Huami Magazine Florida Sept./Oct. 2023

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FLORIDA ® Sept./Oct. 2023 Vol. 2 Issue 3 Poetically Distinguished
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Scan the QR code and email us to schedule your complimentary consult and get your company connected today! Lunch & Learns Team Building Coaching & Workshops Build Your Self-Care Tool Kit Consulting & and more.... SERVICES INCLUDE: Visit UnwrapYou.com Visit UnwrapYou.com Unwrap You provides companies with on-site wellness plans to improve employee well-being and increase workplace productivity. Scan This COACH MELODY MCCLELLAN Corporate Wellness Expert & Speaker

Align Your Assignment With God

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

Your assignment is not the assignment of everyone else. Once I learned what those nine words truly meant, my focus on life changed. Of course, I have been told that God gives His toughest battles to His strongest warriors, but that memo didn’t include details of when the battles would end. Instead of sticking my chest out during my victories and hanging my head during the moments of defeat, I’ve decided to learn from each circumstance, and by doing so, I am prepared for the next battle with each new day.

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 best advice I have ever given myself is to be satisfied in my attempts to be better. When I first launched Huami Magazine, I was presented with a situation that adversely impacted the quality of my relatively new publication. I was frustrated, but I also knew what had occurred and why it happened. The idea of quitting never came into my mind, even while I sat motionless, staring at the balled-up copy in reference. I didn’t know then, but God was preparing me for something greater.

In November of this year, we will begin our seventeenthanniversary celebration of the birth of Huami Magazine. When I think about all of the layouts, the photo shoots, the interviews, and the distributions that have taken place, all I can say is God has been faithful and continues to keep His promise.

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.

Had I given up in the beginning, the stories and testimonies of countless individuals may have never been published. Had I given in to the pressure of operating in the unknown, my mother would have never been able to mail magazines to her friends. Had I not decided to pour everything I have in me into producing something my community would celebrate, the hope that others have in God doing a great work for them may not exist.

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.

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.

All of my assignments have come with a lot of responsibility. What is more interesting is that the same set of instructions has accompanied them all: to seek God first and operate according to His plans. My assignment is not everyone else’s, and I know everything I desire is connected to how it aligns with God’s plan. Learn your assignment and align it with God. He will handle the rest for you.

4 4 HuamiMagazine.com November/December 2014 Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844 Editor In Chief Terry L. Watson Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Writers Tonya Dixon Terry L. Watson Alana Allen Jeuron Dove Photographers Perfect Lenz Photography Shaw Photography Group Still Shots Photography www.huamimagazine.com HUAMI MAGAZINE is published quarterly by the Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any portion of this publication is prohibited without written permission from the publisher prior to doing so. Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility for statements made by individuals featured or advertisers. Comments concerning this publication E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com mykelmedia@yahoo.com (336) 340-7844 On The Cover Photo by Shaw Photography Group
Todd Youngblood Photography Tamara Smith Terry L. Watson Publisher Terry L. Watson Writer Dorjea’ McClammey Writer Joy Rogers Writer Monica Montgomery Writer Todd Youngblood Photographer Still Shots Photography Photographer www.huamimagazine.com General Inquiries huami.florida@gmail.com Email Want To Advertise? Call 336-340-7844 Mykel Media Company LLC Greensboro, NC 2022 All Rights Reserved Scan The QR Code Above To Visit Our Website terry.editor@yahoo.com 336-340-7844 A Letter From The Editor
Terry L. Watson
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Poet Taki Brown SEPT./OCT. 2023 FLORIDA CONTENTS 6 On The Cover 10 14 Sophia Carter Representing the deaf community, the avid and successful entrepreneur is setting the atmosphere with Chaos Candle Company. Washington, D.C. Tina McDowell Learn more about the face and founder of Esquite Illusions. Her journey has taken her places she never imagined. Greenville, SC Also Featured 20 Khadijah Polly For her, there is more to popcorn than just salt and butter. Learn how she has grown her business and helped others as well. Houston, TX
Words and Acting
Advocate
Mental Health
Lowcountry Gullah Luana Graves Sellars
An
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Alisa Thornton
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Hart Doula and Nanny LLC Victoria Hart
Huami Magazine Cutest Baby Ashton Hairston

Poetically Distinguished

Taki Brown is a trailblazing poet who has a gift for both Rhymed and Narrative poetry. His delivery of words is candid, gaudy, and serene; however, don’t let his smooth flavor fool you. Taki’s vision exceeds the boundaries of his stage performance.

