Huami Magazine for The DMV Jan./Feb. 2021

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Jan./Feb. 2021 Vol. 1 Issue 1 FREE

SPEAKER + COACH + TRAINER + AUTHOR DMV - Jan./Feb. 2021

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Huami Magazine Celebrates Black History Month

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

Make 2021 Your Best Year Yet!

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

A Letter From Thethe Editor A Letter from Editor

Well, we can finally put the year of 2020 to rest. I am grateful for what last year presented.

Every test and each challenge served its purpose in A Letter from the Editor my life. What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes

and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if

As it states book Psalmsarrive? in the chapter 119: ithopes was everything that youofdecided to putbible, off until tomorrow never Whatinifthe tomorrow didn’t All of your plans, good and that I was afflicted.

I will add to that message and share that my happened? would beano reason to save a rainy dreams There wouldn’t have street to park on. for What if afflictions have made me appreciate being alive in 2021. day, and you could someone theuntil trouble of making everything that youspare decided to put off tomorrow never

promises. What your last happened?

Thereif would be opportunity no reason toseemingly save for aexpired rainy

I would likeWhat to take this spare opportunity to encourage every listener to today? would you do? day, and you could someone the trouble of making make this year your best one yet. Let go of the baggage that you have promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired been carrying around for all too long. Unnecessary baggage has the I’ve been that I often today?

Whattold would you do? seem like I do too much. ability to adversely affect our futures. What is the use in starting fresh Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm and new, if we continue to share our lives with things that don’t add believer in knowing that God seem wouldn’t put anything on me I’ve been told that often like I do tooto much. value, things that depress us,I and the things that want remind of who that couldn’t handle. sometimes wonder how would Honestly, I feel like doing enough I’mlife a firm we used toI be and who weI am areI not trying to move awayand from.

This may be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me I involve people, material things, and even some parts about ourselves have that to bedoesn’t very boring. opinion, opportunity that I found couldn’t handle.

I sometimes wonder how that you instinctively know belong. In Itmy is not a partlife of would who we are is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone.

A challenge be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I becoming.

to mefound is an adventure.

What is the In worst that can opportunity happen? have that to be very boring. my opinion, If aI do nothing, I fail, and if I try to I don’t, learn is blessing isn’t afforded everyone.

A challenge In this new year,that let’s do the unthinkable.

If but you instead have been setting on something new about myself.

Relinquish your pride and in it to me is not an adventure.

What is the that towards can happen? a dream, why give that dream some lifeworst and work making return acquire life. become than just a dream. to life.but instead learn If I more do nothing, I fail, and if Bring I try I itdon’t, something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in Clean up your mess.

Inever my home, oneme of happened the ugliest when sights someone for me The best advice given to return acquire life. is a sink fullme of to dirty dishes. expectshappen for his children operate told make my God tomorrow today. to In doing soin excellence.

If you have any unfinished business, try cleaning it up.

I have pressed myever way given through doors with a key thatsomeone only For me The best advice to me happened when personally,, I am not going to attempt to try and clean my mess up hopeme provided. have also learned the today. difference between told to makeImy tomorrow happen In doing soall in one day.

I know It willmy take some time.

I alsolife understand thatme it will never God blesses me with and what cana burden with Iwhat have pressed way through doors with key that only become complete without an effort on my part. as well.

I compare it toalso knowing when be confident and hope provided.

I have learned the to difference between whenlife tocan be quiet, what God blesses me with and what burdenbecause me with Finally, in this new year I have decided to forgive. It starts with may get it confused as well. I compare it to knowingsomeone when to be confident and forgiving myself for all of my self inflicted problems. Instead of blaming with being when to bearrogant. quiet, because others, I have decided to hold my own self accountable. “Terry, I someone may get it confused am sorry. I should have known better. I promise to love myself Make youarrogant. tomorrow with being unconditionally and without reservations happen today, most for the rest of my life.” but I owe it to myself importantly make it count.

Make you tomorrow to do so.

Life is but a whisper and happen today, but most we must putmake ourselves inhave a itwho count.

I willimportantly also forgive others position what it is is butto a hear whisper been aLife problem for me in myand life. telling us.

Allowing their infractions to occupy we must put ourselves in a space in my life to willhear onlywhat rob me position it isof the opportunity live. Letting go of the tellingtous.

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www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief

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

www.huamimagazine.com TerryWriters L. Watson

Alana Allen - Deputy Tonya Dixon Editor Terry L Watson Terry L. WatsonPublisher Writers Alana Allen Tonya Dixon Jeuron Dove Writer Dawn C. Thornton Terry L. Watson Terry L. Watson Allen Writer Alana Photographers Laci Ollison

Jeuron Dove Writer Perfect Lenz Photography Shaw Photography Group

Photographers AshleighStill Crawley Shots Photography Tamara Smith Photographer Perfect Lenz Who Shotya Photography Lechele Jackson Photography Photographer Photography Group Nick F. Shaw Nelson

Photographer Still ShotsLayout Photography Ernest Fields

Photographer Who Shotya Photography Mykel Media Company Bernard Smith Linda Bennett Photographer Layout Howard Gaither Photography

Mykel Media Inquiries Company General mykelmedia@yahoo.com Linda Bennett huami.dmv@gmail.com (336) 340-7844 HUAMI MAGAZINE is published bimonthly quarterly by the mykelmedia@yahoo.com Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any 340-7844 portion of (336) this publication is prohibited without

written MAGAZINE permission isfrom the publisher to HUAMI published quarterly prior by the doing so.

Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility Mykel Media Company.

Any reproduction of any for statements by individuals featured or portion of this made publication is prohibited without advertisers.

Comments concerning this publication written permission from the publisher prior to be Media submitted to the editorresponsibility by doing so. may Mykel doesn’t accept Email or Telephone E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com for statements made Email by individuals featured or terry.editor@yahoo.com terry.editor@yahoo.com advertisers. Comments concerning this publication 336-340-7844 or toto the editor by may be submitted Media Mykel MediaCompany, CompanyLLC LLC E-mail atMykel terrywatson@huamimagazine.com P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC terry.editor@yahoo.com Greensboro, or toNC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE Mykel Company, LLC 2014 Media All Rights Reserved Box 20102 2021P.O. All Rights Reserved Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2014 All Rights Reserved

hurt and pain will add to your life.

Terry L. years Watson On The Cover It’s 2021 and there is a whole world to Photo by Shaw Photography Group Editor/Founder conquer. Open your to what God Want To Advdertise?

Terry L.heart Watson On The Cover is doing in your life and have your best Please call Photography 336-340-7844 Photo by Shaw Group November/December 2014 Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844 year yet! Editor/Founder Terry L. Watson

November/December 2014

Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844

CONTENTS

JAN./FEB. 2021

DMV EDITION

Lead(H)er

Tyneka Howard

On The Cover

Author, Coach, Speaker, and Trainer Sophia Casey

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Dream Financial Services

Talisha “Tee” Birdsong

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Black Girl Candle Company

Cassandra Durham

Little Learners Academy LLC

Kendra McKinney

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Also Featured Huntsville

Timothy M. Joe Fine Art Timothy M. Joe

Memphis, TN

2 Dope Therapists With A Podcast Darnita Samuels and Nzinga Cates

Atlanta

Coach, Boss, and Cancer Conqueror Coach Stacy Bryant

Charleston, SC

Hope Continues To Carry Her Tasha Johnson-King

Dallas/Fort Worth

BF Configurations Brian Flewellen

22 Tia Gray

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Helping business owners get organized and operate more efficiently.

