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Awards, Accolades, and Alignment A Letter From The Editor

There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

Sometimes I reflect on where I have come from in life. With each reflection, the feelings are always different from one another, and it makes good sense for them to be. There are peaks and valleys; good moments during A Letter fromthe thevalleys, Editor and even bad ones when I thought things should have been great. I guess you can describe it as a roller coaster ride that never ends.

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

I amand thedreams second wouldn’t youngest have child in a familytoofpark six, on. withWhat two additional a street if big sisters. With this arrangement, the amount of stories to share are everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never plentiful. Even more, the steps that I’ve taken have painted its own happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy picture, validating individuality and uniqueness, and of eventually day, and youmy could spare someone the trouble making revealing what I am purposed for. There is a saying “what don’t promises. What if your last opportunity seeminglyyou expired know,today? can’t hurt you”. For me, learning what God has destined for my life What would you do? and not responding according to His desire is sort of an opposite parallel to that adage, meaning once I learned who I was supposed to be, every I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. act of disobedience that followed has been painful.

Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer knowing God wouldn’t putbeen anything on me I have takenin part of a lotthat of things in life. I have acknowledged thatand I couldn’t handle. sometimes how life would for some, for some I have Inot, and in mywonder dusty collection one might be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to Ime. I find a few plaques, trophies, certificates, and awards. Though, haven’t have found that to yet be very boring. my opinion, opportunity received many accolades, I know they’reIncoming. I confess that I once is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge believed they would, I am now at a place where those items just don’t to me. me isI realized an adventure. What is worst happen? do it for such symbols ofthe merit havethat onlycan provided short If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn moments of enthusiasm, and any mental record of them are fleeting. If I something have no memory, new then about it’s likemyself. it never Relinquish happened. your pride and in return acquire life. But when I slowed down and allowed my life to get into alignment with what God hasadvice purposed me,to everything that I gave to The best everfor given me happened whenvalue someone before, I used as a foundation to stand on to obtain that which will told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing sonever lose itsI have value;pressed and thatmy is God’s favor. I realized thatawhen Godonly blesses way through doors with key that me, the sensations are Iunending, the benefits will openbetween doors I can hope provided. have alsoand learned the difference have open on my own. When I walk with God, and that means what God blesses me with and what life can burden meallowing with God toaslead me, every desire, want, and need appears to just fall in place. well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and

when to be quiet, because

I have learned that awards and someone may get it confused accolades are good but being in with being arrogant. alignment with God has way more value. What God gives us will last, a whole lot Make you tomorrow longer than anything the world gives us. happen He promises nottoday, to keepbut anymost good thing importantly make it count. from us, and all we have to do is trust in Life but a loved whisper and is the Him. For me,isbeing by God we must ourselves in a purest form of anput award and accolade, position to hear what it is to and one the world will never be able duplicate or measure up to. telling us.

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L Watson Publisher www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief Writer Ellen Richardson Terry L. Watson Gamal Williams Writer Alana Allen - Deputy Editor David Hendricks Writer Writers

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A Group For Followers and mykelmedia@yahoo.com Supporters Huami Magazine (336)of340-7844 HUAMI MAGAZINE is published bimonthly quarterly by the Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any portion of this publication is prohibited without written permission from the publisher prior to doing so. Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility for statements made by individuals featured or advertisers. Comments concerning this publication may be submitted to the editor by Email or Telephone E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com terry.editor@yahoo.com terry.editor@yahoo.com 336-340-7844 or to Mykel Media Company, LLC P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NCReserved 27420 2021 All Rights HUAMI MAGAZINE 2014 All Rights Reserved

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November/December 2014

On The Cover

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CONTENTS

MAY/JUNE 2021

DALLAS/FORT WORTH

Alvin D. Ford 30 VendMe Co.

On The Cover

Savanah Bleu 4Him Rita Hinton

Living Her Dream

Angela Chambers-Lee

Community & Basketball

Corey Williams

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Chasity Boone

Also Featured

Monica Hawthorne Learning how to wait on God to move has made all of the difference in her life. Greensboro, NC

Phylicia Parrish Meet the woman they call Virginia’s Favorite Realtor. Richmond, VA

Dallas/Fort Worth - May/June 2021

India Johnson She has launched a school that is determined to help its students succeed. Indianapolis, IN

