Huami Magazine DMV March/April 2022 by Terry Watson

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March/April 2022 Volume 1 Issue 8

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My Expectations and The Truth A Letter From The Editor

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

I would have to say that I grew up poor by world standards. I never felt like it because my mother constantly poured unconditional love into my other siblings and me. Her love A Letter from the Editor wouldn’t allow me to focus on what I didn’t have or anything I could be missing. However, as life happened, I realized that when compared to others, experiences were more What if tomorrow didn’t my arrive? All of your plans, hopes complex. Even still, I had the opportunity to overcome them. and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never Onehappened? of the most important things I learned fromfor mya rainy There would be no reason to save upbringing is that the truth will always override myof making day, and you could spare someone the trouble expectations. very first car I owned,seemingly I purchased promises.The What if your lastthat opportunity expired for myself. wasn’t a new vehicle, today?ItWhat would you do? but it was mine. It had a few dents, and the tires didn’t match either. The heat or air I’ve been told thatand I often like pipe I do too much. conditioning didn’t work, theseem exhaust would shake like I the am not enough and I’m a firm like aHonestly, leaf whenI feel I started car,doing probably because it was believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything being held in place by the wiring of a close hanger. Withon allme of that I couldn’tmy handle. I sometimes how lifeI would its imperfections, car was a beauty inwonder my sight, and was be if I chose to idleit.and accept what it presented to me. I very appreciative tosit own have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is a blessing thatlike isn’tI afforded to car everyone. A challenge Though it seemed drove that for all eternity, it only to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? survived one year with me. I didn’t keep gas in the fuel tank, I do nothing, fail, oil andeither. if I tryIIdrove don’t, itbut instead learn and I Ifnever changedI the fast, and on cold something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and mornings I didn’t allow it to warm up. Rarely did I bathe it orin acquire even return provide it withlife. routine or preventative maintenance, and before I knew it, my first and only method of transportation The best advice ever given to me happened when someone slowed down and shut off in the middle of the road. told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only See, I expected my car to run forever, but the truth is hope provided. I have also learned the difference between I never did anything to ensure that it would. I expected what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with my car go when I needed it to but when neverto considered my and asto well. I compare it to knowing be confident thoughtless and erratic treatment’s when impacttoon I expected to beit.quiet, because ride forever, but the truth is I never invested in my cars’ future. someone may get it confused with being arrogant. I’m saying that we will only get out of life what put into it. How Makewe you tomorrow will we ever expect to know God happen today, but most if we never spend time with Him? importantly make it count. My goal inLife lifeisisbut to awin. For this whisper and to happen, I must be willing to we put ourselvesdo in a what is necessary tohear win and position to whatalign it is myself with what telling us.is true, which is God’s expectations.

Terry L. Watson

Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L. Watson

Publisher

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L. Watson Editor In Chief Writer Ellen Richardson Terry L. Watson Writer Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Dorjae’ McClammey Writer Arielle Kilgore Writer Writers

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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

On The Cover

Photo by Shaw Photography Group

CONTENTS

MARCH/APRIL 2022

DMV

Apostle Francello McCoy 18 Healing & Mending Ministry

On The Cover

KW Expressive Reflections LLC Kelly White

Victoria Marie Photography

Victoria Fowler

Elite ID Fitness LLC

Joshua Oredipe

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Wynter Rose

Also Featured

Kazia Bryant She provides compassion and love during a mothers most sincere moment of needs. Learn more about her journey. Louisville, KY

Santia Pace Meet the face behind the growing and popular brand of natural hair care products. Creative Styles Salon. Pensacola, FL DMV - March/April 2022

Shalonda Palmer Learn more about the founder of Empowered Girlz Inc. Her foundation is focused on empowering young girls. Denver, CO

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KW Expressive Reflections LLC 6

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By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Kelly White

