Huami Magazine DMV July/August 2023

Defeating The Distractions

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

I’m a firm believer in God-given purpose and assignments. Huami Magazine is a result of answered prayers and isolated conversations with God. I could hear God’s voice mainly due to my ability to block out any unnecessary noise and ultimately focus on what I was seeking God for. I had a yearning for something more, something greater than myself, but I knew I didn’t possess the ability to visualize it by my own efforts. I had no choice but to rest on what I needed for God to show me.

What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What would you do?

The experience I just described exemplifies the power of defeating distractions blocking and holding our blessings and purposes hostage. Distractions are often present as a means to prevent us from seeing or hearing the things needed to grow. Distractions are only effective when we allow them to be. Even more, distractions have no power unless we give them power.

What are you allowing to have relevance in your life that serves as a distraction? What are you giving energy and attention but serves you no purpose or benefit? If you can identify what is fruitful and what is not in your life, you will take the first step in clearing the path to what is purposed for you—your destiny.

I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen?

If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in return acquire life.

Distractions can present themselves in various ways and forms. Distractions can be friends or associates. Distractions often appear in text messages, emails, and other places such as social media platforms. Distractions can begin as small meaningless occurrences but can grow into things that consume your time and affect how you act, move, and live.

The best advice ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet, because someone may get it confused with being arrogant.

We must eliminate distractions to reach our goals and live more purposeful lives. We must focus on the things that help us become the most excellent versions of ourselves. While many things in life can be reproduced and duplicated, time isn’t one of them, and with the time that life offers us, we must make the most of it.

Make you tomorrow happen today, but most importantly make it count.

Life is but a whisper and we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is telling us.

My best advice is for you to live your life to the fullest potential by identifying and defeating distractions.

Terry L. Watson

Terry L. Watson

Terry L. Watson Publisher

Terry L. Watson Writer

Ellen Richardson Writer

Dorjae’ McClammey Writer Still Shots Photography Photographer Santana B Photography Photographer Todd Youngblood Photographer

Tamara Smith

Todd Youngblood Photography

Howard Gaither Photography

Making Connections, Delivering Results

By Terry L. Watson

Sandra Goins, of Washington, D.C., describes herself as a unique, creative, hardworking, straightto-the-point individual who also possesses the gift of being a voice for others. She is also an award-winning Publicist and founder of Just1PR, LLC, a boutique Entertainment & Lifestyle Public Relations agency. She is also the creator of Generation DMV, an organization dedicated to Black Men and focuses on Mental health. Furthermore, Generation DMV serves as a platform for debating the generational perspectives of Gen Z, Gen X, and Millennials. Its goal is to create opportunities for collaboration and networking and ultimately foster exponential growth of wealth and stature in businesses, communities, and networks.

Just1PR, LLC provides various services such as Brand Consulting, Media Relations, Social Media Management, Event Planning, Rebranding, and more. Another service she offers is Public Image Branding, which includes Public Image Management, Branding Strategy, Press Release, Media Training, Media Placement, TV and Radio Interview Preparation, Red Carpet Preparation, Email Blast (local and international), Photography, and Videography.

With her service of Social Media Management, Sandra assists her clients with Social Media Identity Establishment, as well as Hashtag Campaigns, SEO Tracking of Audience Reach, Daily Audience Engagement, Followers, Reposting and Like Increase, and Reposting or Sharing Related Subjects.

Sandra acquired her extensive knowledge while working in the entertainment industry for many years. There, she worked for various companies and has held many positions, such as Artist Manager, Marketing Manager, Promotions Manager, On-Air Radio Personality, and Public Relations Coordinator.

Photos Provided by Sandra Goins

Sandra shares, “I started in 2015 on a Sunday afternoon. I was already working as a Freelance Publicist and Artist Manager, but on this day, I decided to take that leap of faith and brand myself. That is how Just1PR came into existence. With my knowledge and experience, it was easy to get started. I returned to school to obtain certification and accreditation as a Public Relations Specialist. Those additions helped me get to where I am today.”

Public Relations has proven to be purposed for Sandra. She says she loves everything about PR, seeing the growth in others and witnessing the difference she makes for all types of brands, regardless of their size. “I love the constant inspiration and, most importantly, the love, satisfaction, and peace of mind I can provide to brands. It makes it all worth it at the end of the day,” she says.

Sandra often reflects on the numerous individuals and strangers who profoundly impacted her professional journey and contributed to her growth. She says their unwavering support taught her the intricacies of effective communication and strategic planning and instilled a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence. “I am truly grateful for their influence and support. It has also helped shape my professional trajectory and allowed me to evolve as a publicist,” Sandra said.

Public Relations can be an exhausting experience, but it also comes with its share of rewards. Sandra has found inspiration in connecting with people from various platforms. She says, “The satisfaction of seeing my clients succeed and reach their goals through effective PR strategies is incredibly inspiring. It drives me to work hard, think outside the box, and strive for excellence. I am inspired by fellow public relations professionals who have succeeded in our industry. The constant learning and personal growth this profession demands has shaped me, and I appreciate everything about the journey.”