Nashville, TN

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Cutest Baby Photo

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She is a real cutey.

Introducing Skylar Harper.

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SPEAKER + COACH + TRAINER + AUTHOR

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Photos and Information Provided by Sophia Casey

Many people offer solutions, few deliver results. As a certified coach, authorpreneur and corporate trainer for several leaders, Sophia Casey does so much more than support individual and corporate clients with problem solving.

Sophia helps leaders of all caliber get transformative results that literally catapult their businesses and organizations to the next level. Having served as Director of First Impressions for a task force for the former Vice President of the United States, her innate ability for excellence, execution and acceleration allows her to meet individuals right where they are—then help them soar!

Featured in SUCCESS magazine, on CBS, NBC, Fox News, and SiriusXM radio, for more than 30 years, Sophia has served as an agent of change for followers around the world.

As a featured voice on Amazon Alexa, it’s no surprise that Sophia has successfully served on various levels of leadership.

Having started her journey as Director of an education center, Sophia has been fortunate to serve as head of several training organizations in the federal government, including her tenure as Director of Enterprise-wide Training for more than 10,000 engineers, attorneys, and analysts.

A Professional Certified Coach through the International Coach Federation (ICF), her love for mentoring and coaching soon blossomed into her signature leadership development model: Leadership, Ownership, and Accountability (LOA ®).

Her studies at UCLA and Johns Hopkins University taught her the importance of higher education and the value of relating to everyone as a leader. Having grown up and taught in some of the toughest neighborhoods in the nation, Sophia is forever committed to empowering leaders to transform their professional and personal lives, despite external circumstances, and to do so with ease and flow. This commitment led Sophia to create the Ease & Flow Leadership Academy, an online learning school for individuals and corporations.

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Realizing that this is much more of a calling than simply a career, Sophia stands firmly on her faith and her commitment to transform communities worldwide. Yet building a legacy for her children, and her children’s children, Sophia authored both an eBook entitled, K.I.M. – Keep It Movin’: 10 Steps to Let Go and Fly, as well as Ease & Flow: A 31-Day Journal to Get Clear, Connected, and Courageous About Life.

In addition to the release of her first novel, Fierce Vulnerability: A Colored Girl’s Truths, Trials, and Triumphs, in August of 2020, Sophia continues her commitment to supporting women’s global empowerment. A featured speaker for the Women’s Economic Forum, a conference where over 1,500 women from 110 countries attended, her stories of hope and healing leave a distinct mark on the hearts and minds of others that cannot easily be erased.

As a young professional, who was once told that she was too young, too black, or not smart enough, Sophia has not only shattered glass ceilings; those ceilings have now become her floor.

Using her perfectly imperfect gifts to catapult herself to great success—and help others do the same—Sophia was selected to host the upcoming Sophia Casey TV Show. Far from your average life coach or basic business mentor, she will not stop until she supports you with winning in business and life. h

For interviews or booking, email sophia@sophiacasey.net , or visit www.sophiacasey.net 88

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NEW RELEASE & BOOKS: ABOUT FIERCE VULNERABILITY Fierce Vulnerability – A Colored Girl’s Truths, Trials and Triumphs, is the story of four powerful women, Jean-Marie, Ava, Vanessa and Simone, living the dream of Black affluence in Washington DC. Each woman, in her own time, begins a dark journey to the underbelly of this dream. Ava is a ball busting powerhouse in the political sphere. Hers is a constant battle to prove her self-worth. Vanessa does her best to keep up her perfect appearances while catering to her own demons in silence. Simone shows us the cost of being superwoman and what becomes possible when we lean on our communities and our roots to lift us up. Jean-Marie struggles with vulnerability and the personal power it brings through personal losses and challenges. We come to know them each through their own distinct voices.

We come to see them more fully through the eyes of their sisters. It is through their collective perspective, friendship and sisterhood that we learn who they are and develop a sense of what it takes to claim freedom, power, and fierce vulnerability for ourselves.

ABOUT THE EASE & FLOW JOURNAL Research shows that daily practices of getting thoughts down on paper and getting present to what you are grateful for, can reduce stress and overwhelm.

We created this 31 day journal to support you in doing just that releasing all the clutter of your thoughts and exchanging them for empowered ones. We've even included daily structures to help you focus on your most important tasks, move your goals forward, and a space to capture things you are grateful for.

As a bonus, if you get stuck with what to journal about, we included over 50 journal prompts to inspire you to let your thoughts and dreams pour onto the pages with ease and flow. We can’t wait for you to experience it.

REVIEWS “Coach Sophia is so full of positive energy and effective solutions! This is actively helping me move and I love it. You need this in your life.”

- K. GIFFIN Relationship Coach “I had the pleasure of meeting Sophia and buying her book at a networking event. I’m so glad I did. It’s so much more than a journal. I look forward to writing in it daily to express my moods, to reflect on my goals, and plan my day! Buy one for yourself and all your friends.”

- PAMELA HART VINES Filmaker/Videographer

SOPHIACASEY.NET

BF Configurations

By Laci Ollison Photos by Michael Duncan

Building and establishing a legacy is something that many strive to do. It is also something that Brian Flewellen is extremely familiar with. Not just in persevering his own legacy but being able to live out the legacy of his late grandmother as well.

A native of Dallas, Texas, Brian is the founder and owner of BF Configurations.

The company specializes in TV mounting, home theater setups, picture hanging, equipment relocation, and computer repair.

“We’ve been in business a little over seven years,” said Brian. “We currently operate in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, Houston, Texas, Atlanta, Georgia, and we’re branching out to San Antonio soon.”

Although Brian is now a successful entrepreneur, he actually gained the inspiration to start the business from a manager at one of his previous job.

“When I worked for another company as a corporate sales trainer, I was installing security systems for employees.

One day my director at the time said, ‘man you should start your own business.’”

Brian disagreed and felt that starting a business was not the right decision for him.

“I said no. I will never start my own business.

I’m making money as a corporate trainer. I’m not about to leave what I’m doing to go start a business.” But his manager gave him advice that stuck with him.

“He told me to remember that I’m black and I’m always replaceable in corporate America.” Brian still wasn’t convinced that he had a need to start a business. “I said they’ll never let me go. I’m black and the only sales trainer in the building.

However, one year later, Brian was let go from his job. His manager, who was also let go from the company, offered Brian a job at a new company and gave him the opportunity to work on his skillset and perfect his craft.

“The second company that I worked for does the exact same thing that I do; they specialize in TV mounting and home theater setup. He put me in a position to really perfect my craft. And once I perfected my craft, he pretty much pushed me over the edge and said go swim.”

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That was when Brian took the leap into entrepreneurship.

From there he jumped out and ran and never looked back.

Now, BF Configurations has grown and Brian has been able to scale to multiple cities in multiple states.

“While at the first company, I trained a guy that lived in Atlanta. About a year and a half after I got laid off, he got laid off. He reached out to me and asked if I had any work because he heard that I was starting a business. He asked did I have any work in Atlanta,” Brian says.

At this time, Brian had not considered expanding to Atlanta. “I said I didn’t really have anything. But I always knew that my Grandmother, my Aunt, and my Dad had a connection in Atlanta. So, I had a good resource there so I kind of ran with that.”

