Huami Magazine Memphis September 2019

MEMPHIS

®

Sept./Oct. 2019 Vol. 2 Issue 1 FREE

Lynn Whitney Financially Crowned Queen

Memphis - September/October 2019

HuamiMagazine.com

1

Memphis Tennessee Advertise in Huami Magazine

www.huamimagazine.com

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

Understaning Yourself Is Very Important There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

A Letter Fromfrom The the Editor A Letter Editor

More than anything, a person is happiest when they can Letter from the Editor reservations, judgements, or ridicule. beAthemselves, without What if tomorrow All ofthe your plans, hopes Being who we really are didn’t allowsarrive? us to make right connections and and dreams a street parkconnections. on. What if in life, add wouldn’t value andhave benefit fromto these everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never What if tomorrow didn’t arrive?

All of your plans, hopes happened? would reason to is save and dreams wouldn’t have ano street to park on.

What if If the skilledThere position of abe football player thatfor ofaarainy defensive day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never back, they will more than likely have the biggest impact on promises. What if would your last seemingly happened?

There be opportunity no reason to saveare for placed aexpired rainy in their team from playing in that position.

If they today?

What wouldspare you do? day, and you could someone the trouble of making another position such as quarterback or offensive lineman, their promises. What if yourimpact last opportunity expired performance and overall will not beseemingly as favorable.

If an I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. today?

What would you do? elephant is dropped in the middle of the ocean, the chances Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm of it surviving are much less of it simply dwelling in its natural believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me habit.I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. that I couldn’t sometimes wonderand how would Honestly, I feelhandle. like I amI not doing enough I’mlife a firm be if I chose to sit idle and accept whatput it presented believer in knowing that God wouldn’t anything to onme. me I In both situations, each are set up to fail because their have found that to be very boring.

In my opinion, opportunity that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would strengths aren’t used appropriately, and their disposition might is aifblessing that to what everyone.

A challenge be I chose to sitisn’t idle afforded and accept it presented to me. I invoke discomfort, resulting in a poor performance. Even more, to me is an adventure.

What is the worst that can happen? have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity when we don’t understand who we are, and what our role and If aI do nothing, if I try to I don’t, but instead learn is blessing thatI fail, isn’tand afforded everyone.

A challenge purpose in life is, it can be very difficult to do our best. something new about myself.

Relinquish your pride and in to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? return acquire life.

If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn Being the best, “you” is very important. However, to be our something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in best, we must be ourselves first. We must learn who we are The best advice return acquire life.ever given to me happened when someone and understand our value. We must also recognize our flaws told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so and look over them carefully. You may be surprised to learn I have pressed myever way given through doors with a key thatsomeone only The best advice to me happened when that your flaws are actually your greatest asset. When we hopeme provided. have also learned the today. difference between told to makeImy tomorrow happen In doing so can be ourselves, our contributions to this world are greater blesses and what cana burden with Iwhat haveGod pressed my me waywith through doorslife with key thatme only and meaningful. should never exist to please asmore well.

I compare it We toalso knowing when beonly confident and hope provided.

I have learned the to difference between someone else, especially if that means depriving ourselves from whenlife tocan be quiet, what God blesses me with and what burdenbecause me with the things that make us who we really are. may get it confused as well. I compare it to knowingsomeone when to be confident and with being when to bearrogant. quiet, because In order to be the best versions someone may get it confused of ourselves, we first Make youmust tomorrow with being arrogant. understand who we are.

That happen today, but most starts importantly with loving ourselves first. make it count.

Make you tomorrow God has everyone best Lifegiven is but a whisper and happen today, but the most examples of love, simply by loving we must putmake ourselves in a importantly it count. all of us unconditionally.

Ifand we position what it islove Life is buttoa hear whisper and follow God, that same love telling us.put we must ourselves in a must dwell within our what hearts. position to hear it isLove doesn’t forceus. you to adjust and telling conform, itTerry simplyL. asks that you Watson open your heart and share it as Editor/Founder well.

4 4

4

www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief

Terry L. Watson www.huamimagazine.com Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Editor In Chief

www.huamimagazine.com TerryWriters L. Watson Alana Allen - Deputy Tonya Dixon Editor

Terry L Watson Terry L. WatsonPublisher

Writers Alana Allen Tonya JeuronDixon Dove Writer Dawn C. Thornton Terry L. Watson Yasmine Regester Alana Allen Writer Photographers Terry L.Perfect Watson Photography Jeuron Dove Writer Lenz Shaw Photography Group Photographers AshleighStill Crawley Shots Photography Tamara Smith Photographer Perfect Lenz Photography Who Shotya Photography JLG Photography Photographer Shaw Photography Group Todd Youngblood Photographer Still ShotsLayout Photography Who Photography MykelShotya Media Company Linda Bennett Layout Howard Gaither Photography

Mykel Media Inquiries Company General mykelmedia@yahoo.com Linda Bennett huami.memphis@gmail.com (336) 340-7844 HUAMI MAGAZINE is published bimonthly quarterly by the mykelmedia@yahoo.com Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any 340-7844 portion of (336) this publication is prohibited without

written MAGAZINE permission isfrom the publisher to HUAMI published quarterly prior by the doing so.

Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility Mykel Media Company.

Any reproduction of any for statements by individuals featured or portion of this made publication is prohibited without advertisers.

Comments concerning this publication written permission from the publisher prior to be Media submitted to the editorresponsibility by doing so. may Mykel doesn’t accept Email or Telephone E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com for statements made Email by individuals featured or terry.editor@yahoo.com terry.editor@yahoo.com advertisers. Comments concerning this publication 336-340-7844 or toto the editor by may be submitted Mykel Media Company, LLC E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com P.O. Box 20102 terry.editor@yahoo.com Greensboro, or toNC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE Mykel Company, LLC 2014 Media All Rights Reserved Box 20102 2019P.O. All Rights Reserved Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2014 All Rights Reserved

On The Cover

Photo by Shaw Photography Group

HuamiMagazine.com

Want To Advdertise?

Terry L. Watson Please call Photography 336-340-7844 Photo by Shaw Group Editor/Founder November/December Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844 Terry L.2014 Watson

HuamiMagazine.com

November/December 2014

HuamiMagazine.com

On The Cover

Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844

Memphis - September/October 2019

NASHVILLE

CONTENTS

SEPT./OCT. 2019

Braids by Boobie Hair Studio

Margaria Bullock

On The Cover

Queen Financial Lynn Whitney

Dallas-Fort Worth

Farrell’s Daughter Trish Bernard

6

Dancing, Acting, Singing

Chandler Davidson

36

Greenville/Spartanburg

22

Hampton Roads (Va)

34

Triad (NC)

32

Pretty Credit Consultants Pretty Washington Be Bare Inc. Jasmine Lowe

J & G Towing, LLC Gavin Barner

Huntsville (AL)

Soul On Wheels La’Chasity Lyle

8

10

42

Hip Healthy Chick

Tasha Edwards

Who Wants To Buy A Home

April Alford

12

28

Also Featured William Bethea

JOWB Realtors, LLC Helping You Purchase Real Estate

19

Eric Bell

He knows something about fashion. The genius of MonkeyFace Fashion.

21

Cutest Baby Photo

Nova Victoria EdwardsBezuglov. She is a beauty!

20 Memphis - September/October 2019

HuamiMagazine.com

5

6

Information and Photos Provided by Lynn Whitney Williams Financially Crowned Queen, a new nonprofit organization that has launched a variety of free programs that cater to the youth and young adults of all backgrounds in low income neighborhoods to educate them through financial services such as credit and money management, banking, entrepreneurship, real estate investment, and home ownership. Through interactive activities and hands on classes, Financially Crowned Queen aims to provide financial, intellectual, and educational growth to each individual that is interested in bettering themselves.