Born in Jackson, TN, Taki spent most of his life in Walton Beach, FL. He has also involved himself in many things in his short life. Currently, he resides in Hampton, VA, and has been Active Duty with the United States Air Force since 2017. He has also found time to attend college at the University of Maryland Global Campus while pursuing a degree in Marketing.

Taki’s interest lies in poetry and acting. His career with poetry began in Florida, and he enjoyed his first gig at Spill The Tea in Fort Walton Beach. “When I first got to Florida, I thought poetry was just something to do. I was like all the other kids who grew up in my era. I tried rapping and freestyling with my friends. I wanted to find a way to release my emotions and be vulnerable with my audience, and poetry was the answer,” he says.

Since becoming a poet, he has performed in states outside of Florida, including North Carolina, Virginia, Alabama, and others. He also has a gift for acting, brilliantly combining his talents and turning his poetry into film. His first production, or poetry short film, is called You Were Loved, which was based on one of his poems.

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Photos Provided by Taki Brown

As a poet, Taki has been inspired by other great poets, including Rudy Francisco and Steven Wills. He also acknowledges his fiance, Tashana Griffiths, for keeping him on his toes whenever he decides to write. Additionally, Taki recognizes Kalvo Griffin, a director, for showing him how to prepare professionally.

While Taki’s gift has taken him to places he never imagined he would be, he also shares there are times when it’s challenging. “I have a love-hate relationship with poetry. I love that it allows me to release and express my emotions, but I also resent how it takes so much from me. It can be draining at times. If you put your all into something, it can be draining,” he says. Another challenge he faces is writers’ blogs. “I am emotional and allow myself to be vulnerable. When I am in front of my audience, I try to avoid appealing to my audience too much. I try to avoid those places and rather focus on doing what I do best.”

Looking ahead, Taki plans to continue using his talents in film and poetry. He also plans to write a book, launch a podcast, and produce a film. There are also plans in the works for a clothing line. Taki concludes saying, “My goal in life is to be remembered. I want people to look at what I accomplish and believe they can be whatever they want to be.”

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Instagram @TakiBrown Follow me on
I have a love-hate relationship with poetry. I love that it allows me to release and express my emotions, but I also resent how it takes so much from me. It can be draining at times.”
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Chaos Candle Company

Out of Chaos Came The Light

Sophia Carter is the owner of Chaos Candle Company. Also deaf, she was born and raised in the state of Maryland, though her family roots are Jamaican. Sophia grew up attending mainstream schools and did not learn American Sign Language until she reached the high school level. After graduating high school, she attended the University of Maryland and Columbia University. In addition to managing Chaos Candle Company, Sophis works for a consulting firm.

Founded in 2020, in the midst of the Covid 19 pandemic, Chaos Candle Company creates mainstream scented candles and home fragrances. Sophia says her mission is to bring inspiration into homes and empower the deaf community and customers to go beyond their fears and limits. “We understand that life can be overwhelming, and sometimes we all need a little light to us through the dark moments. Our candles are here to do just that.”

Sophia says her candles are made with the same care and attention to detail that was used when she first started. Whether you’re looking for a candle to set the mood for a romantic evening, she can help you unwind after a long day or simply bring a little light into your life. “At our Chaos Candle Co, we believe that even in the darkest moments, there is always light to be found. Our candles are a reminder of that light, and we hope they bring a little brightness into your life.”

Chaos Candle Company’s existence happened when everything seemed to be falling apart around the world. During this period, Sophia found solace in the gentle glow of a candle flame. She says, “As we burned candles throughout our home, we began to feel a sense of calm and peace that had been missing from our lives. We soon realized that we wanted to share this experience with others and help them find their own sense of calm in the midst of chaos. We started small, crafting each candle by hand with the highest quality ingredients. We specialize in wooden tube wicks with bespoke fragrances.”

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Running a business brings Sophia joy and an opportunity to detach from her other obligations. “I love creating candles. You will often hear other candlemakers express their frustration with the process, but I like testing new waxes and fragrances and coming up with new ideas that my customers would enjoy. I have a vision for what my candle business could become. This vision is a constant source of inspiration, reminding me of the potential for growth and success.”

While many other deaf owned businesses exist in the DMV, expanding did not come without difficulties. Like most business owners, Sophia is constantly faced with challenges on how to make her company better. She points out how she has often encountered prejudice and passive-aggressive racism. “When I first started my business, I was focused on my products and what I could provide. I adjusted and became more diverse with my product line. Another challenge is when people find out that I am deaf owned business, they fall into the stereotypes of what deaf individuals can do. As part of the deaf community, we don’t have the resources we need to thrive in our business,” she says. Though faced with the challenges, Sophia and Chaos Candle Company have persevered.

