Huami Magazine DMV July/August 2021 by Terry Watson

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July/August 2021 Vol. 1 Issue 4

Reality Check Mentoring, Inc. DMV - July/August 2021

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Understanding The Power of Your Influence A Letter From The Editor Now that I am many years settled into fatherhood, I sometimes reminisce on those precious moments when my son was only a baby. Though small and quite fragile, I wanted to make him tough and brawn, selfishly hoping that he would live out the hopes and dreams that I had for my life. That is what dads do, orthe at least A Letter from EditorI think they do. My son would eventually grow up right before my eyes to be a very grown man, which I am quite proud of. Still, I reminded of his dependence on me and his mother for everything whileif he was a child and arrive? our responsibility understand What tomorrow didn’t All of yourtoplans, hopes and provide for his needs. and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if

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

everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never

As ahappened? baby and not yet able to form words, mytoson cried made other There would be no reason save forand a rainy baby sounds when he wanted to let us know he was hungry. When day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making his diaperpromises. was wet, he didn’t say [dad, I am wet]; instead, he cried. It was my What if your last opportunity seemingly expired duty to determine his need and translate the information he was trying today? What would you do? to share. Thank God I was able to, and my son was fed and cared for. Though I can only imagine how difficult it would have been for him had I I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. ignored his cries or was unable to understand them.

Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer knowing wouldn’t put anythingour on pains, me As adults andinnot babies,that our God methods of communicating couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder howcry. lifeHowever, would wants,that andIneeds aren’t generally boggled into a baby’s be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me.and I it doesn’t mean that we are not crying. When we become prideful have found that to to beexpress very boring. my opinion, opportunity shamed, it can be difficult what isIntruly hurting us, which is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge causes us to internalize these issues and not let them out. to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? If I God do nothing, I fail, and ifto I try instead learn it When blesses His children beIadon’t, well orbut source for others, often something comes with new someabout form of influence. With influence, there myself. Relinquish your pride andisinpower and the abilityacquire to impact return life.someone’s life. Not understanding the power of your influence is just as careless as someone who is driving a car at 100 miles perThe hour with their ever eyes closed. best advice given to me happened when someone

told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so Influence of others. Because is often I have attracts pressedthe myinterest way through doors with ainfluence key that only associated with power, it oftentimes attracts weakness. What I am hope provided. I have also learned the difference between trying what to share; someone treating wrong youburden feel likeme youwith are GodIfblesses meiswith andyou what life can being “hated on”, it might mean that person is actually crying out and as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and cannot convey what’s hurting them. As when to be quiet, because Christians, we can’t ignore these cries. someone may get it confused We should listen with our hearts and seek with being God’s instruction onarrogant. how to respond. Make you tomorrow If you are in a position of influence, fill happen today, yourself with the love ofbut Godmost on a daily importantly make it count. basis. I was able to determine what my Life is but a whisper and son’s needs were only because I loved we love mustgives put ourselves in a the him. God’s us power and ability toposition understand the what cries and to hear it ispains of others. telling us.

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L. Watson

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www.huamimagazine.com Teyah Glenn Writer Terry L. Watson Editor In Chief Writer Ellen Richardson Terry L. Watson Writer Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Dorjae’ McClammey Writer Tonya Dixon Writer Writers Gamal Williams Writer

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HUAMI MAGAZINE is published 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 E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com terry.editor@yahoo.com or to Greensboro, NC Mykel Company, LLC 2021Media All Rights Reserved P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2014 All Rights Reserved

Terry L. Watson

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Terry L. Watson DMV - July/August 2021 Editor/Founder

On The Cover

Photo by Shaw Photography Group

CONTENTS

JULY/AUGUST 2021

DMV

Chess’Mia James 10

Kingdom Step Academy

On The Cover

Reality Check Mentoring, Inc. Jermaine Johnson

Sunflower Queen

Toi Cage

Sisterhood On Display

Keesha & Larissa

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Asher Grady

Also Featured

Bri’And Russell She is setting the Gold Standard with her brand, Elite X-Tensions. Houston, TX

Rueben Hays Meet the CEO of Crescent Surgical Supply. Greenville, SC

DMV - July/August 2021

Brian James Learn more about the Chief of Police for the Greensboro Police Department. Greensboro, NC