Financially Crowned Queen programs include “Queening My Finances,” a free credit and money management webinar that is hosted every third Thursday of the month on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. This webinar teaches individuals how to understand credit, how to read their credit report, complete dispute letters, and more. The newest program, C.H.A.N.C.E, an acronym for credit, home ownership, accountability, neighborhoods, choice, and entrepreneurship, will launch in the spring of 2020 to educate and provide a co-working space for entrepreneurs. h

Founder and CEO, Lynn Whitney Williams, known well for her 10 years of experience in the banking industry in which she was able to manage accounts for prominent community figures such as Grammy Award winners, NBA players, community leaders, and many more founded this nonprofit organization in September of 2017 to ensure that our community had a free resource of financial education.

Her journey has allowed her to speak with over 25,000 students and adults about financial literacy and assist over 300 individuals in starting their business or nonprofit organizations in the past two years. Lynn has had the opportunity to see hands on what the need of the individuals in our community is… and that is hope and money.

Williams states “You aren’t living on purpose until God places you in uncomfortable situations to make you remember his purpose.”

Her passion for self-development, education, and the power to change to create a better mindset financially for others, is what made her step out on faith and quit her job as a branch manager to become a full time entrepreneur in September of 2018. As a result, she was able to do more in the community and create her own financial literacy and entrepreneurship curriculum that is currently being taught in local middle and high schools in the Mid-South to also provide certifications to students who pass and complete the program.

For more information about Financially Crowned Queen or the programs that are offered, please visit: www.financiallycrownedqueen.org 901-303-8331 Memphis, TN

7

La’Chasity Lyle Soul On Wheels Huntsville, AL 256-682-7616

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Soul on Wheels It all begins with faith, attitude, and determination.

If you are looking for some good soul food, then look no further.

La’Chasity Lyle has some things that will surely set your tastebuds into a flavorful frenzy. The Huntsville, AL native and resident is the owner and face of Soul on Wheels, a Southern Food and BBQ establishment. Their typical clients are anyone looking to indulge in great food, whether it be Vegan, Soul Food, BBQ or Seafood.

Soul on Wheels offers a variety of food selections. First is their Soul Food lunch delivery service. This service allows their customers to order their meals in advance and enjoy the leisure of having them delivered to them, without the hassle of standing in lines at a restaurant. Another service they offer is a mobile food trailer, of which they are able to set up any where, and at anytime. This particular feature La’Chasity says is great for fundraising events.

The next service that Soul on Wheels offers is their catering service, Southern Chic Custom Catering. “We offer catering on all levels, including individual meal planning, corporate events, private luncheons, weddings, church events, family reunions, school functions, birthday parties, and more,” she says.

Besides being a successful business woman, La’Chasity Lyle is a mother, a wife, and innovator. She is also a lover of life, a faith walker, and someone with a free spirit. Along with her husband, Roger who is also a business owner and professional barber, they have successful built their businesses and families on a foundation of love, dedication, and with sound integrity.

“I’ve always had a love for cooking. I have a rather large family, and cooking came natural to me. My grandmother inspired me to cook and to be a virtuous woman to my family.

My mother and step father inspired me to never give up on the things that I believe in, or my dreams. And so, in 2010, I left Corporate America to pursue my dream of cooking full-time and that’s how Soul on Wheels began,” she shares.

While cooking may have come natural to La’Chasity, there is a certain kind of love one must possess to run a business such as the one she does. “I love giving back to my community, and I am able to do this by feeding our homeless citizens. I also love the relationships that I’m able to create with my customers. Being my own boss provides me security and flexibility, and because I know this is mine and everything I work for will go to my family,” she shares.

Though Soul on Wheels has enjoyed a bunch of success, it has also faced it share of problems. “I feel that God puts obstacles in front of us to help us prepare for where we’re going or who we’re destined to be. I feel everything that I’ve gone through in life has prepared me for this moment. I once had a restaurant right next to my husband’s Barber Shop. In 2016, I tore my Achilles tendon in half and the restaurant closed. I was forced to figure out how to keep my catering company afloat and my household without being mobile,” she shares. She did and Soul on Wheels continued on.

Moving forward, La’Chasity plans are to expand and introduce her brand to a variety of markets. She also offers a bit of advice to those who may follow in her footsteps. “You must walk by faith and by not fear. You must also make a plan and stick to it. Finally, you must be faithful to your vision and pray,” she says. h

9

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Margaria Bullock For most who know her, she is often referred to as Margaria Bullock. For her more sound circle of friends and acquaintances, she is often called “Boobie”, a title she has answered to since a very young age.

Margaria is a established business owner that operates within the city of Richmond, Va. She is also a mother and self-described go getter, who promises to finish anything that she starts. As the owner of Braids

By Boobie Hair Studio, Margaria is afforded the opportunity to share her god given gift of hair styling with anyone who seeks her services. Her business also allows her to showcase her own brand of creativity with various styles of braiding and more.

She began braiding hair at the age of 13. Now at the age of 34, she has worked in three hair salons during her career, all before eventually owning the first salon she ever worked at. “When I was 32, I finally decided to open my own business so that I could employ those work in this profession and have a desire to prosper.

“At my salon, I offer creative braid art, in natural and weave styles for both men, women, kids, and babies. I promote hair care and growth and educate my clients on the importance of maintaining healthy hair,” she says.

“I love making my clients feel great about their hair. I find it to be very gratifying when my clients share the compliments they receive while exhibiting my original styles and hair art. I also love it when the kids are able to admire their natural beauty with age appropriate hair styles. Each client and each experience is what makes it all worth it for me,” she says.

As a business owner, Margaria has faced several challenges. With success, also comes many responsibilities. There are long hours that she is required to put in, all while being a mother. Fortunately, her daughter is able to offer some assistance as her shampoo girl, in addition to playing two sports and attending school.

In the future, Margaria hopes to start traveling with her business. This includes the possibility of producing hair shows in Richmond. These she believes will bring people together from all walks of life. Contact Margaria at Braids h

By Boobie Hair Studio for more information.

Briads by Boobie Hair Studio - 3019 Meadowbridge Road - Richmond, Va 23222

11

Tasha Edwards Hip Healthy Chick

12

HuamiMagazine.com

Memphis - September/October 2019

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Tasha Edwards Do you want to get fit? If so, the Hip Healthy Chick can help.

Tasha Edwards of Huntsville, AL is the brains of Hip Healthy Chick, a fitness and wellness program that encourages and educates individuals on how live a healthy and fit life. She describes herself as a movement fanatic, dancer, reader, dreamer, mom, wife, daughter, and friend. She also has nearly 20 years of coaching and counseling experience, and has been working in the fitness industry for close to 14 years.

As a child she shares her desire to be a lawyer, an artist, and writer. She even thought about being a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader and Soul Train dancer.

A native of Chicago, she shares the reasons why she launched her fitness program. Though the end result may seem wonderful, she has endured a few challenges to get things in order.

“I spent $60,000 on obtaining two degrees, only to find out that I didn’t really want a career in social service or be a counselor. I faced obstacle after obstacle and things were looking very dismal at times. In 2004, we lost our house, filed for bankruptcy, and later moved to Alabama. Soon, I took a job at a local gym selling memberships to motivate me to keep getting back in shape after having a baby, and also as a means to help pay for the cost of daycare. Everything else just bloomed from there,” she says.

“Hip Healthy Chick was my way of creating a brand that felt personal and relatable to people. The word ‘Hip’ actually doesn’t mean cool, but in the case of my program, some looked at it that way and found my style to be fresh and accessible. Hip actually stands for (Holistic Intuitive and on Purpose),” she said.