For years, Kelly White has been a devoted wife and a nurturing mother who never gave much thought to her personal ambitions. Taking the back seat in life resulted from her upbringing. She still recalls something her father would say, “children should be seen, but not heard.” Originally from Charleston, SC, Kelly Simmons White currently lives in the Richmond, VA, area. Born in a family of three children, she is the middle child and the only girl in her immediate family. Growing up, she learned to be independent and confident. Kelly studied Business Administration at Howard University. While attending Howard, she was a member of the Marching, Pep, and Concert bands. She would leave Howard University and later graduate with a B.S in Business and Management from the University of Maryland University College. Determined to get her education, she also obtained an MBA from the University of Phoenix. Being family-oriented, Kelly is happily married to her husband, Hampton White III, and together they have two children, Kristopher and Kordell. A business owner with ambitions, Kelly currently owns two businesses – KW Expressive Reflections LLC and Paradise Travel LLC. In 2017, Kelly decided to turn things around and start her own business. Though she was unsure of what to do at the time, she refused to let that stop her, and eventually, her entrepreneurial side was revealed. Kelly began brainstorming at her husband’s suggestion. It was feedback that she trusted, being that he is also an entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience. Between her personal interests, passion, and her skills, she figured out a way to help people and earn an income through the process.

As a voice-over artist, Kelly’s journey in that domain began a little over three years ago when she had the opportunity to host Travel Conversations, a 15-minute talk show with Paradise Travel on Rejoice 101.3 FM 990 AM based in Richmond, VA. That experience completely changed Kelly, gave her a different perspective, and helped her realize a bigger purpose. She quickly grasped what it took to record and edit radio promos. After she left the show panel, Kelly researched other ways she could use her voice. One was doing voice-over work. She completed a training/coaching program in April 2021 and later recorded a commercial and narration demo reel. With KW Expressive Reflections, Kelly showcases her voice-over work. She provides voice-over services for commercials, radio/online promos, radio/podcast dramas, corporate videos, e-Learning, audiobooks, and much more. As she would say, “My Voice, Your Vision.” Paradise Travel LLC is a full-service travel agency dedicated to providing life-changing experiences. This company aims to help individuals and families create unforgettable memories and do so hassle-free.

Kelly says she is grateful to have the opportunity to delve into her side who always wanted to be a performer, an artist, an entrepreneur. “When people listen to or watch TV and radio commercials, they don’t associate voice-over with acting, but it is in fact,” she says. Like any successful actor, Kelly has to do continuous training and coaching to ensure she is able to connect with her audience effectively. Kelly’s advice to anyone looking to pursue their passion is always to trust yourself and don’t listen to anyone telling you that achieving your dreams is impossible. Also, don’t fall into the pitfall of researching yourself out of your dream. She says, “Do your research on whatever you are interested in, check the market share, and seek training and coaching opportunities to hone your skills. Once you get the information you need, take action onward and upward. To learn more about Kelly White and her businesses, please visit her website.

KW Expressive Reflections LLC www.KellyWhite.icanvoice.com 8

Paradise Travel LLC www.paradisewithinyourreach.com

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Divine Design Birth Services By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Kazia Bryant It all begins with her caring for her two daughters. Louisville, KY native Kazia Bryant is the owner of Divine Design Birth Services. Her company provides full spectrum doula services, including support and education during pregnancy, labor and delivery support, general lactation education, and postpartum support after the delivery of a baby. Divine Design Birth Services are designed for any birthing person who may request extra support throughout their pregnancy. While their services are open to anyone, the targeted audience is primarily young, single black women. With the infant/maternal mortality and morbidity rates being as high as they are, Kazia takes pride in ensuring the women of her community have a voice that is heard while in birthing spaces. She also shares how her role as a doula allows her to connect members of her community with all available resources. She also promotes happy and healthy outcomes following pregnancy and delivery. Kazia says her journey of becoming a doula began nearly eight years ago. “ It started with me just educating friends and family about birth. Once I got more comfortable and began taking clients, and in 2018, I took a formal training course, and the rest is history,” she says. Kazia was born to be a birth worker. It’s always been something very near and dear to her heart. Going through nursing school was eye-opening. While she knew she wanted to work in the medical field, her life had a deeper calling and mission.

