Huami Magazine Huntsville March/April 2021 by Terry Watson

Huntsville - March/April 2021

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Your Purpose Is Not A Laughing Matter A Letter From The Editor

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

A long time ago, when I was a much younger man, and a student at the most prestigious high school in the city of Greensboro, something happened to me that would change my life forever. This segment of time was during myfrom fourth A Letter theperiod Editor English class, and the first week of a new school year.

Back then I was mischievous, veryarrive? sarcastic, a self-proclaimed What if tomorrow didn’t Alland of your plans, hopes ‘class clown’. I would try to set the tone for my classroom amongst my and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if classmates with jokes, and I thought, the bigger the audience, the grander everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never my performance could be. However, in this particular class, the teacher There would be no reason to save forelegant a rainyand full was a happened? formidable opponent. She was short in stature, very day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making of finesse, and seemed to lock in on me like a torpedo before the tardy bell promises. yourMrs. lastKerr, opportunity seemingly expired even sounded. HerWhat nameifwas and I would soon learn that she today? What would you do? wasn’t one to play around. One day while in English class, I began to get and execute I’ve been told that I often seem likecomfortable I do too much. my form of cheap humor. I led off with a cough, and a slight Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m sneeze; a firm silly acts that usually worked pretty well with getting my audience position. believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything into on me But mythat act Iwas snuffed out immediately. “Don’t you sneeze orwould cough in my couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life classroom. Take that outside”. Those were the words spoken directly be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. Ito me and I knew she that was serious by the way she into my eyes. From have found to be very boring. In stared my opinion, opportunity that point on, I never laughed in her class unless I was led by her permission is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to do so. I must admit that my ego was a little bruised, but I would to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? eventually get over it.

If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn new myself. Relinquish that yourmy pride and in In sosomething many words, sheabout helped me to understand purpose in no return acquire life. appreciate Mrs. Kerr because she helped me laughing matter. I genuinely

to also understand the English instruction she provided was not a laughing TheIbest adviceelse ever given to me happened when matter, and or anyone wouldn’t prevent the learning andsomeone growth of other students. told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so

I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only As the school year progressed, to the lookdifference forward tobetween my fourth hope provided. I have alsoI began learned periodwhat English class and spending time with Mrs. Kerr. I soaked upwith every bit God blesses me with and what life can burden me of information that she had to offer, studied every poem, and recited as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and them back to her with precision, and made it a when to be quiet, because point to show her that she changed my someone may get it confused life by stopping me from robbing myself of with being arrogant. sound instruction. Make you tomorrow Mrs. Kerr obviously loved me and happen today, but most her other students, thousands of them importantly make decades it count.of she encountered of several Life is is but whisper and like me teaching. She myahero. Students all deserve a hero such as Mrs. Kerr we must put ourselves in ain their classrooms, eithertoinhear the form position whatofitaispeer or instructor. She us. helped me to understand telling that my purpose was no laughing matter.

Terry TerryL.L.Watson Watson 4

Editor/Founder

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L Watson

Publisher

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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 Mykel Media Company LLC P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2021 All Rights Reserved 2020 All 2014 All Rights RightsReserved Reserved

On The Cover

Photo by Shaw Photography Group

HUNTSVILLE

CONTENTS

MARCH/APRIL 2021

More Than Hair

Cierra De’Shae

On The Cover

Chanda Davis Real Estate Chanda Davis

Terra’s Boutique

Terra Cornelius

Author

Kocysha LaShaun

Huami Magazine Cutesty Baby

Railyn Bozeman

Also Featured

Kimberly Brown Meet the face and founder of The Perfect Skin Code LLC St. Louis, MO

Darnita Samuels She has a heart and ear for listening. She also happens to be a thereapist. Charlotte, NC

Huntsville - March/April 2021

Sonya Molette Meet the face and founder of Elasticity Hair Care. Detroit, MI

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Huntsville - March/April 2021