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14 5

Reality Check Mentoring, Inc. HuamiMagazine.com

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Jernaine Johnson A life of service is a life worth living. Jermaine Johnson is the face and founder of Reality Check Mentoring, Inc., a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to developing the minds of young black males, ages 10-17. It provides mentoring focused on character development and education geared toward life skills, social and cultural awareness, conflict resolution, and critical thinking. Additionally, it strives to help males realize they can become valuable assets to society while offering long-term relationships and exposure to professions, resources, organizations, educational support, life skills training, and community engagement. Born Jermaine N. Johnson to Florence and Joseph N. Johnson, Sr., this young change-maker is a native of Prince George’s County, MD. He attended Prince George’s County Public Schools, graduating from Suitland Senior High school in 2008. He is a proud father to his daughter Akirreh and son August. Jermaine is an educator, business leader, writer, speaker, and certified personal trainer. Jermaine attended Frostburg State University, where he studied management and business, ultimately earning a Master of Science in Management with a focus in Project Management from Kaplan University. Currently, Jermaine works full time as a Business Analyst on the Grants Development team under the Systems Technology Division for the DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education. However, it’s his involvement and interest in his community that make Jermaine a well-rounded individual. He shares his story of how it all began. “The first incident that sparked this journey occurred while I was working as an elementary school teacher for an after-school enrichment program. I had just arrived to work after buying my first (new) car. As I was walking into the building, I ran into one of my former students. He says, “Mr. Johnson is that your car?” I replied, “Yes.” He then proceeds to ask, “Did you sell drugs to get that car?” I was honestly stuck that he said that to me. It might sound cliche, but it hit me that some of our young males are not too far removed from that being their reality. That stuck with me. At the same Continued on the next page

time, while working at the elementary school, I was also working at a high school in Prince George’s County as a Special Education Assistant. A few days after the aforementioned incident, a second spark occurred. I was sitting in a classroom where students were asked to present a project on an occupation of their choice, and I watched young males choose jobs such as cashiers at fast-food restaurants and greeters at Walmart. It saddened me to hear them selling themselves short, and I was frustrated to learn teachers weren’t pushing them to strive for better. These young males needed guidance, confidence, and a reality check,” Jermaine shared. Reality Check Mentoring, Inc. began in February 2018 with just three mentees at the first session. In the fall of 2020, they had 19 mentees enrolled. Jermaine shares that he is grateful for the opportunities Reality Check Mentoring Inc. has provided. “I love that I can share knowledge but also learn from our youth who will one day be our leaders. To know that I am having a positive impact on their future and my generation’s future is a true blessing and experience. It’s literally like planting seeds and watching the plants grow right before your eyes. Jermaine understands that it takes a village to raise a child, as well as a community of committed change agents. For those who may be interested in starting a program that is similar to Reality Check Mentoring, Jermaine offers some advice. “First and foremost this work requires being selfless, genuine, and transparent. If you want to be a mentor only for the title or accolades, this isn’t for you. You must be willing to continuously learn and understand there is no one-size-fits-all approach when mentoring. If you’re going to go the nonprofit route, do it the right way. This means filing the proper legal paperwork, building a team, and having a strategic plan in place. It’s a lot of work but doesn’t be overwhelmed; the resources are out there, but you must ask for help. Don’t be discouraged and keep your vision and mission at the forefront of all that you do,” says Jermaine.

Jermaine Johnson Reality Check Mentoring Inc. www.realitycheckmentor.org

Instagram: Realitycheckmentoringinc Facebook: Reality Check Mentoring, Inc.