Building her company was no easy feat for Sandra. Initially, she got plenty of ‘no’s’, and sometimes she didn’t receive responses to her emails. “This journey can sometimes be disheartening and will make you wonder if you’re on the right career path. I overcame this by not taking ‘no’ as the final answer and staying consistent. Whenever I didn’t get the answer I wanted, I never let that get to me; I took it as maybe it was the wrong timing and decided to try again. I never gave up, and eventually, it started paying off.”

Moving forward, Sandra says she plans to keep growing and implementing strategic and innovative approaches to promote and elevate her clients’ visibility and brand image. She also plans to continue delivering exceptional results for her clients while keeping them at the forefront of their industries. Utilizing the combination of creativity, strategic thinking, and adaptability, Sandra aims to exceed expectations and cultivate lasting success for the individuals and organizations she represents. These efforts also include building and nurturing relationships with journalists, reporters, bloggers, and influencers. To learn more about Sandra Goins and Just1PR, LLC, please visit their website.

I love the constant inspiration and, most importantly, the love, satisfaction, and peace of mind I can provide to brands.” h

“You are all Iconic..... That’s the Truth”

Are you looking for new music to add to your playlists? If so, then you must consider Charlotte, NC, very own Kiing Le and the Iconic Truth Band. Iconic Truth Band has the “I.T.” factor capturing a unique and infectious Go-Go vibe. While displaying various components of percussion and vocal excellence, audiences will always be enlightened and entertained.

Born and raised in South East Washington, DC, Kiingi, a natural neo-soul artist, moved to North Carolina in his thirties to pursue music. Surprisingly, he didn’t start as a go-go artist; Kiing was pursing other interests. He was a personal trainer and owned a company, Get Fit For A King. Soon his focus would change, or more so, get in alignment with his true passion for music.

Kiing’s pursuit of music grew while living in Charlotte. He joined a few R&B bands as a lead vocalist. This was his platform until a friend took him to see a go-go band in Charlotte. After attending a few of their shows, Kiing auditioned to be a vocalist, but he didn’t make the cut. Determined to succeed, he didn’t let that stop him and eventually earned the role of the band’s talker. He says, a talker is like an orchestrator; they give shoutouts and help boost the crowd’s energy. “If you know the talker and the talker knows you, you’re popular.” From the platform of band talker, everything started to fall into place for Kiing.

He would stay with that particular band for nearly eight years before leaping to do his own thing. Thus the birth of The Iconic Truth Band happened. Launched in 2020, Iconic Truth started with Kiing, his cousin Darnell, and Keena Thompson. The band chose the name ‘Iconic Truth’ because it genuinely reflects their energy. Kiing says his mentee told him, “You all are iconic, and that’s the truth”. The group was excited about the opportunity to be a fresh new face on the band scene and a new voice for Go-Go.

Like anything else that starts from scratch, there were some hurdles and obstacles the band had to endure. Kiing says, “It was a struggle at first. We would practice in a little section of my home. We had different artists moving in and out, but everything eventually fell into place.”

At one point, Kiing was ready to give it all up. When he started Iconic Truth, it took a toll on his family because of the time and focus he was putting into the band. However, after hearing his music on the radio and his brother’s constant encouragement, he was motivated to continue the journey. He, unfortunately, lost his mother in 2022, but before she passed away, she gave him a folder with his complete bio of work that he did in D.C. When he asked why, she said, “It’s yours.” He says that was her way of reminding him who he was. “You’re Kiing Le, don’t stop; keep it going. She was so proud of me.” From that moment, no matter the trials and tribulations, he decided to move forward.

By Dorjea’ McClammey Photos Provided by Todd Youngblood h

When asked what he loves most about the band, Kiing says he loves the creativity his band brings. “Everyone is so individual, and together, we make Go-Go magic. We can take Mary Had a little lamb and make it into a cranking Go-Go song. What’s interesting is how we work to formulate an original sound through each song and have fun with it simultaneously. As a band, we focus on doing what feels good without trying to fit anyone’s mold. We want everyone on that stage and in the audience to live in their iconic truth.”

Kiing isn’t just a musician; he is also a businessman. He owns a production company, DC2NC Productions, which allows musicians and bands to go schedule live performances. He also contracts DJ’s, comedians, vocals, and more. He also has a clothing line called ‘I Don’t Think You Ready”, a spinoff to his onstage performance. Kiing has also found a way to combine his music love with personal training. On his podcast Cardio Conversation, Kiing talks music with guests while they work out. Additionally, he has enjoyed some memorable moments in his career, such as performing with Mint Condition and SWV, traveling, and performing with other big bands and celebrities. He has also written a song for Tone-X, the voice of V101.9 FM in Charlotte.

Kiing advises upcoming artists to persevere, stay consistent, and connect themselves with people who will challenge them. “Remember always to follow your heart and passion and trust your gut. Most importantly, always put the creator first with everything you do, and everything else will fall in place.”

Kiing’s primary goal is to be known as The King of Southern Go-Go. He says it’s time for Iconic Truth to be known as the “go-to Go-Go band” in the South. He wants his name to be in the company of other greats such as Chuck Brown, Little Benny, The Masters, Big G from Backyard Band, and many more.