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SAVANAH BLEU 4HIM

By Terry L. Watson Photos by David Gort Photography

Savanah Bleu is up to something again. While their signature line of handbags and accessories have made their name in the fashion world, it only seems right for them to add a men’s line. And so it is. Introducing Savanah Bleu 4 Him. Rita Hinton is the face of Savanah Bleu. She can be best described as someone dynamic and determined. She is the middle child of Ray and Dorothy Hall and was born in Dallas, TX in April of 1969 and raised in a small town in West Texas. She has always been ambitious and independent in her thinking. At the age of 50, she received her bachelor’s degree in Business Management with a minor in Small Business from the University of Phoenix. Rita shares that she is a hard worker who has decided to work hard for herself. Her entrepreneurial experience began with her selling jewelry. “I love jewelry, accessories, and fashion. When I dressed up, women would always ask me where I purchased my jewelry, or my handbag, and sometimes even my attire. One day I was sitting at a restaurant eating lunch, and a young lady approached me and asked where I purchased my earrings. I couldn’t remember because I had them for quite a while. However, she asked to purchase them right off of my ears. And so it began,” she says. Continued on the next page

Savanah Bleu Handbags was launched in 2009. Rita began by first dipping her hand in selling costume jewelry. She then added handbags and soon it became her best-selling product. She shares what has helped her business more than anything are the prices. “I’ve always told myself that I would not put a price on a bag that I could not afford. I passionately believe that every woman should be able to afford a nice quality handbag. Therefore, my prices are for all incomes and my target group is women that want to look good, stylish, and classy.” Savanah Bleu 4Him 4HIM is the brother company to Savanah Bleu. They specialize in men’s accessories including jewelry, overnight bags, and cigar accessories, and are adding new items daily. It was first launched in November of 2020. “My male friends kept asking men when I would have something for the men. They were supporting my business and buying handbags for their mothers, sisters, and spouses, and because of their support, I felt it was time I rewarded them. So, I did a relaunch in March of 2021. When I first launched, I only had a few pieces of jewelry, but nothing was

catching anyone’s attention. I then remembered I had once carried the Ostrich bags on the Savanah Bleu side and thought maybe I could revamp by adding the bags. I was speaking with my partner Darryl Bates and he suggested we conduct a photo shoot, and that he would model for me. The photo shoot was amazing, and we were on our way with Savanah Bleu 4Him,” she says. The main attraction for Savanah Bleu 4Him is their Getaway Collection Ostrich Duffle Bags. These bags are made of vegan leather and are very classy, and distinguished. They are perfect for a quick getaway whether it be in town, a road trip, or a quick flight out of town. Savanah Bleu 4Him also specializes in Shamballa bracelets and Stretch Beaded bracelets. Rita shares, “These beaded bracelets are so exquisite and unique.” “They are specially designed for Savanah Bleu 4Him by our designer, Cormeer White of Queen Goddess Shine. We also specialize in Invicta Watches for men, these watch designs are handpicked by myself and my partner.” Continued on the next page

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Dallas/Fort Worth - May/June 2021

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Rita shares how she loves the distinguished look Darryl is gearing towards and compliments him for his ideas of a more upscale line for men, which she says are working very well. “I love the whole look, everything from the products to the merchandising, I love it all!” So how does Rita plan to grow her new line? She shares, “We have so many ideas coming into view, but we plan to add more products as far as accessories go. People love the visual of products, they want to see how the product would look on them, so more photos of the merchandise with our models,” she says. To learn more about Savanah Bleu 4Him, please visit their website. h

www.savanahbleu4him.com 11

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Dallas/Fort Worth - May/June 2021

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

Dallas/Fort Worth - May/June 2021

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

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TLC & Bella’s Academy of Cosmetology By Arielle Kilgore Photos by B Smith Photography

Angela Chambers-Lee, also known as Dree, owns two successful businesses in Greenville and Mauldin, SC. The salon Touched by Dree and TLC and Bellas Academy of Cosmetology have molded talented tonsorial artists and helped others form their path. The school includes classes for becoming a Cosmetologist, Esthetician, and Nail Technician. As a stylist, Angela specializes in cuts and color. To be enrolled in the program, the student must have a high school diploma, their driver’s license, and another form of identification for the school. Angela’s school allows young girls starting at the age of 16 to apply. Each program consists of its own cost with the Cosmetology school starting at $15,000. Her Nail Technician course starts at $4,000. Lastly, the Esthetician program starts at $5,500. Promotions are in effect from time to time to cater to her students for more affordable options. The tuition for each school covers the books and classes needed, and kits are available at an extra cost. Her professional journey began in 1991. Since then, Angela has been a licensed cosmetologist for over 30 years. She has also taught other stylists and artists her craft for over 18 years. The gift to style African American women’s hair is a skill everyone needs to possess. Angela wants to train people like her to be the best at doing hair. She shares, “I want to be remembered for helping any and everybody to be a better version of themselves,” she says.