Some of the services offered by Hip Healthy Chick are Personal Training (individual and small group), Health Coaching (virtual as well), Corporate Wellness (speaking, coaching and classes), Onsite Fitness Services (classes tailored specifically for your special event/participants), and Hip Healthy Workshops (healthy eating, healthy bodies, healthy thoughts, healthy living on purpose).

There is also Me Complete (Health and Wellness Workshops for Teen Girls), and CR-BOT (A six week camp for those who are ready to get back on it). Tasha has also incorporated other tools such as Yoga, Pilates, Boot Camp, and Zumba.

“I spent $60,000 on obtaining two degrees, only to find out that I didn’t really want a career in social service or be a counselor.”

13

Tasha says what she loves most about her business is the opportunity to connect with people on a personal level. “People trust me with their stories, their desires, and their frustrations. I get to ride in the passenger seat of their journey and help them navigate their specific path. I also get to watch people change every day, and seeing them move differently because of new confidence and feeling is beautiful,” she says.

Tasha says she mostly inspired by her kids to do what she does. She also finds inspiration in the sense of sense of community after knowing what it was like to be excluded from so many things in life. “Most importantly, I would like for my dreams and work to outlive me,” she says.

Her life has been greatly impacted by her families history and her determination to change that for her children. “We have lots of ailments and conditions. I wanted to avoid all of the medicines and the physical issues. I wanted to be able to run and be active with my children. I know people struggle with what they’ve always known and how they have been raised. That is why I focus not just on sweat, calorie burn, and reps but also digging deep to reveal the stories that impact the way we live, move, breathe, hoping to create a new narrative,” she says.

Tasha hopes that her efforts to help other live better will have a lasting existence. Even more, she offers some advice to other prospective fitness experts. “Treat yourself as your first client and while learning other people, try to learn the technical stuff also. Become a part of the communities you want to assist and find what your spark is and go in that direction. The more authentic you are, the more authentic your work will be,” she says.

Tasha Edwards www.hiphealthychick.com

Her future plans are to simply ‘keep at it’. “I would love to open a free holistic health center one day and offer services that others need but cannot afford. No one should have to be sick simply because they don’t have resources. I’d also like Oprah Winfrey to interview me and I would love to work out with Michelle Obama,” Tasha shared. h

“People trust me with their stories, their desires, and their frustrations.

I get to ride in the passenger seat of their journey and help them navigate their specific path.�

Memphis - September/October 2019

HuamiMagazine.com

15

Eric Kelly

BLACK BUSINESS USA

Understanding a great need for technology in the homes, we provide computers to those homes where youth lack the technology to elevate their skills while providing a valuable learning tool. We also provide scholarships to those who are not ability to meet the financial obligation that is required for education. As we continue to excel in our businesses, we realize that it is our duty to give back to students who deserve to follow their dreams of getting a great education. We are asking you to join our efforts and select a booth at this year’s expo. The Black Business Expo is a 25-year organization dedicated to raising scholarship funds for underprivileged high school students planning to attend college and for students who plan to start their own business as entrepreneurs in the state of North Carolina. Our current mission is to donate ten laptop computers and ten scholarships up to $5,000.00 in the following areas: technology, hospitality, advertising, financial services, mass communications, journalism, health, marketing, art, science, business administration and entrepreneurship. With your participation, we will reach our goal of changing the lives of students during this financial aid and scholarship crisis.

By Black Business USA Photos by Pharenheit Photography Black Business Expo USA Inc. organization serves a statewide movement of people using business as a force for change.

The Black Business Expo USA Inc. is celebrating its eleven-year anniversary, held November 30, 2019 from 10:00am to 5:00pm at the Marriott downtown Durham City Center, 201 Foster Street. The event is free to attend and features industry experts, business-critical workshops to drive immediate action & business growth. With speednetworking sessions that create new opportunities, the Black Business Expo USA Inc. is the place to get inspired, ignite your entrepreneurial spirit and continue your ongoing path to success.

As our youth, today, still stand in need of our support, the 2019 Black Business Expo organization continues to provide scholarships and computers for our youth. After conducting extensive research and discovering that single parent homes and unemployment is on the rise, our participation has relieved much pressure because of our giving. The financial crisis is real, and our brilliant and dedicated students feel it the most. We are a team of individuals who are committed to helping our society and community as we make a difference in areas that has the greatest need. Our community is our focus and that is the reason that we feel that the Black Business Expo will be a force in healing and helping our community.

Another one of our goals is to highlight the economic growth of North Carolina businesses while generating exceptional value for our corporations, sponsors and partners. The Black Business Expo events selects corporations and speakers with strict principles of change and creates events far above the market and regularly visits North Carolina companies and corporations to build relationships. Black business Expo USA Inc. is one of the largest business showcases in the history of black America in North Carolina. More leads, more customers, more branding, more sales and more exposure!

We believe that by recruiting 350 companies and corporations across North Carolina to the Black Business Expo USA Inc. event will fund 10 scholarships and 10 laptops for students. How we do it is simple; the Black Business Expo will host eight events designed to showcase businesses and corporations and to raise scholarships for students. Our objective is to utilize companies and corporations’ mission of community engagement, diversity and inclusion, economic development, and business to corporation partnerships. As we continue to thrust into a new season of North Carolina’s Black Business Expo, we would like you to become a valued partner with us. As you, know companies throughout North Carolina come together showcasing their models educating the community about our services and outreach.

Event Schedule: November 4-8, 2019 Black Business Week. During this week, the Black Business Expo USA Inc. selects from a pool of 500 students who send in essays on the website. The Black Business Expo USA Inc. scholarship essay pitch event will be held at Merchants & Farmers Bank corporate center. Each day of Black Business Week, the scholarship team will judge 20 students daily and at the end of the week, 10 students will be chosen from the 100 who competed

to receive scholarships. During Black Business Week, area corporations will host five networking lunches at five different corporations. The corporations will present their objective of how to do business with their department, diversity and inclusion, marketing, employment, economic development, community engagement or their products and services.

November 16 - The Black Wall Street Gala is where the expo will honor three corporations who exemplify the core standards; community engagement diversity and inclusion, economic development and business to corporation partnership in the black community in North Carolina. The Black Wall Street Gala will highlight 10 students who will receive their Black Business Expo trophy for winning the scholarship essay contest.

November 29 - Black business expo will host and invitation only VIP masquerade networking ball for companies and corporations who are participating in the expo. This evening will be a networking opportunity for businesses to meet and greet to develop partnership before they attend the expo. There will be light jazz, and hors d’oeuvres.

November 30 - One of the largest business showcases in the history of black America in North Carolina will be hosted in Durham, NC at the Marriot Hotel and City Center 201 Foster Street where over 300 businesses and major corporations will be exhibiting and over 2,000 attendees are expected.

What is different about our Black Business Expo? The Black Business Expo Corporation realize that most businesses and owners don’t have large budgets for marketing, advertising, public relations, and merchandising. Many businesses do not have a way to showcase or sell products and services to a mass audience. What the Black Business Expo USA Inc. does for companies is collect data from registrants and attendees from each of the eight events and shares this information with the companies, corporations and business owners that exhibit at the expo, so they can do business all year long. Our Black Business Expo team registers attendees of each event using our app.

About 200 people a day during the Black Business Week, about 600 people at the Black Wall Street Gala, more than 600 people at the VIP Masquerade Networking Ball and some 2000 people attending the black expo event. Equaling about more than 4,000 registrants. Our attendee profile includes business owners, CEOs, corporation, small businesses, government agencies, entrepreneurs, and individuals looking to start and buy new companies.