For others who are interested in starting a business, Sophia’s advice is to start slow and do your research. “I know we all want to be on our grind and be successful, but do the work, and take your time,” she says. Moving forward, Sophia’s goal is to increase visibility with potential customers. She also plans to participate in local markets and events. Sophia says these opportunities will allow her to showcase her candles and gather valuable feedback. To learn more about Chaos Candle Company, please visit their website.

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“Another challenge is when people find out that I am deaf owned business, they fall into the stereotypes of what deaf individuals can do. As part of the deaf community, we don’t have the resources we need to thrive in our business.”
www.chaoscandlecompany.com
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Exquisite Illusions

In the upstate community of South Carolina, she is well-known as “Teena Mac”. In the professional realm and not-so-personal circle, she is comfortable with being Tina McDowell.

Born and raised in Spartanburg, SC, by a single mother who gave birth to her at age 13, Tina’s life began with all odds statistically against her. Her mother, Debra Wright, instilled values of hard work and dedication to achieve within Tina at an early age. These same values are the foundation upon which she stands, and she established her legacy.

Tina is a multifaceted person. She is a mother of one daughter, Kareena, and Mimi of two amazing grandchildren, Devante and Neila. She is a teacher, Web Designer, Life and Mindfulness Coach, Photographer, Digital Creator, Self-Published Author, and Philanthropist. However, the most important title she wears is the daughter of the King, and she professes that she has a strong faith in God and knows that by placing Him first, her potential is limitless.

Tina graduated from Southern Wesleyan University, obtaining her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Management. She also received her Master of Arts in Computer Resources and Information Management from Webster University.

Tina is also an entrepreneur and owns several brands with Tina McDowell Enterprises. One of them is Exquisite Illusions, a Web Design, Photography, and Branding company that helps female entrepreneurs develop an online presence for their Biz/Brand with intentional branding strategies. “I specialize in creating exquisite brand identities and branding content for savvy modern-day entrepreneurs. Our services are structured to help you achieve your desired personal and business goals,” she says.

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Cover Photo Provided by Let’s Create Photography
“Whether it is a personal aspiration or a business target, having a clear vision and a welldefined plan is crucial for success.”

Her company offers Web Design Services, Social Media Management, Administrative Services, Photography, Self-Publishing Services, Digital Creation, Hosting Services, Domain Registration, and Facilitator Services. “I teach individuals how to start a business and entrepreneurs how to present their businesses online. I also create and sell digital products. I offer one-on-one and group master classes using graphic design tools, custom branded apparel creation, computer applications, and selfpublishing,” she says. Other brands in her enterprise are Girl Boss Brand Society, KM Kouture, Domains N Things, and The Wright Stuff Boutique, which is a partnership with her mother.

Tina officially started her career teaching in higher education. She says, “Teaching has always been my true passion. During my years working in the IT industry, I always felt like something was missing. In 2005, I embarked on my entrepreneurial journey with an MLM, and in 2013, I decided to pursue another childhood passion: photography. This is how Exquisite Illusions was developed.”

In 2017, the educational institution she worked for permanently closed, prompting her to expand her services to include web/graphic design, social media management, digital creation classes, hosting services, domain registration, and photography. She further enhanced her brand in 2022 by introducing self-publishing classes, and in early 2023, Tina added the title of Self-Published Author to her resume.

Tina’s passion for digital technology has allowed her to work for over 20 years as an instructor, facilitator, coach, and web and graphic designer. She is currently studying to become a Licensed Esthetician. She is a mentor, motivator, and always willing to go the extra. With her nonprofit organization, Jus Us Girlz Empowerment Network, she helps women realize their value by living their best lives. Partnered with her mother, they conduct quarterly workshops for women in their community. Tina is also a member of Changing Your Mind Ministries under the leadership of Pastor Wendell Jones.

From a young age, Tina says she harbored an unwavering fascination with the intricate workings of technology. “I received my first computer, The Commodore 64, in second grade. According to my mother, I was a curious child, constantly bombarding her with questions about the inner mechanisms of various gadgets and devices. This insatiable curiosity drove me to explore the depths of technology, to unravel its mysteries, and comprehend its complexities. I was not content with merely using technology; I yearned to understand it at its core. This passion has remained with me throughout my life and career, fueling my desire to constantly learn and stay abreast of the latest advancements in the field.”

