On a recent evening, I was invited to sit on a panel alongside a couple of other gentlemen. Our mission was to share our experiences and answer a few questions on the challenges and joys of being a black man and father. Though some questions were shared with us beforehand, I hadn’t prepared much for the event. Little did I know, the night would be full of surprises and lessons learned.
A Letter from the Editor
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?
One panelist sitting beside me appeared to be great at public speaking. I determined this by how he held the microphone close to his face so that his voice would project throughout the room of people with clarity and precision. He was good. For me, I consider myself to be an average speaker, and I am not often intimidated when faced with the challenge of speaking publicly. Well, all of that was off the table that evening. While I knew what I wanted to share, I felt a little speechless when it was my turn to speak.
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.
As the evening came to an end, a feeling of regret washed over me. Despite being invited as a panelist to share my thoughts and experiences, I couldn’t help but feel that I had left a lot unsaid. It’s a shame, really, because I know what I felt inside could resonate with someone in that room. After all, isn’t that why we were all there? To share our unique perspectives and shed some light on what being a black man and father is like.
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.
That evening was a valuable lesson in many ways. One of the key takeaways was the importance of preparation before speaking. Another lesson learned was the need to seize every opportunity and own the moment. As the saying goes, you only get one chance to make a first impression. Most importantly, I was reminded of the power of sharing my experiences and how it can change someone’s perspective. It was a great reminder not to waste any opportunity to connect with others and make a positive impact.
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.
Imagine that, me at a loss for words.
Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder
29Eleven Photography
By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Natasha Hughes
She definitely has an eye for creativity.
Natasha Hughes is the owner and face of 29Eleven Photography LLC. Based in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, she says the meaning behind this name came of her company comes from the scripture in the bible of Jeremiah 29:11 (I alone know the plans I have for you, plans to bring you prosperity and not disaster, plans to bring about the future you hope for.) Natasha says that God kept bringing her back to this scripture. “The whole book of Jeremiah is about being chosen, being selected. It was so fitting for how and why God was using me. He was showing me things far beyond my wildest dreams.”
Natasha is a 33-year-old woman that dedicates her life to helping others in any way possible. No matter who you are, she loves seeing the smiles on other’s faces. She also loves to sing, laugh, and enjoy life, which often involves being around family and friends. While she has no children, she has a heart for children and older adults. She has spent the last ten years of her career working in a nursing home. Natasha has also served in the children’s ministry since age 20.
Educated with a bachelors degree in Healthcare Administration, Natasha says that photography was never a plan for her life. “Never had I thought about it until I began seeking God about my purpose. All my life, I have struggled with identity. It’s like I could speak life into everyone else but myself. Everyone always looked up to me as a role model, but I never saw in myself what others saw in me. In 2020 during a spiritual fast with my church, God began to speak to me about photography. At first, I ignored it, but the Holy Spirit quickly showed me God’s plan. During the fast, He showed me how I viewed myself and how others would be viewed through the lens. God also showed me how He would use me behind the lens to tell my clients’ stories,” she says.
After wrestling with what God has shown her, Natasha finally stepped out on faith and began to serve other local photographers and her business. “Serving her business while putting myself aside at the time is truly why I believe my business is so successful today,” she says. In March of 2022, her brand was born.
29Eleven Photography offers general photography services such as family, wedding, newborns, family, and branding shoots. Natasha says her favorite captures are couples. She also enjoys the different encounters she has with people from all over the world. From young to old, single to married, Natasha captures their stories. “You get to see others conquer things that I never imagined someone would’ve had to face,” she says.
Natasha says her business has been impacted mostly by her Aunt Sherry. This person taught her faith, family, and the value of yourself and education. “Her life alone modeled what I wanted to be as a mother, wife and friend. Her words of wisdom throughout my life are why I am the woman I am today.” She shares that Theresa Brown of T.A.G Imaging has impacted her life and career also. “She took the time to teach me everything I needed to know. No matter how big I get, I will always remember where it all started. Before the name, before the camera, she was there,” Natasha says.
As a photographer, Natasha says she has been challenged with shooting newborns and children. “You must have a special craft for that service. It’s easy to tell an adult to look here and smile, but there’s so many techniques required with newborns. Practice makes perfect and I understand that everyone has to start somewhere right,” she explains.
Her advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs is to just leap! “Stop worrying about all the things you need to have in place. I am a witness that God will send others along the way to help you. I had no camera, but my boyfriend believed in me and surprised me with one for my birthday. I had no name, yet God placed it in someone’s heart to pay for my LLC. I had no clients, but my godsister booked me for the whole weekend for her baby shower and maternity session. I charged a client $60 for a session, but they blessed me with $500. I have been blessed because I took that leap. Don’t worry about who is for you because God will always reveal, remove, and replace. Just Jump!”