Why do owners want to participate? With so many problems in our society, the Black Business Expo focuses on three problems that affect our community. Our objective is to Connect, Communicate and Build the Community of North Carolina Businesses. The three crisis are the financial aid and scholarship crisis, the business financial crisis and the corporate engagement crisis in underserved communities.

The financial aid and scholarship crisis: More than 905,000 low-income students who applied for and were found eligible for state financial aid for college nearly a million students never get it. States run out of money and aspiring low-income college students feel the pain. The crisis has been stoked by years of budget cuts combined with an increased number of applicants, due to a growing awareness that good jobs require more than a high school diploma.

The business financial crisis: This occurs when a business loses value in its assets and the company can’t afford to pay for advertising, marketing, public relations and merchandising for

their company success. Typically, this is a significant drop in demand for knowledge about a product or service. In these cases, the company must move funds around to cover immediate short-term costs. More companies don’t have a competitive budget to get the brand out about their amazing companies. Then, they will need to reanalyze their revenue sources to look for new ways to generate long-term income as well as increase their margins.

The corporate crisis: are situations where corporations have significantly ignored both the business and the underserved community. Rather than creating mutually beneficial relationships, these corporations used their brand advertising as a means of benefiting the company mission and engage in a social relationship with business and communities before they can invest in other communities. While the businesses and community support or buys their products or services there is no community embracement.

Changing company social responsibility is one of the ways to address the corporate crises because these problems are typically caused by a lack of diversity and inclusion, community engagement, economic development and the neglect of customer needs. Embracing a social empowerment culture that is dedicated to both corporation and community success can reduce the chances of encountering a corporate crisis.

THE EXPO SOLUTION: The first step to managing these crises is to work with corporations, business and core community agencies to resolve the issue immediately. The primary concern should be to prevent the crisis from affecting students and businesses of the underserved community. The next step is to work with our business and our corporate resources to determine how to change the system and set up safeguards to secure funding for scholarships. We intend to fund student scholarships through nine events in November focused on diversity and inclusion, community engagement and economic development.

Responsive Crisis Management: When a crisis hits our community, it is important to have a plan of action ready that matches the

Continued on the next page

17

Angel Green

Eric Kelly, III

President

CEO Black Business Expo USA

situation at hand. The Black Business Expo events execute that plan and handle roadblocks that may serve as cultural and social barriers.

This includes communicating with corporations, informing business and organizations, and creating adaptive solutions that empower our students to reach their goals. Responsive crisis management is used for scenarios like financial and business crisis where it is imperative that not only our business community, but corporations also provide a timely response through direct engagement and involvement.

Proactive Crisis Management: Proactive crisis management anticipates a potential crisis and works to prevent it or prepare for it.

For example, providing ten scholarships and up to five thousand dollars to students while showcasing business and corporations across North Carolina is our plan. The BBE utilizes business and corporate missions of diversity and inclusion, community engagement and economic development to solve parts of the problem. The BBE can’t end the crisis by itself but it is another method to end the student scholarship and business crises in our community. While not all crises can be prevented or planned for, actively monitoring known threats can help our students and businesses to reduce the impact of this crisis.

Recovery Crisis Management: The Black Business model is simple, we believe by showcasing three hundred companies and major corporations at the Black Business Expo and utilizing nine events in November will help counteract the scholarship and business crisis causing long-term, negative effects across North Carolina. In these cases, your company may not be able to lessen the impact, but you can begin to save what’s left of the situation. Recovery crisis management participation by corporations, businesses and organizations may not stop the crises, but it will help our community to reverse the educational crisis of student not having tools to succeed. We ask business and corporation to connect with us to counteract what has caused these unexpected crises.

Why should your company or corporation become a sponsor?

Help us and become a community hero! As a sponsor you will be acknowledged as a leader that is involved in the development of the whole community by investing in African American businesses and

18

HuamiMagazine.com

Citah Kromah National Sales Director

education. The African American community makes up 22% of North Carolina’s population, which is approximately 2.35 million people. The Black Business Expo has partnered with locally and nationally media.

The Expo has distribution networks of 100 counties, thus bringing our participation and audiences to over 3 million. Now, imagine how excited and cooperative other corporate sponsors, local community leaders, and minority brands will be to have your support. Through the Expo Event Sponsorship, you can leverage the power of collective credibility. Be a part of one the largest African American business showcases in North Carolina, here are 10 reasons to sponsor this incredible event.

These are 10 solutions you can help with as company.

1. Help End the Scholarships Crisis for Students, 2. Closes the Racial Wealth Gap, 3. Strengthens Local Economies, 4. Fosters Job Creation, 5. Promotes Economic Development, 6. Holds Other Companies Accountable, 8. Encourages Diversity and Inclusion, 7. Create Visibility and Representation in the Economy, 9. Advances Community Engagement, 10. Be Recognized As a Community Hero.

Join the Movement to end the scholarship crisis and connect black business to corporations across the state for economic success, social change and entrepreneurial growth and to inspire others to use business as a force for good. The Black Business Expo is all about marketing to outstanding businesses and corporations across the one hundred counties in North Carolina. By being an exhibitor, you will have your company showcased and more importantly, you will receive all attendees’ information. Because we want you to have access to all the attendees’ information, each exhibitor will receive information from all the events hosted by Black Business Expo so they can do business all year long.

For more information on how you can help raise scholarship funds for students email us info@blackbusinessexpo1.com. There are business booth and sponsorships still available!

You may sign up today on our website www.blackbusinessexpousa. com or call the Expo Hotline at 919-308-9090 for more details. h

Memphis - September/October 2019

William Bethea JOWB Realty, LLC

Just Only Willing Believers Connecting For Successful Real Estate Solutions

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Mykel Media Company, LLC

Greensboro native William Bethea has a natural winning mentality. He is a competitor and has faced and conquered challenges on various fronts and stages. With each test, his goal is always to show up, give his best effort, and finish.

“I love to be the resolution and not the problem,” he says. William grew up on the northeast side of Greensboro, in Claremont Homes. He was a standout basketball player on all levels as child, including at Page High School. In 1993, he graduated from Page and matriculated to Truitt McConnell University and continued his basketball career.

He later enjoyed a two year career in basketball playing overseas in Spain. After his basketball career concluded, he began working in the banking industry and developed an interest in real estate.

Today, William is the founder and owner of JOWB Realty. Having an obvious connection to his faith in God, the company’s is derived from the book of JOB in the holy bible and stands for (Just Only Willing Believers). “We consider ourselves real estate problem solvers. We buy and sell distressed properties that have been obtained through wholesale, probate, or foreclosure. We buy “as is” properties as well,” he shares.

JOWB was formed in November 2018. After working in the banking industry for over 18 years, along with his interest in real estate, William set his sights on assisting and helping individuals who resided in low and income based neighborhoods. “I have seen a need for rebuilding communities in these areas. We have had several natural disasters that have hit close to home and right near my former neighborhood. With me partnering with Dabco Holdings, an investment group out of Houston, TX , it gives my business the opportunity to rebuild the properties and restore the property values,” he says.

Williams says he is driven by a determination to leave a legacy and provide for his kids. He also credits his mother for having the biggest impact on his life and business. “When I was eight years old, my father was incarcerated. Due to those circumstances, my mother was left to raise three children alone. We moved from middle class to low income housing. We were poor and while living in poverty stricken neighborhoods, I knew first hand what it felt like to lack. That experience brought on the desire to assist families in distress properties and help them to resolve their financial burden.”

For most new business owners, there are several challenges that some will face. For William and JOWB, the biggest challenge is the emotional impact in dealing with families in financial stress. “It makes me relive some of my past. I remember being that young, eight year old boy living in a similar situation. Now, it is a blessing for me to be able to get my hands dirty and assist with rebuilding communities in Greensboro and surrounding areas, one property at a time,” he shares.