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With eight years of experience under her belt, Kazia is coming into her own. She shares her love for empowering families. “The support that I give families fills my heart. It is amazing to make them feel safe, lessen some of their fears about giving birth, and watch new life enter this world. I am inspired by knowing there is someone who needs someone else to lean on in their most vulnerable time. For someone to tell me they couldn’t have done it without me lets me know that my work is important,” she says. Her advice to others who may follow in her footsteps is to always have compassion. “Being pregnant, giving birth, and then transitioning into parenthood comes with many unexpected twists and turns. You have to remain compassionate to help someone navigate through that,” she shares. As life continues to happen, Kazia hopes to finish Midwifery School and advance to the next level of her birth work career. She appreciates the support of her colleague, Meka Kpoh, who is on the same journey, and they plan to tag team catching babies. To learn more about Kazia and Divine Design Birth Services, please visit their website. h

Divine Design Birth Services

502-653-9204

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www.pogrooming.com

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Victoria Fowler The craft of photography has grown in popularity in recent years, possibly due to the conversion from film to digital photo production. We live in a digital age, where a quick turnaround on anything seems to be the majority preference. Still, to succeed in this arena, one must have an eye for it. Without it, it’s almost impossible to separate yourself from the masses. Victoria Fowler of Nashville is the owner of Victoria Marie Photography LLC. She began shooting for the first time around 2011 and 2012. She shares, “Around that time, I really didn’t take it as seriously as I could have. My nursing career was taking off, so I approached it like a hobby and it didn’t materialize. I always enjoyed taking pictures, but life got in the way, and I just put it out of my mind. Then the Covid 19 pandemic started in 2020, and I had a lot more time on my hands. So I learned everything about photography and decided to invest in a beginner professional camera. Once I got my hands on it, I told myself if I could bet on anything, I could bet on myself. In a few short months, I outgrew my beginner camera and purchased another one.” Victoria was born and raised in Nashville and graduated from Tennessee State University in 2008. For the last fourteen years, she has worked full-time as a Registered Nurse. She is the mother of a six-year-old son, whom she says is her world because he pushes her everyday to be better and do better. Victoria naturally loves helping people, which is why she decided to pursue nursing. “Nursing has changed my life. I have met some unforgettable people along the way. I have always loved taking pictures to document everything, so as my nursing career took off, I bought a camera and took pictures,” she says.

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“When you come to me, all I want you to do is be prepared for an experience of a lifetime that you will remember, forever.” Victoria is a luxury maternity photographer. She provides makeup and wardrobe creative design for her maternity clients with each photography production. “When you come to me, all I want you to do is be prepared for an experience of a lifetime that you will remember forever,” Victoria says. She currently serves Nashville and the surrounding areas and will travel upon request. Being able to wake up everyday knowing that she has a purpose inspires Victoria. Also, knowing and trusting God that she has found her purpose inspires her as well. She credits her parents with having the biggest impact on her life as they have supported her 1000% in anything she wanted to do. “They raised me to be a woman of my word, to be kind in a world that is not, do the right thing, and be myself,” she says. “If I could give them the world, I would.” Victoria shares she has enjoyed her ride, from being a nurse to becoming a full-fledged photographer. “I wouldn’t change anything about the experience I’ve had. I am right where God wants me to be. Things don’t happen on my time but on time. I am truly blessed to be able to do what I do, and I have big plans for my future,” she says. h

www.victoriamariephotography.net 16

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Healing & Mending Ministry Information and Photos Provided by Apostle Francello McCoy She was born in Chicago, Illinois, to an African American Mother and Belizean Father. Apostle Francello McCoy moved to Saint Louis, MO, at the young age of three. Due to a separation from her father, it was just Apostle Francello, her mother, and her other children embarking on a new journey in life. Apostle Francello says her grandfather owned several confectionery stores around Saint Louis, and understandably, her mother worked for him. She was raised and educated in the Catholic faith and graduated from Mercy High School in 1982. As a young girl, Apostle Francello knew that she had a divine calling of God in her life. “I can remember when I was 12 years old. I had my first experience with hearing the voice of God. God was pulling me toward Him to serve in ministry. Although I was Catholic, I started attending a Pentecostal Church with a friend that lived in the neighborhood. After about a year, I started to attend a Baptist church with my Mother and Grandmother. The seed had been sown within me, and I was on fire for my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” she says. Challenges would present themselves to Apostle Francello during her teenage years. At the age of 17, she had her first child. She says life seemed to pass her by, and soon she became more and more like the world. At the age of 22, she moved out on her own and got married, and shares she became more disobedient than ever. “I started to abuse myself with marijuana and the illicit drug, PCP. Around the age of 24, I ended up in the State of Missouri Malcolm Bliss hospital and was diagnosed with having an irreversible condition called brain cell deterioration. I also had a nervous break-down. It was at this time in my life I realized the adversary was a liar and that God has the final say concerning sickness and my health.” During this time in her life, she became obedient and learned to trust God. More importantly, she says she experienced an Apostolic anointing, a divine call from God. At the age of 25, she started attending Abundant Life Fellowship Church, where Bishop