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Pictured below with Tina is her mother, Pastor Debra, the co-founder of Jus Us Girlz Empowerment Photo provided by Let’s Create Photography Photo provided by Tina McDowell

Tina’s natural love for helping others is genuine and ever-flowing. She says, “Helping individuals and entrepreneurs and empowering others brings me fulfillment. Ultimately, motivation is the catalyst that propels me forward, enabling me to achieve my aspirations while uplifting those around me. As a professional, I understand the significance of setting and attaining goals. Whether it is a personal aspiration or a business target, having a clear vision and a well-defined plan is crucial for success. I take pride in guiding individuals and entrepreneurs through this process, helping them identify their goals, develop strategies, and overcome obstacles. When it comes to entrepreneurs, I am particularly drawn to their ambition and drive. I understand the challenges they face in building and growing their businesses. Assisting entrepreneurs in reaching their business goals benefits them and contributes to the community’s economic growth and development.”

As a business owner, Tina shares how she’s managed the hurdles and challenges of entrepreneurship. “One of the most significant hurdles I have encountered on my entrepreneurial journey is the lack of support from people I expected to receive support from. Witnessing their support for other businesses offering similar products and services can be disheartening. However, I have realized they are not my target customers, and I have learned to extend grace to them and focus on attracting the audience I want to serve.”

Another challenge Tina has faced is people attempting to negotiate her prices. “I have learned to stand firm and provide top-tier services to my clients. I am also committed to personal and professional development and always open to being a student of my craft. I understand the value I bring to the table and the quality of service I provide, and I expect to be adequately compensated for my expertise and efforts,” she says.

In the business sector, Tina has exceeded all of her expectations. In her community, she has answered the call to serve. However, she still searches for opportunities to empower and enrich the lives of others. With her nonprofit organization, Jus Us Girlz Empowerment Network, Tina has seized numerous volunteer opportunities and mentored, motivated, and inspired anyone fortunate to cross her path. Jus Us Girlz Empowerment Network was founded by Tina in 2015, and alongside her mother, Pastor Debra, Tina offers quarterly workshops to women in her community. “Our organization is wholeheartedly committed to supporting women, ages 18 and older, from diverse backgrounds. My mother and I have triumphed over challenges many women face today, and our personal experiences fuel our unwavering passion to empower and uplift others,” she says. “We want women to recognize their value and live their best lives right now.”

It’s evident that Tina is committed to helping individuals and entrepreneurs achieve their goals and being an ambassador for God. “I am God’s Masterpiece, created in His divine design. I thank Him for all the opportunities He has bestowed upon me. I also thank my mother for being the best support system on this planet. God first, but she’s right after Him.”

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Photo provided by Tina McDowell

Kay’s Kettle Corn

Who doesn’t love popcorn? For Khadijah Polly, that question is one she is always eager and prepared to answer. Khadijah owns Kay’s Kettle Corn, an African-American and female business based in Houston, TX. “Our popcorn is fresh and popped right after you order it,” Khadijhah says. “Kay’s Kettle Corn is made with four simple ingredients: popcorn, sugar, canola oil, and sea salt, and is perfect for when you’re craving a sweet, salty, and crunchy snack.”

Khadijah is a native of Los Angeles, California. There, she attended the Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies and graduated in 1999. Her next move landed her at Grambling State University, a Historically Black College and University in Grambling, Louisiana. HBCU’s are known for putting out exceptional students that personify the meaning of black excellence, and Khadijah was sure to keep the tradition in motion. She graduated with honors with a bachelor’s degree in Marketing in Spring 2003 and became a member of the renowned Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.

Kay’s Kettle Corn is a gourmet popcorn company that provides two popcorn flavors for parties and events. Their signature kettle corn is sweet and salty and is typically found at carnivals and festivals. The second one is their movie theater popcorn.

When not popping popcorn, Khadijah has been able to author an ebook called POPCOINS- How To Make $500 a Month With a Home-Based Popcorn Business. She also serves as a speaker, covering topics of empowerment and entrepreneurship, and as a specialty foods business coach. She also facilitates a workshop designed for schools called Popcorn CEO’s (Children’s Economic Opportunities). “Our workshop teaches entrepreneurship based on the principles of supply chain management while using a popcorn company as the business example,” Khadijah says.

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www.kayskettlecorn.com

So, how did Khadijah get started? She says, “I’ve always been an entrepreneur, having some form of a side hustle. I’ve also always been a snacker, if I didn’t sell popcorn, I would probably sell chips. In 2012, I had a bridal resale shop at a huge flea market in Houston. Out of hundreds of businesses in the flea market that could sell food were the owners; it was popcorn. That’s when I noticed there was money in concessions. I would see people eating it from these plain brown paper bags. No frills. One day, I was closing my shop and wanted some popcorn but didn’t want to walk on the other side of the flea market to get some, and I thought, surely I can make this. So I did. I went home, looked on YouTube, and found out how to make the popcorn indoors. The rest of the story is history.”