Moving forward, Williams says his plans are to reach as many distressed homeowners in Guilford County and surrounding areas as possible. “I want to give them the opportunities that are available to them. I want to be the bridge to help them get to their own story of Job,” he says. h

For more information, please contact William Bethea directly.

JOWB Realty, LLC

336-542-8997

webethea@aol.com

19

Nova Victoria Edwards-Bezuglov MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

20

The daughter of Destynee’ Edwards and Evgeniy Bezuglov Photo by Katrina Wize Photography

HuamiMagazine.com

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

Memphis - September/October 2019

Eric Bell Knows Fashion Eric Bell describes himself as a kid who grew up on the Northside part of Greensboro. He was raised by John and Latonya Bell and attended Rankin Elementary and Middle School. He is also a graduate of Northeast High School.

“Growing up I’ve always been into fashion but in the late 90’s and 2000’s men were looked down on for being fashion designers. That didn’t stop me. I went to school thinking I wanted to be a sports agent but really I wanted to design clothes and sneakers. I attended North Carolina A&T for two years, but didn’t complete my program. Instead I landed a job at Moses Cone Hospital in Greensboro and worked there for ten years. And then defining moment for my career arrived in December 2018. That is when I decided it was time for me to give my two weeks notice and pursue my dreams,” he shares.

Eric admits that during the time after he left his stable job to work for himself, he was a bit scared. However, since that time he says the joy that has come from taking that leap of faith is immeasurable. Now he offers various products including sweatshirts, crewnecks, tracksuits, bodysuits, slides, hats, shirts, jeans, and more.

Eric is inspired mostly by his mother and friends. He credits his mother for bestowing her knowledge of the business world into him. “Without her, I would be lost and confused. She’s the only business person I know of in my family, and one of the first women to have her own screen printing business in the city of Greensboro. She is always encouraging me to want more,” he says. “My friends inspire me because they push me like it’s their brand.”

The path that Eric has taken has presented its own share of challenges. Yet, he says he wouldn’t change anything. “The ups and downs have made me who I am today. They have made me stronger.

God doesn’t make any mistakes so trying to change my outcome isn’t within my thoughts.”

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Mykel Media Company, LLC

Some have known for a while, and for many others, the news is just arriving at their doorstep, but Greensboro is now home to serious fashion. Eric Bell is the creative genius behind ThaBlackTopDesigns.

He is also the brain child of MonkeyFace, a urban-focused fashion line whose popularity is increasing by leaps and bounds.

Eric created his brand in 2013. He I started out by making hoodies for himself. “I wasn’t trying to make a brand, I just got tired of spending lots of money on other brands of fashion every other week.

I already had an eye for fashion so I knew I could create some nice pieces for myself. I wore one of my hoodies to a Jada Kiss concert and posted a picture with him. The response was mind-blowing and I couldn’t believe how many people asked how they could order one of my hoodies,” he says.

The following week he sold over a hundred hoodies. A year or so later, he created MonkeyFace. The first few items he made sold pretty well, but he shares that once he started making tracksuits, things picked up enormously.

Eric also offers advice to others who may follow in his footsteps. “You must get prepared for the long nights. Don’t ask someone how they feel about your clothing pieces. You have to wear them and love them first before a customer will approve of it. Never give up and mean what you say, and do what you mean,” he says.

The future looks very bright for ThaBlackTopDesigns and Eric. He already has plans to conduct his first fashion show, exclusively for his brand. “I want the entire city to show up and have an astonishing time.

After the show, I hope that a big company comes and does a deal with me so all of my clothing is in stores worldwide,” says Eric. h

ThaBlackTop Designs www.thatopdesigns.com

21

Pretty

Washington 22

HuamiMagazine.com

Memphis - September/October 2019

By Yasmine Regester Photos by B Smith Photography Make Up by Deidra Mills The ability to obtain a mortgage, car loan, job, promotion or rent an apartment is all tied to one thing most people do not often think about - Credit.

Though established in 2016, Pretty Credit officially launched on April 25, 2017. Pretty Credit is a credit restoration company located in the heart of Greenville, South Carolina. Owners, Pretty Washington and Elliott C. Washington Jr. strive to help everyone achieve their finance and credit goals.

“The reason why I started my own credit restoration company was due to adverse credit issues I personally experienced,” says Pretty. “Unfortunately, I was told all the wrong things to do, such as contact the consumer reporting agencies (CRA’s) and by doing so the derogatory accounts on my consumer credit report would automatically be fixed.

However, that was misguided information.”

In her experience, she was sent from one lender to the next and became frustrated because she felt that no progress was being made. So Pretty decided to take matters into her own hands and began educating herself about the consumer credit laws to find out what kind of rights we’re in place to protect consumers.

On her quest, Pretty sought the advice of a friend in California who had his own credit repair company. He gave her some useful information, including the computer software she needed to start learning how to fix her own credit. She shares the process lasted for nearly two years, but eventually she was able to raise her credit score from the low 400’s into the 700’s.

Pretty says most of her clients are seeking fast results and that only about ten percent have realistic expectations because they don’t understand how credit repair works or exactly what to expect. Though she explains the process from A-Z putting emphasis on the time frame and that it must not be rushed. “It takes time. It’s not an overnight fix. By law, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion have up to 30-45 days to complete the dispute investigation. Determining what is on your credit reports is the first step to determine the length of time it could take to successfully complete our credit restoration program,” she shares.

Pretty Credit provides a comprehensive credit restoration program that includes a free credit consultation. They also offer a paid credit assessment which includes a credit analysis report breakdown of all three credit reporting agencies.

This credit assessment provides their clients with detailed information that’s weighing their consumer scores down. It also includes a customized plan of action, designed to help increase their credit scores.

One part of the credit assessment is to discuss budget and finances to ensure their clients can afford the credit restoration program. Pretty shares that a satisfactory debt-to-income ratio is required to successfully complete the credit restoration program. “Our goal is to help improve the overall credit rating of everyone that seek our services,” she adds.

By law, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion have up to 30-45 days to complete the dispute investigation. Determining what is on your credit reports is the first step to determine the length of time it could take to successfully complete our credit restoration program.

Pretty Washington

Continued on the next page

23

For existing business owners and those interested in starting a business, Pretty Credit offers business credit services which are designed to help business owners utilize their company finances for their business. Business Credit is separate from consumer credit and the credit limits are astronomically higher.

With business credit you use your EIN number and not your SSN for credit purposes. Most business owners or entrepreneurs don’t even know that business credit exist or how to go about establishing it. Our business credit program comes with a 100% Money Back Guarantee that if you follow our instructions to the letter, your business will get $50K in business credit within six months or we will refund your money.

The most recent program added is called “Financial Fitness” which teaches consumers how to save money, get out of debt and utilize their finances in the best way possible. Our goal is to help our clients create generational wealth.

Pretty Credit’s target market is South Carolina, but they also serve clients in other states throughout the country.

Community outreach is an important part of the Pretty Credit business model. “Our main goal is to empower and buildup our communities. By engaging with people in community spaces, church events, and non-profits, they can work together to spread the word and tell other’s what good credit can do for a person,” Pretty states.

The goal of Pretty Credit is to have every client complete their program in (6-12) months. “We’ve had some clients complete the program in three months, but (6-12) months is the average goal. We want all our clients in the 700 plus credit club. That’s a good score to have to get some of the best interest rates and to lower your risk factors during the loan qualification process. It is not required to have an 850-credit score to get some of the best interest rates on the market.

But if that’s what you want, then by all means go for it, but you only need to be in the 700’s score range,” she says.

