CHARLOTTE
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Jan./Feb. 2019 Volume 2 Issue 10 FREE
Carod Properties Real Estate and Property Management Charlotte - 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, word joy is defined by an emotion A Letter from thethe Editor evoked by well being, success or good fortune, or the prospect of possessing what one desires. The same dictionary defines happiness asarrive? a stateAll of of well being andhopes What if tomorrow didn’t your plans, contentment. many people, the presence of joy andif and dreamsFor wouldn’t have a street to park on. What happiness is just as you significant and is to their never everything that decidedastoair put offwater until tomorrow happened? There would beimpossible no reason to forora rainy survival, for it can be hard and tosave move day, and you could function without them.spare someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? Whatseek would you do? Many people others to fulfill them. They also seek the assistance of things and objects for happiness. I don’t been told that wrong I often with seemdoing like I do toohowever much. I believeI’ve there is anything this, Honestly, I feel like I am not enough and you I’m afeeling firm know first hand that things anddoing people can leave believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on empty and lonely in their absence. Others have their ownme thatand I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder howneeds life would agenda purpose, and putting someone else’s be iftheirs I chose sitquite idle and accept what it presented to me. I before cantobe a challenge, especially if it requires have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity for them to surrender their joy in the process. is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? While many people may get married to be happy, there If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn are some who eventually find themselves in a strenuous something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in situation, mainly because they didn’t possess any joy before. return acquire life. It is impossible to be the sunshine in someone else’s world if are internally consumed with darkness and pain. Ultimately, The best advice ever given to me happened when someone you told are responsible own happiness. me to make for my your tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only Happiness is obtained spending with yourself. hope provided. I haveby also learnedtime the difference between Youwhat mustGod learn who you are and what you like and dislike blesses me with and what life can burden me with about If you are unaware ofwhen your strengths, as “you”. well. I compare it to knowing to be confident and tolerances, limits, when to beand quiet, because weaknesses, it is may impossible to someone get it confused help another individual manage with being arrogant. theirs. Once you identify the source ofMake your joy happiness, youand tomorrow develophappen a plan or strategy to today, but most make them a constant in ityour importantly make count. Life new is butyear, a whisper and life. In this your joy we mustmay put be ourselves in a and happiness connected positionyou to hear what to the amount share withit is others. telling us.
www.huamimagazine.com www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief Publisher Terry L Watson
Terry L. Watson
Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Dawn C. Thornton Writer Tonya Tolson Writer Writers Terry L. Watson Tonya Dixon Writer Terry L. Watson
Alana Allen Todd Youngblood Tamara Smith Photographer Jeuron Apollo Wonex Dove Photographer JLG Photography Photographer Photographers Perfect Lenz Photography Todd Youngblood Photography
LolittaShaw Stanfield Editor Photography Group Still Shots Photography
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HUAMI MAGAZINE is published bimonthly quarterly by the Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any portion of this publication is prohibited without written permission from the publisher prior to doing so. Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility for statements made by individuals featured or advertisers. Comments concerning this publication may be submitted to the editor by E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com Email or Telephone terry.editor@yahoo.com terry.editor@yahoo.com or to 336-340-7844 Mykel Media Company, LLC P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2019 All Rights Reserved 2014 All Rights Reserved
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On The Cover
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CONTENTS
JAN./FEB. 2019
CHARLOTTE EDITION
The Voice of Triumph
Martin Bailey
On The Cover
Sherkica Miller-McIntyre Meet The Carod Properties Team
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A Taylor’s Touch
Lynette Jewell
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Giving God All of The Glory
Rachel Snipes
Huami Magazine Cutest Baby
Introducing Baby Braxton
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Also Featured
Porscha Danielle She has followed The Path By Faith
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Tiffany Hampton Bostic Total Body
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Toni M. Winston Follow The Pink Squirrel in Richmond, VA
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10130 Mallard Creek Dr. Suite 300 Charlotte, NC 28262 Phone: 1-877-62-CAROD www.carodproperties.com
By Dawn Cauthen Thornton
M
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Photos by Todd Youngblood
any business owners have stories of how they trudged through the trenches starting their businesses, but when a company is already off the ground and just needs a bit of personalization and revitalization the story is just as meaningful. Carod Properties, a real estate and property management firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina, was originally owned by a retired bookkeeper and building superintendent. Sherkica Miller-McIntyre, a recently licensed real estate broker in 2004, was ambitious and enthusiastic about her new career. With her management background, customer service experience and tenacity, Sherkica was exactly what the couple was looking for to help develop and grow their new company.