In the future, Jermaine says he hopes to partner with the Prince George’s County Public School system to implement Reality Check Mentoring program as a therapeutic practice. Recently they were awarded a grant from Adventist HealthCare through their Community Partnership Fund. Reality Check Run 21 is a program geared toward increasing physical activity among black and brown boys in the DMV area through running. The program entails young males completing 21 miles of running for the year 2021, incorporating health education components that will teach members the importance of injury prevention. This includes warming up, stretching, proper running techniques, cooling down, staying hydrated, healthy food choices, and healthy habits. Jermaine shares running is a great activity to help kids build endurance, which is developed when they regularly engage in aerobic exercise. Program participants will be provided with running shoes and athletic wear. The goal will be to complete at least (2-3) miles each month until they reach 21 miles for the year. To learn more about Reality Check Mentoring Inc., please visit their website. h

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

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

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I dream big because I know:

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

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

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

To learn more about Kingdom Step Academy, please visit their website. h

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Greensboro Police Department

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By Ellen Richardson Photos by TMF Photography The 23rd chief of the Greensboro Police Department Brian James is a perfect picture of following the Yellow Brick Road of Success. Born in Northeast Greensboro, James was raised in the realm of responsibility by both his mother as well as his hard-working grandparents. Beginning a life of “doing his part to help his family” by mowing lawns at the early age of 9-years-old, it wouldn’t be long before the future chief would find his next level of accountability. “I played football, ran track, and even worked at a grocery store while attending high school at Paige High School,” said James. “I did all this while keeping good grades, which I believe taught me the focus and duty that I needed to eventually become a successful member of the Greensboro Police Department. In fact, I owe a lot of what I learned from being a disciplined athlete/student to where I am today.” Despite being recruited by college scouts, for his athletic abilities, the man who would use the fortitude that he was given at an early age would use this to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business administration from North Carolina A&T State University. “The funny thing is that when I began my college career, I was not even considering being a police officer, but I knew that I wanted to do something that positively impacted the community. This is why I began to pursue a career in law enforcement,” James stated. Although he would have to begin this career as a detention officer for the Guilford County Sheriff’s Department, the future police chief would receive the opportunity to continue his path toward success as a police officer for the Greensboro Police Department in 1996. After serving as an accomplished officer of the law for the 72nd PBIC, James quickly worked his way up the ladder serving as a corporal and even a sergeant. In 2006, the young man who would continue to focus on doing anything that it took to serve his community to his fullest, obtained his Master of Business Administration degree from Pfeiffer University. “In the past, you would have been hard-pressed to find anybody in law enforcement with a graduate degree, but the expectation around education has definitely increased over the years,” said James. “Knowing this, I decided that if I wanted to help the Greensboro Police Department run successfully far into the future, I needed to continue to learn more about the business side of running a municipal department. The MBA program gave me the ability to look at this side of police work on a deeper level.” Along with both an undergraduate and graduate degree, James also became a graduate of the FBI National Academy, the Administrative Officer’s Management program at North Carolina State University, and the Senior Management Institute for Police, which each assisted the destined police chief to take on added responsibility.

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Continued on the next page

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Regardless of his success, James has also had to deal with numerous challenges. The most challenging of these times came during his first year as Greensboro’s Chief of Police. Following his swearing-in ceremony in February 2020, the Corona Virus brought communities everywhere, including Greensboro, NC, to its knees. After this, a national movement would begin following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. “The lifeblood of our department is having positive relationships with the Greensboro community and when the virus hit, we were asking officers to have as little contact with others as possible, to keep them both safe and healthy,” said James. “Leading up to the protests we really had been, in a large way, disconnected from this community. Managing these protests daily made this a bit more challenging. We wanted to allow people to exercise their First Amendment rights all while keeping some order. It was difficult, despite most of these protests being peaceful, there were arrests, boarded-up windows, and vandalism — all things the pandemic amplified.” James’s first challenging year as chief was also amplified by the record-setting 60 homicides in 2020, which were largely due to gang activity, drugs, and domestic disputes. While many in his position might pass fault towards others beneath him, this inspiring leader decided to put all his efforts towards listening to his community to find a solution to improve.