By Marrissa Dick Photos by Chanda Davis Most who were not born with a silver spoon in their mouth, may appreciate what it means to come from humble beginnings. Understanding how and where you grew up plays a major part in your drive to grow beyond those humbling circumstances. Many of us do that by going to college and acquiring scholarly and interdisciplinary knowledge while others accomplish moving forward in life by working hard on a 9 to 5 or grinding for themselves as entrepreneurs. The point is that humble beginnings can either make or break you. Have you ever wondered why some people come from the womb and it seems as if they are destined for greatness? How is it that some can press through the oppressive experiences while others, “just can’t get right”? Could it be that the one who presses forward is the generational curse breaker? When you have been “chosen” to be that curse breaker then you understand that your life is going to be challenging with every breath you take. Meet Chanda Davis Lanier, generational curse breaker and owner and managing broker of Chanda Davis Real Estate, one of the largest black owned women brokerages in the state of Alabama. Chanda is also the owner and instructor of Superior School of Real Estate, one of the fastest growing schools in the Southeast region. Chanda shares, “My life started out rough, my mother struggled with drug addiction. I was born addicted to heroin, so I was given methadone to wean me off the heroin. My maternal grandmother who loved her family dearly, attempted to adopt me but the State of Pennsylvania would not allow it due to the large number of a family already residing in her residence. Grandmother reached out to her brother-inlaw and pleaded with him to adopt me in hopes of keeping me in the family. After four years in foster care, I was moved to a new state with a new family. Life was hard growing up because even though my parents did the best they knew how, I always seemed to have to face my mother’s past. Thank goodness for my Aunt Dora who was a college professor in Tuskegee, Alabama. When I was older, I went to visit with her one summer and she noticed while we were playing spades that I didn’t know how to add or use negative numbers. So, the next day she sat me down and taught me arithmetic starting with one plus one. By the end of the summer, I was doing percentages, decimals, and algebra. Aunt Dora called her brother and basically told him that she was going to keep me during my 8th grade year in hopes of catching me up to grade level. That one year turned into four years of studying for hours each night. Aunt Dora was the turning point of my life. I thank God for grace and mercy because He brought my Aunt Dora into my life. Aunt Dora constantly reminded me that I was beautiful and with hard work, I could achieve anything in life. She was my saving grace. Aunt Dora provided much structure, guidance, and support. I was required to attend Girl Scout meetings on Saturdays and Church each Sunday. God’s word gave me a sense of confidence and security. I really held on to the Word of God when I started college. I was placed on academic probation after my first quarter due to a 1.6 GPA.

“My life started out rough. I was born to a heroin addict who left me in the hospital; my mother never came back for me. Of course, I was born addicted to heroin, so I was given methadone to wean me off the herion.”

Continued on the next page

I was terrified, so I went to the student support center and worked hard to improve my grades. Thank God that I was able to attain my degree- even if it was with a 2.7 GPA. I did something that no one ever thought I could do- I became a college graduate.” Despite her challenges Chanda continued her education and earned a master’s degree in Biology education, an Education Specialist degree in Curriculum Design and she is just a few hours shy of a degree in Education Administration. She taught at an inner-city school for three years then transitioned to an exclusive middle school and high school where both she and her students flourished. In addition to being a National Board Certified Teacher, there are not many coveted titles for teaching that she hasn’t won such as Teacher of the Year for Huntsville City Schools, Alabama Science Teacher of the Year and a finalist in Shell Oil Company’s Top Science Teacher Award. Not only was Chanda a local and state decorated teacher but she was also recognized on the national level. She won The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). Included in that distinction Chanda met then, vice-president Joe and Jill Biden. So, what does a teacher with a master’s degree in Biology education do after 17-years of laudable teaching? She quits teaching and becomes a longdistance truck driver! Yes, you read it right. Let me enlighten you on her rationale. According to Chanda, “I had a lot going on back then. I was going through a divorce and I had three daughters. I was teaching genetics and anatomy and AP environmental science, so I really had hard core classes and on top of that I taught 200 students daily. The overload of teaching and going through the divorce was just too much. I felt like it was killing me. I needed money and many of my friends told me that trucking was the ideal occupation to make lots of money, so I opened a hot-shot trucking company with a flatbed. I was now a trucker! I traveled across country with light loads. During that one year, anything that could have happened to cause me to go out of business, happened. One truck caught on fire and another truck’s transmission fell out while I was waiting to unload. Then another time I was driving through Virginia during an unexpected ice storm. I was going down a mountain when the brakes gave out. I was sliding down this mountain praying and crying out to God for help. Wow, talk about, ‘God’s Continued on the next page

Huntsville - March/April 2021

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Huntsville - March/April 2021

