I’m a firm believer in God-given purpose and assignments. Huami Magazine is a result of answered prayers and isolated conversations with God. I could hear God’s voice mainly due to my ability to block out any unnecessary noise and ultimately focus on what I was seeking God for. I had a yearning for something more, something greater than myself, but I knew I didn’t possess the ability to visualize it by my own efforts. I had no choice but to rest on what I needed for God to show me.
The experience I just described exemplifies the power of defeating distractions blocking and holding our blessings and purposes hostage. Distractions are often present as a means to prevent us from seeing or hearing the things needed to grow. Distractions are only effective when we allow them to be. Even more, distractions have no power unless we give them power.
What are you allowing to have relevance in your life that serves as a distraction? What are you giving energy and attention but serves you no purpose or benefit? If you can identify what is fruitful and what is not in your life, you will take the first step in clearing the path to what is purposed for you—your destiny.
Distractions can present themselves in various ways and forms. Distractions can be friends or associates. Distractions often appear in text messages, emails, and other places such as social media platforms. Distractions can begin as small meaningless occurrences but can grow into things that consume your time and affect how you act, move, and live.
We must eliminate distractions to reach our goals and live more purposeful lives. We must focus on the things that help us become the most excellent versions of ourselves. While many things in life can be reproduced and duplicated, time isn’t one of them, and with the time that life offers us, we must make the most of it.
My best advice is for you to live your life to the fullest potential by identifying and defeating distractions.
Devin Manning Radon of Houston, TX, is a woman of many talents. “Dev, the Paper Girl, Your Fairy CARDmomma, Creative_Devin, along with a few other nicknames this savvy businesswoman has acquired over the years. For the most part, Devin is a designer, creative, speaker, cupcake-loving, green bean-eating, earring-loving, and peoplesupporting dream catcher. For all intensive business purposes, she is the face and founder of Once Upon A Paper.
Devin shares that while her stationery business is her primary source of income, it is not her calling. “Paper is my passion, but my calling is leading, inspiring, and hosting workshops to empower young women and entrepreneurs to keep going. I am super sentimental, and I love pretty papers. Putting all of that together created Once Upon a Paper. It’s about creating something from the heart, celebrating people, and making someone smile.”
Currently residing in Brazoria, TX, Devin is the wife of a t-shirt guru and entrepreneur, Byron “Stampd Up” Randon, a union established in 1996. Together, they share three entrepreneurs, Caitlin, a University of Houston graduate and owner of Chic Lash Co.; Byron, a college student and author of the viral children’s book “Be Something Great”; and Kaya, a 2023 high school graduate and future HBCU student, who also manages her own hair braiding business.
Paper is my passion, but my calling is leading, inspiring, and hosting workshops to empower young women and entrepreneurs to keep going.”
Once Upon A Paper provides custom stationery and graphic design services. They can produce custom, out-of-the-box invitations, logo/branding services, signs, banners, cards, funeral programs, and beyond. Once Upon a Paper prides itself in designing from the heart and using its God-given gift of loving people to meet its customers’ design needs.
Devin says the idea of Once Upon a Paper has been a part of her for as long as she can remember. She shares, “Stationery has always been my thing! My nickname, Paper Girl, came from being a stationery lover since I was a little girl. I often was scolded for spending all my allowance on paper, crayons, glue, markers, and stickers. Lisa Frank and the Sanrio brands were my heroes and “paper heroes”...”
Devin’s wittiness often got her into trouble, but she also learned of a way out. “ I learned at an early age the effects my creative hands and love for stationery had on those around me. Anytime I found myself in trouble at home, school, or on the school bus, I would draw a pretty picture with a handwritten letter. That always did the trick!”
Devin says what she loves most about her business is helping her clients understand their vision. Devin says that often, her clients have no clue about what they want. No problem; she knows how to get them to a place of clarity. Even more, she loves people and all things design. Her slogan is “Celebrating Life in Print”, and getting paid to be her naturally creative self is the most amazing and rewarding feeling ever, she shares.