Matthew Ferguson was the Senior Pastor. As her relationship grew in Christ, she began to discern Christ leading her into learning about many religions, such as Catholic, Baptist, Pentecostal, and COGIC. She soon settled and united with the Apostolic Faith. Apostle Francello’s beloved husband, Reginald McCoy Sr., are blessed parents of one son, one daughter-in-law, and two daughters. They also have five grandchildren. Currently, she serves as an Evangelist and Entrepreneur. She is a business partner and Secretary for McCoy’s Lawn and Landscaping and former owner of Real McCoy’s Grill . She also serves as the Vice President of Real McCoy’s Property Management.

“Without intervention and education programs, victims of domestic violence find it extremely difficult to break the cycle of coercion and abuse that become the norm in their lives.”

As an Evangelist, she created an email ministry called Good Morning, Holy Spirit. Apostle Francello is also the Founder and CEO of Healing & Mending Ministry, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization registered in the state of Missouri. The organizations’ focus is to work with children, youth, adults, and families across the Saint Louis metropolitan area. “Our program serves children, families, and adults. Despite the success of our community services, we hope to extend our services to include a larger proportion of the at-risk youth populations. More importantly, between the ages of 12-16 years old, our youth fall into a category where they cannot remain in most programs due to lack of parental participation and consent. To address the enormous gap in education, employment, and positive productivity amongst our youth, we require transitional programs that will equip them with the necessary training, tools, skills, and environment,” she says. Rebuilding lives is an important and often difficult challenge. That is why Healing & Mending Ministry collaborates with agencies to provide resources to address the needs of its clients, which includes providing a transitional shelter for women and children. She says that it takes a village to raise a child and a dedicated and experienced staff. “Without intervention and education programs, victims of domestic violence find it extremely difficult to break the cycle of coercion and abuse that become the norm in their lives,” she says. Through the compressive domestic violence programs and services at HM2, victims of domestic violence receive the time and the tools necessary to live healthy, independent, and violencefree lives. By reducing risk factors and providing the information, education, life skills, and support, HM2 is able to break the cycle of domestic violence and empower victims to move beyond the abuse and live fulfilling lives. Some of the services offered are Group Supportive Counseling, Individual Supportive Counseling, and Information/Educational Groups. They also provide Support Services, Family Counseling, Emergency Response Services, Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners Program (SANE), Education and Prevention, and Legal Services via a network of legal counselors servicing St. Louis City, County, and St. Charles County.

Apostle Francello McCoy Healing & Mending Ministry www.healmending.org

Apostle Francello is also a self-published author and has published a book titled Divine Deliverance. She credits many individuals for inspiring and influencing her growth in Christ, including her mother and father, Minister Madeline-Michelle, Elder Harry Stanford, Elder Gilbert Summers, Apostle Ivory & Elder Evelyn Hopkins, Apostle Rick, and Pastor Mary. To learn more about the Healing & Mending Ministry, please visit their website. h