trying to tell you something’. I was devastated and while in the middle of an explosive cry, a local broker called asking if I cared to move my real estate license to her company and she assured me that she would help me rebrand my real estate school. I have been a part time real estate agent since 2001 and have had a real estate instructor’s license since 2009.” How many of us recognize that all that shines isn’t gold? How many of us know that people will capitalize upon your gifts as though they were their own? The moment Chanda stepped into her new career of real estate; commission checks started pouring in. Even though most of the money was going to trying to save her trucking company, Chanda realized that being a fulltime real estate agent may be her answer. Then, out of the blue, one of the largest real estate schools in the state asked her to become an instructor. Chanda was so excited because she believed that it was a gift that God was giving back to her- the gift of TEACHING! Chanda, already “teacher extraordinaire,” took that real estate school’s pass rate from 32% to 76% in one year. With numbers like that it was a no brainer that the owner would want to join forces and lock her in by offering to sell her the school. Naïvely, she believed that the seasoned owner would honor her word but she soon discovered that was not the case. So, she gave a 30 day notice and started planning to rebrand her own school. She changed the name from Davis School of Real Estate to Superior School of Real Estate. She opened the doors, with new branding in October 2017 and by December 2017, she was at full capacity and in search of a larger location. Chanda became one of the top salespersons at her real estate company. She was a multi-million dollar producer and won many company awards for her production. Her real estate school was performing very well. She and her broker together decided that they would join forces to open a separate location for her brokerage and Chanda’s real estate school. They both signed the lease in a very elite area and for over a month Chanda focused on doing the build-out of the location. Unfortunately, a day before the two of them were to join forces and pay the rent together, the broker informed Chanda that she had changed her mind about partnering. Chanda was devastated that morning but was forced to suck it up and teach the 10 students enrolled in post-license class. The beauty of her having to face her students, is that she taught these new agents in pre-license class and they were considered her friends. While Chanda was depressed and terrified to take on such a monumental task on her own. To her chagrin, everyone was supportive and excited for her new business adventure. Her students, friends, and family had encouraged her for years to run her own real estate company. How many of us know that God always has a ram in the bush? Chanda recalls the preparation for moving into a new space on her own. “So now I have to furnish the entire place and as God would have it the previous tenants left all of their furniture and the landlord gave it to me and we have been going strong ever since.” Look at how God turned the bad to

Continued on the next page

good for His daughter. Today she has 75 agents, and her school has one of the highest pass rates in Alabama. In 2020 Chanda paid over 1.3 million dollars in actual cash real estate commissions. No bad for an infant who started out addicted to heroin, placed in foster care, then adopted. All of that happened just so she could meet another ram in the bush, Aunt Dora. Not bad at all. So why would someone consider becoming a real estate agent with Chanda when there are a plethora of real estate agencies to choose from?

“My husband helped me find that peace because that’s the type of energy he has as a mental health counselor. He taught me about love because he showed me patience, kindness, and he cared for me. He loved me enough to help me meet my own goals....”

Chanda explains, “Well, I think people come to my school because I have one the highest pass rates in Alabama, and I am good to my students and I work to help them reach their highest potential. I had two people help me reach mine and that was my Aunt Dora and my husband. When I first met my husband, Telly, I was a mess. I had a lot going on. He helped me learn how to focus on what I did best. He showed me the meaning of success through his actions and that taught me to appreciate the beauty in life. I have absorbed his essence. He is a beautiful and simplistic man who can see the beauty in everything. He saw the beauty in me even though I could not. My husband helped me find that peace because that’s the type of energy he has as a mental health counselor. He taught me about love because he showed me patience, kindness, and he cared for me. He loved me enough to help me meet my own goals and in doing that he realized that he wasn’t living up to his full potential. He is now working on obtaining his real estate license, too.” Why would someone want to work with Chanda or attend her real estate school? She says, “My school is far more than your ordinary real estate school. Here we affect change in our agents, students, and in our clients lives. We all work as a team. I don’t think other establishments can pride themselves on having that type of community-oriented business. They may say it, but we live it here. I believe in giving back and we definitely have the reputation for doing that. From buying groceries to helping others become entrepreneurs. I have a reputation for being ‘The Real Estate Lady’ in the communities we serve. That’s a tag name I can live with. I pay you while I train you. In my business it’s not just about the money. We don’t chase it. If I see that you’re chasing money and not caring about the clients, then you can’t work here because my passion is to see all of us win. I see this business as life changing. I know we are changing lives one client at a time and we are helping people reach their full potential. My life didn’t start out great, so I want to be an encouragement to others, so their past doesn’t define their future. Saved people want to save others. Somebody saved me and I want to do the same for others, too.” In 2005, Chanda was in a terrible car accident and was told that she would never walk again. She prayed and promised God that if she were to walk again, she would make the classroom her ministry. Real estate class is a place for healing, for encouragement and for achievement all while learning very analytical material. Students in Chanda’s classes learn by connecting Chanda’s life stories, songs, dances, and maybe even some preaching to real

