Huami Magazine Raleigh/Durham January/February 2019

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Jan./Feb. 2019 Volume 2 Issue 9 FREE

Faith Assembly Christian Academy Raleigh/Durham - Jan./Feb. 2019

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You’re Responsible For Your Own Happiness There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

A Letter From The Editor

According to a definition provided by Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary, the word joy is defined by an emotion A Letter from the Editor evoked by well being, success or good fortune, or the prospect of possessing what one desires. The same dictionary defines happiness as a state of well being and What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes contentment.

For manyhave people, the presence joy and and dreams wouldn’t a street to park on.ofWhat if happiness is just significant water is to theirnever everything thatasyou decided as to air putand off until tomorrow survival, for it can bewould hard and impossible move happened?

There be no reason toto save for or a rainy function without them. day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making

promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired Many seek others to fulfill them. They also seek today?people What would you do? the assistance of things and objects for happiness. I don’t believe there anything with like doing I’ve beenistold that I wrong often seem I dothis, toohowever much. I know first-hand and people can leave you feeling Honestly, I feelthat likethings I am not doing enough and I’m a firm empty and in lonely in their Others their own believer knowing thatabsence.

God wouldn’t puthave anything on me agenda purpose and Iputting someone else’s that Iand couldn’t handle. sometimes wonder howneeds life would before be idle quite a challenge, especially if it requires be if theirs I chosecan to sit and accept what it presented to me. I that to be veryjoy boring. my opinion, opportunity forhave themfound to surrender their in the In process. is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me many is an adventure. is the worst that can happen?

While people mayWhat get married to be happy, there I do nothing, I fail, andfind if I try I don’t, but learn areIfsome who eventually themselves in instead a strenuous something new about myself.

Relinquish your and in situation mainly because they didn’t possess anypride joy before. acquire It isreturn impossible tolife. be the sunshine in someone else’s world if you are internally consumed with darkness and pain.

The best advice ever given to happened when someone Ultimately, you are responsible forme your own happiness. told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way by through doors with a key that only Happiness is obtained spending time with yourself. hope provided.

I have also learned the difference between You must learn who you are and what you like and dislike what God blesses and what lifestrengths, can burden me with about “you”.

If you me are with unaware of your as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and tolerances, limits, and when to be quiet, because weaknesses, it is impossible to someone may get it confused help another individual manage with being arrogant. theirs. Once you identify the source of your joy and happiness Make you tomorrow develop a plantoday, or strategy to happen but most make them a constant in your importantly make it count. life. InLife thisisnew yourand joy but ayear, whisper and happiness may be connected we must put ourselves in a to the position amount to you share with hear what it is others.telling us.

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L Watson Publisher www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief Writer Dawn C. Thornton Terry L. Watson Tonya Tolson Writer Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Terry L. Watson Writer Writers

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On The Cover

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November/December 2014

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CONTENTS

JAN./FEB. 2019

RALEIGH/DURHAM

Bostic Total Body

Tiffany Hampton

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On The Cover

Delayed, Not Denied

Faith Assembly Christian Academy

Voice of Triumph

Martin Bailey

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18

Follow The Pink Squirrel

Toni M. Winston

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Braylen King Cooper

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Also Featured

Rachel Snipes Giving God All of The Glory

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Porscha Danielle Making Her Way in Greenville, SC

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Raleigh/Durham - Jan./Feb. 2019

Edward Surratt Learn How He Teaches Others to Expect Greater

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Faith Assembly Christian Academy 6

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Raleigh/Durham - Jan./Feb. 2019

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Pharenheit Photography

Faith Assembly Christian Academy is a religious non-denominational (K4-12th) grade school located in Durham, N.C. Established in 1998, it offers a quality Christian education in a safe and friendly atmosphere to average and above-average students. Its mission is to educate and train students based on the word of God and develop the whole student spiritually, mentally, and physically. It has been graduating the next generation since 2006, with a 100% college acceptance rate.

FACA has five goals that are the foundation of which the school stands on. These are to teach students Christian values on how to develop Christ like attitude, prepare the next generation to go into the world with the gospel of Jesus Christ, encourage parental involvement with their child, create a safe environment that stimulates learning and creativity through basic academics, the Bible, arts and business, and equip students with Godly wisdom and knowledge to better understand the world around them.

FACA is a product of Faith Assembly Christian Center, which was founded by the late Bishop Leroy McKenzie in 1993. Starting from scratch with the support of his wife, Apostle Mary McKenzie, three children and seven grandchildren, he built his ministry to include several non-denominational churches in the southeast. He also provided leadership training for church leaders and business professionals using divine principles that were shared at their Annual Leadership and Church Development Conference.