But the expansion into a new market was not an easy process. “In the midst of going to Atlanta, there were a few times where I considered closing the doors because it was hard. I was managing Dallas and then trying to manage Atlanta. But I had to let go and I had to trust and know that Rodney was going to run the location,” he shared.

And now, BF Configurations is celebrating three years of operating in the Atlanta area. Brian says that most of his clientele come from social media. They pull about 60% of their clients from social media, and 30% are from referrals.

His goal for 2021 is to improve the relationship he has with his current clients by checking in and performing customer satisfaction surveys. “In 2021, we’re really going to focus on putting the client first. We’re going to be making phone calls to our clients, to learn if there is anything that we could have done better, what can we improve on, so we can learn and grow tenfold,” he says.

Brian shared that the hardest part of entrepreneurship has been the fear of failure. “The fear of failure involves not knowing if I’m going to get a phone call today, or if the lights are still going to be cut on tomorrow,” he says.

In order to overcome his fears, Brian said there were some things that he had to sacrifice. “I motivate myself. But as a business owner, what you put in is what you’re going to get out of it. When I’m working, I’m working 110%. I’m giving it my all,” he shared.

Those sacrifices, however, have paid off and are evident in the success of his business. It has also allowed him to reinvest back into his business. “My biggest accomplishment has been purchasing three trucks in one year,” Brian said.

The business owner wants to encourage other entrepreneurs to not be afraid to fail. “Les Brown said something like when you fall, and it’s not a matter of if you fall because you will fall. But when you fall, fall on your back because you can look up. And when you look up, you can get up. And when you get up you can look around and see the mistakes you made and understand how to not make those same mistakes again,” Brian said.

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Mission Statement

Our Mission is to service customers with such a focus and desire that our services will make the home improvement and installation process enjoyable, exciting, and most importantly successful for everyone

Core Values

C- Continuous Improvement P- Professionalism R- Reliable C- Customer Focus S- Safety I- Integrity

Yet, Brian also pushes business owners to go after what they want. His biggest jewel that he shares with anyone is to follow your dream, and to not stop until it is fulfilled. As he has pursued his own dreams, Brian owes much of his success to his late grandmother, Mary Flewellen. “My grandmother opened a beauty salon 51 years ago, Flewellen’s Hair Salon. It was the first black beauty salon south of Dallas.

She told me coming up as a kid, if I don’t go to college, go get a trade,” he says. His grandmother’s dream was for him to be a barber, just like his father was. But Brian refused. He told her there was no way he would be a barber but promised her to figure things out.

Brian shares how he learned from his father the importance of preserving legacy. “My dad told me when I was a kid to protect my last name, because my last name has value. But me being a kid, I didn’t really understand the name Flewellen and the value of Flewellen. But after I started my business, I realized how much weight the name held. I have encountered people who trust me because of my last name, and because they knew my Grandmother and knew that she did good business. My business is now flourishing because of the relationships that my grandmother and father created,” he says.

If you are in the Dallas/Fort Worth area and in need of tv mounting services, please contact Brian Flewellen and BF Configurations, and allow his team to serve you. h

325 N. Saint Paul St. - Ste 3100 Dallas, TX 75201 (866) 573-5753 www.bfconfigurations.com DMV - Jan./Feb. 2021

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By Dr. Marrissa Dick Photos by Still Shots Photography

Throughout our lifetime, most people have heard the saying, “there’s nothing new under the sun”. Well, that biblical quote actually comes from Ecclesiastes 1:9 and it simply means there is nothing in the world that has not already happened, been seen, or been done. All of our experiences good or bad are testimonies that can help others navigate their lives more efficiently and effectively. Another thing that’s not new under the sun are candles.

They have been used for centuries for religious purposes, ceremonies, prayers, and relaxation techniques. Spirituality speaking, candles are also a representation of Jesus Christ - - The Eternal Light of the world. Candles can also be symbolic of passion and they can create a euphoric environment for the mind, body, and soul.

Meet Cassandra Durham, owner and operator of Black Girl Candle Company. Her candles are fashioned with a purpose. She shares, “I started Black Girl Candle Company because I felt like Black women needed something of their own. You know Black women do a lot of work, but they rarely get the recognition they deserve. It was important for me to create something for Black women that speaks to our needs. For me, Black Girl Candle Company is a way to empower, equip, and strengthen other women by letting them know that they can achieve anything they set their minds to and know that their lives have meaning. I want Black women to know that they aren’t dreaming alone. They aren’t walking by faith alone even though the enemy will tell you that you’re alone believe me when I tell you that you are not by yourself. God and Black Girl Candle Company are here supporting you.”

Cassandra understands scented candles can be purchased at any store, but she also knows that those candles are not poured with an anointing and purpose in mind.

According to Cassandra, “My candles are different because we start with love. I am of the belief that whatever it is inside of you is going to come out. So, if there is hate and bitterness inside of you then that’s what’s going to be evident in everything you do and it’s going to be evident in everything you touch. I am a believer; I have submitted my life unto God. I believe that love is in me so that’s what I exhibit. Love is exhibited in everything I touch. It’s exhibited in the way that I show up and present myself, but most importantly love is exhibited in the candles I pour. When I pour my candles, my focus is creating something especially for you that gives you moments of peace and clarity.

You know so many things in our lives are tied to aromas and scents. If you go into a restaurant and smell a particular dish, you are like oh my God this reminds me of my grandma house. Now if we keep it 100, I like men who smell good! I don’t know maybe it’s just me but even an unattractive man who smells good, talks good, and he’s on point then a brother may have a chance for

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a dinner date! I’ve turned my head on more than one occasion at an unattractive dude just because he smelled good! There’s power in scents. I want to create products for women who are stressed out so when they light one of my candles, they will experience moments of emotional peace and regain clarity in their mind. It’s hard being a black woman because we have to be ten million things to ten million different people and we hardly get the chance to be what we need to be to ourselves. We know what we want, and we recognize that we’re tired, but we will put ourselves on the back burner and keep on pushing knowing nobody is pouring back into us.

So, when you get a Black Girl Candle that’s your signal to step back from your life for a minute. The kids are going to be alright for a half hour; the husbands going to fine; the house isn’t going to fall apart.”

We should all take time out and exhale so when life happens, we do not feel as though our backs are up against the wall. When our emotions are not centered, and our thoughts are unclear it becomes difficult to make rational decisions. Black Girl Candle Company was created for women to take time out for themselves so they can rejuvenate their mind, body, and soul. “I believe that women just need an opportunity to sit down somewhere and take a moment. I often ask women when was the last time you took some time out for you with no distractions? I’m not surprised when they respond, ‘I don’t remember,’ especially with all that comes with this pandemic like virtual schooling and maybe relationship, employment, and housing issues too. You could run yourself crazy and then what?”

As women many of us revolve around a continuous cycle of taking care of everyone else’s needs while neglecting your own.

Cassandra Durham believes in self-care, “One of my goals in life is to empower women. Everything I do is centered around that purpose. You know when I was growing up there used to be this commercial for Motel 6 that said, ‘We’ll leave the light on for you.’

That mantra right there is my purpose. As long as I am on this earth, I plan to leave a light on for my sisters now whether you come or not is up to you, but that light is going to be on. There’s not much that I haven’t experienced in my life. I’ve experienced molestation; I’ve experienced being addicted to crack and all that comes with that life; I’ve gone through a divorce, and I’ve experienced the death of a child. I lost my daughter to a house fire and that alone made me want to commit suicide, but I made it through all of that. So, if I made it so can you. Women can stand on my shoulders and I will help carry them to where they need to go.” Cassandra has come to recognize that God has appointed her to be her sister’s keeper and it is a calling she accepts and embraces wholeheartedly.