“I want to be remembered for helping any and everybody to be a better version of themselves.” Continued on the next page

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Though well seasoned, Angela began styling hair at the young age of 11. “It was the “Ah-Ha” that inspired me. I was encouraged by the before and after transformations of my clients, and their responses. I truly had the passion as a young girl. I have grown to realize that my passion is also a gift,” she says. With the onset of Covid 19, Angela had her doubts about opening a new business during this tough time. Although the business was a self-made dream, she had her doubts. One of her students encouraged her to consider the opportunity. “She said, “What’s the thing that’s stopping you right now? I said well it’s a pandemic. So, of course, I’m not thinking about spending money right now,” Angela explained. But eventually, her insight changed and on February 22, 2021, she opened her business and became the first African American female in Greenville, S.C. to have their own cosmetology school. “We’re making history right now,” she says with enthusiasm. Her business has been blessed in a pandemic, more than she could imagine. The joys of teaching other beauty professionals are endless. Her main motivation and dedication are to her students as they graduate and are guaranteed jobs straight out of her program. The goal for both her salon and cosmetology school is to produce eventual entrepreneurs. I want my students to have the confidence to open their own,” she says. The school and its owner stand by this statement alone, “Don’t Be Ordinary! Dare To Be Original!” She says, “Nobody can be you better than you. You can only be yourself.”

Continued on the next page

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Dallas/Fort Worth - May/June 2021

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In November of 2015, ChambersLee lost her main supporter -- her mom. Before she passed, she told her daughter that she will never be satisfied till she had something to call her own. “Those words have never rung more true. I turned the key to my own salon and it’s amazing to see things come full circle,” Angela said. The same doors that she, unfortunately, had to close were opened again in 2016. From then on, her salon was named after her mother in remembrance, Annie Bell Graham. As a history maker and rule-breaker, Angela knows that there is a calling on her life. It is paramount that she shows other people and her daughters and son that you can be successful in whatever you do as long as you put forth the effort and the time. “There are many nights I stayed up, and I didn’t even go to sleep. But that’s how much time I put into building my business,” she says. Angela is leading by example, and showing her students and colleagues that what God gives you, He expects for you to share with others. “Teaching someone my craft is not enough. My true legacy will be how I helped them to become better than me,” she shares. h

TLC & Bella’s Academy of Cosmetology 2301 Wade Hampton Blvd. Greenville, SC 29615 864-373-9857 www. tlcbellasacademyofcosmetology.com

Dallas/Fort Worth - May/June 2021

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Corey Williams Space Coast Stars Basketball 22

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By Gamal Williams Photos by Corey Williams

Basketball- a round, rubber sphere, encased in leather. For some people, a basketball engenders visions of athletes running up and down the court, their artistry on full display, maneuvering with precision to complete their objective. Others see a basketball as a way out of poor neighborhoods or violent environments. A basketball may be the best (or only) chance to make their life, and the lives of those they love, better. For Corey Williams, it holds the same meaning, but for different reasons. Corey sees a basketball as a way to help the people of Brevard County, FL realize there are multiple avenues available to them to achieve their goals. For Corey, a basketball isn’t a way out; it’s a way in. Corey Williams, the 2021 LEAD Brevard “4 Under 40” Leadership Award recipient, started his basketball journey following in the footsteps of his older brother, Chris. “As a younger brother, you look up to your older brother. Everything he did, I wanted to do. He started baseball, I started baseball. He started basketball, I started basketball. I just fell in love with it. It became my calm and grace.” His journey wasn’t without trials. Corey laughs when he recalls his “Michael Jordan” moment. “I didn’t make my middle school team! I was told I was too short and dribbled too much.” The next year, he made his high school team, then experienced a major growth spurt in between his sophomore and junior year, growing from 5’8” to 6’4”. Corey’s growth on the court matched his physical growth, and the opportunities to play college basketball began coming in. Corey chose State College of Florida (formerly Manatee Community College) and eventually had a Division I school with their eye on him. Then, a poor decision changed everything. “I got kicked out for petty theft. People don’t understand the life of a college athlete. I had a meal plan at IMG Academy, but trying to leave practice and rush over to another school to eat was impossible,” Corey recounts, “My parents were trying to take care of my three younger siblings, two of which were in college. They were paying for everything. I didn’t want to go to my parents for money. So, I took food out of Walmart one night, got caught, went to jail, and they ended up kicking me out of school.” Continued on the next page