Arieale Munson is a dedicated and compassionate leader who uses her talents to benefit her hometown of Memphis. As a mother of two and a native of North Memphis, she understands the importance of giving back to her community. That’s why she founded and serves as the executive director of Operation Taking Back 901, a non-profit organization committed to providing economic and educational opportunities for the youth of Shelby County.
Arieale’s non-profit offers a variety of programs to support the growth and development of young people in the community. From school visits that cover topics like peer pressure, life skills, mentorship, financial literacy, and community development to events that provide backpacks filled with supplies and coats to students in need, OTB 901 is making a tangible difference in the lives of young people. This year alone, they have adopted two schools and provided students with over 300 backpacks and 60 coats.
The non-profit organization has been making a remarkable impact by mentoring over 185 young ladies, and sharing stories of triumph, such as Arieale’s journey as a teen mom. By going inside schools and speaking to students, Arieale emphasizes that their past mistakes do not determine their future. Her message of hope is particularly significant to the students as she hails from the same area and wants to inspire them that they, too, can overcome any obstacle. Arieale’s success proves that regardless of one’s situation, with determination and hard work, anything is possible.
Operation Taking Back 901, under the guidance of Arieale Munson, recognizes the importance of community involvement and aims to offer various resources to make Memphis a better place. To this end, the non-profit hosts a range of events, such as vision board parties, tea parties for young ladies, food giveaways, and the much-anticipated Back to School Bash. The organization shines a beacon of hope and opportunity by offering attendees free school supplies, food, and valuable community resources. Operation Taking Back 901 endeavors to bring these resources directly to the community, ensuring equitable access for all. Beyond events, the non-profit’s work extends to promoting and supporting business workforce and economic development, mental health education, and social services. By leveraging these resources, Operation Taking Back 901 seeks to make a lasting impact and empower individuals and families to thrive.
Since its founding in 2016, Operation Taking Back 901 has had an immense impact on the Memphis community. To date, the organization has provided services to over 7,000 people, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Through word of mouth, the community has continued to spread awareness about OTB 901, enabling Arieale Munson to partner with other organizations, further expanding her reach. Her hard work has not gone unnoticed, as the City Council and Shelby County Commissioners have recognized her. Her dedication has also led to the receipt of numerous grants and awards, including recognition from the state of Tennessee and former President Barack Obama. Arieale’s commitment to improving the lives of those around her has resulted in a powerful and lasting impact on the community she serves.
Arieale’s unwavering commitment to Memphis and its residents extends beyond her non-profit, Operation Taking Back 901. She selflessly serves on the foster care review board in Shelby County, provides invaluable life coaching and self-esteem-building services, and even authored two books, “When Pleasing Has No Purpose” and “I Am the Change,” which are read in schools across the county.
One of the primary challenges Arieale faced was securing funding for her organization. However, she met this challenge head-on by being resourceful and persistent, continuously fundraising and seeking help from her community of like-minded individuals who shared her passion and vision.
Despite the obstacles she’s encountered, Arieale’s passion for helping young people in her community remains steadfast. She’s deeply moved by the positive impact her work has on the youth in Shelby County, inspiring them to lead with a renewed perspective on life. Seeing the once-uninspired and silent rooms filled with smiling faces after her events, and witnessing the joy and gratitude of students receiving the support they never knew was available to them, continues to fuel her unwavering dedication to her mission.
Arieale’s family is the cornerstone of her motivation and success. Her children have been her constant support system and have always believed in her dreams. “Even when others saw me having a child at a young age as a mistake, my children saw it as a blessing. They have been with me every step of the way, providing me with the strength and inspiration needed to pursue my goals,” she says.
Arieale’s journey as a young mother has given her a unique perspective and understanding of the challenges facing the youth in her community. She often shares her story as a testimony to others, explaining how her early motherhood gave her the determination to help other young people in her area. Her family has been the driving force behind her mission to help others, and she is forever grateful for their unwavering love and support.
Looking ahead, Arieale envisions a future where Operation Taking Back 901 can provide even more comprehensive support for women and children in need. As part of this vision, she plans to establish a dedicated resources center that will offer a range of services, including counseling, educational programming, and life skills training. This center will serve as a beacon of hope for those who have experienced abuse, teen pregnancy, or other challenges, providing them with the resources and support they need to overcome adversity and thrive. By expanding her organization’s reach in this way, Arieale hopes to create a brighter, more empowered future for the people of Memphis.