In the future, Kiing Le and Iconic Truth Band will continue to be involved with community awareness programs and teach kids more about live music and performing arts, “Performing arts saved my life, and that is something I want to give back to the community.”

Dan Smith Charon Thompson and The Porter House KC Creating Opportunities For The Betterment of Others

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by The Porter House KC

The Porter House KC is an inner city-based co-working community that provides entrepreneurship access and resources to underserved populations in the Kansas City, MO, Metro area. Founded by Dan Smith and Charon Thompson, the organizations’ mission is to be a bridge for underrepresented individuals who typically don’t have access to the entrepreneurial dream. They also assist in representing entrepreneurs of color by providing an affordable business space to grow an idea into a full-fledged business.

Dan is a native of Kansas City and graduated from Bishop Hogan High School. He has worked in for-profit and not-forprofit sectors for the past 18 years, and in addition to the Porter House KC, he has started, owned, and operated five businesses. Dan’s affinity for the not-for-profit sector, explicitly helping underserved populations, started over 20 years ago when his mother exposed him to the importance of helping others. This experience gave him a deep appreciation for the not-for-profit work in underserved communities of color and fueled his drive to help those in need. Dan will serve his first year as a professor at the University of Kansas School of Business this fall. He previously taught at the University of Missouri in Kansas City. He shares two boys, Michael and Daniel Jr, with his wife, Aisha.

Charon is not a native of Kansas City, but he has lived in the “City of Dreams” since he was seven years old. Most of his family lives in Dallas, TX, and Shreveport, LA. Charon was a military brat who traveled all over and found his way there by way of his grandmother, a Kansas City resident. He attended Lincoln College Prep and the University of Missouri in Kansas City. At UMCK, he majored in Electrical Engineering, and from there, he started several businesses with Dan and worked with the BNSF Railway for 17 years. One of the businesses he and Dan created was a coffee wholesale company called Black Drip Coffee. Dan is married to Lauren, and together they share two boys and a girl, Caleb, Dylan, and Bryson.

The Porter House KC was developed when Dan and Charon were challenged with access to few resources when starting their business. “We wanted to help entrepreneurs in the community have a sustainable business. We reached out to a couple of businesses and noticed gaining access wasn’t easy. We had to ask the hard questions to make it easy for others who look like us to have access and operate successfully,” they share. “The plight of the minority entrepreneur is one with many struggles and hardships and very few victories. We aim to reverse this narrative and help entrepreneurs grow in victory.”

Why do they serve their community, one may ask? The answer is simple. Dan and Charon are committed to bringing change and opportunity. “We love improving our community and seeing generational wealth pour in.”

Others have shaped and molded the minds of these servants, whom they both acknowledge. Dan says his grandfather and mother impacted his life while growing up. They showed him how to be the man he has come to be. Charon says his mother, twin sister, and brother, John Wilson, helped make him the man he is today. Additionally, he had role models in Deion Sanders and Derrick Thomas as a child.

“The plight of the minority entrepreneur is one with many struggles and hardships and very few victories. We aim to reverse this narrative and help entrepreneurs grow in victory.”

Running a business will always come with its own challenges, and the Porter House KC is no exception. Charon says marketing and getting known in Kansas City is one, while Dan says one of his challenges has been figuring out better ways to connect with his community. “Even though I come from the same community as our target population, the population we’re serving is ever-changing for business owners and changing for them as well,” Dan said.

Their advice to other entrepreneurs, whether in business or thinking about getting into business, is to keep grinding. “Believe in yourself and have confidence in your abilities and your vision. Those two things are very crucial. Also, trust your instincts, stay true to your values, and believe in your potential to positively impact your business.” Dan emphasizes that it’s essential to have the power to create a successful business and inspire others as a minority entrepreneur. “Stay resilient, persevere, and let your passion guide this rewarding journey,” Dan says.

In the future, Porter House KC will open another space at 811 W 31st St in Kansas City. The opening is planned for August. “Instead of trying to figure out eCommerce and how to get in the next pop-up show or ‘First Fridays’ type deals, we want founders and business owners to be able to have stores and be a retailer out of their own space. We want to create opportunities for entrepreneurs,” they shared. There will be a lot of surprises when their new space is finished, that is for sure.

To learn more about Porter House KC, please visit their website.

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www.theporterhousekc.com

The son of Staci Simms and Antonio Austin

Chea Butterz Beauty Michea Jones

By Terry L. Watson

Photos Provided by Michea Jones

Michea Jones, pronounced (My-Shay), is the owner of Chea Butterz Beauty, also known in the Milwaukee, WI, community as The Braid Spa. Chea Butterz Beauty offers a wide range of luxury braiding and esthetics services, including every type of braid, from micro to the extra large knotless. Their services include styled feed-in braids (the new name for French braids), and a half weave and half braid option. They also have esthetics services, including waxing, facials, body treatments, body sculpting, lashes, brows, and more.

Michea says that Chea Butterz Beauty’s targeted audience is any male and female between the ages of (5-100) looking to enhance their beauty, whether through getting their hair done, cleaning their skin, or sculpting their body.