Since her husbands passing in 2012, Apostle Mary D. McKenzie has lead FACA, The New Church. “We do it ‘BIG’. Believe, Imagine and Grow,” she says. She is the senior pastor, and teacher, prophetess, evangelist, inspirational and motivational speaker. She is known for her dynamic bible teaching that transcends generations, socioeconomic and denominational lines. Her deliverance and prophetic ministry has touched and changed the lives of thousands of men and women. She is a certified Pastoral Trainer for the Global Proclamation Congress located in Bangkok, Thailand. Apostle McKenzie brings restoration wherever she goes.

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The Late

Bishop Leroy McKenzie Founder of FACC FACC Operates On The 4 E’s Evangelism Fulfilling the Great Commission by bringing the gospel of Jesus Christ to those that are lost, the backslider, or anyone who has turned their hearts away from God. Education Educating the entire family based on the Word of God. Believing that learning never ceases.

Empowerment Equipping people to defeat generational poverty, bondage, and curses. For people to know that God has already provided everything they need and know that there is more to life than just existing.

Entrepreneurship Encouraging people to become self sufficient and successful by using their God given gifts and talents. To understand God gave believers His power and wisdom to be wealthy in all areas of their life.

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The vision of Faith Assembly Christian Center is Changing A Generation, One Person At A Time. This vision is carried out through what is described as the 4 E’s. ― Education, Empowerment, Evangelism, and Entrepreneurship. FACA has also spawned a few other magnificent tools to further advance the kingdom of God. They are Faith Assembly Christian Academy and Faith Assembly Christian Daycare. Apostle McKenzie says the purpose of the academy is to be able to introduce the bible back into the hearts of kids, and to create a small educational environment that would benefit those who may not perform in a large classroom setting. “We are developing three types of kids to perform on one accord.

Kids perform one way at school, one way at home, and another way at church. If we can get them to perform the same way in all settings, I believe the whole experience will be less stressful on them,” she says.

Apostle Mary McKenzie Stives to bring out the very best in all of her students each day.

The main reason Faith Assembly Christian Church began happened as a result of a tragedy that Apostle and Bishop McKenzie endured. She shares her 15 year-old nephew was killed in Woodcroft nearly 25 years ago.

“Five or six kids had skipped school and were walking through the Woodcroft community when they saw a moped in the garage of one of its residents. They attempted to steal the item but were halted when the homeowner surprised them with a gun, shooting all them.

My nephew was shot in the back and died.

My husband decided that we would develop something for kids that would give them better options in life. We wanted to help save our kids from the dangers and pitfalls of the streets.”

FACA’s team includes a variety of staff members who provide specialized instructional support as well as support to students. They play an important role in ensuring students are learning in a safe and supportive learning environment. They foster positive, trusting relationships with students and improve school climate by encouraging parent and family involvement in education.

Because our students connect with team on many occasions throughout the school day, they model positive behavior and send positive messages to students.

The church and daycare suffered a setback in 2017. The building they were operating didn’t pass an annual inspection and was declared not to be up to code.

They were displaced and were forced to move operations to alternate locations. “By the grace of God, we were able to get the

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necessary renovations made and are looking forward to moving back to our original location in a few weeks. We are eager to get back in our building because the waiting list continues to grow,” she shares. Additionally, FACA is asking for donations to help with renovation costs through its Go Fund Me account at www.gofundme.com/projectgrowth.

The academy and daycare prides itself on exposing their students to the world outside of Durham. This is accomplished with a series of field trips to other states through the year, including the beach, Washington, D.C., and more.

“We have a student who will be the first male in his family to graduate from college when he receives his degree from Shaw University. We have some students who have graduated from the academy but still come back to teach and help the other students who are still here. We are family here,” she says.

Apostle McKenzie makes her case very clear why someone should choose to attend their daycare and academy. “We offer a safe, Christian family environment, a Christian curriculum, a low student to teacher ratio, and a loving and caring staff. The academy also provides Career Development, Entrepreneurship Training, Money Management Training, and Parental Involvement,” she says. “I want a well rounded child that is happy and striving to fulfill their destiny and purpose in life. Faith Assembly provides that.” h

“We are passionate about saving our kids. We try to help them with spiritual development, education, and by instilling confidence in them.”

Apostle Mary McKenzie

Faith Assembly Christian Church Faith Assembly Christian Academy Faith Assembly Christian Daycare

3120 Fayetteville St, Durham, North Carolina 27707 www.facc-ministries.org (919) 687-2763

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Tiffany Hampton Bostic Total

Body

By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by Nieto Photography

N

ow that we’ve welcomed 2019, how many are thinking ‘new year, new me’? Have you selected the diet you’re going to start right after the holiday sweets are all gone? Well, according to certified personal trainer and bodybuilder, Tiffany Hampton owner of Bostic Total Body, that might be the first mistake of transforming yourself.