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Huntsville - March/April 2021

estate pedagogy. Chanda has learned that FEAR is the paralyzer that holds the soul hostage, so she’s learned to live each day in the excitement of ‘what’s next’ and bathing in the ‘what is in the now’. There were days that Chanda wanted to give up but she always believed that God had a special purpose for her. She believed that one day her story would give someone else courage and strength. She uses her past to give hope to her students as she formulates them into daily real estate lessons. “I am so happy that my dark days did not cause me to give up. I held on when sometimes making through another second seemed impossible.” From being left in the hospital, to not learning to read and write until late in life, from being told that she would never amount to anything, from being divorced in her 40s, from almost being homeless, and from only having one choicePRAYER! Chanda will tell you, she is far from a saint, but she knows the mighty HAND OF GOD! He has used the foolish things of the world to confound the wise. He blessed her with Chanda Davis Real Estate, Superior School of Real Estate by Chanda, and Valley Metro Property Management. Now the LORD blessed the latter days of Chanda’s life more than her humble beginnings. Her experiences have taught her how to love the unlovable, to believe in the unbelievable, and never to count anyone out. Her belief is that, “God has a special plan for us all. Sometimes just asking for help can change your entire world. I want to show those people who have started out with humble beginnings that there is hope and that they don’t have to give in to their circumstances. We always have a choice, and that choice should be to become the best we can regardless of how we start out in life. There are no excuses.” Frederic Neichie, a German philosopher, wrote two poignant statements. The first, ‘To live is to suffer, to survive is to find some meaning in the suffering’ and second, ‘That which does not kill us makes us stronger.’” These quotes stand as testimonials to Chanda Davis Lanier’s life experience - Curse Breaker, Overcomer, Philanthropist, Life Changer, and Forever Humble. If you are interested in either becoming a real estate agent or purchasing your dream home then contact your Huntsville, Alabama real estate agency, Chanda Davis Real Estate or Superior School of Real Estate by Chanda and see how she and her team can help you meet your full potential. You may contact Chanda by visiting her web sites or calling her directly. h

www.chandadavisrealestate.com 13

More Than Hair 14

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Huntsville - March/April 2021

By Terry L. Watson Come on in and rest your feet, and while you’re at it, leave your worries and burdens on the outside, and allow your mind to rest as well. This is the kind of peace and comfort that is offered at More Than Hair, a salon nestled comfortably in Huntsville, AL.

Jerome Coverson Productions

The leader and face of More Than Hair is Cierra De’Shae, a New Market, AL native. She is the oldest of four girls and describes herself as a leader and influencer to others. Most importantly, Cierra is a believer in God. She has been a professionally licensed cosmetologist for five years, and a business owner for nearly two years. “I’m an entrepreneur or Godpreneur, that is what I like to call it,” she says. “I love to empower and inspire people through my gifts and skills as a hairstylist. They all come from God, and I am only doing what He expects of me with them.” More Than Hair is a beauty brand that aspires to inspire others beyond what’s on their crown, but also what’s inside of it. “We strive to give you an experience that shows beauty to the eye while helping to motivate your heart. We provide hair care services for our community while providing a space for them to be encouraged and empowered through whatever they may be facing,” Cierra states. For her, it’s all about making a connection, a divine connection. Being a devout Christian herself, she always carries the word of God with her, so when the opportunity arises for her to pour into someone, she is prepared. “Often times a normal service will turn into a prayer session, right at my styling station,” she says. “I love that my business is a place where people can come and receive care for their hair, but also get an experience that leaves them feeling refreshed. “Many of my clients have walked in one way and left completely transformed.” Cierra’s journey began as a young girl. She always had a passion for hair care and styling. This passion would carry on even after graduating high school. “I originally went to college to be a psychologist, but halfway through that journey I made the decision to pursue what I loved. I attended J.F. Drake State Technical and Community College in 2014 and graduated in 2016 and became a licensed cosmetologist shortly after. I started out with a salon in my home but later transitioned into working in commission based and sole proprietor salons. In 2019, God told me it was time to step out on my own. So, obediently, I started looking for a place that would be a good fit for me and the business that I was birthing. On June 17, 2019. More Than Hair officially opened its doors to the public,” she says. Continued on the next page