If you’re looking to follow in Arieale’s footsteps, here’s a piece of advice that might help: remember that not everyone will believe in your journey, but that’s okay. It’s your journey, after all, so own it! Don’t be afraid to promote your business and spread the word about what you do. You never know who might be listening and how they could help you grow. And even if you feel like your biggest critic, try to showcase yourself and your talents as much as possible. Believe in yourself, even when it’s tough. Look in the mirror every day and remind yourself of your goals. Remember that perseverance is key and don’t give up, even when things get difficult.
“Even when others saw me having a child at a young age as a mistake, my children saw it as a blessing. They have been with me every step of the way, providing me with the strength and inspiration needed to pursue my goals.”
This is a follow-up story to The H.E.E.A.T. Research Lab article in the Huami Magazine 2022 edition. In this follow-up article, we will reintroduce Dr. Schenita Randolph and her work in sexual health equity for racial/ethnic minority populations and reintroduce Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), share the results of the study, and introduce the beauty industry partners who co-developed the work and helped to inform the research. Finally, we will share her futuristic vision for the HEEAT Lab and how she desires increased health equity and justice for the African American community. The Huami Magazine would like to reintroduce Dr. Schenita Randolph, an Associate Professor at the Duke University School of Nursing. Her mission is to address the root causes of health disparities and promote sexual health equity for racial/ethnic minority populations. Dr. Randolph is currently the Principal Investigator of a project funded by Gilead Sciences to develop a Salon-Based Intervention to promote the awareness and uptake of PrEP among Black women living in the United States South. She is a Fellow in the inaugural Betty Irene Moore Fellowship, where she developed the first nurse-led, web-based application to address the cooccurrence of HIV transmission and racial discrimination among African American male adolescents and young adults.
Notwithstanding, Dr. Randolph has been a nurse for over 25 years and is the founding Director of the HEEAT Research Lab. As a reminder, the H.E.E.A.T. acronym addresses Health disparities through Engagement, Equity, Advocacy, and Trust. The team members working with H.E.E.A.T. are dedicated clinicians, researchers, entrepreneurs, community members, and barber shop and beauty salon owners. These collective groups are vested in breaking down the barriers of implicit biases, health disparities, and inequities in health care delivery and outcomes within African American communities. The H.E.E.A.T. Research Lab is committed to engaging and partnering with the community to find cultural and social ways to address some of these inequities.
Dr. Randolph believes that one way of addressing the disparities is by making the African American community aware of tools in healthcare that have proven to be effective but are less used by those who could benefit from them, such as the Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). This oral or injectable medication is a proven HIV prevention method for people who have taken an HIV test and know they are HIV-negative. PrEP comes in the form of a pill or injectable. In pill form, if taken daily, it is effective at preventing HIV by 99%. The FDA approves PrEP for the United States, but unfortunately, Black women do not see themselves in the messaging that advertises PrEP. According to Dr. Randolph, “PrEP is an FDA-approved oral medication if taken daily, will decrease a persons chances of acquiring HIV. PrEP has been FDA approved since 2012, but less than 1-2 % of African American cis-gendered women know about PrEP.” For those unfamiliar with the term cis gender, it is simply a person who identifies with the gender sex they were born to.
For example, a person born a male at birth identifies as a boy or a man. Likewise, a person who was born a female at birth identifies as a girl or a woman. These people are considered cis-gender. Most people would be more familiar with the word heterosexual. Dr. Randolph believes bringing awareness to PrEP is important because African American women represent over 65% of HIV cases and are 17 times more likely to acquire HIV than white women. The H.E.E.A.T. Research Lab has revealed that those who have benefited the most from taking PrEP have been men who have sex with men. Because she understands the barriers that exist for the uptake of PrEP among African American women, including providers not offering it, increasing knowledge and awareness is critical to health outcomes. “I always tell people I am not a PrEP pusher. I want to be clear on that, but I believe that women should know that PrEP exists so they can make informed decisions about their own health based on their needs and personal values. Dr. Randolph and her team are leaving no stone unturned in helping to tear down barriers to acquiring equitable access to health care. For instance, you can access PrEP through an online telehealth service called QCare Plus. This online platform will allow you to speak with a provider, and send HIV testing kits and PrEP discretely to your home, should you decide it is right for you.