“Eating differently and taking care of your body does not mean dieting, because dieting is temporary. You have to think of it as a lifestyle change,” the well-known personal trainer explains.

Tiffany knows a thing or two about lifestyle changes, in more ways than one. Over the years she has changed jobs, changed careers, and changed her commitment to her passion. When she finally yielded to what she has always loved, her life was elevated more than she expected.

In 2007, Tiffany relocated to North Carolina to find a job in banking. She went on several interviews but couldn’t seem to secure the type of employment she was looking for.

Since she has always enjoyed physical fitness, she decided to hire a personal trainer to help keep her in shape. He noticed Tiffany was very athletic, was disciplined, and felt she had what it took to be a great trainer to others. She was slow to move, but did reach out to another trainer who liked her style and hired her to work at his gym. He also encouraged her to become certified as a personal trainer, but she took it a step further and obtained a bachelor’s degree from St. Augustine University in Human Performance and Wellness along with her new certification.

She wasn’t quite ready to be a trainer full time, and found employment success at a restaurant in the area for a time and lost her motivation for fitness. Unfortunately her job ended abruptly and she was left, wondering what to do.

During the course of then next year, she had gotten married, given birth to her son, and enrolled in graduate school to pursue a master’s degree in special education. With a year left in school, Tiffany admitted to herself that she wasn’t happy and decided to forego the last two semesters of school to pursue that idea that continued to haunt her, fitness.

“I held my first class outside at a park and did that for about six months,” says Tiffany. She created a flyer, advertised it, and watched the women flock to it. She obtained a few personal clients from the class, and trained for a short time, but needed more time to grow and mature as a businesswoman.

Shortly after, she was hired by Wake County as a Teacher’s Assistant.

Within two months she knew the role wasn’t for her. The idea of being a trainer continued to reverberate in her mind. She had to find a way back to what she loved. And she did.

Tiffany spent time training at different locations, including a church facility, and built her clientele. “Life happened and I went through some personal losses and needed to step away from training for a while.” The fitness enthusiast became interested in bodybuilding and set her sets on competing while she regained control of her career. For two years, Tiffany trained and traveled. That’s when she had the bright idea to become an online trainer.

“Eating differently and taking care of your body does not mean dieting, because dieting is temporary. You have to think of it as a lifestyle change.”

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“I have to help a lot of my clients on a spiritual level. They break down spiritually sometimes, so I help them because I’ve gone through things myself.”

Bostic Total Body was born on October 31, 2014 and her Instagram page, Godly_ FitClassy, already has over 10,000 followers. Considering her training is virtual, her clients are located all across the globe, with most located around the United States. To date, she is booked through May and travels around the country to help prepare her competitive clients with their competitions.

Tiffany knows there are thousands of fitness trainers to choose from, but she feels her business is different, in that she ministers to her clients and considers herself to be more than a trainer. Her clients get face time with her through video apps, they have her personal cell phone number, and email. “What really stands out is my ministry. I have to help a lot of my clients on a spiritual level.

They break down spiritually sometimes, so I help them because I’ve gone through things myself.” While many programs simply ask you to sign up for a program online and they never lay eyes on you, as a trainer, Tiffany, creates meal plans, work out routines and can evaluate their progress with pictures they share and videos.

When Tiffany isn’t training others, she’s preparing herself to compete and her own former trainer persuaded her to make the leap. He noticed that she was physically strong but it seems that she was mentally weak. Her self-esteem was low and she lacked confidence. She noticed that after she started training, she became mentally stronger and more disciplined. “Competing helps keep me disciplined with reading my word, with seeking God first, fasting, all of that.” That’s why she incorporates God into everything she does. Her clients, who are all female, are called Godly Fit Beauties. And each client is considered a doll.

The business keeps Tiffany quite busy, but it doesn’t slow her down. With the major support of a dedicated client, in 2018, she opened her boutique, ‘Godly Fit Boutique’ that sells women’s apparel.

She published her first book, ‘The Distractions That Hinder You from Your Blessings’, in the fall of 2017 and her second book, ‘A Simple Guide to Godly Fit’, a cookbook, is currently at the printing press right now. The third, ‘Your Breakdown Before Your Breakthrough’ will be published this summer and the fourth in the series, ‘Your Reward for Being a Godly Woman’ is slated to release in December of 2019. She also has a few big ideas in the works that will catapult her to a larger platform

Tiffany Hamptom Bostic Total Body 919-307-9858

Since stepping out on faith in 2014, Tiffany credits her immediate family and complete strangers with supporting her the most. They believed in her craft and trusted her skill enough to invest in her and even refer several clients whose lives she transformed. Tiffany wholeheartedly believes these people are God-sent.