Brian James Chief of Police - Greensboro Police Department 336-373-2085 100 E. Police Plaza Greensboro, NC 27402 www.greensboro-nc.gov

“Following the height of the pandemic, we had patrol officers in many neighborhoods go out and knock on doors. This gave our officers and our neighbors the opportunity to get to know one another all while giving our neighbors the opportunity to voice their concerns,” said James. “This program, along with bringing back some of our community outreach events like neighborhood cookouts, have received a positive response, and we plan to include this program far into the future.” Understanding that communication is the key to healing has also inspired James to give birth to new programs. The first of these involving the hiring of a Department Resource Coordinator, who assists officers out in the field to find the appropriate organizations and companies to aid both individuals and families in their given neighborhoods with issues such as domestic violence, gainful employment, food insecurity, etc. “Earlier this year the Greensboro Police Department also implemented the Behavioral Health Response Team where we have mental health clinicians riding along with police officers when a mental health call comes in,” James enthusiastically stated. “Along with being on the scene with the individual in need this clinician is also responsible for following-up with the person involved to try to get them connected with the healthcare that they need, which we are hoping will lower the number of repeat calls that we have of this nature.” Stating that his overarching goal is to “make decisions that will be both life and community changing/enhancing”, James said that he is also doing everything he can to teach officers to “humanize” each person he or she encounters. “I try to make them realize that each of the Greensboro residents who need our assistance are not just a call. They are human and we are making important decisions that could impact their lives forever.” h

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Elite X-Tensions By Ayana Bryant Photos by Jerry Barbry

“Nothing beats a failure but a try,” and “Never start something that you are incapable of finishing.” Those are two quotes have shaped and stained the life of Bri’And Russell. While there may be several players, what separates the elite from the rest of the pack are those who set the standard. For Bri’And, she has made a living by raising the bar and being the measure others strive for. The New Orleans, LA native, finished cosmetology school as a senior in high school. She went on to win several hair, make-up, and fashion competitions before receiving her Bachelors in Business Marketing and Finance from Texas Southern University. She was also nominated as “Ms. Entrepreneur - Class of 2009” for Homecoming at TSU. Professionally, she has worked as a cosmetologist for 21 years, and an instructor for 16 years. Today, she is the owner of Elite X-Tensions. This luxury hair extension line carries exclusive Malaysian, Peruvian, Brazilian, and Indian hair. Her company specializes in maintaining the full cuticle of the hair strands. Elite X-tensions can withstand being colored, high lift bleached, permed, and pressed. They also offer Elite X-Tensions Mink Eyelash Strips that are designed with a silk glue band and guaranteed to last up to 20 wears with proper cleaning procedures and maintenance. Continued on the next page

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Elite X-Tensions was born in October 2016 after Bri’And’s three-year-old daughter Za’ryha Joy was diagnosed with cancer. “I decided to use my passion and love for hair to create revenue for Za’ryha’s treatments,” she says. “Unfortunately, Za’ryha Joy lost her fight to cancer but, she continues to live on through me, Elite X-Tensions, and all those who loved her. Elite X-Tensions was made from love and creating this brand helped me prosper through the pain.”

“I decided to use my passion and love for hair to create revenue for Za’ryha’s treatments.... Elite X-Tensions was made from love and creating this brand helped me prosper through the pain.” Losing a child impacted Bri’And, who is very family-oriented and pours everything into her career, with her family (two intelligent children) in mind. Now living in Houston, TX, the goal-driven entrepreneur has enjoyed success because of her dedication. She shares, “I love the beauty industry and everything it has awarded me the last 26 years.”

Continued on the next page

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Bri’And was raised by a single mother who constantly expressed the importance of education, diligence, and consistency to her and her brother. Bri’And’s mother also recognized her daughters’ talent and put things into action to help get her started. “Cosmetology has always been my passion. My mother purchased my first oven and curling iron set when I was nine years old, and soon I began styling hair. This was the beginning of understanding what being an entrepreneur truly meant. “Word of Mouth” advertising spread the word throughout my neighborhood. Before I knew it, I had gained clients from middle school and throughout college. Being an entrepreneur has it challenges. For Bri’And, one was maintaining a steady supply of products during the Covid 19 pandemic. Yet, she has been able to sustain her clientele and even grow in business mainly due to her savviness and ability to identify opportunities. Her advice to anyone who may follow in her footsteps or desire to launch a business of their own is never to stop trying and never give up on the goal. “I would encourage everyone to place one foot in front of the other, and soon you will find yourself running inside your reality that once was a dream. You must also be mentally and physically prepared for the ultimate groundbreaking opportunity,” she says. She says her ultimate goal is to own a cosmetology school. Moving forward, she plans to launch a Elite X-Tensions Hair product line. To learn more about Elite X-Tensions, please visit their website. h