Now that you know the type of research The H.E.E.A.T. Research Lab conducted, let’s find out who participated in this study and what was discovered. Barbershops and Beauty salons have historically been staples in our community and the HEEAT Lab is honored to have some of the greatest barbers and stylists partnering with them in this work. One of the main reasons we have engaged our beauty salons and barber shops is because when our men and women go there, they can receive this information. In these establishments, deep conversations are held, and information is shared while sitting in the salon chair getting their hair styled or in the barbershop getting that beard groomed. These conversations flow freely with respected and trusted people within the community. Dr. Randolph says, “That’s why we’re intentional about partnering with the beauty industry.. During COVID-19, the beauty industry was on the front line having COVID testing in their shops. So, this article also allows us to thank the barbers and the stylists, those unspoken heroes and sheroes, who have helped promote good health within our communities.”
Dr. Randolph and her team intentionally partner with the community, ensuring they are at the forefront of every conversation and engaged as community leaders and stakeholders. That’s why on April 30th, her team hosted a brunch to honor the salon owners and participants from Durham County, Wake County, and Guilford County for their engagement and update them on the research study they participated in. This emerging data is a part of Using PrEP and Doing it for Ourselves (UPDOs). The UPDOs Protective Styles is a salon-based intervention developed and tested in partnership with researchers and the community to promote awareness, knowledge, and uptake of PreExposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) among African American women living in the United States South. UPDOs take a comprehensive approach and address the overall health of African American women in the United States.
Dr. Randolph shares, “The idea behind the UPDOs initiative was to develop a series of twenty-minute segments that women can watch in their own private space, highlighting stories of Black women, their lived experiences, and overall health, including awareness of HIV and PrEP. The data revealed that women’s awareness of PrEP did increase, trust around PrEP was strengthened, and women could accept the information because they could see themselves in the mini-series.
The research also showed that women are willing to share the information with others in their networks; stigma around PrEP and HIV was also improved. Gains were made in many areas because the storylines were realistic and acceptable, and the information was delivered in a way that could be received. Even in this, women loudly voiced the need for more culturally and socially relevant messaging about health issues that impact them.”
The H.E.E.A.T. Research Lab celebrates the beauty industry partners who are strong leaders and advocates in the community and acknowledges their impact in the mission to address inequities and justice in health care outcomes and delivery.
Akili Hester of Durham, NC, is a single father and barber. He also owns Black Wallstreet Barbershop, HAYTI Barbershop, and Akilithebull.com. When asked about the H.E.E.A.T. Research Lab, he says, “I think it’s necessary that people in my community are given proper information to share throughout the community. It’s important that the faces receiving information look like the faces of the people providing the information. We must know that the information we’re getting is true and factual,” he says.
Akili is a partner with the H.E.E.A.T. Research Lab and serves on the Community Advisory Council. He says his reason for serving is his firm belief that if he eats off of a community, he must also have a positive impact on his community. “Community work is important in maintaining that balance and giving back. Sharing resources and information and having access to resources is important also”.
Akili says that H.E.E.A.T.’s role in his community means a lot because miseducation plays a big role in living in lower-income areas. He says having resources based on facts is important.
Tamica Campbell Hughes is the co-owner of Pink Kotur Hair Salon and the founder of Level Up Parenting, a non-profit organization focusing on single mothers. She has two sons and five loving grandkids. When asked about the H.E.E.A.T. Research Lab, she says it encourages community involvement. “It helps to state the facts and educate people on what is happening in our black community. By being involved, I bring in other salon owners and stylists to engage in the research study. We educate clients that come to the salon on what is happening with the study and how they can participate in the research and survey. As a black woman in the community, it concerns me there isn’t enough information available. I want to learn more so I can share it with others in our community. The lab’s work will definitely help community leaders get it out by providing information,” she says. “The more people have knowledge, the number of black women with HIV will decrease. The information will change lives once it is out there.
Dr. Ragan Johnson‘s role with the H.E.E.A.T. Research Lab aligns with the vision of Dr. Randolph. The Memphis, TN, native and Duke University professor has similar interests in HIV prevention in black communities and how barbershops and hair salons were using their platforms to connect with others. “With the current project with hair salons, I help to create the stylist training in collaboration with the communities. Our training is face-to-face and down-to-earth. We try to speak the language of our communities. This approach has been effective mainly because as much as we want to teach our communities, we also hope to learn from them. In academia, we know historically what people think about HIV. Now, we want to teach them about prevention methods, including safe sex practices and PreP, a medication that can prevent exposure to HIV,” she says.