Just as this dedicated businesswoman revolutionized her life and her career, she knows anyone can position themselves to travel the same journey. h

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By Tonya Tolson Photos by Kimie James, IYQ Phogtography Toni M. Winston wears many hats—digital media strategist, brand coach, author, blogger, corporate worker, wife, and mom. Some might wonder how she manages to do it all or encourage her to take one thing at a time, but Toni has no intentions of slowing down or scaling back. She believes that many people, herself included, work better by staying busy on a number of projects. In fact, she refers to herself as a Multi-Passionate Creative. “It’s okay to navigate the world working on several interest sequentially or simultaneously. But the goal is not to just be “busy”. We want to accomplish things.” Moving into 2019 Toni is shifting her focus from being busy to creating an atmosphere, for herself and her clients, of productivity and profitability.

Affectionately known as Ms. Toni Moni or “girl Toni” (since she and her husband both share the name, Tony), she was born and raised in Richmond, Virginia where she attended John Marshall High School and Virginia Commonwealth University. Toni also earned an Event Management Certification from The George Washington University in Washington, D.C. For over 24 years she has worked in corporate America which she feels has equipped her with effective leadership, strategy planning, project management, and communication and organizational skills—the very skills she uses in her entrepreneurial endeavors and with her clients.

Toni began her entrepreneurial career with an event management company called Memorable Moments and Events where she planned social, corporate and religious conferences and events. It was during a client meeting that she was asked to describe herself as a color and an animal, Toni chose the color pink because it was cute and a squirrel because sometimes, she was just all over the place working on different things. For those that chuckle, Toni reminds them that even squirrels have a backstory. “To a casual observer squirrels may appear to be all over the place, but they are actually gathering and storing up for times of need.” She says there are a couple of lesson to be learned here for entrepreneurs who are overly concerned about what people say. “First, having goals is the key to your success. Secondly, doing what works best for your brand and your business may not look smooth or logical. But when you do the work that needs to be done, your productivity will pay off.”

Not long after, Toni along with two girlfriends, appeared on the Dr. Oz show tasked to drop two dress sizes in 90 days. At the end of the 90 days, Dr. Oz requested she blog on his website and share, inspire and coach others towards their weight loss goals. This allowed her to blog on a national platform and helped to kick off her blog ‘Follow the Pink Squirrel’— covering a variety of topics and a behind-the-scene look at her life.

With topics ranging from weight loss and meal prep to gardening, readers can find a topic that relates to their lives. No matter the topic at hand, Toni always circles back to goal setting, following dreams and overall mindset. She has followers from all walks of life and is confident that her strategies can help anyone create a roadmap for their own life.

She credits her family as her strength and for being a source of inspiration. Toni hadn’t set out to become an author, but it came about through a conversation with her then, four-year-old daughter. While at a doctor’s appointment, her daughter, who talked about wanting hair like that of her classmates said, “But mom my hair is fuzzy”. To which Toni replied, “But your hair is cute”. With that one conversation the poem “My Hair is Fuzzy, My Hair is Cute” was composed on Toni’s then blackberry.

In 2014 Toni secured an illustrator which took “My Hair is Fuzzy, My Hair is Cute” from a poem to a full-fledge children’s book. She learned the ins and outs of self-publishing so that she would be prepared to publish her own materials and assist others when the time was right. ‘My Hair is Fuzzy’ would later become a 2015 Best Seller in Children’s Books on Amazon.

Her next book ‘Caroline’s Hair’, is scheduled to be released in 2019. This writing was born out of her daughter stating she wanted hair like that of her classmate named Caroline. Although children’s books have been Toni’s niche, she is looking to expand her audience and will soon release another project, ‘21-Day for Moving You from Vision to Victory’ which will focus on goal setting, action steps, and success mantras.

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As if she wasn’t already busy, Toni also specializes in digital media creation which includes brand coaching, website enhancements, social media marketing, and more. In this role, she takes her client’s current brand and moves it to the next level by helping them gain brand clarity and online visibility. “You improve your social media presence by first, clarifying your goals, setting a strategy and creating content. That’s where I come in. I help my clients define those goals, build the strategies and refine those processes which leads to amazing content and success,” she says.

Having this strategy to be successful for so many of her clients, Toni created her signature Victory Board Events.

“That is my mission, to take clients from Vision to Victory. It’s a vision board on steroidsm,” she says. The workshop assist her clients with creating a road map to chart goals and dreams. The vision board process paired with practical application, goal setting and mindset applications propels their vision board to a “victory board”. Combined with additional one-on-one or group coaching, Toni is able to develop a plan that is able to point them in the right direction.

For those who may have a road map or vision board in place but not active, she offers a ‘Resuscitate Your Vision’ session to help bring it back to life. It is done by revisiting concepts taught in her other sessions, intended to help clarify someone’s focus and reengage their efforts. All of her services are available for presentations at Girls Night Out, church groups, and social clubs. h

Having goals is the key to your success.