Photo by Shuneil Gadsen Photography

The path of an entrepreneur isn’t an easy one. She has faced some challenges here and there, but mostly she has relied on the support of a few to make it through. Going to college to channel my craft, literally saved my life. My mother passed away during my first semester of college. Six months later we lost our home to a tornado while we were inside. Those experiences sent me spiraling down a dark path until I made the decision to go to school and focus on doing what I loved the most. Going into the hair industry gave me a new start, and a new discipline. I’m not sure where I would be if I didn’t have my business. This journey into this industry helped me to discover purpose beyond the pain I’d experienced. My prayer is that my business can provide that same kind of impact for all who encounter it,” she shares. One might ask where one gets so much drive to do the things that Cierra does. She shares, “I have been encouraged by my family, friends, and mentors; they have all pushed and encouraged me. It’s because of them that my business is what it is today. I have also been favored with constant support of loyal clientele, and that alone is enough for me to stand on.” Cierra says that even during the loss of her mother, and the tornado ravishing her family’s home, there isn’t much she would change about her journey. “If I could, I would focus more on the business aspect of being a salon owner and not just the skill. As a business owner, it is so important to be educated on financial literacy, because it can truly make or break your business, and significantly impacts its development and growth. I would’ve also learned more about marketing and content building. Living in a digital age has completely changed what networking looks like. Passing out business cards is only the beginning of what your marketing should look like. I would have invested in learning these things, which would have provided a better way to build my business. I’ve learned they are just as important as focusing on honing the skills you provide behind the chair,” she shares.

More Than Hair Salon

920 Bob Wallace Avenue Southwest Suite 325 Huntsville, AL 35801 (256) 658-1566 www.cierradeshae.com 16

Moving forward, Cierra plans to continue to grow her business into a place that offers more than just hair services. “I hope to eventually be a full-service salon that provides facials, nail care, and more. I also hope to be able to have my own building of suites, where I can employ women and men like me that have a passion to serve the community, and the beauty industry. Additionally, I desire to provide training and business workshops for new people coming into the industry and create environments for stylists to come together as a community and build each other up,” she says. There are also plans of launching a product line for healthy hair of all ethnicities. Above all, Cierra will continue to use her God-given gift to reach and touch the lives of others. She shares, this is the true focus of More Than Hair. h

Huntsville - March/April 2021

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Darnita Samuels You Talk, I Will Listen

By Dorjae’ McClammey Photos by Still Shots Phootgraphy Introducing Darnita D. Samuels. Hailing from Detroit, Michigan, she relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina in 2008 to begin her journey of becoming the amazing therapist she is. Now, she even has her own practice to match. Officially known as Darnita D. Samuels, MSA, MA, LMFT, she’s established her private practice on a foundation that specializes in marriage and family therapy. This also includes individual, couples, pre-marital, marriage, and family therapy servicing ages from 18 and up. Darnita holds many degrees including a Bachelor of Art in Public Relations, Masters of Science in General Administration, and a Masters of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy. Now what got her into this field is quite an interesting story. Darnita shares that while out grocery shopping back home in Detroit, she was looking for her favorite cereal, which is Apple Cinnamon Cheerios. Of course, she asked a gentleman for help but instead of helping her, he quickly turned the conversation around describing his problems and what he was currently going through in life. When he asked what he should do she replied, “you should find someone to talk to” which he then replied, “well aren’t you someone?” This caused her to stop and think. This was the first time this has happened to her, and it continued to happen many times after. Darnita herself had benefited from the services of a therapist, which gave her a realistic idea of what a therapist does. I learned that it wasn’t someone giving you all the answers and telling you what to do. It involves someone helping you find what’s best for you and helping you to come to an understanding that you can handle and manage,” she says. After this grocery store encounter, Darnita began to realize her true calling, and eventually she would take steps that would make this a reality for her. Now, one thing I learned from my conversation with Darnita is that she is not one to give up, ever. When trying to enroll in the counseling program at Central Michigan, she always seemed to hit a roadblock. Not to be discouraged, she kept pressing. She found the MMFT program at Pfeiffer University, and there she received her masters.

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I just ask the right questions and pose good scenarios, my clients actually have to put in the work. It is a privilege to see my clients grow and change, and not only themselves, but for their families as well.”

While at Pfeiffer, Darnita realized two things, she wanted to own her own clinic, and own an ice cream shop. Yes, you read that right, an ice cream shop. One reason would be the shop would work as an incentive for new clients. Firsttime clients would get a free scoop of course. The second and more important reason is to help the community, mainly students from public schools. She told us when she attended Cass Techinical High School, she had to do a co-op, meaning she had to work while in school. As a student, she had to gain 200 hours of work experience to graduate. While this was hard, it also helped students learn about the work environment, work ethics, and how to manage a work-life balance. With the shop, she hopes to show students what it’s like to build and own their own business, the good and the bad. “Not just the luxuries of it all, but the blood, sweat, and tears that come with it,” she said. “Working at the shop will show students how to manage, budget, and most of all, the art of customer service, which I feel will help them excel better in school and after they graduate.” Darnita would also use this to adopt students who are struggling. “Those kids get to come in and create their own scoop of the month, resell that scoop and whatever profits are generated, goes back into the school, which in turns inspires that student to continue to work harder during the school year and even after they graduate,” she says. The shop can also be used as a place for teachers, faculty, and the PTA to work or consult outside of their school. With everything she has planned you may wonder what keeps her motivated to continue this journey, the answer, her family and her clients. Darnita states when it comes to the change, she helps others make in their lives, she never takes full credit for, “I just ask the right questions and pose good scenarios, my clients actually have to put in the work,” she says. “It is a privilege to see my clients grow and change, and not only themselves, but for their families as well.” Speaking of family, Darnita also dedicates all her hard work and motivation to her family back home in Detroit, especially her grandparents, and also her parents. “They have come through a lot and this is done in honor of them because without them there is no me. They were the ones who instilled in me a strong work ethic, continuing my education, and making sure my dreams became a reality, so for that, I make sure everything I do along this journey honors them,” she says.