Dr. Ragan Johnson got involved in HIV prevention after having a female family member diagnosed with HIV in the 1990s. “Back then, there was a stigma surrounding the disease. It was painted as a gay man’s disease. People affected by the disease often didn’t follow through with care because they didn’t want to be stigmatized. Even more, there wasn’t any information available on how women contracted the disease and how it impacted them. That void of information prompted me to get involved. I wanted to be part of changing the trajectory and preventing HIV in our communities,” she says. “There are more medications available now to treat the disease. As a result of the work that has been done regarding research and education, HIV is no longer a death sentence.”
In the future, Dr. Johnson envisions the program growing nationally. “I see the stylist taking ownership of the program and running with it, with individuals like Dr. Randolph and myself sitting in the background and supporting them,” she says.
Professional Hair Stylist Tasha Crews describes herself as a progressive student of life. The name of her business is WHOLSEOME U (Hair, Health & Wellness Center) dba Hair designs by Tasha. She uses her trade to reach the masses and says that “Every life that takes a seat in my chair is one that is sure to be intentionally impacted. I consider it a privilege to be in anyone’s personal space as I have been.”
Tasha says she believes the work of the HE.E.A.T. Lab to be essential in our community, as it encourages and facilitates positive health solutions. “All of the staff and participants are personally dedicated to joining arms with each other, mainly because we see the disparities first hand. Education is integral to growth and personal development. It also assists us with making better health choices and brings hope to the upcoming generations,” Tasha says. “I am involved. I hit the pavement. I am grassroots to the heart. I compel and gather people who desire better for themselves. By serving on the advisory council and as a consultant with the H.E.E.A.T. Research Lab, I use critical thinking skills and draw out imperative questions and offer tangible solutions in executing the objectives within the council’s guidelines. Suppose I can let people know they have options to assist in maintaining their health. In that case, we are closer to decreasing the health disparity number in our community for HIV, mental illness, violence, and much more. I am helping individuals have a better quality of life. In turn, they help their families have a better quality of life.”
Tasha says she believes things can improve in our communities when everyone realizes they are an integral part of our “thrival”. “Every individual has something to give back to our community. Each person must see themselves as important to our survival. Self-love and awareness are needed, and holding ourselves accountable for our personal decisions is necessary to pinpoint the culprit to our current condition. I look forward to witnessing the impact for the greater good of our communities. I love the team we have. Everyone is genuine. That’s where I like to be, with genuine people, serving from the heart and making a positive difference. I plan to serve with them and facilitate in any capacity needed to bring about that positive change. Starting in July we are partnering with the H.E.E.A.T. Research Lab on a project to offer COVID testing in our shops and engaging the community to understand the barriers and facilitators to effective health communications and messaging.”
Gene Blackmon of Greensboro, NC, is a business owner, barber, barber instructor, mentor, and community advocate. Gene is the founder of Prestige Barber College and Establishing Safe Cultures, a non-profit organization which focuses on addressing issues affecting youth in his community. The most important roles that he serves are that of father, son, and brother.
Gene shares, “The H.E.E.A.T. Research Lab is an awesome concept and gives our community the tools to educate our community on sexual health. I’m a consultant, and I’ve helped share information for studies and been a community advisory council member. I’ve chosen to be involved because I understand that there are disparities, and many of them exist because of a lack of knowledge and understanding and a lack of resources. The H.E.E.A.T. Research Lab works to address both of those disparities. Things can improve with this model of the H.E.E.A.T. Research Lab being spread further throughout our community. We need to get it into multiple places in our community; schools, after-school programs, churches, community recreational centers, barbershops, and beauty salons. We should see an improvement in healthy sexual practices in our community.
The data discovered in this initial study will continue with Dr. Randolph’s next phase of research, expanding to Mecklenburg County, Forsyth County, and Cumberland County because those counties have a prevalence of HIV. She believes that provider awareness is equally critical. She advocates for provider awareness because “you can’t blame women for their inequities when this information isn’t disseminated equitably. In particular, African American women over 55 have seen a seven percent increase in acquiring an HIV diagnosis. So, providers must be mindful of the implicit biases and perceptions they carry into the clinical setting.” We know that knowledge is power. Now that you know The H.E.E.A.T. Research Lab, PrEP, and UPDOs, what will you do with your Power?
www.theheeat.nursing.duke.edu schenita.randolph@duke.edu
DC Moss and Herbs offer an all-encompassing wellness experience that tends to your inner and outer well-being. This remarkable venture was brought to fruition by the visionary entrepreneur and business maven Denicha Crenshaw, hailing from the vibrant South Phoenix, AZ. With unwavering determination and a bold vision, she has embarked on a journey that transcends boundaries and stretches far and wide. From herbs to holistic remedies, DC Moss and Herbs is dedicated to elevating vitality and enriching life.