Elite X-Tensions

www.elitex-tensioins.com Elitextensions1@gmail.com 832-210-8712

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Sunflower Queen By Dorjae McClammey Photos by Toi Cage

Let me tell you about Toi Cage. She is the owner of Sunflower Queen, a Natural Yoni care line located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. With the help of her amazing daughters, she produces terrific Yoni products for women. Toni describes Yoni care as a dedication to women’s health and womb care, and the process of detoxing ones’ womb and vaginal area, ridding it of toxins that might cause odors and infections. Growing up, Toi tended to overhear conversations about how women and men felt about their private areas. So while studying at the University of Notre Dame, she and a friend worked to find the perfect combination of herbs and plants to make them feel healthy and beautiful. Once she saw the results it gave her, Toi was inspired to turn it into a business and help other women feel beautiful inside and out, just like it did for her. Sunflower Queen offers many products such as plant-based yoni detox pearls, vegan rose oil, steaming seats and stools, detox herbs, womb detox tea, yoni soaps, yoni gowns, and yoni pops. She also produces vegan yoni tightening gel, a yoni refresher spray, and a foaming wash is in the works. She also provides one-on-one yoni steaming sessions that can be performed in the privacy of her client’s home or in her office. Toi says what she loves most about her company is providing products for women who embrace their sexual health and wellness. She also enjoys having open conversations that educate women and men about vaginal health. She shares, “Yoni care is not an offensive thing, it’s self-care.” Continued on the next page

Like most small business owners, some challenges presented themselves while she was getting her business started. Toi decided to start selling her products during the Corona Virus pandemic; she was prepared to jumpstart her business a couple of months before it hit and then had to stop everything. From having grand openings in stores to over 20 events over four months to push her product out, she had her hands full. All of the contracts she had obtained were now null and void, and the money she spent had to be returned. She was just about ready to give up when the opportunity arose to partner with Black Business Enterprises, which was able to help her receive great exposure for her business. From there, she turned things up a notch and changed her approach to doing business. She began providing informational sessions at vendor events, promoting her products and natural yoni care in general. To her astonishment, Toi was even invited to showcase her products at company events. Things were starting to look a lot better for this aspiring entrepreneur. Sunflower Queen has become very accomplished and has been nominated for a few awards, such as the New Black Business of the Year award and Customer Service of the Year award. By her third month in business, she had already hit 13,000 dollars in sales and celebrated by partnering with a Doula, delivering prenatal yoni care packages to women in her community. Toi has even had the mayor of Minneapolis inquire about products for his wife.

Her testimony proves that Toi Cage is a true hardworking hero. “I started as a 15-year-old mother, and it wasn’t until my daughter entered college and started her own business that I decided to move forward and stop being scared. I think that’s what pushed me. I am happy to have a friend that was already dabbling in chemistry. Once my daughter told me ‘mom you’ve taken care of everybody for so long, why don’t you have your own business?’ I thought about it. I’ve taken care of my family, survived divorce, and felt like I couldn’t let her down. When I finally started selling my products, she was my biggest cheerleader,” she says.

www.sqyoni.square.site (651) 313-4652 sunflowerqueen777@gmail.com

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The future for Sunflower Queen is filled with amazing opportunities. Toi has received an offer to open up space in the Mall of America in Minneapolis, but she is going a step further by finding her own storefront location. So keep an eye out for all of the new products and services she has planned. The partnership with a full-time Doula should produce even more exciting products that will roll out to hospitals, ob-gyn, and wherever prenatal care is sold. Until then, all Sunflower Queen’s products are available online, in-store at Storehouse Grocer in St. Paul Minnesota, and the Wellness Lounge in Uptown Minneapolis. To learn more about Toi and Sunflower Queen, please visit their website. h

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Crescent Surgical Supply “Fear is not from God. Fear is of the devil. God did not give us the spirit of fear.” By Gamal Williams Photos by Rueben Hays