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In the past, therapy has been perceived as sort of a taboo in the Black community and Darnita recognizes that. So, to help advocate for therapy, she works to make new and existing clients feel as comfortable as possible. She doesn’t use the big terms that everyone may not understand, “I want to make it so relatable. That is why my slogan is let’s just start with a conversation, let’s just talk,” she shares. She also wants to break down the wall clients may have up, so they do not feel judged or diagnosed. She does this by making her sessions as easy and painless as possible while still highlighting the important things learned. Additionally, she makes sure the environment is stress-free and allows her clients to have a little bit of free reign with the tools she provides such as blankets, pillows, and stress balls. If a client wants to lay down or sit on the

floor, they can do that, as long as they don’t fall asleep. She made it very clear she will wake you right back up. Another thing she does is not tell people she is a therapist when she’s out in public. She sort of lets them figure it out on their own. “People will come to me and strike up a conversation and as it’s going, I will mention that maybe they should go talk to someone. Yet, before they put up a fight, I make sure they understand their feelings are valid and more importantly they’re not crazy,” she says. At the conclusion of these conversations, she often shares that she is a therapist, allowing them to see for themselves that going to therapy is easier than it may seem. Darnita wants to make one thing clear. “Though going to therapy is currently ‘the thing to do’, it is very much real and that you need to make sure you know what you are going for. You can get amazing results if you put the work in and don’t play the game, so please don’t just play the game because you’re taking an appointment away from someone who wants to be there.” Darnita is pleased with the path she has taken in life and the accomplishments that have come. However, let her tell it, her proudest accomplishments are having a successful business, and being able to honor her family while doing so. Regarding what is in future for Darnita, you can expect to see her practice spread across the nation including more therapists of different specialties such as acupuncturists. They will more than likely be accompanied with an ice cream shop of hers right next door, once she learns how to make some ice cream that is. h

Darnita D. Samuels MSA MA LMFT darnitasamuelsmft@outlook.com 919-807-1692 Instagram: ddsmft_therapist 22

MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

Railyn Bozeman The daughter of Raisha Mercer and Dexter Bozeman

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

Elasticity Hair Care

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Huntsville - March/April 2021

By Ayana Bryant Photos by Livin For Media Photography

Many industries endured a major hit from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020. The world of cosmetology and small businesses within it came to a complete halt by the orders of local and state governments everywhere, with some being unable to sustain the blow. Local Detroit salon owner and businesswoman, Sonya Molette managed to keep her 20-year-old business alive and even used her time during the shutdown to develop a new venture. Molette, born and raised in Detroit, Michigan is leaving her mark on the hair industry in her unique way. She was given by mother to be raised by her grandparents at age of nine. She also suffered the loss of her mother at age 16 although, in what she describes as an unpleasant time in her life. Molette grew ip spoiled, loved and with lots of structure in her life. Always finding herself in leadership positions throughout school, she quickly realized that she enjoyed leading a team and excelling in whatever field she entered. This began to awaken an entrepreneurial spirit within her and inspired her to pursue something she had always loved, which was hair. She began to make money in school charging her classmates for finger waves and pony tails during lunchtime. Then she’d parade up and down the block with her “dollar gel” servicing many new clients. After ditching the idea to pursue a career in mortuary science, Molette enrolled at Detroit’s own Preston and Anna’s Beauty School. Now following her passion, she received her cosmetology license. After graduating, she began working at various beauty salons in the city. She paid very close attention to learn all she could to gain experience and learn the ropes of the salon business. When that entrepreneurial spirit was reawakened yet again, she made the decision to open her own salon taking everything she had learned into consideration, but on a greater level. Molette opened the doors to Hype Hair Salon, LLC in November of 2001 and will be celebrating 20 years of business this year.