“Initially, I was upset about it, but it drove me to do what I am doing now. I felt betrayed because as a coach, especially a Black coach, you should want to look after your players. You don’t just push them to the side like ‘There’s no hope for this kid. I’m gonna leave him.’” Getting expelled from school wasn’t the worst part; a scholarship to Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Connecticut was withdrawn. “My coach was like ‘You’re on your own.’ He just threw me away and you don’t do that to kids.” At his lowest moment, a friend reached out to support him. “Mr. (Stanley) Cromartie (father of former NFL cornerback Dominic Rodgers-Cromartie) looked out for me. He told me he heard what happened and he didn’t want me to give up.” Mr. Cromartie contacted Tim Gates, the Head Basketball Coach at Allen University, an HBCU, in Colombia, SC, who offered Corey a scholarship. Corey graduated from Allen University with honors, earning his Bachelor of Science in Human Services, then returned home to Brevard. He started playing basketball for a Semi-Pro team in Orlando but left the team for personal reasons. A year later, he received a phone call that would change his life. “The owner of the league called me. He told me that they missed having me on the team, then he said that if I couldn’t come back to Orlando, why don’t I start my own team down here.” Thus birthed the Space Coast Stars. The Space Coast Stars is more than just a Semi-Pro team. The 501(c)(3) organization boasts basketball programs that support children from ages 5-18, to include both local and travelling teams. “I wanted the Space Coast Stars to be more than just men getting together to hoop. There’s a lot of talent here in Brevard County, but I wanted the Space Coast Stars to be more. I wanted it to be a way to give back. A lot of times, people make it and never give back,” he says. “It’s sad because people start to say nothing good ever comes out of Brevard. I wanted to change that and set a better example.”

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The Space Coast Stars is built around five core values: UNITY, COMMITMENT, INTEGRITY, FAMILY and RESPECT. Their goal? To “empower and develop the next generation of student athletes through sports, and our CORE VALUES.” Corey’s eyes light up when he speaks of the impact the SCS has had in the community. “We ended up partnering with the Orlando Magic to create the Space Coast Stars Junior Magic League. Through that, we are able to help develop children’s motor skills, improve their overall health, all while stressing the importance of education.” With the Stars entrenched in the community, Corey has plans to expand his reach. “There are so many kids that grow up, play basketball in high school or college, and have no tools or skills after basketball. We want to give kids a trade. We are creating our own college.” Upon opening, Legacy College plans to offer 32 online certifications, tuition free, in a variety of disciplines to include credit counseling, Real estate, insurance, sport agent, customer service, data entry, media and public relations, entrepreneurship, intro to computer science, graphic design, sports management and scouting, among others. Through basketball, Corey Williams has found a way to provide his community a way up, not out. His commitment, his selflessness, his drive for and love of his community provides exponentially more. He is something good, something special, something important that came out of Brevard County. Corey has given Brevard what it needed most, an example. h

The Space Coast Stars www.spacecoaststarsbas.wixsite.com

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Monica Hawthorne Patience Always Wins

By Tonya Dixon Photos by Santana B Photography

At one point, Monica Hawthorne thought things couldn’t be any better in her life. She was happily married. Had a thriving hair salon in Charlotte, North Carolina, and her family were safe and healthy. But in one instant, it all changed. She found herself single, dealing with an undiagnosed illness and a declining business and bank account. Before she knew it, she found herself back in Greensboro, living with her mother and making countless trips to the doctor. But as she looks back on it, it was nothing short of God’s divine hand upon her life. She gained more than she ever had before, physically, spiritually and emotionally. However, it didn’t seem divine at the time. “God directed me to come back home to Greensboro. I thought I was hearing things because I thought there was no way HFe was telling me to leave. I was doing well in Charlotte. My business was thriving and I was successful,” said . “But I did what I heard God say. I packed up and moved.” With her life virtually upended and turned inside out, Hawthorne had to do something she had previously never really done. She had to relinquish control to gain restoration. She had to depend on someone else. Dallas/Fort Worth - May/June 2021