Owning a business doesn’t mean that you will do everything right, and Devin admits that without the feedback of her clients, she wouldn’t be where she is today. “I can go on and on about the clients who have given me positive feedback and had great experiences, but, as a transparent business owner, there are times when I am reminded of areas where I struggle. I’m grateful for those moments as well. Although we are still not exactly where we want to be with OUAP, I realize my company’s growth and what we need to continue.”
Breaking bad habits have been a challenge for Devin. In 2005, when she started her business, the internet was not a primary source for obtaining information as it is today. Devin says she learned a lot by trial and error and fell hard multiple times. Through those experiences, she became resilient.
She also faced the challenge of learning which clients to take on and which to walk away from. In the beginning, she took on everyone, and at a low cost. She often found herself working harder than she needed to. Once she raised her prices, her clientele changed. She remains committed to giving the best quality service and products but does it a lot smarter.
Regarding advising prospective business owners, Devin says she has found that advice really doesn’t motivate people. “Our individual experiences move us in different ways. Although a person may have a similar pathway, their vision and passion should guide them. I encourage any business owner to stay true to themselves, keep pushing, and not be afraid to fail. There will be naysayers along the way, but don’t be so focused on proving anyone wrong. Instead, focus on proving yourself. Also, don’t get so busy building your business that you forget who you are and the ones you are working hard for. Work will always be there when you return, so take that break. Most importantly, pray for your business,” she says.
Moving forward, Once Upon a Paper will introduce a sister brand. There are also plans to bring their brand to store shelves. With all of her creativity and wit, there is no telling what will come from Devin’s camp. To learn more about Once Upon A Paper, please visit their website.
h
Raven M. Hunter life is a testament to her perseverance and faith in what God has purposed her to be.
As a single mother with circumstances that God has helped her overcome, Raven’s mission is to inspire people to put their trust in God, and experience triumphs such as she. The Little Rock, AR native is a minister, inspirational speaker, and certified transformational inspirational coach. She is also the author and creator of the Annual Conference “You Are Not Your Circumstances”. She is the Co-Author of an anthology, “Women Waiting to Exhale,” and the creator of the bible study journal, “Growing through God’s Word”. Additionally, added to her list of productions are the affirmation journal, “I Am Affirmation Lined Journal”, and the self-care journal, “Nothing Is Impossible with God and Feeling Blessed”. In 2016, Raven launched Inspiring and Empowering Lives, LLC, which offers transformational inspirational coaching, financial and business consulting, conferences, and retreats.. Since 2005, Raven has served as an ordained minister and Sunday School teacher at the Church of Jesus Christ on Ray Road in Jacksonville, Arkansas.
Raven is a graduate of J.A. Fair High School and Pulaski Technical College. At Pulaski, she earned two Associate Degrees in Arts and Science. She later graduated from Ashford University with a Bachelors in Business Administration and a Masters of Organizational Management specialization in Healthcare Administration.
With Inspiring and Empowering Lives, LLC, Raven shares aims to help women in six specific areas. The first is to learn how to master their setbacks and thrive after devastating life situations. Next is to assist them with learning how to shift from financial distress to a healthier way of being. The third area is learning how to break free from toxic relationships and foster mutually beneficial relationships. Next is learning how to succeed in business. The fifth area is assisting businesses that desire to grow and create an environment for their employees to thrive and become great assets to the workplace. The final area is for businesses who want to understand purchasing and procurement at the state and federal levels.
Raven launched her company in November 2016 after completing an entrepreneurship class conducted by the City of Little Rock at the Willie Hinton Center. “This was the start of where I began creating a business and vision for myself,” she shares. “Many families in the African American communities do not always have the education and tools they need to help them with their finances. The vision came from God and being in the financial industry for many years and helping families to get out of debt. I also wanted to help them develop a sound financial plan that would leave an inheritance to their children’s children.”