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Joshua O redipe Elite ID Fitness LLC By Terry L. Watson Photos by Rob Lay For many Americans, the Covid 19 pandemic has affected us in many ways. While being forced into organized isolation, some things were added unto us, whether we wanted them or not. This includes weight gain. Possibly, it would have been a lot easier to apply a padlock to our refrigerators and pantries, but that wouldn’t have prevented the consumption of take-out and delivered foods. No matter what preventative measures are involved, the best solution to maintaining a healthy lifestyle is to remain physically active. This is the area where Joshua Oredipe excels. The first-generation Nigerian American currently resides in Philadelphia, PA. He is an ISSA-certified personal trainer, Elite ID Fitness Studio owner, and founder of Elite ID Fitness LLC. According to Joshua, Elite ID Fitness LLC is where health is earned, not purchased. Joshua obtained his Bachelors of Science in Business Management and Administration from Pennsylvania State University. He has 11 years of experience in the fitness and wellness industry. Within three years, he successfully competed with the National Physique Committee and the All Natural OCB Men’s Physique contest. He shares his purpose is to have a positive influence and remind others to prioritize their health. “I believe it is our responsibility to ensure that we thrive and not just survive and understand that we are the universe experiencing itself,” he says. Joshua says he enjoys “all things” fitness, though weight and strength training is his primary fitness modality. “As a personal trainer, I assist clients with properly defining and executing their fitness goals. Utilizing my knowledge and expertise, I develop custom workouts that combine HITT (high-intensity interval training) with circuit, weight, plyometric, flexibility, and bodyweight training to challenge a wide range of clientele. I can create weight-loss, weight-gain, and nutritional coaching programs and currently offer one-on-one, group, and virtual training sessions. I love to coach others on the proper use of gym equipment and assist them with understanding the benefits of utilizing proper form and exercise execution,” he says.

Joshua’s fitness journey began as a child. He was a talented soccer player at the little league levels and continued to excel throughout college. “My mother was always health conscious and cooked our family three square meals daily. In 2004, my dad suffered a stroke and later learned he suffered from a brain tumor. Seeing my father in the hospital for the first time, and watching his recovery process, deeply impacted my family and I. This experience made me conscious of how fragile life is and also pushed me to take responsibility for my health,” he says. In response to what he saw happen with his father, Joshua decided to explore other forms of physical activity beyond soccer and fell in love with weight training. He joined a local gym, and his bodybuilding journey began. As he submerged himself further into bodybuilding, it was only a matter of time before his focus shifted from the weight room to the kitchen. “I learned to source healthier food options, proper portion control, strategic meal timing, and the implementation of natural supplements,” Joshua says. Being naturally skinny with a starting weight of 132 pounds, he was able to increase his overall body weight by 71 pounds within a few years. Family members and friends started to inquire about his transformation, and that’s when he realized his passion in life. Being a fitness instructor feeds something within Joshua. He shares how he loves to serve others and help them tap into their potential. “I love instilling confidence and giving others a sense of achievement that translates to life on many levels. I also love to bring further attention to nutritional choices, mainly because most communities are riddled with poor food choices. Most people don’t truly understand the negative impact these foods have on our lives,” he says. Joshua is inspired by his parents Kim and Femi Oredipe. “They are living examples of good people. Throughout my childhood, they provided valuable lessons, which instilled the qualities necessary to become the man I am today. Their courage, diligence, and love, encourage me to be the best version of myself. Even more, their continued guidance and support have been a Godsend, and I consider myself to be very lucky,” he shares.

www.eliteidfitness.com 610-203-0937

Moving forward, Joshua has plans to scale his brand and bring on additional personal trainers, wellness coaches, and nutritionists that align with his mission. He plans to expand his services beyond strength training and incorporate yoga, meditation, and advanced breathing techniques. He also plans to establish programs to give back to underserved communities through volunteer work and organized fundraisers to promote specific issues. To learn more about Joshua Oredipe and Elite ID Fitness LLC, please visit their website. h