Khadijah shares that she loves being a part of people’s celebrations and the freedom and flexibility entrepreneurship provides.

Kay’s Kettle Corn is a family affair. “It’s all hands on deck whether the order is three bags or 30,000 bags; my family jumps right in to help every time, no matter what,” she says. She also shares that when she first started, she would get questions from people with similar interests in food. “They would follow me on social media or meet me in a networking event, and their eyes would light up when they heard my story and saw the progression. That’s when I wrote my ebook sharing my exact steps in what I did to get started, which then turned into coaching. I’ve mentored young entrepreneurs in Ghana who wanted to start their popcorn business. I’ve taught women in Northern Ghana how to make popcorn. The beauty of this popcorn business is that it’s easy to get started, the profit margins are great, the product is versatile in terms of flavoring, it keeps well, it’s inexpensive to start the business, and you can get repeat customers.”

When the Covid 19 pandemic hit, Khadijah had to pivot and think about her business model. At that time, her biggest clients were businesses and event planners, but she managed to survive that season of uncertainty. Also, deciding when to take on financing to scale has been challenging for Khadijah. “With additional debt comes a ton of responsibilities. I’ve had to ramp up marketing to get more customers to pay for the new equipment, additional production space, staff, etc. It’s a never-ending cycle, and as a free-spirited entrepreneur who likes to take off when I want, it’s something that I struggle with consistently.”

Moving forward, Khadijah says she plans to participate in major festivals, take her popcorn brand internationally, and become a vendor in soccer stadiums in African countries. “Popcorn is an inexpensive product and is very profitable when sold in large quantities. Some developing countries in Africa are wide open and welcoming to entrepreneurs. It’s a business model that can be taught to young entrepreneurs there,” she says.

For more information, please visit the website for Kay’s Kettle Corn. h

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Eller Lundy Broken Men Foundation

Ellery Lundy is the President and Founder of The Broken Men Foundation. His nonprofit organization is designed to help men deal with trauma from various life situations, whether it be divorce, separation, drug abuse, gun safety, gun prevention, and more.

A native of Richmond, VA, Ellery says that just because someone is broken, it doesn’t mean they should stay broken. “We want to teach men through our program how to take back the community and lead in a positive way. We also want to extend our hands to the youth and raise boys to become men,” Ellery says. “Men have a tendency not to communicate. We act out in different fashions, sometimes resulting in domestic violence, becoming abusive parents, or worse. Men must understand they aren’t alone in this journey, and it is okay to talk about the past and move forward.”

In 2014, the Academy began with only three participants. Since then, its focus has specialized on mentoring young men between the ages of 12-18 and offering a 16-week curriculum covering a variety of topics aimed at better understanding adolescent behavior to allow our mentors to teach problem-solving skills.

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Our ultimate goal is to make young men accountable for their actions, thus enabling them to become productive members of our community.”

Ellery shares his organization is deeply rooted in academic achievement, the establishment of social skills, self-esteem and responsibility, citizenship, and community involvement. “Our ultimate goal is to make young men accountable for their actions, thus enabling them to become productive members of our community.” As of 2023, they have graduated over 500 men.

Ellery has been certified in the Fatherhood Initiative program for fragile families through the Virginia Department of State Social Services and Certified in Crisis Intervention. He has coached various sports in the community, from girl’s basketball to little league football, and has also officiated numerous games from little league, high school, and even semi-pro.

The Broken Men Foundation gives back to its community with its outreach program. In September, they conducted a back-to-school supply event. In October, they will conduct a breast cancer walk to raise cancer awareness, and in November, they will conduct a Thanksgiving food drive and give food to families in need. Additionally, they will partner with other organizations in December to give away toys to families.

Ellery shares that what he loves most about his foundation is dealing with the unknown. “When we have young men into our program, we may not always know what they are dealing with. We began by letting our mentees know that we love them. We want them to know that none of us are perfect, and we are all in this thing together,” he says.

Ellery acknowledges his mother, Lydia Lundy, for instilling sound values into him and his siblings. “She always told me as a young man that I was no less than any other man. My mother told me whenever I needed to tell a man something, to look into his eyes and tell it. She taught us to be respectful and confident,” he says.

Of course, Ellery couldn’t do all that he does alone. A stellar group of individuals, such as Steve Clarke, the Executive Director and Vice President of the organization, surrounds him. There is also James Fobbs, Keith Adams, Pastor Calvin Harris, Shawn Hobbs, Troy Mithcell, James Jones, Charles Johnson, Chris McNeil, Ray Smith, Rickey Brown, William Simmons, and Leroy Terry Cain, Jr. Some additional assistance comes by way of Doreen Lundy, Joe Lajoie, and Rachel Fenton.