Michea describes herself as a hard-working, driven individual who isn’t afraid of challenges. She says, “I have dealt with many challenges throughout my life, which has molded me into the woman I am today. Growing up under the poverty level was one of the main challenges my siblings and I faced. Yet, that never stopped my mom from providing for us. Before my mother died, she taught me how to survive. Those values showed up in my life once I was on my own.”

At the age of nine, Michea’s mom first put a baby doll with hair in front of her. It was then she learned how to braid. “My mom braided hair also, and I would take the clients she didn’t want to do. However, I wasn’t making much money braiding for my mom, so I lost interest. That was my attitude every other year in regard to braiding. I would do it for a while; then I would stop. After high school, I decided to stop braiding and get my degree. But in the mix of school, my mom died. I was in my sophomore year of undergrad, and her passing hit me hard. I was only 19 and had nowhere to live. I eventually landed on my Godparents’ couch until I could make enough money to move. Once I got the hang of living on my own and paying bills, I realized I was missing something; braiding. Braiding was my connection to my mom. Soon, I had a two-bedroom home and turned the spare room into a “room shop”. I started taking clients in my home and charged what I wanted. I began to feel a sense of belonging,” Michae says. Today, she has a salon suite almost four times the size of her “room shop”, with independent contractors working alongside her. Things have changed for the better for Michea.

“My mom braided hair also, and I would take the clients she didn’t want to do. However, I wasn’t making much money braiding for my mom, so I lost interest.”

Chea Butterz Beauty began in 2018, the year before Michea finished college. It began under the name, Bliss Essential Goods, and offered skin care products. Michea wanted to combine her braiding services with her skin care products, and thus Chea Butterz Beauty was born.

When she graduated from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee in 2019 with a BA in Psychology, Michea realized, Therapy wasn’t something she wanted to pursue then. “I wanted to learn about skin just as much as I knew about braids. I wanted to be legit in the skin care and esthetics world, so I went back to school and attended Milwaukee Area Technical College Mequon Skyn Spa,” she shares. Michea graduated in 2021 as a state Licensed Aesthetican; in 2021, Chea Butterz Beauty LLC became a registered business through Wisconsin. Michea was no longer operating in her “room shop”. She was legitimately established in her existing space.

Michea shares what she loves most about being a business owner is the opportunity to write her own story. “My business is what molded me to be,” she says. Michea also loves people. “I’m a giver by nature, and I want to make people feel good. I serve others in hopes of making their day just like they made mine when they chose Chea Butterz Beauty.”

Michea says her “why” has to be bigger than the “no’s” of others. Having this type of mentality is what drives her. “ I have to remember each day why I am doing this. I must keep going even without the support of others. I am also encouraged when I am supported by those I didn’t expect to support me,” she says.

Her advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs is to believe in what God has given you. “The vision that God gave you was meant only for you, so don’t let anyone tell you you can’t because God already showed you that you can.”

In addition to running her business, Michea teaches at Universal Scholars Academy. She shares that she doesn’t desire to teach in a classroom setting but still loves to teach, which is why she plans to return to school and get her cosmetology and esthetics instructor licenses. “I want to open the first black-owned Braid Spa Institute in Milwaukee and offer professional braiding and esthetics classes to individuals between the ages of 18-50. I also want to obtain my Masters in Counseling and open a Therapy salon, a first of its kind. I will call it Hairapy, and it will be designed for both men and women and offer a professional space to unwind, relax, and vent while getting serviced,” Michea says.

OutHustle Your Struggle

By Terry L. Watson

One thing is for sure; there is no quit in Therosia Reynolds. She is the Renaissance and Creole artist from South Phoenix, AZ. She is also an entrepreneur with diverse talents in visual art, spoken word, and vocals. Her creations are deeply rooted in her spiritual beliefs and revolve around hope, love, and liberation themes. That is who she is.

Therosia obtained her BA in Psychology from Ottawa University. She is a renowned live painter, winning the city Art Battle championship with 20-minute full portrait paintings that captivate fans. She’s the resident live painter for Poetic Soul and Homebase events, known for their large followings. Her dynamic live paint performances and vibrant portraiture have wowed audiences. Notably, at the East Valley NAACP freedom fund awards, Therosia’s live painting, accompanied by dance to live music, immediately sold the completed piece. Her art exhibitions showcase live paintings and studio works at esteemed institutions like ASU, Millet House Gallery, U of A, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, and Modified Arts.

Therosia, the spoken word and vocal maestro, has blessed the stage with her artistry, opening for heavy hitters like the Roots, Erykah Badu, and Musiq Soulchild. Yasiel Puig was blessed with Therosia’s presence as a featured artist at his poetry event. She’s the real deal, setting the urban scene ablaze with her lyrical prowess and soulful vibes.

The company that Therosia owns is called OutHustle Your Struggle, but she operates with three brands. There is her personal brand as an artist, Therosia. There is the clothing brand called OutHustle Your Struggle, and lastly, there is her current work and separate brand, Soul Food & Superheroes.