Denicha, a woman of many talents, is a proud wife and devoted mother to four beautiful children. After dedicating over two decades of her life to the corporate world, she realized that it was time to prioritize her passions and embrace the path of an entrepreneur. She seized the opportunity to pursue her dreams and established DC Moss and Herbs and her own travel agency. With a fierce entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering dedication, Denicha has transcended the norms and embarked on a journey of self-discovery and fulfillment.
For Denicha, entrepreneurship has always been a cherished aspiration, and over the past four years, she has transformed her dreams into a stunning reality. However, the path to selfemployment was not always smooth sailing. She parted ways with the corporate world after voicing her concerns against the management, which didn’t sit well with them. Despite this challenge, Denicha perceives it as a fortunate turn of events. As she puts it, “I consider it a blessing in disguise. Being my own boss has always been a lifelong ambition, and now, with the guidance of the Almighty, I am fulfilling that dream.” Her tenacity and resilience in the face of adversity have catapulted her toward a brighter and more fulfilling future.
DC Moss and Herbs is much more than a business venture for Denicha; it is a labor of love that stems from a profound personal experience. With the onset of the pandemic, Denicha, like many others, was concerned about her family’s health and well-being. Her father’s diagnosis with bladder cancer further heightened her anxiety, and she resolved to find an all-natural way to strengthen his immune system. Although Denicha lost her beloved father to the illness, her unshakable drive to help others only intensified. As she reflects, “Watching my dad suffer made me realize that there are cures for many diseases in nature, and I want to make that knowledge accessible to everyone.” Denicha’s unwavering commitment to research and holistic healing has led her to discover that natural remedies can be just as effective as conventional treatments. Her mission is to empower and educate others about the incredible potential of natural medicine in promoting optimal health and well-being.
When Denicha stumbled upon the wonders of sea moss and herbal teas, she knew she had to share the magic with the world. Drawing inspiration from her initials, she christened her business “DC Moss and Herbs” and set out to turn her passion into a thriving enterprise. Her foray into the sea moss market began with a fortuitous encounter on social media, where she saw someone in search of the elusive superfood. After conducting extensive research on its benefits, Denicha was convinced that she and her family needed it in their lives. However, she soon realized that sea moss was an acquired taste, and not everyone could stomach it. With her keen culinary skills and boundless creativity, Denicha found a solution - she transformed the sea moss into delicious apple sauce that would have even the pickiest eaters coming back for more. Her customers are now hooked on the flavorful concoction, and the fact that they’re getting all the amazing health benefits of sea moss is the cherry on top.
Denicha’s heart swells with joy when she hears customers share their success stories. “It’s a blessing to hear someone say, ‘I’m losing weight,’ or ‘my blood pressure has dropped for the first time in 20 years thanks to sea moss,’’ she says. The sheer satisfaction of helping people feel their best is what drives her to keep going and pushing harder.
Denicha is a go-getter who always has a plan. She listened to her mom’s advice and saved up enough money to start her business without any major struggles or challenges. “Thank God, I was able to pay my bills while figuring this out,” she says. Unlike many other businesses that suffered during the pandemic, Denicha’s business actually grew because people were focused on staying healthy. Now that the pandemic is slowing down, she’s shifting her focus to marketing and expanding her product line to include sea moss-infused goodies that customers will love.
If you thought that Denicha’s sea moss and herbal teas were the only things that she sold, then think again! DC Moss and Herbs offer a variety of natural products that’ll have you feeling like a whole new person. From raw sea moss to syrups and hair and body products, she’s got you covered. But if you’re looking for something extra special, then you have to try her sea moss-infused body butter. This incredible concoction was born out of an accident when Denicha suffered a burn while mixing one of her other products. However, what came out of that mishap was something truly special. When she went to the doctors for treatment, they were amazed by how fast her sea moss-infused body butter was helping her heal. So now, you can have the same experience in the comfort of your own home.
Denicha’s family is her rock-solid support system, inspiring her to pursue her passion for wellness. They always have her back, like when she attended a busy event where she couldn’t fully tend to her products. As she scurried around, she was pleasantly surprised to see her daughter pitching in, confidently selling and promoting DC Moss and Herbs. It was a heartwarming moment that reminded Denicha of the unwavering love and support of her family, standing by her and her business without any hesitation.