Continued on the next page

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“I stayed on my mom’s couch for nearly three years because I had serious health problems and God wouldn’t allow me to do anything else,” she said. “I prayed and had many conversations with Him. I was going through a lot mentally and physically and I was practically broke because I was supporting my daughter in college.” “I left my source of income in Charlotte. I virtually started over. I had to come back to Greensboro and rebuild my business and myself. A licensed minister, Hawthorne admits she “ran” from God and her calling for more than 15 years. She had a people problem. “I was concerned about what people would say. What would they think of me?” she said. But it was in her weakest moment when she heard God as clear as she heard him say move back to Greensboro. She received the instruction and strength she needed to begin her journey of restoration and wholeness for herself and for other women. “God told me the I didn’t need to be concerned about the opinions or actions of anyone else. He said I was already qualified, verified and approved by Him, so I didn’t need to seek approval or validation from man because He had already given me that,” said Hawthorne. It was at that moment that she spiritually and physically birthed her ministry, a new business and strength to regain her footing as a hair stylist. But she says founding “GOoD GIRL” (intentionally spelled with mixed case) has been the most profound and rewarding because it impacts everything else in her life. “I thought I would call it ‘GOod GIRL,’ because it symbolizes being a light, knowing your worth and getting approval only from God,” said Hawthorne. “But then one day God said, ‘you’re a good girl, but I want you to make one of those “Os” very small so that you can see me in it.’ And that’s how it became what it is today.” After developing a logo, Hawthorne designed a few shirts and the rest is more than just history. It’s a situation she believes only God could have orchestrated and ordained.

“God told me the I didn’t need to be concerned about the opinions or actions of anyone else. He said I was already qualified, verified and approved by Him, so I didn’t need to seek approval or validation from man because He had already given me that.” 28

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“I hadn’t even planned to launch it until May 2020, but COVID hit and everything changed. As soon as they were released, women from all over were buying the shirt,” she said. “So that’s how it started. But there’s more. There’s a community component for all kinds of women. Young, old, every race and every background.” Ultimately, she says the mission of GOoD GIRL is to teach women that they are enough and only need God’s approval. Plain and simple. “I want girls and women to know you don’t need that [blue] check on Facebook. You don’t need that [blue] check on Instagram. You are already verified. It’s about women learning who they are in God,” she said.

Dallas/Fort Worth - May/June 2021

It’s important to note that Hawthorne continued to suffer from a mysterious illness for many years. She was in and out of hospitals and doctor’s offices, without receiving a definitive diagnosis. It took a serious toll on her life, to the point where she couldn’t fulfill the requests of her salon clientele. Yet and still, there was still a blessing amid her illness. “I had issues for 10 years and didn’t even know what it was until I moved back to Greensboro and I think that was a blessing within itself because God knew and he told me to come home. As soon as I went home, I got extremely sick. I needed to be home because if I had been in Charlotte, I would not have had any one to help me care for myself,” she said. “I needed to be at home with my mom who was helping me. She understood that God brought me back home for a reason even though at the time I wasn’t sure exactly what it was, but I was trusting him.” “It turned out to be my gallbladder, but it was affecting my whole body. It would take me down for 2-4 weeks at a time. Imagine having no income and being so sick you can’t get up. But it’s important to remember, even when things look bad in the natural, there’s always a blessing though God.” As much as she struggled, she was able to resurrect her salon – Hawthorne Hair Studio. Not only did she rebuild her clientele, she realized it was another part of her ministry. God strategically sent clients that needed spiritual, emotional and mental restoration. She admits, it had nothing to do with her. It was all a GOoD GIRL thing.

To learn more about GOoD GIRL Apparel, please visit their website at www.goodgirlgoodguy.shop 336-740-4090

“I’m really ready to retire from that,” she jokes. “But God hasn’t released me from it yet. For some reason this salon has been a place for people to get renewed and repaired. People come and they get what they need from God when they are here. If they need it, I pray with and for them. It goes down in here some days, but it’s part of my Ministry. I used to say I have a ministry behind the chair. I asked God to meet people here when I first opened the salon and that’s what he’s been doing.” While Hawthorne is passionate about hair and is known for her precision cuts and styles, she’s looking to expand in a different way – one that she says doesn’t necessarily require her to stand on her feet behind the chair as much. She’s looking into her own hair product line, including everything from washing supplies to equipment. “I already have my own hair oil, but I’m working on my own hair shampoo and other products and styling tools – blow dryers, curling irons, flat irons,” she said. Just like GOoD GIRL empowers women, she plans to use her styling expertise to help others as well. “I’ve taught before and I want to continue, but not in a traditional setting with multiple students. I prefer individual classes so that I can give one-on-one attention.” As Hawthorne expands her product line, she isn’t leaving GOoD GIRL behind. There’s much more to come and there are many more lives to impact. “GOoD GIRL is much more than a t-shirt. It might be how I got my foot in the door with some people, but it’s ministry. It’s more motivational speaking. It’s expanding on the books and series’ I’ve already written.” But most important, Hawthorne says it’s about lifting someone else up along the way. h Dallas/Fort Worth - May/June 2021

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Alvin Ford VendMe Co.

