travel with her consultant firm. She also plans to help people, especially women, get published and develop other streams of income. “I may even start my own school,” Yvonne says. h

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My mom made me promise her on my birthday in 2007 that no matter what happened, I would not quit.”

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Radiant Dreams Healing & Gifts

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by DP Photography LLC

Charronda Hairston was born and raised in Mississippi. She is the daughter of Jennifer Hairston and the late Charles R. Hairston. Charronda is also the proud mother of Alyria Denis, who will be graduating from high school in December. As an aspiring business owner and the founder of Radian Dreams Healing & Gifts, LLC, she says that sharing the tools and knowledge with others as they take their own path to greatness is awe-inspiring.

After graduating from Pascagoula High School, Charronda obtained her Bachelor’s of Science degree in Chemistry from Alcorn State University. She worked as a chemist for several years before leaving the industry for a career in education. She taught Chemistry and Physics at Moss Point High School and then at her alma mater, Pascagoula, and taught aerospace engineering and robotics. “I have always been told I love a project, so even though I loved teaching and helping students reach their dreams, leaving the safety net to pursue a dream of working for myself and helping others has been one of my biggest and most rewarding accomplishments,” she says.

Charronda also loves to travel, cook, read, and make her friends and family smile.

With Radiant Dreams Healing & Gifts, she has an abundance of opportunities to do just that. She says, “I established Radiant Dreams in 2020 during the pandemic. I wanted to bring a metaphysical store to the Mississippi Gulf Coast that was nonjudgmental and focused on personal individual healing.”

In early 2024, she plans to open Well of Radiance Holistic Wellness Center, which will be one of the first Black-owned wellness centers on the Gulf Coast in Mississippi.

The Well of Radiance Holistic Wellness Center is also an extension of Radiant Dreams and a result of various workshops and classes that Charronda conducted. She says they needed more room due to expanding and focusing on holistic health practices.

So, the next logical step was to find a way to separate the retail store from the holistic detox services to provide her customers with the personalized relaxation services they deserve.

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While many of Charronda’s services are designed for women ages 18 and up, she also offers services for men and teens. Her workshops and yoga classes are open to everyone, and she says her goal is to provide an inclusive set of services to co-create with her clients in reaching their dream state of life. In the retail store, she offers various metaphysical tools and supplies one could need in spiritual practices. “We have sage, incense, crystals, candles, books, skincare, herbal teas, and organic bitters; if we don’t have it in the store, we can normally find it for our customers who ask. Currently, we offer limited detoxification and holistic health services, but the Well of Radiance will offer a full range of detox, Womb, and massage services,” she says. In 2024, Charronda will hold workshops, retreats, yoga classes, sound healing, and other activities focused on finding inner peace and community.

Being a business owner has its perks, and Charronda shares she loves the connections made with each of her customers. “A quick shopping trip often turns into an hour conversation, a cup of tea, and a ‘I will see you soon’. Being able to help others physically, mentally, and spiritually reconnect to their higher selves is an awarding experience,” she says. Additionally, every interaction with her customers provides healing for Charronda. “I learn from them as much as they learn from me. The feeling of community and unconditional love is spread with every connection.”

So, who has impacted Charronda’s life the most? There are a few names that she shares. “Both of my grandmothers impacted my perseverance and strength. My dad had always been my biggest cheerleader and grounder. He kept me in check, taught me to be open-minded and non-judgmental, and approached every situation with firm compassion and fairness. His favorite phrase was always “Handle It”. No matter what choices you make, you should look at them objectively and “Handle It” with grace and integrity.”

Charronda also recognizes many other successful Black women who have played a key role in helping her to become the woman she is today. There is Tamika Jones, who is the owner of Let Go Let Goddess Coaching, and LaShun Teboh from The Ankh Academy of Holistic Healing. She says LaShun has been instrumental in mentoring her while she focuses on helping women heal their bodies and spirits. Additionally, she recognizes Tajuana Lee with Royal Vision Society, LLC, who she says has been one of her biggest cheerleaders. “These women have taught me how to do business as a holistic practitioner. They also lead by example and are always a phone call away. More importantly, being able to have them as part of my current network reminds me that anything is possible.”