Doing what works best for your brand and your business may not look smooth or logical. However, when you do the work that needs to be done, your productivity will pay off.

Interested in working with Toni M. Winston or hosting an event? Contact her for more information. www.tonimwinston.com tonim.winston@gmail.com 804-467-5517 17

VOICE

The

OF

triumph

By Toya Moore Photos by Apollo Wonex

Psalms 47:1 says “O clap your hands, all ye peoples; shout unto God with the voice of triumph.”

It was this verse, along with a need for an additional stream of income that led Martin Bailey to begin his company. He named the company “The Voice of Triumph” because he believes that God called on him to use his voice. And use his voice he does. Martin’s company specializes in voiceovers, but he provides his customers so much more. He creates commercials, writes specialty content and records voiceovers for entrepreneurs and business owners in South Carolina. His commitment to quality has made his business very successful in a short amount of time.

The business launched in October 2017, but Martin’s been on this path for as long as he can remember. At an early age he had a fascination with words. “While growing up in East Orange New Jersey, he would watch and listen closely to the news broadcast. I did this not necessarily for content, but as a result of my fascination for the way the newscasters spoke. The cadence and tone of news reporters and radio hosts has always fascinated me,” he says. While in school, he realized he had the ability to copy or mimic certain voices and would often copy the voices of his favorite on air personality, newscaster or teacher. This ability would be a huge benefit to him later in life.

After graduating high school, Martin enlisted in the Army reserves. After one year, he transitioned to active duty status. During his time there, he was often complimented on the sound of his voice. People would even ask him if he had worked in radio before. Though he enjoyed listening to news and radio, he never saw it as anything more than that. Little did he know that a seed had been planted.

“While growing up in East Orange New Jersey, he would watch and listen closely to the news broadcast. I did this not necessarily for content, but as a result of my fascination for the way the newscasters spoke.”

Martin went on to retire from the Army after 20 years of service. He later moved to South Carolina and landed a position working with a health insurance carrier. In this position, he spent a lot of time talking to his customers on the phone. Again, people would consistently compliment him on his voice and ask if he’d ever worked in radio.

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“While growing up in East Orange New Jersey, he would watch and listen closely to the news broadcast. I did this not necessarily for content, but as a result of my fascination for the way the newscasters spoke.”

Martin Bailey Voice of Triumph Speaking Life Into Your Business

www.voice471.com

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Things were going well, until they weren’t. Martin went through a difficult separation and divorce in 2017. After the divorce, money was tight, and he needed additional income. While trying to figure out what to do on his own, Martin says he was overcome by God’s presence. “I heard the voice of God telling me to use my voice or perish. God told me that if I did not do something, I would not be able to survive,” he says. The light bulbs were starting to go off in Martin’s head.

He realized that he was able to create an additional stream of income by using his voice to do voice-overs and commercials for others. That is how the voiceover business was born. He created a demo with Chris Clay at Nu Soul Productions in Charlotte N.C. He then shopped the demo with entrepreneurs, business owners and local professionals, hoping to get some leads. His first client referred him to others who needed voice-over services. Through word of mouth, his clientele grew. He testifies that by going through and surviving his own personal nightmare, a divorce and financial crisis, played a huge role in preparing him to be live his dream.

After the business was launched, Martin settled into building his brand. After having a conversation with one of his coworkers, the trajectory of his life would change once again. His coworker just so happened to be interning at a local gospel radio station and knew about Martin’s voice-over business. She encouraged him to apply for a position there also. Now things were really coming together. Martin went to the radio station and applied for a position. Once they heard his voice, Martin was soon presented with a job offer. In December 2017, he began his training with WVFM 95.3 FM. In March 2018, Martin was hired on as a weekend radio host.

2017 was just the beginning for Martin. In 2018, he established himself as an entrepreneur and savvy business man. So, what’s next for him in 2019? We should expect to hear more of Martin’s voice throughout North and South Carolina, and beyond. Though his future appears to be very bright, Martin desires to be exclusive, so we will just have to wait and see…or in the case of the Voice of Triumph, we will have to wait and listen. h

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Expect Greater

By Toya Moore Photos by Edward L. Surratt Be impactful, be in demand. Be international. That is the dream of Edward Surratt. Originally from Lincolnton, N.C., Edward is on a mission to educate and motivate as many people as he can. He wears many different hats, but with one consistent message; Expect Greater.

Those words are more than a catch phrase or a business tagline Edward shares. “It’s a movement and a part of my ministry, and my motivation.

Edward is one of the state’s greatest movers and shakers and a highly sought-after speaker who not only empowers but engages audiences on a national level.