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“ Being a single mother and running a salon from sun-up to sun-down was challenging. I’ve had breaking points but never broke, so that’s where I got the name.....Elasticity.”

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Hype Hair Salon remains as one of the top hair salons within the metro Detroit area. Offering service for all phases of hair, they are known for styling to perfection. When the pandemic hit last year, the salon had to close its doors, generating absolutely no revenue for any of its stylists or the owner. Molette says that experience has surely reminded her that as a business owner you must keep your finances in order. She encourages other small business to save as much as they can because you never know when something like this can happen, and preparation is key. Although 2020 was a very difficult time it gave Molette the opportunity to begin developing her own faith-based product line, Elasticity Hair Care. She partnered with a local manufacturer handpicking each specific ingredient that would most benefit her customers hair and a chemist to help her solidify the formulas. This product line includes a therapeutic purifying shampoo and conditioner, leave in conditioner, heat protectant, holding spray, silk and serum, and also a luminosity sheen. Molette says that God gave her the name Elasticity and shares, “Being a single mother working, and running a salon from sun-up to sun-down was challenging. I’ve had breaking points but never broke, so that’s where I got the name Elasticity. The ability to stretch and bounce back without breaking. I call my Ministry in a Bottle.” She hopes that these products will help women spiritually as well as physically. Elasticity Hair Care will launch in June 2021. Molette says that her three beautiful daughters are what motivate her to continue thriving and working hard. “Failure was never an option for me. I thrive on making it and just being successful in every right,” she says. With a successful career spanning over the last 25 years, she has definitely left her mark on the industry. Her accomplishments also include working as a celebrity stylist for some of our favs such as The Clark Sisters, The Sheards, Judge Hatchett, Judge Mablean, and even Hoopz from the hit reality TV show Flavor of Love, plus many more. Molette’s future plans for her career include promoting her hair line and opening a second Hype Hair location in Texas, where she plans to relocate. After the launch of Elasticity Hair Care in May, she plans to begin work on two new collections, Elasticity Natural and Elasticity Kids. h

Sonya Molette Elasticity Hair Care 248-403-3404 28

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Be Accelerated Into Purpose, LLC Humbled by His Grace Ministries 30

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Randall Lee It all begins with having a genuine love and concern for others. By doing so, the purest form of God’s love is expressed and perpetuated. This accurately describes the life of Kocysha LaShaun. Born and raised in West Helena, AR, Kocysha is the founder of Be Accelerated into Purpose, LLC. In this role, she serves as a Writing Coach, Editor, and Self-Publishing Consultant. She is also the overseer of Humbled by His Grace Ministries, a teaching and coaching ministry. She serves as a Teacher of Spiritual Growth and Development and a Spiritual Mindset Coach to help men overcome mental blocks that lead to feelings of frustration and defeat. Once these obstacles are conquered, Kocysha believes men are able to walk in their purpose with confidence, power, and humility. Naturally, Kocysha is a writer. Like most writers, it began in the imaginative mind of a young girl, who possessed the ability to see beyond the realms of her reality. “As a little girl, I began writing in the form of poetry, more so as an outlet for frustration. I never expected to be an author. That happened as a result of a job loss when God began downloading messages to me for a book,” she says. She is the author of three books and co-author in three anthologies. Her first book was Humbled by His Grace, originally written in 2013, but re-published in 2018. In the same year, she wrote another book as part of the See Self as God Sees mini-book series titled, Out of The Darkness and Into the Light. That one, Kocysha shares, was difficult to write. “This was the book that would tell what was meant to be written in my first book. This was the book I had to write to begin my own purpose walk with confidence,” she says. “It was difficult because it meant sharing pieces of me that I’d hidden for so long behind closed doors, out of fear of being misunderstood and judged while outwardly portraying a spiritual persona that involved encouraging others to be and do better.

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Some of her accolades include Coaching Certifications from Transformation Academy for CBT, REBT, and Spiritual Coaching, as well as Relationship Workshop Facilitator and Public Speaker Training and Workshop Facilitator. She is also a former Personal Development Writer for Success Profiles Magazine. Kocysha is innately an encourager, giver, and teacher. She is passionate about helping others rise out of their pits of darkness, while also addressing faulty belief systems and addictive behaviors. This helps them become unstuck so they can move forward in their purpose. This passion has extended into her writings, and as an author she uses her platform to teach the importance of selfreflection and the love and grace of God.

There was a struggle with people-pleasing and codependency on others to validate my existence and worth. While encouraging, uplifting and teaching others in the public, I was suffering behind closed doors, battling my own demons.