When you think of the word, keeper, one could see a person who manages or looks after something. For Cassandra that something is Black women. As she recalls, “I remember when I got my undergraduate degree from NC A&T State University. I was really struggling. I had kicked my crack habit; I had gotten married and I was raising kids, but I still had a lot of ciaos in my life. I remember saying to God if I can get across this stage, I promise you I will bring 50,000 of my sisters with me if they follow me and that’s what I have been doing ever since I walked across that stage. I’ve been adding to that number in many ways. I can help a woman return to school. I can also help her with spiritual advice because I continued my education, so I also have my master’s degree in theology. So, if I am not physically with you my candles can be because they are personally made by me. In fact, all of my scents are customed made.

Like, Make Him Jealous. That fragrance is a kind of heavy masculine scent. You know when your man has been acting crazy and been gone all night and comes back home, he’s wondering whose been inside of his house. Well, it’s not a man it’s a candle but if he had

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been home, he would know that. And then there’s Make Him Eat It which is a play on words because I am also a writer, too. When I first started mixing that candle I would it pass around to a lot of people and I would ask them what does this smell like or what’s your reaction and most people said, ‘gosh this makes my mouth water or man I want to eat this,’ so hence, Make Him Eat It. Then I have Grey Sweatpants which is a deep wood masculine scent, and Honey Bourbon Sunrise. Now that candle right there makes me think of that high school senior trip to the beach and all that debauchery going on or that girl’s road trip and then you’re taking that walk of shame back to your room well maybe that was just me!

Then we have Spa Day Candle. Now that scent ministers to me. It makes me a better person. You know after a long day and I have been stressed out I go home and light my Spa Day candle and whatever stress I have this candle just levels me out. It’s truly calming. It’s like the Spirit of the Lord walked into the room. It may sound cliché but whenever God enters, He brings everything He is with Him and that includes love, joy, and peace,” she says.

“I remember when I got my undergraduate degree from NC A&T State University. I was really struggling..... I remember saying to God if I can get across this stage, I promise you I will bring 50,000 of my sisters with me if they follow me. And that’s what I have been doing ever since I walked across that stage.”

Unless you have lived a charmed life all of your days then you know that having peace is priceless and that is one of the reasons why Black Girl Candle Company has created specialty gift boxes for all occasions. “We do multiple gift boxes for different reasons. We offer the Gift of Rest Box which is really our Mental Health Box. Then we have a Get-Well Box which is for people who have been sick or who have been under the weather.

We have a Happy Birthday Queen Box, and we’re getting ready to launch our Happy Birthday King Box. We also have a Big Girl Box. Now that box has a little bit of everything, we offer in it and we also include a custom candle called Sunday Morning which was created specifically for that gift box. I really wanted to give people a fall candle, so we offer our Christmas Morning candle. I tell people if you are not in the mood for the holidays by the time you get through burning our fall candles in your house honey, you’re going to be dancing to the Jackson Five and reminiscing of the days at your grandma’s house! I understand the importance of scent because candles really do set the vibe of your space and their smells evoke memories. Candles can make a room feel cozy it just depends on the vibe you’re going for and I just believe we can set the tone of any space,” she says.

Cassandra also offers other selections of candles such as Apple and Bourbon, Birthday Cake, Cranberry Dream, Headache B Gone, The Power Within, and Spa Day. Black Girl Candle Company believes in “pouring” into the lives of other women. Every month they gift a box to a woman who is experiencing difficulty. Much like Dorcas also known as Tabitha in Acts 9:36-42, Cassandra is known for her good works and generosity. She shares “People will write me all the time and say my aunt, or my sister is going through can you send her something? I do a lot of gifting because this is what I know - - if I take care of Gods business, then He’ll take care of mine. Women will write me and express how depressed or sick they were, but when they received that black box Continued on page 47

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Timothy M. Joe I Love Art......Really

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Timothy M. Joe How does he do it? When artist Timothy M. Joe begins working on a blank canvas, that’s exactly what it is. A blank canvas. However, when he puts his tools down for the last time, the results are breath taking. It might can make someone to believe there is magic in his hands, or something magical happening with his brushes.

Timothy is a self-taught artist who raised in the rural town of Greensboro, Alabama. He is also a third-generation black angus farmer. He also holds a mechanical engineer degree of which he obtained from the University of Alabama.

“People are intrigued that I am both a professional artist and an engineer,” he says. He now lives in Huntsville, Alabama with his wife and two children.

Officially, the name of his business is Timothy M. Joe Fine Art. “I produce Original artwork in oil, soft pastels, and watercolor,” he says. “I am Online Art Instructor, and I also sell commissioned art.”

Timothy shares that art is more than a hobby for him, it’s his calling. “I see beauty in common places. Everyday things that usually would not get a second glance can become beautiful works of art. There is a message in every scene, whether it is a location, personal belonging, or building. I like to capture these scenes and put them on canvas. I paint to show my appreciation of what God created and share what He put in my heart. I am compelled to create art that has a soul. The soul holds our emotions and memories.,” he says.

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For Timothy, art is what gives him purpose and provides an outlet to express himself. “There are so many beautiful subjects that should have a place on my canvas or any other painting surface. My mission is to capture these hidden treasures before time erases them completely. I am compelled to show the younger generation of how life was and raise appreciation of what is often overlooked,” he says.

“There are so many beautiful subjects that should have a place on my canvas or any other painting surface. My mission is to capture these hidden treasures before time erases them completely.”

Timothy’s love for art started when he was just four years old. He would sit in his families living room with crayons all over the floor, coloring on brown paper grocery bags. It wasn’t until his first-grade teacher saw his picture when someone else realized that he was quite the artist. Those words started him on a journey that has lasted a lifetime.

Naturally, Timothy has a love for art.

“I love listening to the testimonies of my clients on what a painting means to them. I also love the commissioned art I receive. Commission is usually for a parent or memorial for a loved one.

One example of a commission I did was for a painting of a white flower in the afternoon sunlight. My client picked this particular flower with her grandmother until her passing. Those are the paintings that stick with me for many years,” he says.

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Timothy can see art in almost anything.

He says that he is mostly inspired by the narrative in every scene that he paints. “Whether it comes in the form of an abandoned home that’s falling apart, family heirlooms, or landscape, I am able to make a connection. My role is to remain receptive and be ready to take a quick reference picture or sketch it in my art journal,” he says. “I love learning the history about my subject and gain the appreciation that helps me create meaningful art. Creating a beautiful painting is nice but painting the same scene with an understanding of the history is what I am after. I believe the backstory of my subject is just as important as the color I choose to paint.”

Understandably, art itself has impacted Timothy’s career as well. “The reception at my first solo art exhibit had the biggest impact to my art career. I created a body of work of historical landmarks near my hometown. Hearing all the backstories from the town people was amazing.

These are the kind of experiences that keep me energized to make more art,” he says.

For other artists, or anyone who is headed on a similar journey that Timothy has, he offers some advice to you. “Find your artistic voice. There is an art style unique to every artist and there is a corresponding audience your work is meant for. Paint only what moves you, and always make that your top propriety, not money. You should also be visible.