The comedian Milton Berle once said, “If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.” Rueben Hays built that door, and the company it led to, Crescent Surgical Supply. The Los Angelos native, and seven-year Navy veteran where he served as a surgical technician, started his journey when he took a chance. After separating from the Navy, In 2003 Rueben briefly worked as a sales representative for a major surgical device manufacturer. The field was very competetive and severely underrepresented by African-Americans. One day, he learned surplus surgical supplies were being sold on eBay. “I asked myself ‘What is this equipment doing being sold online? It was a different time back then,” Rueben recalls. “You can’t do that anymore. That limitation is how I was able to get into the industry, get buyers and connect with vendors.” As Louis Pasteur said, “chance favors the prepared mind.” Formerly kown as RomeMed Inc. which was founded in 2003, Crescent Surgical LLC was birthed in Greenville, S.C. in August 2019. This represented more than a name change, it represented a new chapter in life and business. A painful divorce set the stage for Rueben’s renewed focus and limitless vision. CSS currently employs eight employees and forty contractors that work throughout the country. Rueben and his CSS team focuses on the medical equipment set to expire and be disposed of if left unused. This is the leverage point CSS uses to acquire said equipment from wholesalers, distributors, and vendors at a lower price point, then resells them at a mark-up but much lower than the retail price. “We sell mostly specialized, one-time use devices: electro-cardio devices, mesh, implants used in hernia surgeries, staples for different types of resections, sutures, and harmonic wound sealing devices, for example,” explains Rueben. “If we don’t buy and resell short dated surplus from hospitals, most often they are thrown away. We also donate all the products that we can’t move,” he shares. According to Allied Market Research, in 2019 the global surgical equipment market was valued at $33.72 billion. By 2027, it is estimated to grow in value by 33% to $44.48 billion. Grand View Research estimates the disposable surgical equipment market will be valued at $5.5 billion this year. Yet even with the high value of these products, in the U.S. alone, its estimated that hospitals spend

almost $10 billion per year in disposal fees for supplies, equipment and trash.** Rueben has ensured CSS is seizing a piece of that market, with half of the CSS buyers being international. One can understand how Rueben’s medical training, initiative and business acumen have positioned Crescent Surgical Supply to be a key player and large stakeholder in the disposable surgical equipment market, but it was not without obstacles. “There is not another me (African-American person) out there doing what I do. In seventeen years in this business, I have never seen another me.” When asked if entering a market with no African-American representation was difficult, Rueben let out an exasperated sigh. “Of course!” he exclaimed. “It took a while. Luckily, I was able to find a niche market. I don’t have to deal with the end users, like hospitals or clinics. I deal with the distributors. But it was challenging to break in, to get people to trust me. We just ensure that we conduct sound business practices and are trustworthy. That is what has built us into what we are today.” And should a product expire before it can be resold, Rueben has a plan for that as well. “We donate a lot of products, products we cannot move. In the United States, there must be time left on a product in order to resell it. When the expiration date is too close for resale or has expired, we donate it to Partners For World Health.” Partners For World Health, a Portland, ME based charity, has donated over 236 tons of medical supplies worldwide. Rueben ensures CSS donates money and resources to charities in the Greensville area as well. “The biggest thing for me is giving back, philanthropy,” states Rueben. “Most of my donations are focused on the Greenville community.” Some of those charities include Lisa’s Schoolhouse Rocks, which provides camps to teach civics lessons; Vernon Veteran’s Services who help military personnel transition from the military lifestyle to civilian beginnings; Upstate GEMS (Going the Extra Mile for Success) that promotes positive qualities in young ladies; and the “Spread the Love” initiative, a food drive sponsored by Harvest Hope, amongst others. Rueben offers this advice to any young woman or man that recognizes a potential opportunity but is unsure if they should take the chance: “Fear is not from God. Fear is of the devil. God did not give us the spirit of fear. For me, if ever I get afraid of journeying down a path, whether it be in business or in myself, I know that is the devil trying to push me away from what it is that God really has for me,” he said. “I’d tell them to lean into it, even if you fail, failure is not final. You learn some of your best lessons from failing. This wasn’t just a linear track for me. There were ups, there were down. I had many obstacles, much to learn and I didn’t have the privilege of partners or even people that looked like me that really wanted to empower me or educate me. I had to go into places I didn’t know or what to expect. I got ran out of a few places. But I learned h from it. So, I would tell them you have to go for it.”