Raven’s vision shifted when God gave her a vision in 2014 to write her book called, “You Are Not Your Circumstances.” She says the vision also included a conference that would mirror the book. “God told me that I did not have to beg anyone to be on their platform,”
In her business, Raven says she appreciates her opportunities to help others. She also loves being able to serve God while doing so. “God is the only one who can change us, and by incorporating His word into my business, I am able to help others. I am breaking generational curses for my family and myself. My family will not have to go through what my ancestors did.``
Raven describes herself as a girl from Little Rock, Arkansas, who grew up on 24th Street during the era of “Gang Banging in Little Rock”. Though she lived in that era, Raven confesses she is not a product of that environment. “My life experiences have taught me that God will use the least of many to do great things for His kingdom. I am one of many examples of great things and great people coming out the hood. I had to work hard for everything that I have, and I have prayed many nights for God to give me the desires of my heart. God continues to answer my prayers.”
Raven says her son and her daddy have impacted her life more than anything or anyone. “I wanted to create a life of consistency for my son.” Raven’s father suffered an attack by someone in 2005, which left him in a persistent vegetative state. That experience made Raven want to create a life where she could care for her father in her home. Unfortunately, in 2018 he passed away at 61, and she couldn’t do that for her father. Raven says the experience of losing her father fueled her to be resilient in accomplishing the goals and visions she has set for herself and her family.
For other aspiring entrepreneurs, Raven advises not to give up! She says, “Keep God first and become the student of your business and your respective industry. Always be a learner of your business and be able to pivot when needed. Also, know that the race is not given to the swift nor the strong but to the one who endures.”
My life experiences have taught me that God will use the least of many to do great things for His kingdom. I am one of many examples of great things and great people coming out the hood.”
Dr. Glenn T. Miller of St. Louis, MO, is a highly-respected chiropractor, esteemed educator, ardent wellness advocate, and pioneering personal and professional development thought leader He is also the face of the brand “Dr. Wellness,” which encapsulates his holistic health philosophy.
“Dr. Wellness” and “Neopreneur®” are the tangible manifestations of Dr. Miller’s philosophy of holistic well-being and individual growth. “These brands are more than just names—they are platforms designed to transform lives,” he says. Under the banner of Dr. Wellness, Dr. Miller offers comprehensive wellness coaching, mindset shifting, and a range of products to improve his client’s overall health and well-being. The brand is deeply intertwined with Dr. Miller’s identity—it is his philosophy, approach, and dedication to wellness made accessible to everyone.
Neopreneur®, on the other hand, extends Dr. Miller’s impact on professional development. This transformative learning platform and its unique curriculum, the “Ninefold Path,” is a testament to his understanding of the needs and challenges entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, and side hustlers face. By providing resources, guidance, and community support, Neopreneur® aids in turning individuals’ aspirations into reality. Both brands are extensions of Dr. Miller’s mission—helping individuals lead healthier lives and achieve their professional goals.
Born from the south side of Chicago, Dr. Miller attended Kenwood Academy High School and was part of a leadership and skill-developing club. That experience sparked his interest in self-development and community building. He later attended SIUE and soon graduated from Logan University as a Doctor of Chiropractic.
Terry Watson Photos Provided by Dr. Glenn T. MillerAs a student doctor, Dr. Glenn worked with diverse individuals and recognized the need for a more comprehensive approach to health and success that extended beyond physical well-being. “ I was inspired by what I learned and began developing a holistic framework that would address all aspects of an individual’s well-being—mental, emotional, social, financial, environmental, occupational, intellectual, and spiritual,” he says. This led to the creation of the Ninefold Pathways to Wellness and Success.
His extensive experiences as a chiropractor and his interactions with the 100 Black Men organization played a critical role in the evolution of his journey. Dr. Miller shares he loves the opportunity to witness individuals discover their full potential and grow into the best versions of themselves. “Every day, I am reminded of the power of holistic wellness and the incredible change that can be achieved when individuals are empowered to take control of their well-being.”