Don’t let fear stop you from making appearances at art shows. Trades shows offer a unique and greatly beneficial experience and discussing your art with strangers is a tremendous way to grow in your craft,” he says.

Though the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way artist maneuver in the art world, Timothy has pivoted and found new ways to stay relevant and busy. One way is conducting more online workshops. “I am at the point in my career where I have accumulated enough knowledge to share with artist of all skill levels. I want to help them avoid some mistakes I made and coach them to be the best artist they can be,” he shares.

Timothy M. Joe Fine Art www.timothymjoe.com

To learn more about Timothy M. Joe, please visit his website.

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Little Learners Academy LLC 28

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Bernard Smith Photography For Kendra McKinney, it all begins with a genuine love for children. As the owner of Little Learners Academy, she is helping to shape and mold the lives of her young students into phenomenal individuals.

A native of Belton, S.C., Kendra holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from University of South Carolina Upstate, and a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Phoenix.

“I love everything about what I do. I love the opportunity that I have to witness children learn and grow. I also love the look on parent’s faces when they see their child accomplish goals,” she says.

Located in Maudlin, SC, Little Learner Academy operates under a simple Christian based philosophy that’s based on the elements of student success.

Little Learners Academy understands that there are several different learning methods, which may hinder levels of achievement in a traditional academic setting. They offer activities and individual attention to ensure all students achieve academic success and positively build self-esteem. “The students are taught to thrive spiritually, emotionally, and academically,” Kendra says.

The system of Little Learner Academy is a multifaceted approach to education, including a spread of academic courses, plus a variety of extra-curricular activities and enrichment programs. Small class sizes enhance the academic experience, and their graduates will be educated spiritually, academically, emotionally, and socially. Furthermore, Kendra shares her students will be motivated to go out into the world to duplicate what they’ve learned and pursue their purpose in life.

Kendra’s educational journey began in 2013. ‘I was a teacher at the SC School for the Deaf and Blind when the decision was made to transition out of the public school system. As a parent of a special needs child and other children, who needed childcare and attended the public school system, I decided to begin an in-home daycare. I had a vision that would allow parents to be comfortable with dropping their children off in a home like environment, where they would grow and learn safely,” she says.

The vision was large, but the start was very small, Kendra shares. “I began at my home in the Blue Ridge Area of Greer, S.C., with seven children which grew to more than 14. I gave myself a two-year window to transition into a center or return to work. I knew that was not in God’s plan or my plan,” Kendra says.

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“I love everything about what I do.

I love the opportunity that I have to witness children learn and grow.

I also love the look on parent’s faces when they see their child accomplish goals.”

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She continued to press on. In 2015, doors would eventually open for Kendra at a new location, 102 Pinecrest Drive in Mauldin, S.C., and Little Learners Academy LLC was born.

That building had a capacity to accommodate 58 students and six teachers, and that number was reached within nine months. Kendra says they found themselves searching for another location.

“Growth, understanding, and pruning happened at 102 Pinecrest Drive but in 2019, we were introduced to another location at 437 W. Butler Road. We grew to 8,000 square feet, as opposed to 2500 at our previous location. God had yet again shown His favor and proven to me I was indeed walking in purpose,” Kendra says.

After nine months of renovation, Little Learners Academy moved into their new location in January 2020. Their enrollment grew to 75 children and then came the Corona Virus pandemic. They closed their doors by choice for a period in March 25, until April 27, 2020.

Kendra shares their faith didn’t allow them to miss a beat. “We currently are not back at the number of 75 enrolled students, but we have exceeded that mark and are at 98. We have also applied to become an independent private school,” she says.

Presently, Little Learner Academy has 45 school age children enrolled, and are successfully completing virtual schooling each day. They also have two clinical therapists on site that offer individual, group, and family sessions along with play therapy for children to develop socially. There is also a coach that teaches Mindful Kids through meditation.

Little Learner Academy also offers Occupational, Physical, and Speech Therapy through Tri County Therapy. In 2021, they will begin a Home school Co-op.

Pictured with Kendra is her husband Marquee.

Though the road hasn’t always been easy, Kendra says she wouldn’t change anything about her journey. “Everything has purpose. Everything that has happened was to sharpen me for my next step into my destiny,” she says.

The future appears to be very bright for Kendra McKinney and Little Learners Academy. “This is not a job it’s my calling, and I’m walking in purpose. I am inspired every day, knowing that God is going to reveal another part of my vision. My plans are to have an accredited independent private school that serves all children. I also hope to franchise Little Learners Academy LLC. I have a special place in my journey for children with special needs and I want to incorporate them in all areas including education and childcare. This is my testimony. Believe, have faith, run toward your destiny, pray for purpose, and live life on purpose,” she says. h

437 West Butler Road Mauldin, SC 29662 (864) 568-5200 www.littlelearners.one DMV - Jan./Feb. 2021

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Heal The Hood Foundation of Memphis

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Ernest Fields His purpose is to make someone else’s life better. LaDell Beamon is the CEO of Heal The Hood Foundation of Memphis.

Heal The Hood Foundation of Memphis is a not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to wholistic community rehabilitation through its groundbreaking innovative formula for community development. It provides positive outlets for youth of all ages and young adults through singing, dancing, art, acting, motivational speaking, screen writing, and modeling.

The impact and impression of HTH speaks for itself. HTH has help to improve academic performance and standardized test scores, help to improve school attendance rates, graduation rates, and post-secondary attendance, develop college and career goals and workforce readiness, help to build self-esteem and self-awareness, reduce bullying and violence amongst youth, decrease discipline referrals, encourage leadership, teamwork, and community involvement, assist with developing character and taught life skills that have helped students succeed in school and beyond, and help to reduce poverty and welfare dependence.

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LaDell states, “If we can positively influence our young people to think before they make decisions, get out of gangs, avoid outcomes that result from peer pressure, stay away from drugs and alcohol, steer away from weapons and other mass destruction, then we have just saved someone’s life and helped them be the dynamic person they were created to be.”

While working hand in hand with the community of Memphis, particularly the churches, ministry principles are incorporated into their efforts and serve as a baseline for reaching others.

Being a native Memphian, LaDell skillsets include screenwriting, filmmaking, and that of a composer, director, producer, and youth advocate. LaDell was born into a single parent home in which he was raised by his mother and grandmother. After seeing the lives of several youth being affected by the media, he decided to use his talents of being a musician, writer, actor, producer, director, and minister of the Gospel to become a catalyst for change through the arts. He has worked on several projects and serviced over 400,000 youth with the powerful anti-social deviance tour, The Wake Up Tour. LaDell is also the co-creator of Wake Up Tour Evolution Comic Book Series in which he doubles as the Super Powered Hero “Wake”. This work has added author to his list of many titles, and he still shows no signs of slowing down with a new book series entitled, “Hood Fables”.

LaDell has worked with various celebrities such as Master P, Lil Romeo, Day 26, Vivica A. Fox, Gospel Legend John P. Kee, Ginuwine, Tank, Lil P-Nut, Trevor Jackson, Sammie, Jacob Latimore, Tiny, Robert Townsend, Michael Jai White, Taimak, Adolpho Shabbadoo Quiones, and comic book creator Martheus Wade.

His newly developed passion is to complete the new youth and family facility, fittingly called the Hero Empowerment Center that will house the first fully functional 4D Theater in Memphis, and a Museum of Heroes dedicated to Urban, Modern, Fictional and Non-Fictional Heroes. The Hero Empowerment Center will be the light on the Hill.