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STAR Girlz Empowerment, Inc. By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Shalonda Palmer Mentoring. Empowering. Transforming. Those words effectively describe who Denver, CO resident Shalonda Palmer is. She is also a vibrant, influential leader, entrepreneur, author, speaker, and mental health professional. “I am a woman of essence, shining light in the lives of girls, women, and families,” Shalonda says. Originally from Texas, Shalonda has utilized her upbringing and personal life experiences to distribute hope and teach others how to transform their lives. She has recently authored two books that focus on helping others navigate through life changes. They also specialize in the areas of mental and behavioral health, women empowerment, and entrepreneurship. Shalonda is recognized for creating nontraditional and traditional therapeutic intervention and prevention services. She has also produced materials that support women’s mental health in various areas such as personal and leadership development. She is also the founder of STAR Girlz Empowerment, Inc, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing direct services to clients. These programs focus on mentoring, empowering, and ultimately transforming the lives of its participants and their families. “We envision preparing them for society, future education endeavors, and personal change,” Shalonda says. “We accomplish this by focusing on mental health services, psychoeducational empowerment classes, transitional housing, entrepreneurship training, and educational exposure that lead to job creation while promoting healthier lifestyle choices.”

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STAR Girlz Empowerment, Inc. is growing at a fast rate, mainly through referrals. It has enjoyed a 95% program completion rate for youth and young adults since its inception in 2016. Shalonda opens up about the things that have shaped her life. Emotional and mental struggles are real. I never understood my worth because I wore many masks to cover my real self. In 2016, after a near-fatal car accident, I realized I was a special kind of substance with an assignment that I needed to surrender to. Life had given me plenty of ups and downs, but it had also given me a lot of strength through every trial. Navigating through mixed emotions and behaviors caused me to withdraw and become unrecognizable to myself. I had to make a decision that would affect the rest of my life and step outside of my comfort zone and be obedient to the assignment that I was given,” she says. Launched in Colorado, STAR Girlz Empowerment, Inc. was created through a vision from Shalonda Haggerty in 2014. She says, “The inspiration to develop a platform in which female youth could address their trauma through a psychoeducational and experiential curriculum was derived from personal experiences and growth during my adolescent years.” In 2016, the vision became a working project focused on supportive interventions by introducing what is now STAR Girlz Empowerment, Inc. signature program entitled B.L.I.N.G (Beauty. Leadership. Image. New you. Goal Digging). The response from parents, participants, and community partners encouraged STAR Girlz to develop a year-round empowerment program that would address real-life challenges surrounding girls and young adult women. They accomplish this using the acronym S.H.I.N.E., which means Self-confidence, Heal, Inspire, Navigate and Elevate. This has served as the foundational base since its debut.

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“My faith in God and family background have been major influences. The girls are my reasons. Without their involvement and transformation, STAR Girlz Empowerment, Inc. would not be able to be as successful as it is.” Shalonda believes she was chosen for this royal position for such a time as this. “My passion is to see youth and families overcome obstacles that try to deter them from shining in their most vulnerable stage of development. By giving from the heart, I can be a part of their transition and serve as a positive role model,” she says. “My faith in God and family background have been major influences. The girls are my reasons. Without their involvement and transformation, STAR Girlz would not be able to be as successful as it is.” While Shalonda appreciates the opportunity to lead STAR Girlz Empowerment, Inc., she wishes she could have changed a few things. “I love my business journey, though I wish I had someone in my life to mentor me about starting a business earlier in the process. From building a brand, sustainability, and networking, I believe it would have helped to prepare me,” she says. Moving forward, Shalonda hopes to attend and complete Law School at Thurgood Marshall in Houston, TX, within the next five to seven years. She also plans to open a recovery center and transitional home for young adult women transitioning from abuse and human trafficking. Lastly, Shalonda would like an opportunity to speak on major platforms such as Black Girls Rock and network with other influential women of color. To learn more about Shalonda Palmer and STAR Girlz Empowerment, Inc., please visit their website. h