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Dallas/Fort Worth - May/June 2021

By Ellen Richardson Photos by Alvin Ford

Let’s be honest. Who didn’t love candy and snacks when they were growing up? Certainly not Huami Magazine’s very own real-world candy man, Alvin Ford. The owner of Detroit, MI’s own VendMe Co. vending machine company hails from a long line of entrepreneurs that never relied on other business owners to help them find success in the work world. Beginning with his great great grandmother and grandmother; who owned their own herbal tonic business; as well as his grandfather; who owned a line of small businesses including a couple of bars, a party store and served as a landlord for a couple of rental properties, Alvin Ford knew that he wanted to start his own business that would both lead to success and would make others lives better. This desire led to the birth of Metro Detroit’s premier vending company that supplies candy, healthy snacks and beverages to businesses throughout this growing area. “Seeing my grandparents operate successful businesses while I was growing up inspired me to do the same, so I decided to start selling candy,” said Ford. “I would start out by buying a box of candy and selling individual packages in barber shops, to my family and friends and even classmates as early as middle school.” After continuing his successful candy selling business all the way through high school, Ford would eventually find himself moving into the vending machine business. “I actually stopped selling candy for a little while but was led back in the direction of food sales while I was in college obtaining a business degree. This is where I started learning all about opportunities in the vending machine industry,” he shared. Before long, this born to be tasty treat vendor was investing in vending machines with more than just candy. “When I started setting up vending machines in the Metro Detroit area, I knew that I wanted to provide a product that would do more than just cure a sweet tooth. I also wanted to supply local businesses with machines that offer a wide variety of healthy and traditional foods to choose from,” said Ford.

“Seeing my grandparents operate successful businesses while I was growing up inspired me to do the same, so I decided to start selling candy.”

From one vending machine to two, Ford would eventually give birth to his dream of owning his own small business. Now, just six months after starting VendMe Co., which offers sleek new vending equipment with a full line of healthy and traditional snacks, the newest member of the Ford entrepreneur family is quickly making a name for himself with area businesses, hotels/motels and even a nationally known chain of retail appliance and electronics stores. “It is funny because this business almost started off as a lemonade stand when I was a kid, but after deciding to sell what I love, which was candy, it morphed into something that I love doing now!” exclaimed Ford. “Who would have thought that selling snacks at the barbershop as a kid, then out of my locker in middle school and even out of my backpack in high school would have turned into a vending machine company with contracts and national clients? God amazes me more and more as time goes on.” Dallas/Fort Worth - May/June 2021

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Along with becoming one of the newest small business success stories in his home city of Detroit, MI, Ford and his company are also doing their part to give back to others within his community. “Part of this company’s mission is to help others who are interested in starting their own vending machine business,” said Ford. “When I started this business, I knew that I wanted to be the kind of inspirational mentor that my grandparents and even my parents, were to me, so we also provide both mentorship and training for those who are interested in starting their own vending machine business. In fact, I often assist people in setting up locations and even help them get the proper machines for these businesses to get them started.” Along with giving birth to his own vending machine franchise, this business oriented young man is currently serving as a Business Analyst for the Nation’s No. 1 Wholesale Mortgage Lender - United Wholesale Mortgage Company and is preparing to graduate with his Master of Business Administration from The University of Detroit Mercy. After which, Ford will be joining the world’s largest e-commerce retail giant, Amazon, as an area manager. “It is kind of cool that I will be working at Amazon and running the vending machine company simultaneously because I believe that one day these companies can someday work together to grow worldwide,” stated Ford. You would think that a man with both a full and part-time job as well as completing a master’s degree would be satisfied with just focusing on himself and his career. If that were true, we would not be talking about Alvin Ford. Along with a heart for providing tasty treats and owning his own business, this real-life candy man also has a passion for leading others to the restoration power of Jesus Christ. “I know that I have a lot going on in my life, but I also know how important it is to follow a calling that I received when I was a young man - helping others find Christ,” said Ford. After starting this journey by becoming a minister at his family’s small church, Ford would eventually decide that he wanted to share the good news of Jesus Christ with more people. This desire would lead him to yet another mentor - Bishop Clarence Langston. As this successful, yet humble businessman would begin his tutelage under the Founder and Senior Pastor of Word in Action Christian Center he would continue to rise through the ranks to become a well-known minister at the famed Detroit church. As he continues to walk this road of success, Ford has just one suggestion for those who are walking a similar path. “No matter what your dream or calling is, do it scared and have faith that God will make a way,” said Ford. “Be sure to also invest in yourself by finding the right people and knowledge to help you get down the road further and faster than you could ever imagine.”

www.VendMeCo.com 844-836-3669 32

To learn more about Alvin Ford visit his website.