As an artist, Therosia provides fine art centered around people of color and their unique experiences. Additional services she offers include live painting, speaking, teaching, and performing as a spoken word artist and singer. Her business includes fine art, prints, and various art merchandise, including clothing, based on her artwork.

Therosia is a Creole descendant of the African diaspora and Indigenous American tribes. She shares that she grew up between worship of the Black American church and the war stories of a red-lined, predominantly African American South Phoenix. “My mother is an Evangelist and Pastor who raised my brothers and me. My father is a mechanic who has struggled with addiction. I am biologically the youngest of three children, but when you add my step and god siblings, there were about 20 of us, mostly male,” she says.

Photos Provided by Therosia Reynolds

Interestingly enough, Therosia’s art education began without any formal training. She says, “My mother says I began being an artist as soon as I knew paper and pen went together.” Regarding poetry, signs of that gift appeared at a young age for Therosia also. “I have been doing little mini concerts in my bedroom since I was about three years old. It began by listening to my mother, who was a poet, do poetry,” she says.

Art continued to play a huge role in his life. “In the 8th grade, I developed Pseudotumor Cerebri or Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension. It is a debilitating condition, meaning I would spend months in and out of school. While out of school, I would have to take classes at home. The only elective that could come to my house was art. That is how I gained private art lessons. My teacher was disabled, paralyzed from the waist down. My condition meant I went through intermittent paralysis, and he was the perfect teacher for me at the time. He required that I do my work. He gave me grace but no excuses. I learned a lot from him, not just about art but also about perseverance.”

Community service is also very important to Therosia. She says, “I serve my community because they belong to me, and I belong to them. They are the people who nourished, mentored, loved, taught, and cared for me. They are my ancestors, brothers, sisters, aunties and uncles, nephews and nieces, and my family. Without them, there is no me.”

A number of things have impacted Therosia’s life and career. “Having idiopathic intracranial hypertension was one of them. It has also had the biggest impact on my relationship with God. When I look at humanity, I see the Imago Dei. Each human is the image of God, and I strive to honor that and live in a way that honors the presence of God in everyone,” she says.

In regards to sharing information with those who may follow a similar path as she has, Therosia gives a strong message. She says, “Fiercely defend your own voice but also be willing to grow in learning who you really are. Be very gracious and loyal to yourself. Do not take offense when people don’t recognize your beauty or greatness. It’s not personal, it’s ignorance.”

Moving forward, Therosia is preparing for the second installment of her soul food and superhero series, which is scheduled for August 11, 2023. The installation includes a collaboration with the University of Arizona and has been backed by the Arizona Commission on the Arts. The show features an augmented reality tour of the show and AI and digital art collaborations. This show is also her seven-year anniversary show as a full-time artist. “I couldn’t be more grateful, and I’m excited to see people’s experience of the work, and I am so overjoyed to be able to share this work and the collaborations behind the scenes to make it possible,” she says.

Therosia Reynolds OutHustle Your Struggle

“I serve my community because they belong to me, and I belong to them. They are the people who nourished, mentored, loved, taught, and cared for me. They are my ancestors, brothers, sisters, aunties and uncles, nephews and nieces, and my family. Without them, there is no me.”

The Woods Way Home

By Terry L. Watson

Tenisha is a Nashville native and a God-fearing woman who puts God first. She obtained a degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix and later became a licensed Realtor. She is a mother of five beautiful children, a son, Isaiah, her oldest and four girls: Keshona, Alora, Amya, and Ava.

Tenisha says her journey of being homeless inspired the name Woods Way Home. “We lived wherever someone would allow us to lay our heads. In 2016, I found myself and my girls living in a women’s domestic violence shelter. Because of my son’s age, he could not live with us at the shelter and could only visit on weekends. Because I was ashamed and broken, I hid this from my family/friends. Eventually, I returned to an unhealthy relationship because I felt I had nowhere else to go. I prayed for help, and God gave me a plan of action to get myself and my children out of that situation and to help others. That plan included real estate. While pregnant with my youngest daughter, in 2017, I earned my degree in Business Administration. And in 2018, I finally left my ex for good. I studied and became a licensed Realtor. I used real estate to help pull my family out of financial bondage, and in 2021, I purchased our home. My road to homeownership was a long, hard process without real direction. However, that journey taught me what worked and what didn’t, mainly from trial and error. Now, I help my clients avoid the road bumps I hit.”

Real estate transactions have many intricate parts and can overwhelm the average person. Tenisha states, “As a Realtor, I must make the transaction as seamless as possible. Whether that is providing information on buying, selling, and/or investing in real estate, hosting an open house, or preparing a market analysis. I am here for it all! On inspection day, you will often find me suited up in the crawl space. Why? Because that is one of the places where you will learn the most about the home.”

Tenisha is also known for rolling up her sleeves and offering a hand with any moving needs. She will help pack, clean, or do something as simple as bringing lunch. When necessary, she will even provide emotional support to her clients. Whatever the need, she will lead you to the proper resources.