In late 2008, Sherkica and her husband, Gary were presented with the opportunity to purchase Carod Properties as the owning couple decided to retire only three years into their new business venture. They were blessed to be both positioned and prepared to take ownership. On January 1, 2009, operating under the same name, Sherkica and Gary began their search for a team of professional, dedicated, knowledgeable brokers and support staff ready to take Carod Properties to the next level. The accomplished group of ladies that joined the firm quickly bonded and both a deep friendship and business relationship form as they each exceled in their specialties. The brokerage has seen exponential growth since conception. Servicing the Charlotte area and expanding to over 14 cities in North and South Carolina, Carod Properties caters to the needs of clients spanning the globe from Saudi Arabia to California, assisting with sales, investor portfolio building, and property management. At the heart of Carod Properties is the desire to provide an esteemed level of excellence with every interaction and transaction.
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Meet the Ladies of Carod Properties Sherkica Miller-McIntyre Broker-In-Charge/ Realtor TM As a licensed Broker/Realtor and property manager in North and South Carolina, Sherkica specializes in investor services and working with first time homebuyers. She holds both a BSBA and MBA with an emphasis in marketing, has more than 23 years of experience in financial services, customer service management and mortgage processing. Sherkica currently serves as the President-Elect of the Charlotte Chapter of the National Association of Residential Property Managers and seeking national certification as a property manager. With all of her experience, she credits her success in business mostly to her passion for educating clients. Sherkica emphasizes the importance of credit, budgeting, savings and how to maintain and continue to build wealth through real estate with all of her clients. Sherkica vigorously promotes that ownership in real estate is a way to create personal and financial freedom. Sherkica’s ideology is to empower and encourage individuals to work towards their home ownership and investing goals through sharing her own personal experience as both a homebuyer and investor. With her belief that all things are possible with faith and intentional action, she strives to meet every individual where they are in life and commits to supporting them through their challenges, hurdles and mishaps to ensure they achieve the ultimate goals of financial stability and ownership. Sherkica and Gary also maintain aside to Carod Properties, a personal real estate investment portfolio consisting primarily of single-family residences. They are in prayer that 2019 will be the year their family can expand into commercial real estate holdings. In taking the next steps to achieve her family’s goals, Sherkica is listening to her own advice she offers to her clients, to “Dream Bigger”. As a broker, her greatest accomplishment in real estate came last year when she assisted her son purchase his first investment property. She is also blessed to be the mother of three beautiful little ladies. Each of whom understands the family business and are allowed to “help” whenever possible. For relaxation, Sherkica enjoys her time as a “grandma” to an adorable Alaskan Husky, travels frequently and has found a new passion in Coloring Books for adults.
Email: smcintyre@carodproperties.com Facebook: Divasdoingrealestate 7
LaTricia Gilmore Broker/ Realtor TM Latricia Gilmore has been fearless in her career as a real estate broker. Her previous career in sales and banking allowed her progression in real estate to come naturally. She understands that her role isn’t just to help her clients find their dream home or sell their current home, but to also educate them of the home buying and selling process. She specializes in residential sales including new home construction which allows the client to customize their home as it is being built. Latricia became interested in becoming an agent during the purchase of her first home. She remembers being a young buyer and not knowing what to expect. She appreciated having an expert guide her through the venture. “After such a smooth transaction, I decided I wanted to help others accomplish what we had. I also wanted to help those that were downsizing or just wanting to invest in properties.” Learning ranks high on Latricia’s list of what she loves most about her career. Each transaction is unique and serves as an opportunity to gain knowledge, perspective and experience on handling a particular situation. While networking, attending seminars, working with mortgage lenders, attorneys and/or contractors, Latricia makes it a point to gain a “nugget” of valuable information to retain for the future. She sees each interaction as the chance to obtain a useful resource for could be of benefit in the future for her clients. Latricia loves what she does and and her faith in God is the guiding force of her career. She also recalls, “Without the support and encouragement I received from my family and friends when I informed them of my desire to transition out of corporate America, I may have never been able to experience the fulfillment of my real estate career”. Next on Latricia’s list of things to accomplish is educating and gaining experience in commercial real estate. She has found a mentor and is excited about the opportunity to broaden her knowledge. In 2019, she desires to step out of her comfort zone and broaden her social media presence, allowing her to share information and further grow her business.