Beyond the personal transformations he facilitates, Dr. Miller also cherishes the relationships created. Each person he works with brings a unique perspective and story, enriching his understanding of wellness and success. This continuous learning process has become integral to his professional journey, sparking new ideas and shaping his approach. Along with his philanthropic work with various organizations, he shares that he is privileged to participate in a more significant movement of empowerment and mentorship. “The chances I have to contribute to the growth and development of young individuals on their journeys of discovery and success, and the opportunities to inspire, guide, and uplift African American and broader communities is a rewarding part of my work.”
Dr. Miller says the birth of his daughter has been pivotal in shaping his approach toward empowerment, education, wellness, and success. Through his work, Dr. Miller’s goal is to leave a legacy his daughter would be proud of and inspire her to build upon.
For a decade, Dr. Miller grappled with having multifaceted interests. Being a chiropractor, professor, life coach, and business coach aligned with his desire to serve. Yet, translating this diversity of roles into a cohesive brand took a lot of work. “The issue was not just about personal branding but also about defining my professional identity. I loved my work, yet I yearned for a unified platform that covered every part of my professional life,” he shares. Wellness and professional development was his solution and offered a comprehensive framework that could accommodate his diverse skills and interests and provide a platform for holistic personal and community upliftment.
Dr. Miller also realized entrepreneurs, side hustlers, and intrapreneurs often need more practical skills and knowledge to navigate their careers and ventures effectively. Without question, he took it upon himself to learn, grow, and acquire the “intangible currencies” necessary for success.
While Dr. Miller remains committed to helping others succeed in all aspects of their lives, he offers some direct advice to anyone who may follow a journey similar to his. He emphasizes the importance of identifying one’s unique strengths and interests. “This self-awareness is the foundation of a successful journey. Understand what drives you, what you’re passionate about, and what unique contributions you can bring to your field. Yet, keep identifying these traits; also, learn how to communicate and brand them to maximize their impact effectively.” The importance of lifelong learning is something else that Dr. Miller drives home. “The entrepreneurial and intrapreneurial landscape constantly evolves, and staying abreast of these changes requires a commitment to continuous education,” he says.
The future holds boundless potential for Dr. Miller and his mission of whole well-being and professional development. He plans to expand the reach of his work and extend his transformative influence to diverse communities and organizations, including fostering partnerships, leveraging technology, and tailoring strategies to meet evolving needs. He also plans to refine and build upon his innovative framework, the Ninefold Pathways to Wellness and Success, incorporating new insights, practices, and strategies as he continues to learn and grow in his field. “I envision a world where holistic wellness practices and success strategies are not just accessible but also integrated into everyday life.
To learn more about Dr. Glenn Miller, please visit his website.
“The issue was not just about personal branding but also about defining my professional identity. I loved my work, yet I yearned for a unified platform that covered every part of my professional life.”
Dr. Glenn T. Miller
Dr. Wellness
Tenisha is a Nashville native and a God-fearing woman who puts God first. She obtained a degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix and later became a licensed Realtor. She is a mother of five beautiful children, a son, Isaiah, her oldest and four girls: Keshona, Alora, Amya, and Ava.
Tenisha says her journey of being homeless inspired the name Woods Way Home. “We lived wherever someone would allow us to lay our heads. In 2016, I found myself and my girls living in a women’s domestic violence shelter. Because of my son’s age, he could not live with us at the shelter and could only visit on weekends. Because I was ashamed and broken, I hid this from my family/friends. Eventually, I returned to an unhealthy relationship because I felt I had nowhere else to go. I prayed for help, and God gave me a plan of action to get myself and my children out of that situation and to help others. That plan included real estate. While pregnant with my youngest daughter, in 2017, I earned my degree in Business Administration. And in 2018, I finally left my ex for good. I studied and became a licensed Realtor. I used real estate to help pull my family out of financial bondage, and in 2021, I purchased our home. My road to homeownership was a long, hard process without real direction. However, that journey taught me what worked and what didn’t, mainly from trial and error. Now, I help my clients avoid the road bumps I hit.”
Real estate transactions have many intricate parts and can overwhelm the average person. Tenisha states, “As a Realtor, I must make the transaction as seamless as possible. Whether that is providing information on buying, selling, and/or investing in real estate, hosting an open house, or preparing a market analysis. I am here for it all! On inspection day, you will often find me suited up in the crawl space. Why? Because that is one of the places where you will learn the most about the home.”