The path to homeownership in Nashville happens with Tenisha Woods of Woods Way Home brokered by eXp Realty. Woods Way Home is designed to help people make great real estate decisions for residential and commercial transactions.

Photos Provided by Motelwa Smith Photography

“As a Realtor, I must make the transaction as seamless as possible. Whether that is providing information on the process of buying, selling, and/or investing in real estate, hosting an open house, or preparing a market analysis. I am here for it all.”

When it comes to buyers, she has found that the idea of gaining homeownership can be very frightening and discouraging, especially amongst those in the African American community. Many are reluctant to even think of becoming a homeowner, and homeownership within our community is at its lowest since the nineteensixties. Many buyers believe they must have a perfect credit score to obtain their goals, making convincing them otherwise more complicated and challenging. She says, “Although a perfect score would be phenomenal, it is my job to assure you that a good credit score will work too, but you must at least try.” Tenisha manages these challenges with one-on-one interactions and gaining her clients’ trust.

For anyone who may follow the Woods Way Home, Tenisha advises them to learn the three D’s; drive, determination, and dedication. “Without the Three D’s, you’ll find yourself stuck on repeat. You need the drive to get up and get moving, the determination to keep going no matter what obstacles may arise. You need dedication to stay when you want something bad enough. Rome wasn’t built in one day, and dreams don’t come true overnight. And goals are not reached by sitting.”

Without the hand of God in her life, Tenisha admits she wouldn’t be where she is today. “God has brought me out, pulled me through, and in that process, He has removed burdens and brought so many wonderful people into my life — people to help me or for me to help and encourage them along the way.”

In the future, Tenisha’s goal is to purchase several multi-family properties. They would serve as transitional housing for domestic violence victims, from abuse to freedom and homeownership. That is the Woods Way Home.

For more information about Tenisha Woods and the Woods Way Home, please visit www. WoodsWayHome.com or scan the QR Code below. h

The iCare Project

By Terry L. Watson

Photos Provided by Danesha Roper

She has a heart for serving and assisting others. Memphis, TN, native Danesha Roper is the face of The iCare Project, a nonprofit organization founded in 2022 and designed to help children between the ages of 7-18 become their best selves through the power of community, education, recreation, and mentorship. Their holistic program brings out the best in every child through empowerment, encouragement, and exposure.

After working in the educational system since 2012, Danesha witnessed how some students experienced barriers that prevented them from reaching academic success while others advanced in their scholastic endeavors. These barriers sometimes contributed to behavioral issues, broken spirits, and a sense of shame. Danesha says The iCare Project exists to help those children who are overlooked by providing them with tutoring services, mental health coaching, mentoring, workforce development, behavior-appropriate activities, and residential services for those in need. “We believe that children deserve the opportunity to maximize their potential in safe places and around people who will help their dreams become a reality. It’s simple… we care.”

While she was born in Memphis, TN, Danesha was raised in Milwaukee, WI, living there from age two until her early twenties and then relocating back to Memphis. “I’m excited to call Memphis my home again. I enjoy giving back to the community, writing, and spending time with my son Da’Karion. My greatest passion is developing youth and helping them reach their greatest potential,” she shares. Danesha also wrote and published her first book, You Think You Know But You Have No Idea, in 2017 and created and published her first journal for children in 2021.

The iCare Project helps children ages 7-18 become their best selves through the power of community, education, recreation, and mentorship. Our holistic program brings out the best in every child through empowerment, encouragement, and exposure. After working in the educational system since 2012, our founder, Danesha witnessed how some students experienced barriers that prevented them from reaching academic success while others advanced in their scholastic endeavors. This would sometimes contribute to behavioral issues, broken spirits, and a sense of shame. The iCare Project exists to help those children who are overlooked by providing them with tutoring services, mental health coaching, mentoring, workforce development, behavior-appropriate activities, and residential services for those in need. The iCare Project exists because children deserve the opportunity to maximize their potential in safe places and around people who will strategize ways to work alongside each student so that their dreams can become a reality. It’s simple… we care.

“We believe that children deserve the opportunity to maximize their potential in safe places and around people who will help their dreams become a reality.

It’s simple… we care.”

The iCare project recently piloted its Mentorship Program with about 15 girls from 2nd to 4th grade. Danesha introduced her self-care journals, and the girls learned to speak positively to themselves, have a positive attitude toward school, and befriend and build healthy and appropriate peer relationships. They also tapped into learning how to express themselves through writing as well.

For the past ten years, Danesha has worked in the school system educating the youth and young adults. Through iCare, she has found her purpose in serving youth outside the school system’s walls. When asked what she loves most about her program, Danesha says it’s seeing the growth, potential, and success within every child she comes in contact with. “I love that I can serve and cater to the needs of our children in a capacity beyond the walls of the school. I love to see the smile on children’s faces, I love to be that person they look up to and know without a doubt that they can depend on me.”

Danesha credits her mentor, Dr. Shmeka Gibson, for playing a huge role and impacting her career. Danesha participated in Dr. Gibson’s cohort and mentorship program, Innate Success, in 2022. “Being taught and learning the ins and outs and infrastructure of a successful business from Dr. Gibson played a tremendous role in how I could step out and do what I am most passionate about.”