The Memphis community is extremely fortunate to have a jewel like LaDell. His efforts and dedication will continue to have a lasting impact on thousands of lives for many years to come.

To learn more about LaDell and HTH, please visit their website. h

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LaDell Beamon Heal The Hood Foundation of Memphis P.O. BOX 162385 Memphis, TN 38186 901-566-0743 www.hthmemphis.org DMV - Jan./Feb. 2021

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Dream Financial Services 36

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By Laci Ollison Photos by Lechelle Jackson For Talisha ‘Tee’ Birdsong, it really is all about the money. As a mindset and money coach, the 26-year-old Nashville, Tennessee native has decided to use her expertise in finances to help other people of color repair the credit, start businesses, and establish generational wealth.

Tee, who currently resides in Richmond, VA, is the founder and CEO of Dream Financial Services. The business aids individuals who are looking to fix their credit as well as start a business or gain more knowledge about personal and business finances. She is also known as a mindset coach.

“I believe if you shift your mindset your money shifts,” Tee said. “So, I help people get on top of their finances and help them with whatever they’re struggling with from a financial standpoint.”

Through her company, Tee helps individuals and families by providing workshops, courses, and one-on-one coaching.

“In a lot of my programs, you get way more than what you pay for,” Tee said. “I’m big on educating and I always pray that my students and my clients don’t have to end up in my program again unless they’re a referral partner.”

The inspiration to start a financial services business came from her past experiences. “I lived a pretty sheltered childhood. When I got in the world, I did everything under the sun and eventually ended up messing my credit up,” she says.

Eventually Tee’s decisions caught up with her. She experienced eviction after eviction, repossession after repossession. By the time no one would lend to her or allow her housing, Tee had to shift some things because she also had a son at the age of 18.

It was at this time that Tee realized she needed to do something different. “I decided I had to fix it because if not we were going to be homeless. I made the conscious decision to take hold of my finances to provide a better life for me and my son. I started changing my budget. I started applying for stuff and doing what I could do that made sense for what I made,” she says.

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“In a lot of my programs, you get way more than what you pay for. I’m big on educating and I always pray that my students and my clients don’t have to end up in my program again unless they’re a referral partner.”

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Once Tee altered her own credit and finances, she realized that she could potentially assist others. “After I saw that it could help me, I wanted to do that for other people,” she said. “It’s a better life when you’re in a better financial state versus when you’re not stable.”

Tee said that she wanted to help people see that financial freedom was closer and more attainable than they believe. “I wanted to help people get there because the biggest thing is that it seems so far-fetched that you don’t know what to do or how to do it, but it’s really just a hand grab away.”

Talisha understands that it only takes small lifestyle changes to get started in paying off debt and creating financial freedom. She states that, “Anything is possible. If you buy lunch every day or if you buy extras, it’s just a matter of wanting it. A lot of people think they can’t do it because of the cost. But if you think about how much you spend in eating out, or on gas for extra trips, you probably have the money you need to get started.”

These are the principles that she teaches to her clients. The same principles that helped some of her clients achieve major results.

“One young lady was a part of every single program that I did. And not only did was she able to start a business in the middle of a global pandemic, but she was also able to buy a house and purchase a car with no money down and 0% interest rate,” she says.

In 2020 alone, Tee was able to assist 100 individuals and families with purchasing their first home. And according to her, this is just the beginning. “I want to put brown women in position. That’s where I think we lack. We have many people that compete but not many that come together to show you it really is possible.”

Talisha hopes to be an example to black women that they too have the potential to be successful. “That’s what I do daily. I teach women of color that we can have anything that anyone else has, we just have to have the knowledge,” she says.

However, Tee says that people have to be willing to ask for help when they need it. “It’s just a matter of learning how to not be afraid to ask. Pride is a big thing with us. We get so afraid to say we don’t know that we never get the chance to learn. And if you break that pride and say hey, I don’t know and find someone who does, you won’t know how easy it actually is,” Tee shares.

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Although she has a passion for business, Tee still encounters some difficulties in being an entrepreneur.

“It’s a challenge especially in the industry that I’m in because I find myself wanting it more than some of my clients sometimes,” said Talisha. “With this being a full-time thing for me, it caused me to step out on faith. And one of the things that I’m paying attention to now that I am a full time entrepreneur, is you find yourself being very passionate about helping people fix their credit, about teaching them finances, about helping them build a business, but if they don’t really want it, you end up getting burned out and you end up getting stressed out because you want it so much better for some people who don’t even want better for themselves.”

“I want to put brown women in position. That’s where I think we lack. We have many people that compete but not many that come together to show you it really is possible.”

But Tee also finds joy in helping clients who didn’t think they could be help. “It’s also about those clients that come to me and say, ‘I didn’t think I could be helped.’ To see those people who thought they were so far-fetched learn how to reach their financial goals is absolutely amazing.”

The future looks bright for Talisha. She recently made six-figures in her business and helped two of her students make six-figures in their businesses as well.

If you would like to learn more about Dream Financial Services, please contact Talisha directly.

Dream Financial Services Inc. www.dreamfsinc.com 877-863-7326 DMV - Jan./Feb. 2021

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Make A Definite Effect LLC

By Terry L. Watson - Photos by Tia Gray Are you made for this? That is a question that LaTia “Tia” Gray will help you answer. As the owner and founder of Make A Definite Effect LLC, her goal is to simplify the lives of others.

Tia is a native of Springfield TN. She is also a mother of two beautiful, and witty little girls. Tia is also a Sports Coach at heart, and certified life coach by trade. She is an author, radio personality and presenter, and host of “MadE in the Dugout”.

Tia describes herself as a small-town girl with global aspirations to connect people who look like her and support the Afro cultural history, presently, and its future. “I am an ideologist, visionary, and community driven entrepreneur. I am also known for networking and connecting small business owners and individuals with resources to grow personally and professionally,” she says.

Tia says that life and business are both a game and everyone must be trained properly on how to play. This can be done through guidance, strategies, and self-discovery. “As an author I write about how we are the coach of our own lives, and how our lives relate to sports. I assist others with understanding how to position people in their life, and understand their roles, and ultimately go all out for the win,” she says.

Her company, Make A Definite Effect LLC was created in 2019. Tia had a vision to inspire others and build a product that would expound on the importance of relationship building.

While building her company, she discovered there was a lack of representation of black excellence. She also realized that her community was missing valuable life changing information. “As I set out to expose as many businesses as I could I picked up tons of knowledge to share with the small business owners. I determined that change was needed, and I would be vehicle that would drive the change,” she says. “The first thing I did was connect others with various resources to enhance and expand their businesses.”

myself and tapped into the God and become more conscious of how I show up in the world,” she says.

Tia shares that it’s important for everyone to pass the “plate of knowledge”. “There is power in being your true self. I take pride in being a virtual connector for those inspired to change their lives and grow their businesses,” she says. “We offer full service virtual assistance to small business owners to help save them time and stay on top of task. This also includes strategizing ways to enhance our client’s creativity in their business through graphic content, funnels, QR codes, virtual business cards, and so much more.”

Tia says she is inspired by her children, parents, and black “Afro” history. “if I don’t show up in the world, I know that it can delay someone else who was divinely designed to connect with me, from showing up,” she says.