Many of Pretty Credit’s clients are seeking home ownership. She advises them to ensure their debtto-income ratio is low. By doing so, they will be able to get the best interest rate on their mortgage loan. After they get their approval letter and before closing. During this time, it is very important not to create any additional lines of credit. Any changes to a consumer’s credit report or finances can ultimately prevent a successful closing on a new home. Even more, consumers can save time and prevent a loss of credit score points by simply being aware of their credit status.

Continued on page 24

24 24

HuamiMagazine.com

Memphis - September/October 2019

Clients are held accountable through a Client Success Checklist, which is an itemized list of action steps for the consumer to do in order to successfully complete their credit restoration program. It’s always the mission of Pretty Credit to give our clients the best advice to help them achieve their finance and credit goals.

Memphis - September/October 2019

HuamiMagazine.com

25

What makes Pretty Credit different from other credit repair companies is their ability to connect on various levels with their clients. “Every client is like a member of our family. Building a relationship with them allows us to relate to each person, unlike some companies who just wants to get you into a program and take your money. We work with you every step of the way. By being accessible to our clients, we believe that it makes them feel more at ease. Our clients will always have an advocate in their corner,” Pretty says.

The newest addition to Pretty Credit is that of Pretty Washington is becoming a licensed realtor. In this role she can help clients get approved for their new home loan after completing the credit restoration program. “This means I get to be a part of the process from beginning to end and witness the joy of seeing someone buy their dream home. Most people don’t know what all they need to do -- they don’t have a realtor, or don’t understand how lenders work. This allows us to be a one-stop shop for our clients. This opens up the process to people who may not be qualified for a home, but can come to one place, clean up their credit, get qualified and get to their end goal,” says Pretty.

Pretty is a nationally licensed Certified Credit Consultant. She has enjoyed a career in finance and credit that spans over ten years. She understands that in order to remain relevant in her profession and to be able provide her clients with the best services and results, she must continue to educate and equip herself first. She does this by speaking on panel discussions on credit repair, attending credit seminars and conferences. She has also served as a keynote speaker at the Credit Expo in Orlando, Florida. “I have a passion for this, and I absolutely love it. This is the profession that God chose for me to work in, which allows me to help people repair their credit, fix their finances and transform their lives. God is the CEO of Pretty Credit. If it wasn’t for my faith and trust in him, we would not be who we are today and for that I am extremely grateful,” says Pretty.

Pictured with Pretty and Elliott from left to right are the members of the Greater Mauldin Chamber of Commerce

Debbie Gresham, Pat Pomeroy, Kim Guthrie, and Diana Jo Toledo

Pretty Credit 2007 Woodruff Road Greenville, SC 29607 1-800-580-9549 (Toll free) 864-580-6399 (Local) www.prettywashington.com 26

HuamiMagazine.com

Memphis - September/October 2019

Memphis - September/October 2019

HuamiMagazine.com

27

April Alford Do You Want To Buy or Sell

28

HuamiMagazine.com

Memphis - September/October 2019

By Yasmine Regester Photos by Pharenheit Photography April Alford is a passionate and driven leader who teaches, informs and empowers others to build generational wealth through home ownership. Every day, her goal is to help people take control of their destiny by setting them on a path towards financial security.

April serves her community as a Mortgage Loan Officer with Movement Mortgage in Raleigh, NC. There her focus is to assist consumers with obtaining a mortgage loan to purchase a home. She also educates consumers about the importance of budgeting and establishing credit worthiness.

“My services offer programs with 100% financing, and down payment assistance or low down payment programs. I also regularly host Home Buyer seminars to help people prepare to purchase a home. Additionally, I use the power of social media to give advice and weekly tips,” she shares.

April started her finance career in 2000 as a teller for a large retail bank. In 2004, she moved to the United Kingdom and worked for a Consumer Finance company that provided personal loans to consumers. Upon her return to the United States in 2008, she resumed her career at the same retail bank, working her way up through the ranks in various positions until becoming a Mortgage Loan Officer in 2012. She hasn’t looked back since.

The driving force behind April is her love for empowering families with the ability to build generational wealth through home ownership.

She says, “It excites me to help someone achieve the dream of purchasing a home. It also brings me great joy to show someone, who thought they couldn’t purchase a home, how it can in fact be done. Seeing the smile on a client’s face when they receive the keys to their new home is a gratifying feeling that never gets old. It’s during these moments that reminds me of how I am walking in my purpose,” she says.

April effortlessly credits the one person whom has had the greatest impact on her life. “For years, my mother worked for a large retail bank. When I was a child, I practically grew up in a bank, spending several days there after school. I watched my mom meet with her clients, while providing superior customer service. At the time, I never truly understood what her job was, but I knew I wanted to do something similar,” she said.

“Seeing the smile on a client’s face when they receive the keys to their new home is a gratifying feeling that never gets old. It’s during these moments that reminds me of how I am walking in my purpose.”

Memphis - September/October 2019

HuamiMagazine.com

29

30

HuamiMagazine.com

Memphis - September/October 2019

In addition to her mom, April acknowledges several others who have influenced her life life over the years. “My former manager, Sekhar Pinapaka noticed my potential and allowed me to shadow him. He saw that I wanted more out of my career and encouraged me to go into mortgage lending. I wouldn’t be where I am today in the mortgage industry without his influence. My three children, Kristina, Jerron Jr., and Jaedo are truly the motivation for everything I do. I want to leave a legacy for them and I hope they will in some fashion, empower their own generation with the knowledge I provide them with,” she says.

The future looks bright for April. There she plans to continue to share her knowledge with others and educate as many consumers as possible about the home buying process. In 2020, she plans to launch a Wealth Building Series that will not only focus on home ownership, but also other areas such as the importance of life insurance, wills, budgeting, credit, and real estate investments. “This information is beneficial to everyone, but I definitely plan to target our minority communities. I want to be a vessel that helps bridge the gap in minority home ownership,” she shares. h

A

LFORD

TEA M April Alford NMLS 886941 Sr. Loan Officer Movement Mortgage 4700 Falls of Neuse Rd - Ste 225 South Tower Raleigh, NC 27609 - 919-268-1878 April.alford@movement.com www.AprilAlford.com

NMLS# 886941. NC-I-170727 | Movement Mortgage, LLC supports Equal Housing Opportunity. NMLS ID# 39179 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) | 877-314-1499. Movement Mortgage, LLC is licensed by NC # L-142670. Interest rates and products are subject to change without notice and may or may not be available at the time of loan commitment or lock-in. Borrowers must qualify at closing for all benefits.

“Movement Mortgage” is a registered trademark of the Movement Mortgage, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company. 8024 Calvin Hall Rd, Indian Land, SC 29707.

Gavin Barner J & G Towing, LLC

32

HuamiMagazine.com

Memphis - September/October 2019

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Mykel Media Company, LLC When the need arises for someone to have their vehicle towed, it can sometimes be a dreadful experience. Whether it be due to a disabled vehicle, flat tire, or traffic accident, the inconveneince that accompanies the need is usually what is dreaded and remembered mostly.

Fortunately, there is a company that has set their sights on changing the towing and hauling industry.

J & G Towing, LLC , is a small family owned towing company based out of Greensboro, NC. They offer some of the best tow services available within the state of North Carolina. These services include 24 Hour Emergency Towing, Lock Outs, Motorcycle Towing, Roadside Assistance, Battery Jumps, Refeuling, Tire Changes, and Winch Out services (up to 150 ft).

J & G Towing, LLC was started up in July 2017.

The company is owned and operated 26 year old, Gavin Barner. Originally from Greensboro, NC, Gaving grew up in Charlotte. After graduating from high school in Greensboro, he later attended North Carolina A & T University before deciding to join the work force. He worked for years at a car wash, along with delivering appliances and furniture, before he found himself in the working in the towing industry.