Denicha is always looking to the future; her next venture is no exception. With her family as her biggest inspiration, she is currently building her third business as a developmental disability provider. Her sister’s disability opened her eyes to the need for better care and support, and Denicha is determined to make a difference. She plans to expand her business by sending out other DDps who can provide the same high-quality services that she does. For Denicha, success is measured not just in financial gain but in the positive impact she can make on the lives of others. As she looks ahead, she is excited about the prospect of continuing to bless her community and improve the lives of those around her.
For anyone looking to start their own business, Denicha’s advice is to never give up. “Follow your dreams even if you have a downfall; keep going.” To learn more about DC Moss and Herbs, please visit their website. h www.dcmossandherbs.com
Demhaj Poetry Lounge is a spot where coffee and community collide.
Bridgette Williams is an entrepreneur who allows divine inspiration to guide her, and it hasn’t steered her wrong yet. Currently, she owns two thriving businesses. Bridgette’s latest product of divine intervention is Demhaj Poetry Lounge, located in High Point, NC.
The name Demhaj is significant for many reasons. “When I first conceived the idea of the coffee shop, I remember thinking about how much love and joy my son brought me so that I would name the business after him. I wanted people to feel what I felt in a way. My son’s name is Jahmed, so I said I would name the shop Demhaj (Dem-hage),” Bridgette said with a little lift.
“The first time the idea about a poetry lounge and coffee shop came to me, I was a young mother and met a woman named Teresa at the social services department,” Bridgette shared. “I was sitting in the waiting room, and there was this older woman staring at me. So, I smiled and introduced myself. We started talking, and she told me she was a poet.” This intrigued Bridgette because she had been writing poetry since she was thirteen years old.
When I first conceived the idea of the coffee shop, I remember thinking about how much love and joy my son brought me. I knew I would name the business after him. I wanted people to feel what I felt in a way.”
“Writing was a therapeutic outlet for me. I have drawers full of poems I’ve written over the years.” As a result of Bridgette’s passion for poetry, she and Teresa found an instant kinship that exists to this day. “Teresa was one of the first people I shared my vision about the poetry lounge with. I told her I wanted to create a space where people could come together and express themselves while enjoying each other’s company. I asked myself, ‘What brings people together? Coffee.’” The idea came to Bridgette in 2003, but it would be eighteen years before she would see it come to life.
“It’s funny how you plan to do something, and God redirects you,” Bridget laughed. “In middle school, I was part of a mentorship program. A young lady from North Carolina A&T State University came, and she had such a positive effect on me. She made me want to do something with my life. I was so inspired by her that I wanted to become a mentor.”
After graduating high school, Bridgette started at Winston-Salem State University in Winston-Salem, NC. Still very passionate about helping others through mentorship, she enrolled in a program to become a certified mentor. “Rebuilding the Walls of Hope was the name of the faith-based mentorship training program I attended. Marie Carter led it,” Bridgette explained. Her goal was to start her own mentorship program for troubled teens eventually. But when she started planning, Bridgette was led in a different direction.
“When I say led, I mean God literally redirected me to something completely different from what I thought I wanted to do. I was playing around with names for the mentorship program, and God started dealing with me about a home health care agency,” Bridgette said, laughing as she remembered the unexpected and confusing shift. “Before I knew it, God had given me a name and a plan on how to start a home healthcare agency. I knew it was God because I had no idea how to start or run this kind of business.”
In 2006 Faithful Nurses Healthcare Inc. was born. It’s been seventeen years since Bridgette followed God and launched her first business, and it’s still going strong. After starting the home healthcare agency, Bridgette switched her degree to nursing. But the demands of being a young wife and mother caused her to leave college a year short of graduating.
“Life was very demanding during that time. Anyone who knew me before then knew the “happy, fun-loving, and easy-going” Bridgette, but I think somewhere along the way, I lost my spark,” Bridgette admits.
In 2021 Bridgette found herself as a single parent. Bridgette was living life with no net or restraints for the first time in over twenty years. Over the years, she continued to share with her family and friends her vision for the poetry and coffee shop she had affectionately named after her son all those years ago.
Newly single, with her only son in college, Bridgette was in unfamiliar territory. “Everything was different. I was on my own, my son was independent, and for the first time in twenty-one years, I could think about what I wanted and what would make me happy. I won’t say it was easy,” Bridgette admitted. “I had to overcome the fear of failing. This would be the first time I did something like this alone. After what I’d gone through, I wasn’t ready to have one of my lifelong dreams fail.”
Bridgette decided to step out on faith, putting everything she had behind her new business venture. Since her son had heard her say for years that she would open this café, he didn’t take her seriously initially, but after seeing the energy she was putting out, he soon got on board.