Edward has been an ordained pastor since 2002, and is also a husband, mentor, author, and motivational speaker. Throughout his life he has used the word of God to bring a simple message to anyone who would listen. That practice developed into what is his personal mantra; his business and a way of life which is Expect Greater. There have been many things that have steered Edward to where he is today.

He shares one experience that occurred while he was pastoring in a local housing authority community. There he met a young male who approached him and shared his salvation and love for God. However, the young man asked Edward to teach him how to live today. “Teach me how to survive where I am today,” Edward says the young man said.

“I had to take a step back and realize that I was doing a disservice by trying to win young souls over to Christ without teaching them how to live on a day to day basis. I had to change that mindset and by doing so I was able to capture more young people and help them survive. I was also able to help lead them to Christ. This experience really changed my life and open the door to motivational speaking.”

Michael Anderson, a gospel rapper. Everyone’s spouse is also considered a part of the team, as they provide logistical support, encouragement, and the missing details needed to maintain a rigorous travel schedule. The Expect Greater team has traveled to Cuba, Uganda and Amsterdam to participate in youth activities and do motivational and inspirational concerts and preach the word of God. The team is currently in negotiations to travel to the Philippines and Ghana, and other international locations.

Edward offers his motivational services to anyone who seeks them. He also hopes to continue to impact and change the lives of others with his message. “No matter how bad your situation is or how tough things may appear, If you believe that God has placed greatness on the inside of you, then you should Expect Greater,” he says. To schedule a date and time for him to speak at your next event, please contact him. h

Even before the Expect Greater brand, Edward has always been involved in ministering and giving back to his community. For the past 20 years, he has been mentoring youth. “I truly believe it is important to give time, encouragement and support to young people. At one point I even had my own mentoring program. If it was up to me, I would try mentor everyone, but time and resources doesn’t allow for that,” he says.

“Expect Greater is for all ages,” says Edward. “Many of my workshops are youth focused, but the topics are not limited to youth and youth programs. I often conduct group coaching sessions for youth programs, schools or church groups. As a result of these sessions, many of the participants have expressed how impactful the information has been in their lives. They have also requested more.

It’s almost as if my participants - Expect Greater.” In a response his students request for something tangible from the workshops, Edward has written a book, “Three Weeks to A Focused Future”. In it, he takes the concepts and messages used in his workshops to create daily principles to help workshop participants and readers stay encouraged and focused on their dreams or goals. He is currently working on his second and third which are scheduled to be released in 2019.

There are certain attributes that one must possess in order to be an effective motivational speaker. For Edward, it’s his calm approach.

He also speaks with confidence about his challenges and successes. “I am never surprised at the blessings God has bestowed upon me, my business, and this ministry. I have learned to expect nothing but the greatness of God. I expect to get invited to speak. I expect to meet people and connect with others. I expect for people to read my books and attend my workshops,” he says.

His ministry and teachings have allowed to travel throughout the United States and overseas, spreading the Expect Greater message.

The Expect Greater team includes promoter Bernard Pitts, and

(980)-202-2947 www.edwardlenterprises.com

Rachel Snipes

Berachiah Consulting Agency, LLC “God Has Made A Way”

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Andy Smith Photography Rachel Snipes is a mother of two adult sons and a person who loves to do anything creative. “I sing. I dance. I teach. I like to sketch, enjoy listening to music and cooking a great meal,” she says. Aside from her creativity, she also likes to read and learn new things.

As a child, she was physically and emotionally neglected, and even molested.

“I had low self- esteem and found myself in one failed relationship after another.

I was in a very dark place, drowning in poverty, debt, and homelessness. The homelessness only lasted for five years, but I remember not knowing where I was going to sleep, or what I was going to eat. I went from house to house sleeping on floors, taking showers and living in shelters. Though at times it felt as if I was about to lose everything, God kept me though,” she declares. Those experiences brought Rachel closer to the Lord in ways that she never thought of.

She developed a compassion for people who are lost and broken.

Self described as intelligent but not arrogant, Rachel shares that she can be silly at times. “I love to work hard and play even harder. I am known for doing things off the cuff, just to get a laugh from people,” she shares. She is a nature lover as well and says “there is nothing more peaceful than sitting out on her back porch, listening to the birds singing in the trees and spending time with the Lord.”

She is also the owner of Berachiah Consulting Agency, LLC. Pronounced “Bear-a-ki-a” the word’s origin is Jewish and is derived from Berakhah which means ‘blessing’. The name also has roots in the Hebrew culture, meaning “whom God has blessed”. She shares when she found the name of the business, it really spoke to her heart. “I feel that it really describes the altruistic core of my spirit.”