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When something is new in a community, many create a scary narrative of how it works. That fear stops people from reaching their full potential and stepping into holistic healing.”

Charronda says one of her biggest challenges in business has been marketing and getting customers to step out of fear and try a new way. “When something is new in a community, many create a scary narrative of how it works. That fear stops people from reaching their full potential and stepping into holistic healing,” she says. “I’m still navigating the challenges and learning how to step out of my comfort zone and put a face to the name of the business.”

Charronda’s advice to other aspiring business owners is to not be afraid to take the risk to go after something you want.

“If that idea or thought gives you butterflies or makes your heart flutter, go for it. Allow yourself grace and celebrate your small wins. Your journey shouldn’t look like anyone else’s. Also, remember to always lead and serve in love, open your heart, and start every day with gratitude and love. Unconditional love is the key to bringing our world back in balance.

Love is gentle, kind, and freedom,” she shares.

Looking ahead, Charronda plans to expand her brand even further. In 2025, she will take wellness retreats and offer more workshops, services, and events focused on physical, mental, and spiritual healing. To learn more about Radiant Dreams Healing & Gifts, LLC, please visit their website. h

Charronda Hairston Radiant Dreams Healing & Gifts, LLC 6616 North Washington Ave. - Suite E Ocean Springs, MS 228-238-3977 www.radiantdreamsgifts.com

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Tracie Lee

Dreadloc Divas Loc Studio LLC

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Carlotta Coco Smith In the community of Jacksonville, FL, Tracie Lee has firmly planted herself as the face and founder of Dreadloc Divas Loc Studio LLC. Her company specializes in professional styling services for locs, natural, and more. She also offers and sells products to assist her clients in maintaining their healthy hair.

Tracie’s journey in business began quite remarkably. She shares, “From my early days in hair school in December 1998 to finishing my education in September 1999, my commitment to my craft has been constant and unwavering.

I have worked in various hair salons in areas such as Macon, Georgia. I also worked in my parent’s business, “Ed and Gloria’s Boutique”.

Throughout her life, Tracie has been blessed with the support and guidance of her parents, Gloria and Edward Fuller, who instilled in her the values of education and entrepreneurship. Opening her own salon marked a significant milestone in her career. While she worked in other places, and those opportunities helped to shape her, returning to the beautiful city of Jacksonville in 2014 was a culminating moment for her.

Tracie hails from Jacksonville, the city in which she was born and raised. She graduated from Terry Parker High School. Next, she attended FCCJ (FSCJ), honing her business administration skills, a field that would serve her well in her future endeavors. Tracie also embarked on a 20-year journey in the retail industry, gaining valuable experience and expertise. Yet, her heart longed for her true calling, which was cosmetology. With unwavering determination, Tracie obtained her cosmetology license at Macon School of Beauty in Macon, Georgia. This was a pivotal moment in her life, as it marked the realization of her first love and set her on a path of passion and creativity.

“My journey as a salon owner is both insightful and admirable, and learning from past experiences, including failures and mistakes, is a valuable approach to personal and professional growth.”

Beyond her successful career, Tracie finds immense joy and fulfillment in being a mother to two incredible children, Malcolm and Morgan. “The joys of grandmotherhood have also graced my life with the presence of Mason,” she says.

“My journey is further enriched by my partnership with her amazing husband, Tommie Lee.”

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Some of the products offered by Tracie at Dreadloc Divas Loc Studio are T.Necole’s Key to Your Loc, which is a revelation in the world of hair care, offers a comprehensive range of solutions designed to cater to her client’s unique needs.

There is Foam Control:, one of T.Necole’s signature products that allows her clients to re-twist, coil, create curls, and maintain their locs with ease. It’s also perfect for refreshing lock styles.

There is also Scalp Juice, a refreshing elixir that soothes and revitalizes the scalp and provides relief from itching and discomfort. Scalp Juice is also a true healer, addressing various scalp issues, including eczema, with care and precision. Her Diva Butta is for those in need of deep moisturization.