Receiving the type of help that she received from Innate Success was vital, and Danesha encourages those who may follow a path similar to hers to do the same. Her advice is also to keep going, no matter what, keep going. “It’s okay to ask for help. It’s also okay to take a step back whenever you need or feel overwhelmed. Pause, take a step back, regroup, and keep on going. Never compare yourself to another person’s success or progress. You are right where you need to be at the right time and remember, comparison is the thief of joy. Stay focused and stay in your own lane at your own pace. You got this!”

So what’s next for Danesha? She shares her plans for releasing her second book soon, along with another selfcare journal for children and a self-care activity guide for teens. As for The iCare Project, it will continue to mentor youth in the city of Memphis and inside of the schools, with hopes of expanding and partnering with more schools throughout Memphis.

To learn more about The iCare Project, please visit their website. h

September 30th, 2023 - High Point, NC

By Terry L. Watson

The Unwind Music Festival is designed to bring Jazz, Rhythm and Blues, EDM, G0-Go, and other music classifications together under one roof. The brain and visionary behind the festival is Thomasville, NC, native Anthony Anderson, who owns The Unwind Bar in High Point, NC. Anthony is no stranger to event planning. In his early years, he produced gospel concerts in Columbia, SC, and facilitated and managed events in several states throughout his life.

The Unwind Bar opened its doors to the public during the middle of the Covid 19 pandemic. Anthony shares that most people thought opening a business during the pandemic was crazy. He and his team took a gamble and did it, and the results were positive. “The likeness and appreciation of what The Unwind Bar was able to accomplish led to our team researching the impact of live music in our area,” he says. Fast forward, their research has led to the development of The Unwind Music Festival.

Slated to happen on September 30, 2023, at the High Point Theater in High Point, NC. The one-day event will showcase musical talent from around North Carolina. There will be food trucks and vendors on sight, and much more. The team that is producing The Unwind Music Festival includes Anthony, along with his mother Norine Anderson, LaKeith Stevenson, Kika James, and Derrick Jones. The lineup of talent includes Just Once, The Luv Jones Experience, Sumthin 4 Tha People, Alter Egos, and a Mary J. Blige tribute produced by Just Fine.

Some of the sponsors for The Unwind Music Festival are Favor Desserts located in Durham, NC, The Love Jones Experience, Wayne Cotrell with State Farm Insurance, Collaborative Consulting, Dj Jimmy Jam of WJOSHD.com, JMS Catering, Unwind Bar, Harbor One Seafood & Chicken of High Point, NC, and more.

Anthony says his love for live music inspired him to produce The Unwind Music Festival. “I am a pretty laid-back, chill kind of guy, and if I am looking to get into something, I am going to find a place with live music. Live music is good for your soul. It makes you feel good, and people need that nowadays. It has helped people to get back outside and unwind after experiencing the Covid pandemic. The festival was created for those reasons. Music helps people to forget about all the noise. It helps people to unwind. Most importantly, music is life,” he says.

The purpose of The Unwind Music Festival is not only to entertain but also to give back. One of the beneficiaries is the Enrichment Fund for the Guilford County Schools. This fund allows all students to benefit from the same enrichment opportunities and for teachers to be as creative as they inspire. Each year, they award hundreds of small gifts that support high-impact learning experiences for as many students as possible. While it is predicated on how well the show does, Anthony shares that a percentage of the profits from The Unwind Music Festival will go to the Enrichment Fund.

Education holds a sincere place in Anthony’s heart. After graduating from college, Anthony spent several years as a teacher. He also spent many years as a site director for a before and after-school program. “I understand the challenges that schools face regarding funding for before and after school, care, and even remediation. That is why we are choosing to place our resources from the festival there,” he says.

Anthony shares the journey to bring a festival to High Point, NC, has been challenging. “Triad natives are producing the festival with no backing from large conglomerates although we hope to obtain the support of some of the city’s way makers. We’re a team of visionaries looking to build a brand and safe platform for the city of High Point to experience and embrace. The journey has encompassed nearly two years, and the response has been incredible. We aim to bring an elevated live music and arts experience year after year.”

An additional challenge with producing The Unwind Music Festival, Anthony shares, has been timing. “I’m one of those people who like to do things in advance. I am a strategic thinker and want to get things done now and be prepared. Getting others to get in line and stand beside you as you move forward is difficult when there is time ahead of you. Most people want to wait for something to materialize. I like to make it materialize.”

It is apparent that Anthony doesn’t believe in wasting time or resources. To produce such an elaborate event as The Unwind Music Festival, he can’t afford to. He says, “I have more years behind me than in front of me. I can’t have reservations about anything. I have realized that it only takes one time to be successful.”

Anthony has some sound advice for those thinking about working for themselves. “Entrepreneurship is not for the timid. You must be willing to pay someone else before you get paid. If you are not selfless enough to do that, entrepreneurship is not for you.” Additionally, Anthony offers some advice to those who may follow a journey similar to his. “You have to decide when to start. Once you start, you have to remove any distractions. You must delete all of the noise and the naysayers, those who don’t believe in your vision. If it is in your heart, you must put things in motion and do it. I do not believe in failing. Give it a shot and see how it goes. There is a lesson to learn in everything. What do you have to lose?”