Like most businesses, Tia has faced some adversity. “I think going through the quarantine during the COVID-19 pandemic allowed me time to really set with myself and get a better understanding of the steps I wanted to take. Also, working with the youth in my community and learning how much information was not accessible to them has pushed me to learn and give what I never had. The work showed me talents I had inside that I never knew was there. Through adversity I have learned more about

Moving forward, Tia plans to integrate her coaching program with her books and radio show. She also plans to take big business steps to develop, monetize, and scale her business so that it can be more impactful for those that look to gain more exposure and enhance their business and talents.

Tia also offers some advice to others who may be on a journey such as hers. “Start with personal development. Do your research so that you will know if what you are doing is something you are willing to put the work in to complete. Do it scared if you have to and do not second guess yourself. Most importantly, ask for help if you need it,” she says.

If you are interested in ways to glow up before you blow up, send Tia a message and connect with Coach Tia, the Damage Control Empress.

“Damaging Control By Connecting The Dots”. h

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Tasha Hope Continues To Carry Her

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Tasha Johnson-King For Tasha Johnson-King, giving up has no place in her life. Currently residing in Saint Stephens, S.C., the 44-year-old wife and mother of three is great need of a kidney donation and transplant. She has been on dialysis since March 23,2005 and has been waitlisted for a kidney donor at three hospitals and is currently waiting to be waitlisted at four others in the state of South Carolina.

For anyone who knows Tasha, they would say that despite of every challenge that she is facing, her outlook on life remains loving and optimistic.

“I’m a very kind person and love to donate to others, especially to children,” she says.

Her journey began in 1995 after she found out that she was born with only one kidney. “The whole time I was pregnant I didn’t have any complications or negative symptoms of only having one kidney. That changed when I went for my six weeks checkup after giving birth. My protein levels were through the roof. From there I had extensive tests done. Soon the news arrived that I only had one kidney,” she says.

From that point on, life began to change for Tasha.

“I was only 20 years old at that time and in 1998, I found out my kidneys were failing. I was given medicines to help slow the failing process. The medicines did work for a long time, but as years passed my medicines didn’t work as well as they once did. I was getting sicker and sicker. I was only 28 years old and wasn’t ready to start dialysis. I already knew what the treatment would be like and I was scared to start. I also knew that it would make me feel better,” she says.

As time passed, Tasha shares that couldn’t take the misery of being sick and made the decision to start. “I was so sick and tired until I just couldn’t do anything, and I knew that it was passed by time for me to begin.

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Life has happened for Tasha in even more ways.

While on dialysis treatment, she gave birth to a son.

Understandably, the pregnancy was challenging but her baby was born healthy and breathing on his own. “God is awesome. I was my doctors first patient who got pregnant while on dialysis. Not only that, but my tubes were also cut, tied, and burned for seven years and I still got pregnant. Only God can perform these kinds of miracles,” she shares.

Today, Tasha is full of life. “I love the fact that I’m still alive and able to raise my 22-year-old daughter who is intellectually disable, and my nine-year-old son. My life inspires me the most because I’m still living and know that others have lost their battles,” she says.

She’s had to have a Thigh Graft, which is her last lifeline.

Often, she is drained after dialysis sessions and unable to play with her nine-year-old son. She also suffers from low blood pressure. After that happens the only thing she can do is go straight to bed. That is not a good position to be in because after treatments, it’s required that she run so that she can flush the toxins and fluid out of her body. Not doing so can make her sicker and swell up with fluid. “All I can do is pray that I feel better,” she says.

Even though her journey has been challenging, Tasha says there isn’t much she would change. “I would have like to have more kids closer together in age. I always wanted a big family but what I have is what God wanted me to have. This journey has made me a stronger person and made my faith even stronger,” she says.

“It was very rough for me from the beginning. I was in and out of the hospitals. I had access infections and access clotting. I also had to endure surgeries to repair or replace my accesses. I kept reminding myself that life does get better.”

On MARCH 23, 2005 Tasha’s journey began. “It was very rough for me from the beginning. I was in and out of the hospitals. I had access infections and access clotting. I also had to endure surgeries to repair or replace my accesses. I kept reminding myself that life does get better,” Tasha says.

After all that she has experienced and been through, Tasha professes that she is still healthy. She doesn’t have heart damage from all the perm catheters that have been placed in her neck and chest. Even more, the rest of her organs are in good shape and working well. “This is a blessing, especially after almost 16 years of being on dialysis,” she says.

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Today, Tasha needs a kidney transplant. For this to happen she will have to be connected with someone who is a match for her. “Donating gives us a better chance to live longer and be healthy. No more machines to keep us alive, no more being drained and sick. Donating a kidney or any other organs would be the best gift you could ever give to someone to live. Donating is never a little gift it’s always a big gift and a huge blessing to do for anyone,” she says.

For others who are in a similar situation as she is, Tasha advises them to stay strong and to not give up.

In the future, she plans to continue to help others who need guidance before, and while on dialysis. Obtaining information about dialysis from someone who has gone through the experience can help someone deal with the process a lot better. Her plans are to be off dialysis and have a new kidney soon. She also plans to and live a healthier life with her family. Additionally, she has plans to travel more, especially out of the country.

To learn more about how to assist Tasha Johnson-King with her search of finding a mathing kidney donor, please contact at: tashajohnsonking@gmail.com

from us, they felt better knowing that somebody was thinking about them. You know the enemy has tricked so many people into believing that they are suffering alone, and they are the only person going through something but that’s not true. You are not the only one whose been cheated on, been lied to, or been abused. You’re not alone because you have 300 sisters that are praying for you, fighting for you, and interceding on your behalf. Just because you don’t see us that doesn’t mean we are not undergirding you through prayer - - we are.” Tabitha had a well-deserved reputation as an almsgiver, a philanthropist, someone whose generosity made a difference in her community. We can consider Cassandra as your modern-day Dorcas.

So how are these candles made and what makes them so unique? Well, it’s the way they have been “poured” with a purpose.

Cassandra shares, “The foundation of my candles starts with love then I add the wax, the scent, the wick, and pour it inside of the jar. I have help with the packaging but when it comes to pouring, I do that by myself. I don’t let anyone pour except me because while I’m pouring, I’m also praying. There are days when I have the music loud and I’m in here hollering and crying and then sometimes it’s silence but it’s always me and the Lord. It’s a private thing I don’t expose that piece of my life to the world.

Every other part of my life is an open book.” h

www.blackgirlcandlecompany.com info@blackgirlcandlecompany.com

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Stacy Bryant

Stacy Bryant, also known as Coach Stacy, is the founder of The Icu Coaching Academy, The Stiletto Bosses Network™ and The Free Hope Foundation for Domestic Violence. She is the host of Candid Conversation with Coach Stacy on 108 Praise Radio. Her coaching specialties are focused on transformation, mindset, and manifestation. Another business she owns is Clean Tax & Credit Repair Service, where she assists her clients with becoming financially stable and efficient.

Stacy has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and is currently pursuing her MBA. Additionally, Coach Stacy is a Master Life Coach Trainer and Best-Selling Author. She is the author of Building Self-Confidence and the Her Story Series. Coach Stacy is also the co-author of best seller, “Will Win” with Brian Tracy.

Coach Stacy lives a life that is rooted in winning and overcoming. For starters, she is a “Cancer Conqueror”. It really doesn’t matter what is thrown at her, she is determined to win. “I have walked the road of an overcomer my entire life. Because of this, I am dedicated to helping others rise above their circumstances. My mission is to encourage and empower others to explore and find who they are, inside and out. By doing so, I believe they will be able to create the life they’ve always dreamed of,” she says.