Dallas/Fort Worth - May/June 2021

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Thrival Indy Academy 34

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Dallas/Fort Worth - May/June 2021

By Dorjea’ McClammey Photos by India Johnson

India Johnson is the founder and executive director of Thrival Indy Academy. Born in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, India shares she was an army kid which enabled her to travel and live in different places around the world such as Germany. Eventually, she finally settled in Indiana with her parents. In July of 2017, she received her administration license and was soon contacted by an organization in Oakland, CA. They offered her a fellowship which she then took and developed into an actual school model. “Being able to take that program and make it into the school that I believed the city, really the world needs, was very important to me,” she shares. Before she rebranded it Thrival Academy, it was known as Thrival World Academy, a school that made studying abroad easier for students who wouldn’t usually have the opportunity. She shares how she found inspiration during the development of the school. “My community influenced me into building the academy. Sadly, I lost multiple former students as well as classmates, some of who died or were killed. I felt like the community needed something,” she says. The Thrival Indy Academy offers many programs such as a study abroad program. All of their students get the chance to travel outside of the country at least one time as a part of the school curriculum. India receives help from all the fundraising she does, along with help from the community to fund these trips. Tenth graders even travel across the southern part of the country and learn the history behind the south, while 11th graders spend 10-12 weeks out of the country. They have even been to the Dominican Republic. The academy also has a wellness program that includes things such as Wellness Wednesday that will shift into Thriving Thursday once they move back into more in-person classes. This will include one on one meetings between students and their advisory teacher, Yoga, meditation, and the implementation of “Zen Corners” in every classroom for those who need to just recenter. They’ve partnered with Asante Children’s Theater to help students learn about the arts in a way that is more healing and powerful. India shares she had to build the academy up to make an impact on these kids’ lives. Regarding enrollment, their target is always 75 students per grade. After the 2018-2019 school year India remolded the program into a [slow grow 4-year school] meaning the first graduating class will be the class of 2024, with a class of about 45 ninth graders.

“Being able to take that program and make it into the school that I believed the city, really the world needs, was very important to me.”

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Thrival Indy Academy is mainly funded by the Indianapolis public school district. This district serves the highest percentage of black and brown children, and funds come from the state through the district, who then takes their cuts for transportation, facility, and food services, leaving what’s left to be used to pay Thrival’s teachers India is the first female black president of the Indiana Youth Group which is the oldest nationally existing group that serves lgbtqia youth. They are currently focused on the homeless black youth population. The same year she founded Thrival Academy, she also created her own children’s book titled, Marisol’s Hair. She also received many awards such as the Surge Fellowship, a fellowship for black and brown education leaders, and is featured on the BrightBeam and Indy’s 21 Women to Watch in 2021. Out of all her accomplishments, she is most proud of being able to cross lines. Being from a place where school reform is a huge ordeal, and still build and spread her academy and her ideas on education is important for her. When asked what her goals are, her answers are in alignment with her ambitions. She plans on winning a Nobel Peace Prize for changing the world. “For me, my love is magical, and my love is healing, and I incorporate my healing into everything that I do so that it may move people and systems,” she shares. Another one of her goals is to be the person who changes the education system. Even though Covid 19 came and caused problems for many around the world, including loss of some funding and enrollment at Thrival Indy Academy, India shares she was still able to make things work. “The pandemic gave me a moment to settle down and learn more about myself, my abilities, and what I deserve outside of my ability to make things happen,” she shares.

Thrival Indy Academy 4825 North Arlington Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46226 (317) 226-2378 www. thrivalindy.org

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In terms of the future for Thrival Indy Academy, India plans for it to become the most successful public high school in her city, with 100% staff retention. “Anyone that leaves my school will grow on to do something to pursue their dreams,” says India. She also plans to scale the school to be able to serve students from pre-k through 12th grade. In the next 10 years, her goal is to help Thrival Indy Academy become a network that spans across the country, serving students in all types of communities. Understandably, India desire is to encourage anyone she encounters. She shares, “You deserve literally every single desire of your heart, if it wasn’t for you, it would not have been placed there. There is no need to question your ability to get it done because the desire was placed there for a reason. It’s yours.” h

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Dallas/Fort Worth - May/June 2021