BCA is a party planning and event services company. The services provided involve helping their clients find a venue for their event, and connecting them with vendors who can meet their individual needs for music, food, and transportation. They are capable of producing baby showers, birthday parties, family celebrations, anniversaries, and romance packages. They also provide their own ‘in-house’ designs for every event. Rachel recently released a project called, “Tablescapes” which allow them to offer online design concepts through Tumblr.

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BCA was legally formed on April 30, 2015. Rachel had attended a free workshop hosted by the Greensboro Public Library and the Small Business Administration, “How to Write a Business Plan”. It took her about ten months to write the business plan. Next she wanted to make the plan official and began inquiring about legalization. She found information at the Elon University School of Law Small Business and Entrepreneurship Clinic that helped to move her forward with legalization and educated her on everything she needed to know. The clinic discussed the pros and cons of various business structure formats and helped Rachel make her decision to move forward.

As BCA began to develop, she made a personal promise to the Lord.

“I promised Him that I will share my testimony with every person that He allows me to meet in the market place,” she says. “The greatest impact in my life is the Lord Jesus Christ. Without Him I am nothing.

It is the Lord who gives me the gifts and talent to create, the wisdom to run a business, and the opportunity to live a wonderful life. All of my praise and worship belongs only to Him because He truly changed my life.” She also credits her mom and dad, Apostle Bobby Mack and Almetia for being a tremendous spiritual influence in her life. In the darkest moments of her transition, it was their love and support that kept her steady.

Like most small business owners, Rachel has faced a few challenges.

One has been finding enough operating capital. When the business began to take shape, she declares she only had a few hundred dollars, and spent them very quickly. She didn’t have any investors, nor did participate in any loan programs for small businesses. Her second challenge has been marketing her business. “It takes a budget to market your products and services. My ‘go-to’ resource for this is Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr and any other forms of social media to get the word out about what my business is, and what it does,” she says.

Rachel has also been challenged with developing a committed client base. She has done lots of pro bono work, and is patiently waiting for that client who feels the services she provides are worth paying for.

Yet she remains focused and certain the day will come when she will be able to serve the public in a greater capacity.

In the future, Rachel plans to continue developing the ‘Tablescapes project,’ and expand her online presence through social media and develop a marketing campaign to sell custom designed centerpieces on a digital platform. She also intends to join a local merchants association and continue to educate herself on business management issues. “I also plan to host HATTACULAR III in 2020. HATTACULAR is an exclusive fundraising event held every two years to raise money for programs doing vital work around the issue of domestic violence. h

Rachel Snipes - Berachiah Consulting Agency, LLC (336) 954-6289

Raleigh/Durham - Jan./Feb. 2019

huami MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

Braylen King Cooper The son of Nikyhia Webb and Christion Cooper

Triad - Nov./Dec. 2018

To submit photographs to be placed in the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby feature, please send a detailed email to huami.cutestbaby@gmail.com

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Porscha Danielle I am

By Tonya Tolson - Photos by Apollo Wonex

he beauty industry is growing by leaps and bounds, with several stylist gaining notoriety by social media and professional training. This stylist has been working in the industry for over 13 years and is quickly making herself known. Porscha Danielle began her journey as a self-taught stylist. At 34 years of age, she is a single woman and the owner of The Salon by Porscha Danielle in Greenville, S.C.

Porscha decided to go against the status quo and built a business based on corporate professionalism and natural talent. She was a computer science/business major who was on the path to a career in the technology fieldt at Coastal Carolina University. Although she did not have a passion for doing hair, a fellow student asked her to braid his hair. She actually could not braid hair, but quickly picked up the skill from a suitemate.

She started building her clientele from the students whose hair she did on campus. Most times when you talk to stylist, they always say they have been doing hair since their teenage years, however she never was that person. She only did her hair and never wanted to start in the business.

Once she realized that she had a natural talent, she came to a crossroads and started to question her decision of college. She then had a conversation with her mother who encouraged her to leave Coastal Carolina and enroll cosmetology school.

While attending cosmetology school, she stood out as one of the top students in her class. During her time there, Porscha’s instructor chose her to participate in the Midwest Chicago Hair show. She placed first in the United States.

Her impeccable skills were recognized and qualified her to compete in the World Hair Olympics in Russia representing the U.S. team. She competed against 136 countries and placed in the top ten, coming in fifth place. This was an accomplishment that let her know she was made for this business. She finished cosmetology school and graduated at the top of her class.

As her career began, she has worked with several stylists, learned different techniques, and grew her clientele over the years. Porscha specializes in natural hair, but is trained in extensions, color, weaves, and is certified to do all types of hair. She also offers services for men as well.

She is a certified makeup artist who has trained with celebrity makeup artists and stylists, and has participated in fashion weeks in Charleston, York County, and many other areas in South Carolina, Georgia, and even North Carolina. Over the years, Porscha has been privileged to work with various celebrity clients in these regions also.