STAR Girlz Empowerment, Inc. www.stargirlzempowerment.org 720-583-5951 31

Santia Creative Styles Salon

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Cazualtee Santia describes herself as a wife, mother, grandmother, sister-friend, and of course, a hairstylist. “I’m a woman who wears many hats, and I look good while doing it,” she says. Originally a native and resident of Washington, D.C., Santia moved to Pensacola eight years ago after her husband, Jonathan, job placed them there. Natural Hair Care and making others feel beautiful about themselves is her expertise. “I truly care about the health of my clients’ scalp and hair. I listen to their concerns and offer solutions and treatments that will work best for them,” she says. While enjoying the success of Creative Styles Salon Spa, Santia decided to change the dynamics of her business model. In 2017, she stepped out on faith and launched her own natural hair care product line that includes shampoos, conditioners, tonics, and lemongrass butter. The reviews have been stunning. One client shared, “I’ve always used hair tonic while sporting a short hairstyle. I decided in September 2019 to use Santia’s products because I wanted to let my hair grow. The results have been amazing, and some people are doing head turns, not thinking it’s me. My hair smells good, and it’s so soft. People often ask to touch it. I am so pleased with my hair growth.” Santia’s products are available online and in various stores in Washington, D.C., Miami, Atlanta, and Pensacola. What Santia loves most about styling hair she shares is connecting with new people and providing confidence and encouragement. She also credits her aunt, who recently passed away for impacting her life and career. Like most business owners, Creative Styles Salon Spa has been affected by the Covid 19 pandemic. Santia says when the virus arrived in Pensacola, she had to close her salon. However, being the wise businesswoman that she is, she was able to offset her losses with the online sales of her hair products. She survived, proving that her brand is her to stay. In the future, Santia says she plans to distribute her products to more stores and open other hair salons throughout the region. Her advice to others who may follow the same path she has is never to give up. “Obstacles will come, but you have to keep pushing,” she shares.

www.creativestylessalon.com

To learn more about Santia and Creative Styles Salon Spa, please visit either of their locations in Pensacola, Fl, or visit their website. h

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God’s Giving Service By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Marneicia Clay Marneicia Clay of Little Rock, AR, has always had a kind heart and a desire to serve others. This love has led her to start a nonprofit organization called God’s Giving Service, which focuses on community outreach and serving the homeless population. GGS began on February 8, 2016, simply by feeding the homeless and giving children hygiene bags and school supplies. Their intention Marneicia says was to help build self-confidence in children who were starting school. Marneicia’s tough exterior is derived from her tough upbringing. She was born in West Helena, AR, and raised in a community that demanded a certain kind of toughness and the ability to defend oneself. “My family didn’t have much knowledge and resources, so I had to fight to break those generational curses,” she says. Marneicia became a young mother while in high school. As challenging as her circumstances appeared, Marneicia pushed on and graduated from John L McClellan High School. Next, she enrolled at Arkansas Beauty School and graduated in December 2010. Soon after high school, her second child was born in July 2011. She shares that she decided to make a change in her life for the better and continued her education journey at Pulaski Technology College, North Little Rock, and studied Business Management. During this period, she also worked with Disability Services for the Blind. “While working with my client, I would have conversations on what I would do next after graduation. I then learned that my calling was to help people,” she says.

“My family didn’t have knowledge and resources, so I had to fight to break those generational curses.” DMV - March/April 2022

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On a whim, Marneicia says she researched online to help her better understand the things she was feeling. With the results in hand, she decided to start a nonprofit organization to help Atrisk youth and young adults. A few years after graduating from Pulaski Technology College, she started a child care family home. She later completed the CDA program at Shorter College in 2019. Today, she is the proud owner of Marneicia’s Love & Care Development Center, located in Southwest Little Rock. Her company offers therapy services for children who are developmentally delayed. Marneicia says her goal is to help children reach their full potential by providing reading programs that teach financial literacy and offer childcare services to families. Marneicia was inspired by her youth Career Counselor. “Because of the impression she had on me, I knew that I could do anything I put my mind to,” she says. “She trained me as a Career Counselor at The Department of Workforce, and every day I went to work, she would show me how to make resumes, cover letters, datasheets, and how to look up information about anything that interested me.” She is also inspired by being the first member of her family to own and operate a successful business.

Marneicia Clay God’s Giving Services 501-650-4416

godsgivingservices@gmail.com

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Marneicia says what she loves most about her calling is being able to help others. “I am called to help others and lead them to their destiny,” she says. In the future, she plans to build an additional Child Care Family Home, a Parent Technology Center, as well as a fruit and vegetable garden to help children and families in need. “By doing these things, I believe that I will be able to help others reach their full potential,” she says. To learn more about God’s Giving Service, please contact Marneicia directly.

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