Email: latricia@carodproperties.com Facebook: LaTricia Gilmore
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Natasha Glasgow Broker/ Realtor TM Natasha Glasgow is a real estate agent that enjoys fulfilling her clients’ dreams of becoming a homeowner. She holds a Business Management degree and has over a decade of experience in the banking industry. Couple all of that with the expereince she has in the mortgage industry, it surely makes her a great asset. Natasha has a sincere dedication to helping others. She offers an extraordinary understanding of the real estate industry and a supberb ability to negotiate the best deal for the right price, and the best terms for her clients. The Columbia, S.C. native specializes in helping first-time home buyers. She assists her clients in navigating through the ever-changing industry that has cumbersome and often overwhelming processes. “Owning a home is still an American dream that everyone should experience. Helping clients overcome their fears and obstacles is extremely rewarding,” Natasha explains. “My passion for enriching others lives is driven by faith and the core value of treating others the way you want to be treated.” She lives by the words of Les Brown – “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream”. Her greatest inspiration is her father, a retired real estate agent. She remembers his strong work ethic, his integrity, and his dedication and understanding of his clients’ needs. She looks to follow in his footsteps. Natasha’s plans for the new year are to engage in more community outreach activities and hosts more workshops. She is currently planning financial symposiums that aligns with her primary objective to inform, educate, and provide the best service possible to her clients.
Email: natasha@carodproperties.com Facebook: Natasha Glasgow
M.J. Clay Broker/ Realtor TM M.J. Clay is a licensed Real Estate Broker with Carod Properties. She boasts over 15 years of experience as a Realtor, mortgage broker, notary, and investor. M.J. is also a licensed attorney. Her journey in Real Estate has involved working with a wide range of clients, but her specialty includes listings and sellers seeking to “Level UP”! “Selling a home requires much more than just sticking a sign in a yard and inputting information in MLS. Every home/ listing deserves a personal touch that highlights its unique features and entices potential buyers to imagine calling that property home!” She credits her husband, Mike, Owner of M. Clay Photography, for not only being a great partner and motivator, but also a making her listings “Pop” with amazing photos! M.J. shares that her interest in Real Estate was sparked as a child under the tutelage of her parents; her father, who invested in rental properties and her mother, who worked as a licensed Realtor for many years. She recalls that both parents allowed her to assist with sales and with ‘managing’ those properties when she was just a child. M.J.’s most rewarding moments as a broker are typically when all of the hard work, preparation, and patience culminate into a joyful event, CLOSING! “I always tell my clients, ‘don’t fall in love (with the property) until we are at the closing table’. I thoroughly enjoy witnessing the moment that falling in love happens and I’m grateful to be a part of each of my client’s legacy. Real Estate has proven to be great vehicle for wealth creation, stability, and leaving a legacy to future generations and I hope to share this opportunity with as many people as possible,” she says. Understandably, M.J. plans to pass a legacy onto her own children, as she’s grooming them into being her assistants, to show them the value of home ownership, entrepreneurship, and helping others, just as her parents did for her. She credits both parents with her ambition and tenacity and hopes to pass those same virtues on to her children. M.J. is also motivated by her desire to share the opportunities of homeownership with as many families as possible. She emphasizes that Real Estate, both personally and professionally, has proven itself to be one of the greatest vehicles for wealth creation, stability, and leaving a legacy to future generations.
Email: mj@carodproperties.com Facebook: MJ Clay Broker/Realtor/Real Estate 10
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Sharise Lloyd Broker/ Realtor TM Sharise Lloyd brings a unique flavor to the Carod Properties team. In addition to being a Broker/Realtor, she holds a license in Property and Casualty Insurance. As an educator, she shares her knowledge and experience while training other agents. She is also graduate of North Carolina A&T State University and passionate about providing the best experience possible for her real estate clients. “When it comes to buying, selling and investing in real estate, I research and deliver the best possible solution to meet your needs and wants,” she says. She is a member of the National Association of Realtors. She has also taken the necessary steps to abide by a standard of practice within a stringent, enforceable code of ethics. These measurements promote both ethical and fair treatment to all parties involved. In her role as a Broker, Sharise is able to negotiate and arrange real estate transactions. “I help with filling out the necessary contracts or paperwork and I work with other agents, title companies, loan officers, real estate attorneys, and others on the behalf of my client. I help with preparing the necessary contracts and provide guidance on selection and numbers for the transaction as well as work through unforeseen problems and help come up with alternatives based on my experiences, knowledge of the market, and network of contacts,” she says. Sharise’s real estate career started almost 20 years ago upon relocating to Charlotte after college. She and her husband were in the market for their first home and she started doing her homework? “There was so much information out there that it was overwhelming. I knew of others that had horror stories about purchasing because they didn’t have anyone to help them,” she says. Sharise’s friends and family began utilizing the knowledge she obtained just by doing her own independent research. As her children aged, they claimed more and more of her time until she made the decision to leave her corporate job and become a relator-broker full time. She had finally found a career that she loved, that would allow her to spend more valuable time with her girls, and help others in the process. “What I have learned in my many years in corporate America, and in my years servicing in real estate, is that the key to success and happiness is keeping God first, and then family,” Sharise shares. “For me, real estate and servicing others go hand in hand. This is how I live. This is what I love. This is what I do!”