Tenisha is also known for rolling up her sleeves and offering a hand with any moving needs. She will help pack, clean, or do something as simple as bringing lunch. When necessary, she will even provide emotional support to her clients. Whatever the need, she will lead you to the proper resources.
“As a Realtor, I must make the transaction as seamless as possible. Whether that is providing information on the process of buying, selling, and/or investing in real estate, hosting an open house, or preparing a market analysis. I am here for it all.”
When it comes to buyers, she has found that the idea of gaining homeownership can be very frightening and discouraging, especially amongst those in the African American community. Many are reluctant to even think of becoming a homeowner, and homeownership within our community is at its lowest since the nineteensixties. Many buyers believe they must have a perfect credit score to obtain their goals, making convincing them otherwise more complicated and challenging. She says, “Although a perfect score would be phenomenal, it is my job to assure you that a good credit score will work too, but you must at least try.” Tenisha manages these challenges with one-on-one interactions and gaining her clients’ trust.
For anyone who may follow the Woods Way Home, Tenisha advises them to learn the three D’s; drive, determination, and dedication. “Without the Three D’s, you’ll find yourself stuck on repeat. You need the drive to get up and get moving, the determination to keep going no matter what obstacles may arise. You need dedication to stay when you want something bad enough. Rome wasn’t built in one day, and dreams don’t come true overnight. And goals are not reached by sitting.”
Without the hand of God in her life, Tenisha admits she wouldn’t be where she is today. “God has brought me out, pulled me through, and in that process, He has removed burdens and brought so many wonderful people into my life — people to help me or for me to help and encourage them along the way.”
In the future, Tenisha’s goal is to purchase several multi-family properties. They would serve as transitional housing for domestic violence victims, from abuse to freedom and homeownership. That is the Woods Way Home.
For more information about Tenisha Woods and the Woods Way Home, please visit www. WoodsWayHome.com or scan the QR Code below. h
By Terry L. Watson
There is an adage that it takes two to make a thing go right; well, in the case of DRiP Espresso, a collaboration of three minds has made the difference. Keiona Williamson, Jasmine Bronson, and Taylor White, all natives of Sacramento, own DRIP Espresso in Sacramento, CA. Their company is a local gathering spot known for its award-winning specialty drinks, Bomb Bites, and good vibes.
One of their best sellers is Melanated Mocha, an espresso brewed into premium chocolate with a dash of cayenne pepper. They make many spiced lattes, including the Cuff It, a housemade brown sugar and spice latte, and their Golden Hour, a Tumeric, Ginger, and Cinnamon latte. The DRIP Espresso’s Bomb Bites include loaded Avocado Toast made with fresh, locally baked salted lemon, rosemary sourdough, avocado, tomato, and in-house pickled purple onions. The bites are topped with fried garlic and chili oil. Their menu also includes a Strawberry Cinnamon Roll Pop Tart.
DRIP Espresso opened its doors in September of 2021. The three entrepreneurs first dreamed of opening Good Vibes Vegan in their hometown Sacramento, CA. “The dream was a vegan soul food shop that Jas’s mother, Jaeda, and stepfather Lenny, meant to open before the Covid-19 pandemic. With lockdowns delaying our grand opening and Lenny’s passing due to chronic illness, Jaeda postponed her dream, subleased her space, and sold her equipment,” the group shares.
Around this time, Keiona wanted to open a community coffee shop in a different part of town with free Wi-Fi, fresh food options, and a space for people to feel alive. She convinced Jasmine they could find a space, buy Jaeda’s equipment, and be up and running quickly. With perfect timing, Jeada asked Jasmine and Keona, “Should ya’ll sublease this place instead?” Jasmine and Keona scrambled their money together, called their shared baby sister Taylor, who matched their contributions and paid $5000 to Jaeda to lease the space. They got the keys to their new shop by October 1, 2021, and DRIP Espresso was born.