When asked if he would change anything about his journey with the organization, Ellery says he wishes he would leave his job sooner. “Other than that, there is nothing I would change. I believe we are where we are supposed to be in life. I appreciate every part of the journey,” he says.

Looking ahead, Ellery hopes to take his organization to higher heights. “I want to make our organization bigger than organizations like ours. I want to secure more grants and help our organization to be bigger than the Boys & Girls Club and the YMCA. Those are both great organizations, and we have the opportunity to reach even more young men. I want to secure a building and buses to transport our group to events outside Richmond. I want to ensure they are exposed to the things that will help them continue to succeed.

To learn more about the Broken Men Foundation, please visit their website.

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www.brokenmenfoundation.org h

An Advocate for Mental Health

Washington, D.C., native Alisa Thornton Banks prides herself in advocating for those who deal with mental illness. She was raised by a single mother, Bernadette Thornton, known by many as a “Boss Lady” and mother to many mothers. Alisa says her mother instilled into her and her sister, Cyndi, the importance of being a mother first, and also on being self-sufficient and never needing anything from anyone. “My mother was a very good example of what it is to be from the city and represent your city in everything I do. She was also a hard worker, working her way from the mailroom in the Federal government to a GS 16,” Alisa says.

She lost her mother in 2022 after a long battle with cancer. Still, Alisa remains inspired and empowered to continue to build her legacy for her family in honor of her beloved mother by creating the Bernadette Thornton Foundation.

Alisa is a wife and mother herself, having two brilliant daughters. What is even more amazing is that she is a grandmother. Alisa is very hard on education and desired for her kids to attend school in Virginia, and moved from D.C./Maryland to Virginia so they could. Her move paid off, as her daughters graduated from high school with advanced diplomas and are now college students. “My family is my “why” and the reason I advocate so hard,” she says.

Alisa is a survivor of domestic violence. Today, she erves as an advocate in mental health. She is also a Realtor with Samson Properties. She takes pride in educating her clients on the importance of investing in their future. Her passion for helping others can be felt because she is passioned about the work she does. She also owns Another Touch Solutions LLC.

“I got involved with mental health because of others I saw suffering with the illness,” she says. Alisa is also big on advocating services for men, African-American men. She has conducted various support groups that have taken place in churches, schools, county workshops, barber shops, salons and anywhere the support is needed. She even had a few hookah bars request her to facilitate a support groups or mental health information sessions at their locations. “There are not many services for men in our community so I had to create a way to bring the support to them,” Alisa shared.

Alisa has proven to be a voice for those who cannot speak and the light for those in dark places. Her efforts have placed her on a national platform as an advocate and activist in Mental Health. She has spoken at a Congressional Briefing in 2016. Since doing so, she has worked nonstop in her community.

The stigma associated with individuals suffering from mental health continues to hinder them from coming forward and sharing their illness with others. “People often labeled people crazy, but if you think about it, no one offered to help that person. Throughout life, it was my perception that no one really cared to help these individuals,” Alisa says. That pushed her.

Alisa recounts her life had many ups and downs, but because her mother worked so hard, it wasn’t as bad as it could have been. She did, however, experience the same trauma and tragedy as anyone else. In 2012, her stepfather was murdered at her family home by his brother. This shattered her trust in people and family. “ How can you trust when you can not even trust those within your own home? You can not feel comfortable when someone in your home is murdered by another family member,” she said. Nobody really understood the trauma that has on her or her family. In order to move past this, she needed answers. She felt she had to create change. She began working for NAMI, the National Alliance of Mental Health. In her role, Alisa used her own experience to help support families and caregivers who were in crisis to become stable again.

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Alisa has been recognized as one of the sought-after Family Support Partners/Peer Support Specialist for the minority population in Northern Virginia. She has helped hundreds of families navigate the system to get the right services in place to help their families get on track. Even more, Alisa has a keen sense of empowering, supporting, and understanding parents going through crisis.

Alisa is highly experienced and comfortable working within at-risk and vulnerable communities. Today, she is certified as a trainer to conduct support groups/classes and parent training for NAMI Virginia and NAMI Prince William. She is a speaker at the CIT training for police officers in Prince William County. She often shares her experiences to help officers understand the family perspective to bridge the gap between officers and the community. Her work hasn’t gone unnoticed. Alisa has even been invited to attend the National CIT Conference in Detroit in August with over 1,500 officers. In June 2023, Alisa received the NAMI Virginia HOPE Award.