Before starting the company, Gavin shares there were a few hurldes he had to conquer. “I was at a point in life where I was tired of doing a lot of heavy lifting, so when the opportunity presented itself, I didn’t hesitate to jump at it. My uncle, whose namesake represents the (J of J & G Towing, LLC) wanted to start a new business but didn’t have any idea what to do. I was told that towing was a good industry to work in, so we took the risk and bought a truck, and later obtained an LLC and immediately started advertising,” he shares.

As his business began to take off, Gavin shares that he was fortunate to have a few experienced towing professionals mentor and guide J & G Towing along. “Mike at Abracadabra Towing and Rico at EZ Towing & Recovery has been a huge helpt to me. Between these two guys, they keep me on my toes. As I learn and grow in the towing industry, they help me to keep a level head, and assisted in developing me into a firm business man.”

For Gavin, family is his biggest inspiration. “I come from a pretty big family that is rooted in greatness, on both sides. They are all so supportive of anything I do and my goal is to keep making progress with this business and keep making them proud,” he says.

Gavin says what he loves most about what he does is the opportunity to help people get out of stressful situations. He also relishes in the opportunity to represent black businessmen who operate with professionalism. “As black men, we have the ability to do anything that we put our minds to,” he says.

Being a business manu can also be a humbling experience. “I am a firm believer of patience being a virtue, and I never want to bite off more than I can chew. My business is growing at a reasonable pace and I hope that will continue. Moving forward, I will continue to promote the business and strive to become better at my craft. In another year or so I would like to have a second truck and expand my services, and eventually get a tow yard to grow the business into long distance car transporting as well,” he says. h

33

Jasmine Lowe Be Bare Inc. 34

HuamiMagazine.com

Memphis - September/October 2019

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Be Bare Inc. Jasmine Lowe is a licensed cosmetologist and the owner of Be Bare Inc. Be Bare offers a personalized setting that creates a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere for its clients. They offer a wide range of waxing services including Brazilian, Bikini, and Eyebrow Styling.

Jasmine shares that Be Bare is dedicated to not just removing hair, but also taking care of the skin during and after the process.

“We use a steaming process that allows the hair to be removed smoother and is less painful to the client,” she says. “We also provide services to clients through an appointment- only system.

This allows us to follow a customer-friendly model of a no rush, no wait based service, giving customized blocks of time which are allocated to each client according to their specific needs.”

Be Bare Inc. was launched in 2017 as a result of Jasmine spending previous years gaining industy experience working as a waxing specialist for a major waxing salon. That opportunity inspired her to venture out and start her own business. “After seeing how customers were looked at as numbers instead of humans, I was determined to create a business dedicated to making the client feel happy with the services, and cherished as well,” she says.

Be Bare’s typical clients are women who are seeking a longer lasting way to remove hair instead of shaving. Jasmine shares the experiences her business offers are what make it worth while. “I love to engage with my clients and ensure they are happy. Waxing can put someone in a vulnerable state, so I work hard to make sure my clients feel comfortable. I love to educate them on the way to take care of their skin before and after a wax,” she says.

Being a entrepreneur has challenged Jasmine in several areas.

“I’ve never been a marketer or networker because of a lack of confidence and knowledge. However, I quickly realized that it would be impossible for me to advance as a business owner if I didn’t master these things and break down my own barriers. So I found mentors, books, and videos to help me grow my skill set and professionalism. I also focused on educating myself on various topics such as communication, networking, and business methods to build up my confidence,” she says.

Moving forward, Jasmine hopes to expand her business and share Be Bare Inc. with more people. “I would like to touch millions of lives and provide employment opportunities. I would also like to instill the value of appreciation. There is a lack of education on genuine customer service and I want all of my employees to see the power it has,” Jasmine shares. “Customer service is golden and education is key. When you are good to people, they are in return good to you.”

Her advice for others who may follow in her footsteps is to always have an eagerness to learn. “You stop growing when you stop learning,” she says. To learn more about Be Bare Inc., stop their location or visit them online. h

2501 Marshall Ave. Newport News, Virginia (757) 251-0464 www.bebarewax.com

Memphis - September/October 2019

HuamiMagazine.com

35

Trish Bernard Farrell’s Daughter Business Consulting & Graphic Design

36

HuamiMagazine.com

Memphis - September/October 2019

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Ro Simmons Trish Bernard is the owner of Farrell’s Daughter Business Consulting & Graphic Design, in Dallas, TX. She describes herself as an innovative and energetic “girl boss” with a love for helping business owners and professionals streamline their processes. Her business was created to save busy professionals from work overload, by helping them to stay organized and provide them with cost-effective solutions.

Originally from New Orleans, she currently resides in Dallas. Both of her parents were workaholics and it is understandable that she picked up their work ethics. As a sociology major and graduate from Texas Southern University, Trish truly loves people and she shares that she has a heart for servitude. “I have spent most of my life helping take the stress off of others and giving back to my community,” she says.

Her business is rooted in the same qualities that make Trish who she is. Hard work. “After my dad passed in 2015, I decided to start my own business, which is also named after him. My father had a major impact on my life by teaching me the importance of servitude. Farrell’s Daughter offers virtual and local business services such as business consulting, project management, graphic design, and Wix and Squarespace web design for small business owners. “I believe no one can do it alone and I practice what I preach.

I have an awesome virtual assistant who helps make sure I stay on track and my support team of sub-contractors and interns help to spare me the need of hiring a full staff,” she says.

Farrell’s typical clients are female entrepreneurs.

Trish says she finds this group often time takes on way too much. “I love solving problems and showing my clients that the impossible can be done with a bit of effort and trust. For the most part, I love under promising, and over delivering and give my clients more than they paid for. My specialty is reducing stress for my clients by taking tasks off of their plate. I consider myself a “Task Master.”

One of the biggest hurdles for Trish in business is establishing trust with her clients. “They have a hard time letting go of control when it comes to their business, and I can relate to this because I also outsource when needed. However breaking down the trust barrier is tough for me but once it’s down, everything is smooth sailing from there,” she says.

Continued on the next page

Memphis - September/October 2019

HuamiMagazine.com

37

Trish admits her journey to become an entrepreneur has been largely impacted by my father. “He was literally the nicest and hardest working person I’ve ever known, and I wanted to carry on that spirit after he passed. Equally important is the support of friends and family, including my sister Farrah whom is a secret investor in my business. Without her support I would have failed long ago,” says Trish.

For others who are thinking about jumping into the world of entrepreneurship, Trish offers a bit of helpful advise. “First, please get some help and support, and don’t try to do it alone. If you can get a mentor or an accountability partner, do it as soon as possible. A remember that is value in your network. I have friends that have never bought a service, but constantly send me referrals,” she shares.

“I love solving problems and showing my clients that the impossible can be done with a bit of effort and trust.”

Though her journey has been a little challenging at times, Trish says she has enjoyed the ride. “I have learned so much along the way and some of my negative experiences have actually made me money.

For example, teaching entrepreneurs how to avoid my mistakes has been a key to my business and gives me more joy than the pain previously had caused,” she says.

While the future seems to be very bright for Farrell’s Daughter Business Consulting & Graphic Design, Trish remains constant on her grind to make the business greater. “I plan to start a coaching service for entrepreneurs only. I want to teach them how to navigate their business, and the importance of taking time for their own sanity. I want to be an entrepreneurs personal cheerleader,” she says. Stay tuned! h

Farrell’s Daughter www.farrellsdaughter.com 214-228-2636

38

HuamiMagazine.com

Memphis - September/October 2019

Memphis - September/October 2019

HuamiMagazine.com

39

Aleta Danielle Life, Business, and Faith

40

HuamiMagazine.com

Memphis - September/October 2019

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Aleta Danielle

Her brand is titled “Live your Dream.” In more context, the message that Aleta Danielle of Greenville, SC shares is quite clear. “It is common to live within comfortable means.