Email: Sharise@CarodProperties.com Facebook: Sharise Chandler Lloyd
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Patricia Johnson Broker/ Office Manager/Realtor TM Patricia Johnson is the Office Manager and Realtor-Broker with Carod Properties. It is very clear that both Sherkica and the other Brokers identify her as the “glue” that holds the business intact and thriving. Joining Carod Properties in 2012, Patricia manages the office and handles a growing clientele. She loves helping people and delights in playing a role in promoting home ownership. Patricia exemplifies a strong desire to making everyone’s dream of being a homeowner come true, while taking the stress out of the entire process with her positive attitude and careful approach to each client’s needs. Carod Properties was her choice of broker affiliation working closely with Sherkica Miller- McIntyre over the years influenced her to pursue a career in real estate. She found a true love for the field and working with the team at Carod Properties. She is devoted to offering exceptional customer service, is passionate about giving back to the community, and her Christian faith is a guiding light in her life. As a proud mother of two extraordinary teenagers, Patricia has always been involved in working for the betterment of her community and intends be an example of pursuing one’s dreams for her children.
Email: patricia@carodproperties.com Facebook: Patricia Johnson
In 2019, she plans to continue to build her clientele base, see more families become home owners, assist more persons with credit and holding them accountable to their home ownership goals.
Before there was Rosa Parks, there was Claudette Colvin Information provided by www.pbs.org
Most people think of Rosa Parks as the first person to refuse to give up their seat on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama. There were actually several women who came before her; one of whom was Claudette Colvin. It was March 2, 1955, when the fifteen-year-old schoolgirl refused to move to the back of the bus, nine months before Rosa Parks’ stand that launched the Montgomery bus boycott. Claudette had been studying Black leaders like Harriet Tubman in her segregated school, those conversations had led to discussions around the current day Jim Crow laws they were all experiencing. When the bus driver ordered Claudette to get up, she refused, “It felt like Sojourner Truth was on one side pushing me down, and Harriet Tubman was on the other side of me pushing me down. I couldn’t get up.” Claudette Colvin’s stand didn’t stop there. Arrested and thrown in jail, she was one of four women who challenged the segregation law in court. If Browder v. Gayle became the court case that successfully overturned bus segregation laws in both Montgomery and Alabama, why has Claudette’s story been largely forgotten? At the time, the NAACP and other Black organizations felt Rosa Parks made a better icon for the movement than a teenager. As an adult with the right look, Rosa Parks was also the secretary of the NAACP, and was both well-known and respected – people would associate her with the middle class and that would attract support for the cause. But the struggle to end segregation was often fought by young people, more than half of which were women. h
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Huami Magazine Celebrates Black History Month
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.
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
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Tiffany Hampton Bostic Total Body
By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by Nieto Photography
Now 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.
“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.” 14
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. 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 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.
Tiffany Hamptom Bostic Total Body 919-307-9858
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 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.
The Salon by Porscha Danielle 2441 Laurens Rd Suite 116 Greenville, SC 29607 864-787-1196
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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 knowhow 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 client’s are seeking.
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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, whle 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 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.
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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Shamar Allen / Alan Lux Studios DeVona Boyd, affectionately known as DJ, is a 38 year old entrepreneur who is fully committed to a wholistic way of life. He was born in the small town of Whitmire, South Carolina. It was there that he learned how to be an entrepreneur. His mom is a seamstress and owns her own business providing sewing and alteration needs. His father owned a lawn care service and it’s obvious he inherited the entrepreneurial spirit from the both. DeVona’s primary profession is serving as the Director of Music and Worship at the St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church in Charlotte. He is also the owner of DeJaBo Designs, a business with two focuses. DeJaBo Ties offers various styles of bow ties using creative and practical materials such as cotton, silk, leather, and wood. Some ties are reversible and some have a pre-fitted neck fixer, ideal for those who aren’t comfortable tying yet. Besides bow ties, he also offers neckties, pocket squares, cuff links, dress socks, arm wear, lapel flowers, and pins. The decorating side of his business was created for special events as well as interior decorating. He is able to meet any party planning need, from helping someone find a venue, to preparing the event, to executing day of particulars. He provides event rentals and perform onsite set-up of linen, lighting, table decor, center pieces, and more. The DeJaBo brand is taken from the first two letters of each part of DeVona’s name, DeVona Jaworski Boyd. His mother named him after a famous boxer and football player. All of his items are made in the Carolinas. Customers can shop directly from the company’s website and also find them at local pop-up events. DeVona also offers private showings of his inventory by appointment.