BhreaJefferson The GreenHouse Effect Project

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Fredrostar Productions Many words can be used to describe Bhrea Jefferson. Also known as Bre, at heart, she is a nature-lover. Her foundation is solidified by being a wife to her husband of six years, DonTaye. Together they share two sons, DonTaye Jr and Dallas. At 28 years of age, the Chemical Engineer and two-time business owner/entrepreneur is striving to make her impact on the world and her community by way of her newest venture, The GreenHouse Effect Project LLC. Bhrea was born and raised in Huntsville, AL. Still currently residing there, Bhrea fully understands what she does can influence and inspire others, so she lives her life to be a role model for young girls. She is also passionate about bridging women in business together, while also pursuing her dreams. She has a go-getter attitude when it comes to doing business and exemplifies what it means to be a servant for God, as she lives her life serving others. The GreenHouse Effect Project is a non-profit organization that was founded in Huntsville, AL. Its purpose is to educate, empower, inform, and include women to obtain the dream of entrepreneurship. Bhrea says, “I aspire to collaborate with other women and show the world that we are more alike than we realize.” The GreenHouse Effect Project is symbolically the same as a real Greenhouse for plants. A traditional Greenhouse is used to shield crops and plants from excessive cold or hot temperatures while maintaining a stable environment year-round. It also makes it possible for the plants to grow outside of their natural environment. With the GreenHouse Effect Project, Bhrea incorporates the same theory. “Experienced or seasoned businesswomen act as the (glass or plastic) exterior, shielding aspiring entrepreneurs from harm’s way with advice and business solutions. We maintain a warm, comforting, inclusive environment year-round, which allows everyone to grow equally, bettering ourselves and achieving our goals. What’s special about The GreenHouse Effect Project is we can support, uplift, and encourage one woman at a time,” she says.

Dallas/Fort Worth - May/June 2021

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So how did Bhrea’s journey begin? She says she started gathering ideas and brainstorming in October 2019. After organizing her thoughts and ideas, she launched The GreenHouse Effect Project on March 4, 2020, just before the world shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “I initially started the business idea of having functions in person with women in my community, but became impossible because of the pandemic,” she says. Still, Bhrea was able to press on. Bhrea shares she has devoted her life to helping others mainly due to the grace that God has shown her. “I have survived things that were sent to destroy me physically, mentally, and emotionally. In my darkest hours, I figured out a way to pull myself out, flipping my frown back into a smile. When I thought I completely lost myself in pleasing other people, I found a way to reveal and find my true identity once again. When we hit rock bottom, I don’t think we as women, give ourselves enough credit for being our own coach, counselor, chef, doctor, therapist, and everything in between. When our family and friends are hurting, we are there to fix and heal them, but who heals us? At my worst state, my source of strength has come from my Bible, devotionals, and meditation. I thank God for strengthening me so that I can still be here today,” Bhrea shares. Understandably, to do what Bhrea is doing, one must have love and compassion for others. Often, Bhrea is connected with new people, and because of this, more women in her community are networking and making new connections. “I’ve asked God to take away my fears, nervousness, and timidness, and use me as a vessel to serve my community,” she says. There have also been some challenges that Bhrea has overcome in her business. She shares, the first business I started was with my husband as a used car dealer. I didn’t anticipate getting a cold shoulder or negative energy from the people I thought loved me the most as I climbed the success ladder. It’s funny how when you’re doing average or bad, people love you. Yet, when you’re trying to excel in your career and provide better opportunities for you and your family, hate can emerge. Sometimes the hard work is overlooked, and the fruits of our labor are only noticed. Times when I thought I would have been congratulated, I wasn’t, but instead, I was shunned. However, I didn’t allow that to stop me from loving.” For other entrepreneurs who may follow in Bhrea footsteps, she offers some advice. “Chase after your dreams with all that you have and don’t stop. Remember that nothing lasts forever. Whatever you’re going through, it can’t last forever. It’s just a season. The only way that you will fail in life is if you quit, so don’t quit! When you’re sitting in your bed at night contemplating whether you should keep going or not, just go! Don’t let anyone force their insecurities on you to make you feel you aren’t worthy enough to enjoy every ounce of success that comes to you. If God gave you the vision, it is for you, and only you to understand,” Bhrea shares. Moving forward, Bhrea plans for The Greenhouse Effect Project to be the go-to place for women in entrepreneurship. She plans to launch a successful talk show titled, Mauve’ Convos on the YouTube platform. She also hopes to build more economic strength in her community and would like to expand her business to other states and produce her own line of products. “Through my journey in entrepreneurship, I found running a business and being business-minded is a language. I want to bring forth the ups, the downs, and the ins and outs of being a woman behind a business. I have a lot of great plans for the show, and I can’t wait to share with the world!” h

www.thegreenhousehsv.com 40

To learn more about Bhrea Jefferson and The GreenHouse Effect Project, please visit their website.

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MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

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Chasity Boone The daughter of Candace Boone

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

Dallas/Fort Worth - May/June 2021

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