At times, that practice is very necessary. However, there are other times in our lives when we should relinquish the safety nets and take a leap of faith,” she shares.

“Success occurs when opportunity meets preparation.”

Zig Ziggler

Aleta is a wife, mother, sister, friend, and accomplished business woman. As a Realtor with Ponce Realty Group, she works diligently to provide professional, relevant, accurate, real estate services on a consistent basis. This is done while also addressing the needs of her clients, both known and unknown. She brandishes a Bachelors degree in Business Management and has over 15 years of experience working in a business capacity, coupling that with a creativeness that only God can give.

“Sometimes the answer is not in a book or offered in a classroom setting. Being able to adapt, bend, or even dream bigger can make the difference between me succeeding or failing. I pride myself as being the eyes and ears of my clients,” she shares. “I became a Realtor because I had a passion to help people. Even more, I am privledged to be a part of the of home-ownership process — from start to finish — for individuals.

Aleta was born and raised in Waukegan, IL. At the age of 19, she moved to South Carolina, due to her dad’s job relocating. Her foundation is rooted in her faith and being in God. “My faith and belief in Jesus has been my rock, my inspiration, and my constant everything. With Him, I have all I will ever need for every venture and circumstance, whether big or small,” she says. With the support of her family, Aleta’s circle is complete. Her son and daughter, whom she describes as her pulse and heartbeat, are the driving force for her both personally and professionally.

“Family is important to me and inspire me to be my very best,” she says.

As a Realtor, the opportunity comes with its own set of challenges. “For me the challenge is not being able to meet every need, every time. Sometimes, there are tough decisions that have to be made, which is never easy to deliver,” she says.

Aleta offers some advice for others who may follow in her footsteps. “Be true to who you are, not who you wan to portray for the world, but WHO you really are...genuinely and unapologetically. Stay away from comparing yourself to others. There is only one you. No one has it all together, all of the time. Remember, Rome was not built in a day.

Embrace and live life in your own lane, it takes the pressure off trying to keep up with others. Take the high road, the low one is crowded. The key to living a long prosperous life, you must laugh often (including at yourself). Enjoy the journey. Trust the process. Learn to dance in the rain and most importantly, believe in yourself. LIVE YOUR DREAM!

Moving forward Aleta hopes to assist countless families buy and sell home, after home. This includes from starter homes to vacation homes, to rental properties and dream houses. “The sky is the limit and I plan to continue building my brand and share the gifts of which God has blessed me with,” she shares. “Stay tuned!” h Aleta Danielle Ponce Realty Group 864-546-1143 aletadanielle@gmail.com

Memphis - September/October 2019

HuamiMagazine.com

41

42

HuamiMagazine.com

Memphis - September/October 2019

Chandler

Greensboro native, Chandler Davidson is a sophomore dance major at Weaver Academy. He has been dancing for six years.

While taking dance classes in school, Chandler is also a company member of The Pointe Studio Of Dance. There, he trains in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Lyrical, African, Hip Hop, Gymnastics, Vocals and Acting.

Chandler has been involved with (2) five week summer intensives, UNCSA and Charlotte Ballet. He has also participaged with a four week intensive at Debbie Allen in Los Angeles Clalifornia. Chandler has performed lead roles with his studio such as, Toto and The Wiz in “The Dance Adaption Of the Fantasy And Adventure Of Oz” and Little Simba in “Pride Land “.

He has been the The National Black Theater Festival three times with the shows “The Dance Adaption Of Annie“ and “The Dance Adaption Of The Fantasy And Adventure Of Oz“ and “Pride Land”.

After high school, Chandler plans to join a professional contemporary company then go to collage and major in dance after he retires from the company and make his own studio and share his gifts with students of all ages. h

Dance Acting Singing.....Yeah, I can do that!

Memphis - September/October 2019

HuamiMagazine.com

43

Chef L atorra Pie Face Soul Cafe 44

HuamiMagazine.com

Memphis - September/October 2019

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Taylor Media and G Garland Latorra Garland is a Culinary Artist and Head Chef at PieFace Soul Café and Catering in Dallas, TX. Born in Greenwood, MS but raised in Memphis, TN, her culinary specialties include Soul food and southern desserts.

Chef Latorra, of which she prefers to be acknowledged by, officially launched her catering business in August 2016. “I decided to go in business because I found joy and happiness in cooking delicious foods for others. I wanted to build a stable career in culinary that would allow me to be more flexible and involved in the daily activities that involved my children,” she says Fortunately, her found was delicously enough to generate a clientelle to support her dreams.

PieFace Soul Cafe and Catering prides itself in being capable to answer the call for any event. Some of the services they offer are designed for Birthdays, Holidays, Dinner Parties, Corporate Lunches, Cooking Classes, Private Dinners, Weddings, amd more.

Cooking didn’t just happen over night for Chef Latorra.

Growing up, and being the oldest of seven children, she had to learn to prepare full meals for the entire family. “My father taught me how to cook at the age of 13 and I learned to bake from my mother and grandmothers. Watching them prepare food for a large family taught me so much about the culinary field. My grandmother cooked three meals every day and witnessing how family dinners brought my family together is a feeling that still sits with me today.”

As a result of being in her mother and grandmothers’ southern kitchens, I mastered the art of southern desserts. I still use and treasure their recipes,” she says. She has even included some of their recipes in her self published southern desserts cookbook “Mamas Banana Pudding”.

“My father taught me how to cook at the age of 13 and I learned to bake from my mother and grandmothers. Watching them prepare food for a large family taught me so much about the culinary field.”

Looking forward to the future, she plans to make a lasting mark on the culinary world. “I am working passionately on my “PieFace Soul Cafe Pop-Up Dinner Club. This club will host a monthly brunch or dinner party and serve delicious Southern Food to the Dallas-Ft.Worth Area. It will allow patrons to experience my food before my restaurant opens in Summer 2020. I also plan to write several more cookbooks in relation to soul food and southern desserts,” she says. h

The biggesgt perk from owning her business Chef Latorra says is the fact that she can provide services that makes people happy. “I love to see my clients happy when they eat my food. I love trying new recipes and adding my own spin on them to create a different and delicious taste. For the most part, I love all things food related.”

As a business owner, she also admits there are some challenges that come along with it. “One challenge that I face is building clientele in a new city. That alone has been a huge challenge. I have to get people to trust me and also trust that I can provide outstanding catering services for their event,” she shares.

For those who may be considering starting a business similar to what Chef Latorra has done, she offers a bit of advice. “Stay consistent and focused. Do what makes you happy and never give up on your dreams and goals no mater what distractions are thrown your way. Also, build a brand for your business and brand yourself from beginning to the end.

Remember to always put your best work forward, regardless of the situation. Most importantly, you must continue to find ways to perfect your craft and never stop learning,” she said.

www.piefacesoulcafe.com “Mamas Banana Pudding” can be ordered at www.Amazon.com Facebook:@Piefacesoulcafe Instagram:@piefacesoulcafe

45

www.thablacktopdesigns.com

Charlotte

Triad

Raleigh/Durham

Hampton Roads

Memphis

Dallas-FortWorth

Huntsville

Atlanta

Greenville/Spartanburg

Nashville

Richmond

Huami Magazine

A National Brand of Black Excellence NC, SC, TN, AL, VA, GA, & TX Online Printed Advertise Your&Business Here!

Call For More Info

336-340-7844

www.huamimagazine.com Memphis - September/October 2019

HuamiMagazine.com

47

Photography Services For

Weddings & Special Events Birthday’s & Engagements Senior Portraits & Graduations

901.282.5255