1327 Miller Rd – Suite B Greenville, SC 29607 1-888-481-1086 www.crescentsurg.com 29

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& Sisterhood, Business, & Faith By Tonya Dixon Photos by Katrena Wize Artrography

Sisters, Larissa Gilmer and Keesha Sinclair are successful entrepreneurs, growing and expanding their businesses, meeting the needs of customers and planning for the future. The two have separate businesses, but their family bond and strong entrepreneurial spirits keep them connected and producing great products for an increasingly supportive and expanding clientele in the customized product and services industries. Entrepreneurship is far from new to them. It’s a way of life; one they have been exposed to since they were born. “We come from a family of entrepreneurs,” said Gilmer. “It was only natural for us to do the same.” “I believe it’s just instinct. It’s just in us. Our dad currently owns and operates R&B Janitorial, and Lawn Care Services. Our mom ran a lucrative daycare for many years,” said Sinclair. “Their hustle was always inspiring.” Gilmer – the younger of the two – is the owner of Elle Accessories and More, selling and designing hand-crafted, custom earrings, pin-back buttons (the kind often worn on jean jackets, backpacks, and other pop style items), Jibbitz (the cool accessories worn on Crocs shoes) and custom branded items for businesses. She’s been growing her business since 2012, but over the last few years, Gilmer has really tapped into her specialty and honed her craft. “A lot of what I do is cultural-based. For example, I have a Black Excellence collection which include croc jibbitz, custom pins, button earrings and stickers. It’s all based on black culture surrounding HBCUs, sororities/ fraternities, and popular culture tag sayings in the black community,” said Gilmer. “I can do customized buttons and earrings and more for customers. It’s all specific to what they want.” Continued on the next page

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Keesha Sinclair

What started as a hobby and sporadic opportunities to earn extra money has become a true labor of love. “I do a lot of custom branding items for my clients who want to market their businesses with custom logo pins, button earrings, and stickers,” she says. Gilmers options are limitless. It’s specific to what her clients want. “I think we are all in a space that we are striving to create multiple streams of income. And that’s fine, but it’s more than that. My products resonate with me and hopefully my customers,” she said. “When I saw the interest of people; I was prompted to take it to another level.” “At first, I didn’t know my business worth, but that was because I was looking at it like it was a hobby. Someone once told me as long as I looked at it like a hobby that’s all it was going to be. Once I started putting time into the business and allowing it to be big on paper and in practice then it would be big to everyone else as well.” Gilmer says that sentiment has not only been true, but it has been one of the guiding forces and principles in her entrepreneurship arsenal. Older sister and entrepreneur veteran of the two, Sinclair owns and operates Kreat’ N Stitches, a customized product business Specializing in custom apparel, embroidered designs, t-shirts, etc. “I have always love the idea of creating and I love to craft in my spare time,” says Sinclair. “Years before my current business, I created gumball machines made from flower pots. I also made fleece tie blankets and personalized them by hand. Many of the things I do now evolved over time.”

www.kreatnstitches.com IG:kreatnstitches FB: Kreat’ N Stitches kreatnstitches@gmail.com 336.405.8676 32

Sinclair was bitten by the entrepreneurship bug many years ago in elementary school. Her business model may have changed somewhat, but her passion never waned.

Larissa Gilmer

“I was the candy girl in school. I sold candy out of my bookbag,” she said. “During the summer, my parents allowed me to sell candy from our patio to the neighborhood.” “I’ve always had side jobs. I want to create generational wealth for my family. I don’t want to live paycheck to paycheck. More importantly, I love what I do and take pride in what I do. I love to create something and see that the customer is proud of it too. I get joy when I get emails, texts or phone calls after an item is received. That’s satisfaction. It’s a little piece of me and Kreat’ N Stitches spread all over the world. I love that. I want people to enjoy it as much as I enjoy making it.” Born and raised in Fayetteville, North Carolina, Gilmer and Sinclair followed similar paths. Both graduated from Fayetteville State University, are members of the same sorority – Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, and ultimately became Career Technical Education teachers in the Guilford County School System. Their connection is strong. They admit they are fiercely protective of one another and support each other’s endeavors. “We work well together. We often find we can improve the client experience and meet their needs by collaborating,” said Gilmer. Customers might go to Keesha for a shirt, but they will come to me for earrings to match or to design and place a logo on the earrings.” She says they learn together, improving their individual businesses as well as their collaborations.