The trio of business owners share they love their community and the customers that support them. “When people come to DRIP, we try to make it an experience. From our staff to our space, we want your time in DRIP to be the best part of your day,” they said.
While it has only been a few years since opening, they have faced some challenges in building their business. They share, “Our biggest challenge is capital. We have bootstrapped our business mainly from the ground up. We didn’t start with a big investment, loan, or tons of saved money, but have fundraised, applied for grants, and given lots of our personal funds to get through the awkward phases of starting a business.” Yet, they are determined to succeed regardless of any hurdle or obstacle that may present itself.
Business ownership is something Taylor was familiar with before DRIP Espresso. She grew up watching her grandmother succeed as a serial entrepreneur. “Every weekend, she’d take us to flea markets while she sold goods she bought and repurposed from thrift stores and vintage shops. She also ran a community daycare in the neighborhood we grew up in, and our uncles owned barber shops and music labels,” she says. Jasmine’s parents, Lenny and Jaeda, were also serial entrepreneurs. Jaeda owned a popular hair care business in Sacramento and a popular vegan pop-up. “We’ve all had examples of hustling and building destinies within our families. It is important to us to continue that legacy,” they shared.
Owning a business in the heart of the Sacramento community means they are committed to serving and meeting the needs of their customers. They say, “Community is first in everything we do. We believe in building with our vendors, customers, and peer businesses. We call our customers “The Besties” because we know we stand for something as a business. We hope to attract a community of patrons who believe in what we believe in.”
The owners of DRiP Espresso hope to launch a private label of coffee beans. They will also start looking for a second location soon, as their vision is to see DRiP worldwide.
h
“You are all Iconic..... That’s the Truth”
Are you looking for new music to add to your playlists? If so, then you must consider Charlotte, NC, very own Kiing Le and the Iconic Truth Band. Iconic Truth Band has the “I.T.” factor capturing a unique and infectious Go-Go vibe. While displaying various components of percussion and vocal excellence, audiences will always be enlightened and entertained.
Born and raised in South East Washington, DC, Kiingi, a natural neo-soul artist, moved to North Carolina in his thirties to pursue music. Surprisingly, he didn’t start as a go-go artist; Kiing was pursing other interests. He was a personal trainer and owned a company, Get Fit For A King. Soon his focus would change, or more so, get in alignment with his true passion for music.
Kiing’s pursuit of music grew while living in Charlotte. He joined a few R&B bands as a lead vocalist. This was his platform until a friend took him to see a go-go band in Charlotte. After attending a few of their shows, Kiing auditioned to be a vocalist, but he didn’t make the cut. Determined to succeed, he didn’t let that stop him and eventually earned the role of the band’s talker. He says, a talker is like an orchestrator; they give shoutouts and help boost the crowd’s energy. “If you know the talker and the talker knows you, you’re popular.” From the platform of band talker, everything started to fall into place for Kiing.
He would stay with that particular band for nearly eight years before leaping to do his own thing. Thus the birth of The Iconic Truth Band happened. Launched in 2020, Iconic Truth started with Kiing, his cousin Darnell, and Keena Thompson. The band chose the name ‘Iconic Truth’ because it genuinely reflects their energy. Kiing says his mentee told him, “You all are iconic, and that’s the truth”. The group was excited about the opportunity to be a fresh new face on the band scene and a new voice for Go-Go.
Like anything else that starts from scratch, there were some hurdles and obstacles the band had to endure. Kiing says, “It was a struggle at first. We would practice in a little section of my home. We had different artists moving in and out, but everything eventually fell into place.”
At one point, Kiing was ready to give it all up. When he started Iconic Truth, it took a toll on his family because of the time and focus he was putting into the band. However, after hearing his music on the radio and his brother’s constant encouragement, he was motivated to continue the journey. He, unfortunately, lost his mother in 2022, but before she passed away, she gave him a folder with his complete bio of work that he did in D.C. When he asked why, she said, “It’s yours.” He says that was her way of reminding him who he was. “You’re Kiing Le, don’t stop; keep it going. She was so proud of me.” From that moment, no matter the trials and tribulations, he decided to move forward.