While continuing to work with NAMI, Alisa discovered VOICE, Virginians Organized for Interfaith Community Engagement. This began her path of working with legislative matters, including input during the general assembly. She says having the voice of the parents and peers in the community alongside some of Virginia’s most powerful Faith Leaders has been an unbelievable experience. This organization is the driving force in Virginia’s mental health response, opening the first Crisis Receiving Center in Woodbridge in 2024.

Alisa currently serves as Chair of the Virginia Department of Social Services, Division of Family Services (DFS) Parent Advisory Council. The Council’s mission is to collaborate with DFS in building strategic partnerships between parents and staff, promoting parent leadership development, and helping expand the meaningful roles and voices throughout public child welfare. She also represents the Council on the Child Welfare Advisory Committee in this role. Other organizations she has worked with have been Casey Family, Families Forward, FSP’s of Virginia, BPNN, Generations United, and many more.

Alisa joined forces with Stars Performing Arts Inc (Shining. Through. Adversity. Reaching. Success.), a 501c3 non-profit organization, in early 2022. The organization gives those challenged (visually impaired, autistic, down syndrome, homeless shelter, foster homes, parents on substance abuse, and various other disabilities) a platform to shine in the arts.

Looking ahead, Alisa hopes to get more involved with legislation that’s associated with her cause. She also hopes to help others learn how to become financially stable, which includes educational components focused on understanding a credit score. “I just want to be on the frontline and do the work. I don’t need clout; I don’t need recognition. All I need is to get the people I serve results,” she says.

In conclusion, Alisa shares, “This is the Year of the Peer! I will continue to be the light to those in dark places, and the VOICE for those who can not SPEAK!”

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Pictured below with Alisa is her granddaughter, Autumn.
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Ashton Hairston

The son of Shannon Hairston

Lowcountry Gullah

Hailing from Long Island, NY, Luana M. Graves Sellars has found her way to the Lowcountry community of Hilton Head, South Carolina. Before arriving at Hilton Head, Luana made a pit stop in Florida. She had been visiting the island since she was ten years old. In the back of her mind, Luana knew Hilton Head would be where she retired, as her mother had already done.

Upon arriving at Hilton Head, Luana was asked to write freelance on the Gullah culture to help diversify the Hilton Head Monthly magazine. That experience sparked her work on the culture. “Essentially, I began writing about the culture, some of the stories, the people, the traditions, and the history. This led to the creation of my first column, The First Families of Hilton Head. All of it became so popular that I was writing about five or six columns a month for the magazine at one point. After several years, I had amassed close to 300 articles. People kept asking for specific articles, so I put all the articles online as an archive. Once it started, Lowcountry Gullah became more than an archive; it became a resource for the culture and information,” she says.

Next, Luana says she was asked when she would write her own story. Her answer was to write her story and simultaneously squash all the questions. “I wrote an article about myself called, I am Gullah. That started a curiosity about my Gullah past and a journey of discovering my roots and connections,” Luana shared. That experience grew into a new direction of ancestral connections and discovery.

Luana realized early into her venture that she could not do the Gullah culture justice without protecting the historic Gullah land, which is the largest critical issue that the culture has. Luana’s effort helped to create the Lowcountry Foundation, which was intended to protect both sides of the culture. Those sides include the traditions, the Gullah history, and the Gullah land and heritage.

The Gullah Geechee culture spread throughout the entire United States. Luana says that through documenting her stories it also became a resource for a lot of people. She found there was not only an interest and curiosity of non-Gullah people and also those who didn’t know they were growing up in the culture. “More information has been revealed with the opening of the International African American Museum in Charleston. They have reported that around 89% of black people with ties to the Gullah Geechee corridor are considered Gullah Geechee. This means that wherever you live, you can be Gullah Geechee,” she says.

Luana is a journalist with a degree in Journalism and a dual minor in Black History and Business from Southern Illinois University. She is a renowned writer, cultural authority, subject matter expert, and keynote speaker on Gullah Geechee history, traditions, and culture. Her articles, documentaries, and podcasts focus on the rich culture, history, and people in the federally designated Gullah Geechee Corridor. As a genealogist and community activist, she works towards “residential equality” for the local Gullah community. She also has a passion for storytelling and a deep connection to her own Gullah family.

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There are many ways to describe Gullah Geechee. Luana answer is Gullah Geechee are direct descendants of West African enslaved people who were brought to the United States because they were knowledgeable about the technology that was necessary to grow rice. “It is far from the truth that enslaved people were skillless laborers. The terrain in West Africa is exactly like the terrain on the east coast of the United States. To grow rice, you need saltwater and freshwater. The people who were snatched knew how to build a rice trunk. There were women who knew how to plant and harvest rice for human consumption. The wealth that Gullah Geechee brought to the United States helped make slavery more successful here than any other crop. Gullah Geechee foodways is one of the oldest practices and traditions practiced in America today. At its foundation, slavery and the foodways are deeply rooted in cultural West African ancestral ties, as well as adaptability, creativity, and circumstance. The meals were and still are designed to be hearty and provide the necessary sustenance and strength to get one through an arduous and physical day. ,” Luana says.