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She credits her family with her success. “My mother, Gloria Davis, instilled in me my drive for this industry,” she says. Unfortunately, she lost her mother two years ago.

She says, “When my mother was alive our relationship was ever evolving. We had our share of ups and downs, but because of her guidance and strength, I now understand what it takes to be successful. I admit that I did not realize the impact my mother made until after she was gone. As I reflect on the advice my mother offered, I realize she was giving me the strength and know-how for when she would leave me. This just made me stronger and more determined to make sure I made her proud.”

This also prompted her to move into her own salon in November of 2018. After working in several salons over the years, she realized that she could run her own salon with great success. She decided to open The Salon by Porscha Danielle and within just one month, she increased her exposure and raised her customer base. “I learned that my clients enjoy more personalization and privacy when it comes to their hair care. Clients have all types of needs when it comes to hair. I have seen many various hair types and assisted some who are dealing with hair loss from diseases such as alopecia, to a customer just wanting a personal hair session. Sometimes when you are in a salon you don’t receive the level of privacy you may need. By moving to my new salon suite, I can provide the level of comfortability that my clients are seeking.

As a businesswoman and entrepreneur, her drive comes from working in corporate America. She has worked in human resources and engineering.

She declares that human resources taught her that all people want and deserve personalized care, while the engineering side taught her precision and skill. All of these factors have helped shaped her skill set and how she treats her clients, who

Raleigh/Durham - Jan./Feb. 2019

she refers to as family. “I pride myself in making my clients feel like they are my only one when they walk in the door. I individualize all of my customers’ experience and educate them on their hair type, what they need to maintain their hair.”

Looking into the future, she sees her salon expanding into a teaching facility. “I want to give my knowledge to the new generation of hair stylist; I want to include classes not only in cosmetology, but also business management,” she says.

Porscha wants to give credit to her wardrobe stylist Benjamin Wright for styling her for the photo shoot.

She also credits her brother Taurean Davis and family for standing strong throughout life. Additionally, she would like to send appreciation to all her family and friends that have been there and for giving her the strength and skills to be successful. h

The Salon by Porscha Danielle 2441 Laurens Rd Suite 116 Greenville, SC 29607 864-787-1196

Raleigh/Durham - Jan./Feb. 2019

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Raleigh/Durham - Jan./Feb. 2019

Christina Hairston Art Gives Me Life

By Terry L. Watson Photos provided by CNH Christina Hairston is an artist and activist that strongly believes in the power of creating her own spaces. As an alumna of VCUarts with a degree in Communication Arts her visual art investigates the beauty, struggle, and intersectionality of black people. Christina uses art and design as a platform to inform and unite her community. Her most recent design work can be found at the Institute for Contemporary Art. There she has designed the newspaper accompanying Paul Rucker’s exhibit “Storm in the Time of Shelter”.

“I am a motivated artist that strives to help others. I’ve always been involved with activism.

Art and activism go hand in hand because art is a medium for communication, expression and a tool to inform. I have always strived to help others in any way I can,” she shares. Christina is also someone who sets goals and pursues them, without failing. She admits there have been times when she didn’t get exactly what she expected, but understands by not doing so, that it is part of the growing and learning process of life.

With her business, CNH Visual Art & Design, she offers an array of services and products. With a fine arts background from Virginia Commonwealth University, specifically In Communication Arts, her services range from custom illustrations, paintings, digital art and branding. She also offers paint sessions for groups, training and classes for design, and also sell prints of her most popular work.

Her interests in art began at an early age around, ten years old. Many artists In her family specifically her father, have encouraged and supported my interest in art. When she originally deciding on a career path she planned to become a nurse through the support of the A.V.I.D program at Locust Grove Middle School. She obtained her CNA license in 2012 from Orange County High School and was eager to purse nursing professionally.

When it was time to attend college, she found herself at Longwood University as an undeclared major because their nursing program was full with a two year waiting list. During that first semester she soon drifted to her creative habits and signed up to take a few art classes in the spring semester of 2013. It was then she realized her true passion was to be an artist.

“After two years at Longwood, I decided I needed a change and transferred to Virginia Commonwealth University to pursue art school. After meeting some like-minded friends I was encouraged to get out and promote myself and my art.

I started small by selling prints here and there in Richmond, and began creating a fan-base of friends and professional colleagues. Now, I continually sell my work and do Graphic Design professionally for the Richmond Symphony,” she says.

Christina has many inspirations and influencers. Artistically, close friend and colleague Paul Rucker is one of her mentors who inspires her to work hard and stand for what she believes in. Professionally, her supervisor and friend Erin Frye is one of her biggest influencers who also inspires her through her positive attitude and sound work ethic. “I honestly find inspiration in people I encounter every day, so many of us lead exemplary lives in one way or another,” she shares. h

www.cnhairston.com

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