By Dorjea’ McClammey Photos Provided by Todd Youngblood hWhen asked what he loves most about the band, Kiing says he loves the creativity his band brings. “Everyone is so individual, and together, we make Go-Go magic. We can take Mary Had a little lamb and make it into a cranking Go-Go song. What’s interesting is how we work to formulate an original sound through each song and have fun with it simultaneously. As a band, we focus on doing what feels good without trying to fit anyone’s mold. We want everyone on that stage and in the audience to live in their iconic truth.”
Kiing isn’t just a musician; he is also a businessman. He owns a production company, DC2NC Productions, which allows musicians and bands to go schedule live performances. He also contracts DJ’s, comedians, vocals, and more. He also has a clothing line called ‘I Don’t Think You Ready”, a spinoff to his onstage performance. Kiing has also found a way to combine his music love with personal training. On his podcast Cardio Conversation, Kiing talks music with guests while they work out. Additionally, he has enjoyed some memorable moments in his career, such as performing with Mint Condition and SWV, traveling, and performing with other big bands and celebrities. He has also written a song for Tone-X, the voice of V101.9 FM in Charlotte.
Kiing advises upcoming artists to persevere, stay consistent, and connect themselves with people who will challenge them. “Remember always to follow your heart and passion and trust your gut. Most importantly, always put the creator first with everything you do, and everything else will fall in place.”
Kiing’s primary goal is to be known as The King of Southern Go-Go. He says it’s time for Iconic Truth to be known as the “go-to Go-Go band” in the South. He wants his name to be in the company of other greats such as Chuck Brown, Little Benny, The Masters, Big G from Backyard Band, and many more.
In the future, Kiing Le and Iconic Truth Band will continue to be involved with community awareness programs and teach kids more about live music and performing arts, “Performing arts saved my life, and that is something I want to give back to the community.”
Without question, Jensine Reeder is a lover of all people. The Greenville, SC, resident has a reputation for giving and pouring into others. She has intentionally made limitless connections across the beauty, technology, and nonprofit sectors and provided hope and opportunities while doing so.
Jensine’s story reflects the life of someone who has refused to be denied or misled. She shares, “Family has always been important to me. I grew up in Greenville, SC, as the oldest of five siblings, and Southern Baptist ideals shaped my adolescent identity. While the church offered community, support, and love, it also led me to believe that money, specifically desiring money, is bad. I scraped by for years to make ends meet. I hoarded basic supplies like toilet paper and worked tirelessly for less than minimum wage to feed myself and my family. My efforts kept us fed, and we were alive but not truly living. I knew deep in my bones that I was capable of more, and we deserved more.”
Jensine says her career and entrepreneurship journeys taught her wealth is not inherently evil. “I learned that money is neither good nor bad but simply a tool. What matters is how you use it. Money provides stability and offers opportunities. I wanted to allow my children to pursue their education, dreams, and passions and access the best care and resources money could buy. Furthermore, I never wanted my children to feel the suffocating fear of living paycheck to paycheck. So, I carved out a new career path for myself and climbed from minimum wage jobs to a salaried position,” she says. However, little did she know her journey out of poverty had only begun.
Today, Jensine owns Source Unlimited LLC, a consulting firm dedicated to connecting small businesses, nonprofit organizations, and corporations with the resources necessary to thrive professionally. “We offer nonprofit IT consulting services to ensure data collection procedures are efficient and accompanied by effective workflow processes,” Jensine says. “That enhanced efficiency better positions organizations for additional funding opportunities and enables organizations to tell their stories.”
One of the services offered by The Source Unlimited is Professional Nonprofit IT Consulting. Her goal is to ensure data collection software and procedures are efficient and accompanied by effective workflow processes. “This positions the organization for additional funding opportunities,” she says. Another product offered is Elevation Coaching™, designed for small business professionals, which offers small business establishment for Limited Liability Corporation (LLC), Incorporation (Inc), Sole Proprietorship, and Nonprofit (501(c)(3) establishment. Additionally, they offer coaching with a phased approach to growing their clients’ businesses.