Coach Stacy is a retired Veteran of the United States Army. Presently, she devotes her life to empowering others. “My goal is to assist and empower people all over the world by instilling and expressing confidence in themselves. This involves helping them with their finances, relationships, entrepreneurship, health, faith, and life,” she says.

“As a personal coach I work with a wide range of clients and offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual. In a supportive atmosphere, I help clients attain the professional and personal growth they’re striving for. I offer sessions, both in-person and over on the phone. The process begins with an initial assessment to clearly define my clients short and long term goals. This may involve everything from communication skills to personal acceptance.

I will use these goals as a foundation to create a strategy for attaining their objectives,” she says.

Some of the services offered by Coach Stacy are Personal Growth, Professional Development, Relationship Coaching, Communication Skills, Confidence & Personal Power, Inner Peace, Achieving Balance, Health & Weight Issues, and Organization & Productivity.

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“Life coaching can take you above and beyond your own personal limitations. More often than not, people try to achieve their greatest potential, but don’t even realize what stands in their way. A personal Coach can offer an unbiased and objective perspective and can help you realize your patterns and habits. Most people experience that they are more efficient when working with a Professional Life Coach and that this provides the opportunity for them to better realize their potential. Life coaching can make your dreams attainable and will give you support and encouragement along the way.,” she says.

The books that she’s authored, “Her Story 2” shares her testimony of overcoming domestic abuse.” My Pink Stilettos” gives a synopsis of her life to a current state. “Audacity to Shine” shares her testimony of fighting cervical cancer. “I am Enough” shares her testimony of narcissistic abuse recovery. She is currently authoring “Broken Crayons Still Color” where she shares how a life filled with brokenness has allowed her to show others that they can still color. She says, “After a life filled with shame, guilt, hurt, and traumatic experiences, I still color, brightly!”

Coach Stacy offers some advice to others who may find themselves in similar situations that she faced. “Do not stop at start. When I first started my business, I hit instant success. I was young, and not ready. I did not take the time to learn the tools that I really needed to run an effective business. But I kept moving,” she says. “I would not be where I am if it were not for the journey. The journey gave me experience. The journey gave me wisdom. Most of all, the journey gave me resilience.”

Moving forward, her plans are to expand her personal development academy. By doing so, she will be able to empower, heal, and shift mindsets to souls all over the planet. “Seeing the light bulb go off in someone and watching them embrace healing is the most amazing thing I can witness,” she says. To learn more about the services offered by Coach Stacy, please visit her website. h

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Peyton Zora Doctor

MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

The daughter of Terence and Joni Robinson Doctor

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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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Tyneka Howard Faith, Fitness, Relationships, & Career

By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by Nick F. Nelson Instagram @Brandpreneur

Tyneka Howard started her military career at 19, and last fall, retired after 20 years of service in the U.S. Air Force. During her tenure, she spent most of her time guiding, mentoring, directing, and leading airmen, both men and women. In the last few years of her military career, she would meet young female soldiers who looked at her as a mentor and someone they aspired to be – confident, assertive, and successful. The majority of women felt misplaced and unsure if they had made the right decision in joining the armed forces. Navigating within a maledominated organization was oftentimes quite challenging so Howard would ‘adopt’ several ladies and mentor them on how to effectively adapt to military life.

“I knew exactly what they were going through because I started at the same place they did. I knew they felt displaced and were trying to find themselves. Many also struggled with how to carry themselves as a lady. Because, uniform aside, we’re ladies first,” Howard confirms.

The veteran grew up a preacher’s kid, a lifestyle that presented her with a strong foundation and an environment that others may not always experience; Not better, but different. I’ve heard testaments that children of the clergy are usually raised at the hands of solid God-fearing parents and they must answer to everyone in the church. A few stray from the path, like anyone else, and others grow to be strong, faith-filled servants with direction and purpose.

Howard proved to be the latter. And her peers apparently saw that leadership quality in her. As she approached the last five years of her military tenure she began mentoring high school students, mainly girls, who were facing real challenges that she was unaware of.

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“I would just go in with a servant heart and want to work with people. It didn’t matter who it was, it was just where I was supposed to be.”

A lightbulb went off in Howard’s head with the realization that there was a huge void in the community and help was needed to guide the younger generation. Howard looks youthful and she feels that contributed to young women seeking her out for advice. She attests that her youthful look is achieved by living a stress free life.

Last year, the Martinsville , VA native sought to start her organization, Lead(H)er under her parent company H2G Leadership Group, which stands for Howard 2nd Generation. Lead(H) er focuses on Faith, Fitness, Relationships, and Career. This summer she plans to host more workshops and social media live events for her clients and those she hopes to attract. She’s also planning to increase her website and blog posts to grow her following and reach more people.

“For ladies, the leadership will come after the knowledge and education. But I also like to focus on communication and how people are receiving your message. Are you just talking or are you communicating? There is a difference.

You have to be able to articulate what you want and not be shy about it.”

With Covid-19 affecting all of us in different ways, Howard crafted a previous workshop entitled “Covid is making me crazy”. The attendees log into a video conference platform with a code and simply talk and help each other work through their thoughts. They attempt to uncover their dilemmas and help fill each other’s voids. It’s no surprise that many are having a tough time with the lack of social interaction and physical touch. Howard aims to help them work through their feelings.

“There was a huge void in the community and help was needed to guide the younger generation.”

The ladies Howard mentors tend to be between 14 year to 25 years of age. “The biggest issue I’m seeing is the lack of direction and foundation in the home. And because homelife and it’s makeup looks a lot different, children are exposed to certain topics and conversations much sooner than they should be.

This year Howard plans to also incorporate families into her organizations structure.

Focusing on communication within the family unit can aid in building the foundation that the younger members need. Within her own family unit, her 13 year old son has taught her how much different boys and girls tend to communicate. “My son is quiet and calm. I can tell him something and he’s okay. He’s easy with lots of patience.” Studies show that girls tend to have more words in their vocabulary by a certain age and tend to react to news differently.

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“My five year plan is to create a camp-style Lead(H)er lock-in at different locations to serve my community in Raleigh, NC. Think 4-H camps.�

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“My five year plan is to create a camp-style Lead(H)er lock-in at different locations to serve her community in Raleigh, NC. Think 4-H camps,” she says. The unfortunate introduction of our current pandemic forced Howard to tap into her ideas sooner than she expected and take a look at her business plans to see how she should operate. Instead of opening in June, H2G was introduced in April. “God works in such a way and I became restless enough to start working on and refining my idea. I was able to meditate and have such a clear headspace of where I wanted to see my business.

She simultaneously started the corporate side of her business that handles communications and marketing for companies and how they can better communicate with their employees and clients.

Continuing her quest to bridge the gap and network with other ladies to bring the second generation along and add value to their lives is at the forefront of Howards mind. At the rate she’s moving, it seems that she’ll accomplish that goal in no time. h

Tyneka Howard H2G Leadership Group

Lead(H)er – Faith, Fitness, Relationships, & Career 202-709-6447 www.h2gleadher.net Email: tyneka@h2gleadher.net Instagram/Facebook: @leadher10 LinkedIn: Tyneka Howard

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Tyneka Howard - H2G Leadership Group Lead(H)er – Faith, Fitness, Relationship, & Career 202-709-6447 - www.h2gleadher.net