IG: ElleAccessories&More FB: ElleAccessories&More elleam16@gmail.com 336.355.7936 33

“When customers come to shop with us, we want them to leave feeling good about their experience and excited about a product they love.” 34

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“I love seeing how we grow together, as well as individuals in our businesses. We are able to feed off each other,” said Sinclair. “Our collective efforts allow us to provide fantastic products, services, and a solid business model for the community.” After purchasing her first embroidery machine and developing her products and production system, Sinclair spent years working from her kitchen table, then her home office before making the move to a separate facility on West Friendly Ave., in Greensboro, N.C. A great deal of the clients that she serves also patronize Gilmer. They could be considered an entrepreneurial one-two punch, where customers can get all their items designed and personalized in one convenient stop. Additionally, they host and attend pop-up shops. Not only do they support one another, but they often provide the space and opportunity for other business owners to highlight and sell their goods. “Larissa and I have a lot of success, but especially when we host holiday pop-up shops or when we set up at other shops,” said Sinclair. “Eventually we even started inviting friends that had businesses to do pop-ups with us.” “When people come to the shop, we want them to leave feeling good about their experience at Kreat’ N Stitches and excited about their products. To accomplish this, we intentionally create a positive atmosphere. One summer I initiated “Feel Good Fridays.” When, customers come in, they feel a sense of excitement about their experience and leave feeling good! We hope to share that same experience with our customers this summer as well as everytime they shop with us,” they shared. The sisters both stress the source of their success. “Before every Pop Up Shop we pray with our vendors, and we ask for God’s wisdom and guidance. We pray that our customers will receive whatever they need, whether it be products, a smile, a hug, or even an encouraging word. We are not just selling products, I consider it ministry and a gift that God has given us,” Sinclair shares.

Clothing/Shoot Stylist: Jatcie Williams

Gilmer and Sinclair often point their success and foundation back to their parents’ example of strong entrepreneurial leadership, family commitment, and love.

Larissa’s Makeup: Pretty GirlGang

Production Credits Keesha’s Hair: Tonieka Michelle Keesha’s Makeup: Darlene Mitchell Larissa’s Hair: Chelsi Majette

Continued on the next page

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“It’s a family affair,” said Gilmer. “Our parents have been married 43 years.” They are inspired beyond words by their parents and appreciate the many lessons they have been taught as they look to do the same within their own families. Gilmer and Sinclair are always looking for ways to grow and expand. Although the circumstances were certainly not ideal, the pandemic provided an unexpected opportunity. “We’re always looking for ways to expand and stand out. When the pandemic started, the shop closed for seven months. I couldn’t open the doors. So, I switched up the model a bit and started creating embroidered masks,” said Sinclair. “You have to go with the times and what’s needed and what’s in. We’re always trying to be cutting edge.” Whether it’s Black History Month, Christmas, New Year’s, a customer’s birthday or maybe it’s not a special day at all, Sinclair and Gilmer can provide custom items that meet the need. For example, they have the “Black Vibes Only” collection – sweatshirts, earrings, buttons, t-shirts, just name it.

Recently, Sinclair has expanded her shop location with more square footage to display products and meet the growing needs of customers. Additionally, she’s looking toward establishing an entrepreneurship camp for children in the future. She wants to invest and instill the same ideals and foundation of business savvy and acumen in them that she gained from her parents. Like any business, certainly, the point of Elle Accessories and More and Kreat’ N Stitches is to make a profit, but for Gilmer and Sinclair, it’s also about family and positively impacting the life of someone else. To them, it’s not just a pair of earrings or just an embroidered shirt. It’s making and selling a product with love that will bring joy and satisfaction to someone else. To learn more about Elle Accessories and More, and Kreat’ N Stitches, please visit their websites, social media pages, or contact them directly. h

MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

Asher Grady The son of Jessica and Justyn Grady

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

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