Another product offered, which is designed for individuals, is Elevation Coaching™. Jensine asks, “Are you ready for your elevation journey? We offer a process to tap into your highest self and elevate your thinking about yourself, your purpose, and your life! My services are for anyone with a vision to start or expand their business and needs guidance, support, and accountability.”
Jensine’s creative side is displayed with Goddess Wraps by Jensine™, which was launched in 2021. She hand-makes vibrant satin-lined headwraps with 100% Cotton Ankara fabric lined with high-quality satin. She says the line resulted from her doing some soul-searching and learning what her life’s purpose was. Annually, a portion of their sales are donated to organizations that focus on raising awareness about breast cancer and alopecia. Additionally, Jensine provides virtual and in-person wrap services for photoshoots, date nights, weddings, birthday celebrations, anniversary events, and more.
Jensine says her journey in poverty began in 2012 while working as a paralegal at a private law firm. She overheard a conversation between the attorneys about a client who didn’t understand their life of poverty. At that moment, Jensine learned there was a difference between being poor and being in poverty. “I was in shock because, according to my family and friends, I was doing well for myself because I had a good job, a car, and was renting a home. I then researched what career I could transition to in order to increase my income to make enough money to be above the federal poverty line,” she says.
Her next move was returning to college to get her degree in Computer Technology at Greenville Technical College. While being a full-time student, she worked on campus in the Engineering and Technology computer lab, an experience that allowed her to sharpen her skills and gain professional experience. Jensine shares that with the support of her family, friends, and church members, she graduated with honors in 2014 with a degree in Computer Technology.
Continuing her educational journey as a working mother required great personal sacrifice, Jensine confesses, but she was ready to pursue a career in technology. She soon started her consulting business, The Source Unlimited. In no time, doors began to open in her favor. Jensine says, “The United Way of Greenville County was searching for a Database Administrator. I applied and got the contract, and that seven-year opportunity helped me find my niche within the technology field. I also assisted over 222 Greenville County nonprofits with acquiring over $4 million in grant funding.” She was off and running, and The Source Unlimited LLC was birthed in 2014.
Jensine’s new career helped her purchase her first home in 2015. “My children and I were so happy to have a place to call home,” she says. Her children also inspired her to share her story with others and pursue public speaking engagements throughout the Upstate community.
I was in shock because, according to my family and friends, I was doing well for myself. I had a good job, a car, and was renting a home.” Jensine Reeder
When asked what she loves most about her journey in business, Jensine says it’s the opportunities she has to mentor entrepreneurs, business owners, executives, and professionals. She enjoys transforming their lives, careers, and mindsets through the power of radical self-discovery, self-care, and self-love. “I also love the opportunity to honor my Afro-Indigenous heritage with Goddess Wraps by Jensine.”
Jensine emphasizes that external success cannot exist without internal success, and when she reflects on the fear, anger, and grief that consumed her at the beginning of her journey, she’s overwhelmed with joy. “I cherish and appreciate the peace, prosperity, and stability my family knows now. I am also humbled by the blessings God placed in my life,” she said.
Jensine thanks the members of her community for their constant support. She also thanks her mother for always breathing life into her vision. “Thank you, Mom, for being the wind beneath my wings!” Her advice to others who may follow in her footsteps is simple. “Life will never be without trials and tribulations, but we are strong, creative, and gifted enough to turn those trials and tribulations into something more. Whether it takes a year, a decade, or multiple decades, you can transform your life. You have everything you need within you to start and succeed.”
The future looks very bright for this savvy businesswoman. Jensine’s businesses and brands are growing, and soon she will launch a new men’s line at the beginning of 2024. To learn more about The Source Unlimited LLC, please visit their website.
MAGAZINE Robert Duece Austin
To submit photographs to be placed in the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby feature, please send a detailed email to huami.cutestbaby@gmail.com
The son of Staci Simms and Antonio Austin