“It seemed as if as soon as I chose to trust God with my dream, he put everything into place,” Bridgette shared. “Since opening the Demhaj Poetry Lounge, I have my smile back. The spark that made me, me, is back, and I’m grateful. From the moment a customer walks in, I pray they can feel the love, peace, and genuine joy I feel daily. Demhaj is not just a place to get great coffee. It’s a place where people from every walk of life can come and feel comfortable expressing themselves, meet new people, and enjoy being part of something beautiful.”
To learn more about Bridgette Williams and the Demhaj Poetry Lounge, please visit their website.
John Jenkins of Gulfport, MS, is the founder and CEO of NVision Source Technology.
The focus of NVision Source Technology is to integrate technology that will support other businesses. Their products are designed to serve corporations and organizations throughout the southern region of the United States and abroad. These may include churches, productions, and others that require heavy tech work for major live events. They also specialize in networking infrastructure, architecture, audio, video, and more. John emphasizes that customer satisfaction remains their top priority, and in addition to creating products, they offer customer support around the clock, 24 hours per day, seven days a week.
John’s journey to where he is today began long ago. He had always been interested in technology and electronics and loved working with his hands. Before starting NVTS, he owned a few companies; however, as time went on and the more he worked, he realized there was a considerable need for tech integration and support companies in Mississippi. He shares, “We started out of necessity. I felt there weren’t many opportunities, especially for blacks in Mississippi, and I wanted to change that narrative.” Eventually, he dissolved the previous company, moved to the Gulf of Mississippi, and established NVision Source Technology in 2002. Today, NVTS offers many opportunities for black people in his community who may be interested in tech.
When asked what a typical day at NVision Source Technology involves, John describes the experience with one word, “everything.” Their primary focus is always the clients, helping current ones, finding new ones, and checking in on old clients. “It’s never just one job, and we’re done. It’s so much involved in this business.” John and his team designed almost every product from scratch. Their theme is “We are your technology partner,” meaning they arm clients with all technology needs.
Through his company, John has made connections all over the world. He’s serviced clients in Canada, Thailand, South America, and more. Even when he’s not on the clock and traveling for himself, he still connects with those in his field. “When it comes to technology, we can’t always limit ourselves to what’s acceptable here,” he says. John strives to help other tech companies, whether it’s brainstorming, consulting, or being hands-on with a project. “The bigger the project, the better the team,” John says.
And while only a few materials utilized in the tech industry are manufactured in the U.S., John uses his connections in other countries to help build his business in Mississippi.
As a small business owner, John has encountered a few challenges here and there. Some have been a lack of acceptance and support, especially from people who don’t fully understand the scope of his capability. “Being a black man from Mississippi, most people judged me and assumed from the outside looking in that I do not have the complete knowledge to run my company,” he says. John’s solution was to let the company speak for him. Rather than label himself as the founder and owner, John runs his business from behind the front line per se. He titled himself the ‘Technology Director’ instead of being recognized as the owner of NVST. “I feel this is a better way to help my company continue to grow and open opportunities for me, my team, and other young black minds wanting to get started in the field. The bottom line is to provide an opportunity or avenue for people to make money, especially those who look like me. Sometimes you have to put yourself in the backseat. If my being out front reduces the opportunities for other people, then what did I really accomplish?”.
Owning his own company is something that John loves. He shares that he loves the ability to build opportunities for others. Growing up, nobody thought that someone who looked like him knew anything, so to create an opportunity and show other young black men that there is no limitation, no matter where or who you are, is confirmation of his purpose.
Tech and electronics are all John knows. It is what keeps him inspired and motivated. Moving forward, John and his team plan to implement several new products and design some of their own. He plans to invest in other tech and marketing forms to keep up with the growing field. He has also partnered with the Mississippi Applied Tech Association to bring awareness to the state’s need for more technological products and jobs. He currently serves as the organization’s president.
If you are looking to follow in John’s footsteps, his advice for you is to remember that this field can become very difficult. “Be ready to work long, hard hours. This industry is constantly changing and may require you to reinvent yourself. Please remember to keep your individuality and stay humble. Most importantly, always know that your drive for change has to outweigh your need for success,” he shares.
To find out more about Mr. John Jenkins and NVision Source Technology, please visit their website.
“Sometimes you have to put yourself in the backseat. If my being out front reduces the opportunities for other people, then what did I really accomplish?”
MAGAZINE Zoelle Alaiya Scott
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The daughter of Charita Jackson