Moving forward, Anthony plans to continue to create events that his community will embrace and enjoy. He also plans to do his part in contributing to the High Point/Thomasville communities. “I am here to serve and connect with others who have a desire to impact the lives of others positively,” he says. To learn more about The Unwind Music Festival, including how to become a sponsor or vendor, please visit the event’s website.

Photos Provided by Anthony Anderson

Farrell’s Daughter

By Terry L. Watson

Trish Bernard, of Dallas, TX, is the Marketing Director and owner of Farrell’s Daughter Marketing & Graphic Design. Her company specializes in helping small businesses overcome challenges such as ADD, ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, and technology struggles. She also assists brands in implementing straightforward marketing strategies complemented by stunning visuals. From inception to completion, Trish provides ongoing support and utilizes efficient tools to minimize time spent on individual projects while maximizing outcomes for each campaign. Additionally, Trish owns a boutique wedding planning company.

Originally from New Orleans, LA, that is the place Trish credits with learning about hospitality. Farrell’s Daughter is a tribute to her late father, who instilled in Trish the value of serving others. “I uphold his commitment to community service by treating each human individually,” she says. Trish attended Texas Southern University and finished with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology. Her education enables her to bring a deep understanding of human behavior and communication to her business approach. It also allows her to create personalized solutions that cater to her client’s unique and individual needs.

Before becoming an entrepreneur, Trish spent 11 years working in corporate finance. However, her perspective changed when her dad passed away. “Losing my dad made me realize I wanted to enjoy my life, including loving what I do for work. While finance is a great field, it wasn’t my passion, and I was tired of settling and being afraid to leap into something that truly fulfilled me. I didn’t want to spend my last day on earth doing something I didn’t like and just for a paycheck,” she compassionately stated. Her next move was involving herself in three different business ventures before finding her true calling in marketing and graphic design.

Being an entrepreneur, specifically a serial entrepreneur, has its perks. Trish says she loves her career and the freedom it offers her to explore all aspects of her businesses. “Each facet reflects who I am and what I’m passionate about, and I’m genuinely grateful for that. Whether creating websites and branding, crafting content and strategies, or planning events, I’ve realized that there’s nothing I can’t accomplish. Even more, I’ve learned the incredible power of having a supportive team, and with their assistance, I can concentrate on the parts of my businesses that I truly love.”

Trish has faced numerous challenges in business, such as the fear of failure, maintaining the right mindset, and not allowing anything to hinder her path to success. She has also found ways to overcome them. “I learned that it’s crucial to remain flexible and open-minded because your dream may not unfold how you imagined, and that’s perfectly okay. Conquering the fear of failure as a business owner empowers you to find creative solutions to other hurdles, such as financial constraints or limited resources. By cultivating a resilient mindset, you can overcome challenges and continue on your path to success,” she shared.

Photos Provided by Trish Bernard

Trish appreciates her entrepreneurial journey and admits there isn’t much she would change about how things have happened. She says, “My journey has undeniably been a unique experience filled with challenges. One of the toughest aspects was starting as an entrepreneur without prior knowledge or formal training, forcing me to learn everything independently. This meant encountering numerous hurdles along the way. I may have a list of things I wish I had done differently on tough days. However, when I look at where I am now, I believe that my imperfect journey is why I have successfully sustained my business for over five years. Each obstacle I faced provided an opportunity for growth and learning. The lessons I learned from those experiences have made me resilient, adaptable, and resourceful.”

Helping others, Trish says, is incredibly addictive, and witnessing her client’s positive transformation and growth in business brings her immense joy and fulfillment. “My clients have had the most profound impact on my business, as their satisfaction and success are at the core of what I do. Their trust in my expertise and willingness to collaborate and implement my strategies have truly shaped the direction and success of my business. Their feedback, challenges, and triumphs inspire me to push boundaries, innovate, and provide better solutions.”

Trish appreciates her entrepreneurial journey and admits there isn’t much she would change about how things have happened. She says, “My journey has undeniably been a unique experience filled with challenges. One of the toughest aspects was starting as an entrepreneur without prior knowledge or formal training, forcing me to learn everything independently. This meant encountering numerous hurdles along the way. I may have a list of things I wish I had done differently on tough days. However, when I look at where I am now, I believe that my imperfect journey is why I have successfully sustained my business for over five years. Each obstacle I faced provided an opportunity for growth and learning. The lessons I learned from those experiences have made me resilient, adaptable, and resourceful.”

As her future unfolds, Trish plans to find better, more hands-on ways to support her clients. She also plans to assist business owners and empower their enterprises to flourish and succeed. “I plan to earn a few more certifications to continue to educate myself and stay upto-date with the latest industry trends and technologies, ensuring that my clients benefit from the most effective and cutting-edge approaches.”

To learn more about Trish Bernard and Farrell’s Daughter, please visit their website.

My clients have had the most profound impact on my business, as their satisfaction and success are at the core of what I do.”