“I am fortunate enough to do all of these businesses simultaneously. It’s a lot to juggle but I enjoy what I do and I hope that my passion comes across in all of my work,” he says. “I have always been a creator. I remember even as a child building and creating things out of all types of material,” he says. DeVona became more focused on his artistic abilities as an undergrad at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, S.C.” DeVona began both businesses in 2013 as a ‘home-based’ entity. He states the ‘when and how’ was pretty simple. “I tell others who ask me how to start a business, to just start it. In the beginning you’re not going to know all of the answers or know exactly what to do. You’re going to make a ton of mistakes, but the key is to learn from them because they will make you better. As a small business owner, we have to be very cautions of the overhead we take on and be creative in how to manage our resources given.” The future is looking bright for DeVona. With the arrival of each new day, he strives to be a better person and business owner. “I never want to get comfortable with my artistry and always remain in a posture of learning. Moving forward he hopes to change DeJaBo’s web presence and hire someone to manage his websites. He also hopes to have a showroom and location to sell items. h
Devona Boyd 909-3DE-JABO (333-5226) www.dejaboties.com www.dejabodesigns.com FB and IG: DeJaBo Ties and DeJaBo Designs 21
The Voice Of Triumph Martin Bailey By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by Nieto Photography
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. He says he did this, not necessarily for content, but because he was fascinated by the way the newscasters spoke. The cadence and tone of news reporters and radio hosts has always been something he paid attention to. 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. 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.
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 voice-over 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 voiceover 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, and 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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www.voice471.com
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By Tonya Tolson and Denise Anquenette 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. The book will also help people overcome fear and obstacles in order to live out their success.
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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
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By Terry Watson Photos by Todd Youngblood Lynnette M. Jewell is a Washingtonian, was raised in Southern Maryland right outside of Washington, DC and now currently residing in Charlotte, North Carolina. Her love for people, the community, educating and helping people is her passion. L Michelle has a background in sales, marketing, television production and advertising. L Michelle’s entrepreneurship skills and her love for politics, as well as entertainment, will be one of her many focus points on the show. L Michelle love for radio and broadcasting is what drives her to explore the radio industry. L Michelle has learned from the best of the best over the years to include sitting in on various talk shows as a co-host. Being on different panels and workshops, L Michelle has learned about networking. L Michelle will be bringing her own unique and classy Style to radio and to the Focused Radio Family. And making sure that my platform for my show will give insight to the hidden talents and unlock panel discussions and what’s going on around us and make a difference in ourselves and around our community. Being a motivational speaker and helping others as well dealing with me issues and matters that need to be addressed that’s going back from childhood to now an adult. I hope and pray this book will be the doorway to open up to your freedom and know that you’re not alone that is also for men and women two step forward and be alright with their self. It’s okay to ask for help but get the right help that will help unlock what’s inside that’s been looking to get out for years Let It Go and let God whatever have power you connect to. First step of healing is omitting that there’s something wrong recognizing reevaluate real life and actions I will not just affect your life but the people that are around you I love you. Never let anybody play with you and mentally ill we just have deep-rooted issues that never was addressed or acknowledged. There is help just ask for it and be real about yourself. Hiding behind the mask. Stop letting people hold you back making you until you this shameful to talk about it that’s the problem now with our culture we don’t talk about it we hold it in. Once you make mistakes can’t take it back you messed up your life and other people’s life. The decision is up to you whether you want to be free and live your life and not hide and not recognized the hurt and pain this inside. The different speaking engagements that I’ve already done they have made a major impact on different peoples lives. That helped him to understand that they are not in this alone and it’s OK to seek help and to talk about it so that the healing can begin. My goal is to make sure that every voice is heard and that you will no longer be a prisoner of being silent. I AM A SURVIVOR Woman of power, strength, and determination from all over the country have joins together in this powerful collaboration book to tell their individual stories of Physical, Sexual Abuse, Rape, Emotional Abuse, Bullying, Domestic & Family Violence, Depression & Anxiety and their struggle with Suicidal thoughts and attempts. Each woman has her own story. The struggle is real. Its OK to get help talk to somebody like a therapist. Don’t keep it inside too long. Get help!!!
www.iamasurvivorbook.com/lynnette-jewell www.lmichellejewell.com lmichellejewell@gmail.com
301-659-9766 @ Lmjewell68 @Lynnette M Jewell
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