This shea butter-based product is a luxurious treat for excessively dry skin and scalps. “It hydrates, nourishes, and rejuvenates, leaving your hair, scalp, and skin feeling silky-smooth and radiant. Bid farewell to eczema and dryness; Diva Butta has got you covered,” Tracie says. And finally, there is the Loc Refresher, which revives locs from the scalp to the core, making it an ideal companion for those post-gym refreshers. Plus, the refreshing lemongrass scent energizes one’s senses, leaving locs smelling divine. All of T. Necole Key to Your Loc products are infused with the invigorating scent of lemongrass.

Tracie Lee

Dreadloc Divas Loc Studio LLC 478-284-4055 dreadlocdivas410@gmail.com 9951 Atlantic Blvd - Suite 410 Jacksonville, FL 32225 www.dreadlocdivas.com

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Tracie says she was inspired by her auntie, Evelyn Fuller, who also introduced her to the world of hair at a young age. From learning to do soft curl perms to assisting her auntie with clients and eventually styling her hair. Tracie has taken every inspiration and uses them to help make people happy. Whether it’s weddings, birthdays, achievements, or simply enhancing their beauty, her role as a LocHealthtian and stylist goes far beyond the physical transformation. “I become a friend, a confidant, a source of comfort, and a pillar of support during those crucial moments in my client’s lives.” Tracie says that Betty Jackson, her godparent, also impacted her life, both personally and professionally.

Like most business owners, Tracie has been faced with a few challenges along the way. Building a team that aligns with her goals is often a long and challenging process for Tracie. Still, she says the rewards of having a dedicated and dependable team are immeasurable. “I have overcome this challenge and now have a strong team in place,” she says.

“My journey as a salon owner is both insightful and admirable, and learning from past experiences, including failures and mistakes, is a valuable approach to personal and professional growth. I have used those lessons as stepping stones to create a more prosperous and fulfilling experience for myself,” she shared. h

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Houston’s Realtor & Fitness Professional

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Monique Hoggard Monique Hoggard is a Caribbean Realtor representing the beautiful island of Trinidad and Tobago. Monique has worked as a mobile personal trainer since 2014. She has also worked as a travel agent for five years and wears many hats in business. Yet, her main goal is to help people and bridge the gap between the Caribbean Community and the African Diaspora.

Monique is originally from Brooklyn, NY. Now firmly planted in the heart of Houston, TX, Monique shares she appreciates Houston’s Caribbean Community. Monique sits on the Executive Board of the Houston Caribbean Professionals Association.

She is also a member of the Trinidad and Tobago Association of Texas, Grenada Houston Association, and Nigerian American Multicultural Council.

Monique shares that she and her partner lender have been working to inform others about the free grant money available through Harris County. “Many of the black and brown communities aren’t aware because we’re the last to get the information. I am helping to change that. I’ve been partnering with churches, radio stations, television stations, festivals, and just talking to individuals. If I’m at dinner, getting my car serviced, setting up at mixers as a vendor, or sitting next to someone on the plane, I am sharing information. I’m a people person, so it doesn’t take much for me to speak to anyone, especially if there’s good energy present. As long as people are willing to listen, I’ll continue to find a way to be a resource,” she says.

Monique started her career in real estate a little over two and a half years ago. She credits her ex-husband, who is in the same business, for creating the spark. Additionally, she shares that helping families who thought home ownership wasn’t a possibility is what she loves most about her career. “When my clients get their keys and to see that smile on their face, it’s an amazing feeling for me. I know I was meant to be doing this.”

One of the most interesting and impactful parts of Monique’s career, she says, is dealing with investors. “I’ve had my share of shady experiences.. So now I know how to approach investors and wholesalers. It’s funny because many don’t believe I understand the business until we really started talking.”

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Monique’s advice for others who may follow a similar path to her is to know that real estate isn’t always easy, but it can be rewarding.

“Everyone has a niche; you just have to figure out what yours is and what works for you! Don’t chase the money. This is a people business, so you definitely have to be creative. Also, know that this business is going to take you out of your comfort zone, and being shy doesn’t get you far,” she says.

Monique says that International business is in her near future. She is also looking to market for Belize and the Dominican Republic next year. With her savviness, it is no telling where Monique will be. h

www.makingmoveswithmonique.com

Autumn Thornton The daughter of

Armani Thornton and Gregory (Feva) Bonds

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