While she is sharing, Luana is learning. That is one of the things she loves most about what she does. The other is helping others to understand more about the Gullah culture and to establish their connection. “When I am thanked for helping others learn who they are, I truly appreciate that. I know that I am impacting the Gullah culture in a way that is benefiting me and others. It is not just for black people. There are people from all around the world who have an interest in the Gullah culture. Helping others and spreading the Gullah message makes it all worth it,” she says.

Heritage tourism, Cultural tourism, Roots tourism, and Genealogy tourism. This entire category is one of the fastest growing ones for tourism in the United States, and the Lowcountry Gullah is part of that. Luana says that people want to experience new foods, new things, and new traditions, and this is part of the bigger picture that exists with the culture. “It is really driving tourism and information that people are curious about,” she says.

What is next for Luana and Lowcountry Gullah? There are plans to launch a podcast that will complement her writing. She also plans to continue to produce documentaries. Her last documentary was on Harriett Tubman and her connection to Gullah culture. It is currently broadcast on the PBS network. There is a children’s book in the works as well.

To learn more about Lowcountry Gullah, please visit their website.

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Luana M. Graves Sellars Lowcounty Gullah www.lowcountrygullah.com

Doula & Nanny, LLC.

According to Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary, the definition of a doula is a person trained to provide advice, information, emotional support, and physical comfort to a mother before, during, and just after childbirth. This definition accurately describes Victoria Hart.

The Mississippi Gulfport resident owns Hart of A Doula & Nanny, LLC. Her company offers various levels of support, such as physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. With her nanny services, Victoria provided exceptional childcare as well. “My services are designed for all but mainly for those who need that extra hand,” she shares.

At just 27, Victoria has already accomplished a lot. She has enjoyed four years of marriage with her husband, Mechio, and besides being an aspiring entrepreneur, she has a bachelor’s degree in Natural Science. Even more, Victoria was on the road to obtaining her BSN but God said otherwise. More touching is how she describes motherhood. “I am an Angel Mom to five Angel Babies. My time will come when God says that I am ready.”

Victoria launched her business in October 2021 after Victoria’s cousin, who was expecting her second child, asked her to be her doula. “My cousin’s first birth experience was the opposite of how she planned it. She researched that having a doula by her side might empower her to take control of her birth. Once she asked me, I immediately fell in love with everything a doula stands for. In January 2022, her VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) was extremely successful. That experience hugely impacted my doula business, and as a result, it flourished. Currently, I have 25 Doula Babies,” she says.

While Victoria started her nanny business in April 2022, she has served as a nanny since she was 19. “It was basically a summer job while on break from college. However, I have always loved watching kids, even as a kid myself,” she says. Victoria now has 45 “Nanny Babies”.

When asked what inspires her the most about her business, Victoria shared that, regarding being a doula, seeing how black women were mistreated during pregnancy and even childbirth made her realize how much of an impact she could make in their lives. “I have been discriminated against in the medical field concerning infertility issues, so I know firsthand what that can feel like.” In response to the same question pertaining to being a nanny, she says, “In this day and age, it is hard to trust people with your kids because you never know their true intentions. With me, on the other hand, my intentions are pure from the start, and my parents can tell. I desire to be the extra help they need when they cannot find it anywhere else.”

Victoria says she really loves what she does. She shares that hearing how her attendance during the birthing experience or watching her client’s children changed their lives for the better makes it all worth it. “I just do what I love. I have been told numerous times that I inspire other people to follow their passions. The fact that I followed my passion and can help families in need and still pay my bills is all that I need.”

Growing both businesses has proven to be a little challenging, but fortunately for Victoria, the assistance of social media has helped in many ways. Additionally, finding ways to fund her businesses has been a learning experience. Victoria says she wished she had obtained funding before jumping into entrepreneurship. “I just jumped in, head and HART first, no questions asked,” she says.

In the future, Victoria hopes to open a birthing center in her area. Currently, there isn’t one, and she says doctors are afraid to open one due to liability issues. She also hopes to open a postpartum care center to provide care for the first few weeks after birth, which can sometimes be rough with the transition into being a newborn mom. Victoria has plans in the works for a daycare center with after-hour options.

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Hart of A Doula & Nanny LLC 228-533-3717 h
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