Photo by Clinton McCoy

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Huntsville - March/April 2021

Much like those she serves, Kocysha has had to deal with her own dark pits and addictive behaviors. Parts of her testimony are shared in her books. In short, she was a young girl who lost her virginity at the age of 13, which led to sex addiction in many forms lasting for over 20 years. “There was a struggle with people-pleasing and co-dependency on others to validate my existence and worth. While encouraging, uplifting, and teaching others in the public, I was suffering behind closed doors battling my own demons. Then one Sunday in late 2017, a pastor asked the question, ‘Are you seeing yourself as God sees you?’ That question convicted me so that it literally changed the trajectory of my life. That’s when my own process of being accelerated into purpose began. The process has not always been easy, but more than anything it’s been one of great humility,” Kocysha shares.

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Huntsville - March/April 2021

Although it was God that saw her through different trials, she wouldn’t be the person she is today were it not for the testimonies of others. “I can’t pinpoint one person who’s impacted my life the most because it’s a combination of stories from those who have bounced back from different setbacks in life. Losing my job as an instructor was the situation that impacted my life the most. It was devastating to my pride, but were it not for that, I’m sure things would have turned out completely different. That job loss led to me building a free-lance business as a selftaught transcriptionist and virtual assistant, and now as an author and coach,” she says. The one constant was the ever-present hand of God planted right in the middle of everything.

Pictured with Kocysha is her sister Karena Washington, who also co-authored on the book, The Lost Coin.

For those aspiring to write, Kocysha shares, “Knowing your who and why is most important for the writing process and helps as well with the marketing and promotion process. Create an outline of chapter titles and topics before writing your content. This will help with structure and organization. It will also save you a lot of time and money when it comes to choosing an editor or publisher.” On March 12, Kocysha released her 7th book titled, From the Heart of God to the Hearts of Men. On June 12, she will be joining the Fair Consulting Group as a speaker for the Leadership Experience Tour in Troy, MI. Over the next few months, she’s scheduled for several podcast interviews while continuing to establish her ministry. When not writing, Kocysha can be found enjoying the simple life. Her hobbies are reading, listening to praise and worship music, and painting. To learn more about Kocysha and to purchase copies of her books, please visit her website. h

www.kocyshalashaun.com

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Alex D. Banks II, Saxophonist FB: Alex D. Banks II IG: @alexdbanksii Contact Information: Phone: 256-631-1268 Email: info@alexdbanksii.com

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Huntsville - March/April 2021

Perfect Skin Code By Arielle Kilgore Photos by Kimberly Brown Confidence is not just a feeling. It is a look. Kimberly Brown, a Physician Assistant (PA-C) who specializes in Dermatology, understands the importance of having great skin and wants to share her talent and knowledge with everyone. Perfect Skin Code, founded by Kimberly Brown, is a personal brand that prides itself on helping people achieve great skin, and keeping it. Brown’s company can be found in St. Louis, Missouri. She shares how her clients would come into her office and ask how she was able to get her skin so perfect. “Truth is, you can’t have someone else’s skin, you just have to develop a code that works for you,” she says. Some of her products include a vitamin C serum and retinol for discolored skin. Her company also provides tools and tips for the face that help educate the masses. While most people believe that skincare has to be strenuous and costly, Brown consistently demonstrates that having good skin can be as simple as one, two, three. Brown has served as a professionally for ten years. While in her capacity, she has dealt with discoloration of skin, and other facial problems such as acne. Perfect Skin Code LLC is about finding your secret combination that can give you clear results. She released her product line on January 26, 2021, with the goal to help people not ignore their skin anymore, but to embrace it and feel better about themselves. Moreover, since Covid-19 has reached its oneyear anniversary, she believes that achieving what you want most, should not stop you. Not even a virus. Continued on the next page

Although skincare can make or break any opportunity for anyone, Brown believes that women of color should be invested in more. “Women of color are at a deficit when it comes to taking care of what’s important. I just decided that it was time to kind of reach out beyond the confines of my office and help educate women about their skin, especially African American women,” Brown explained. In an article published by the New York Times, women of color are more difficult to treat because of their high frequency to contract dark spots, discolorations, yellowing, or other problematic skin conditions. Even three years after the release of the article, a few brands, including Brown’s, have developed lines specifically for African Americans and their problems. “We tend to either ignore our skin or we don’t know what to do based on the special needs that we have. That’s what made me decide to start by providing education and then branch out into offering a few products,” she says. Furthermore, the inspiration for her work does not only come from the women in her community, but her personal experiences also drive her to make other people’s lives as uncluttered and as close to as arrant as she is today. Several years ago, Brown was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her diagnosis then helped her achieve what she was made to do, which was help other clients succeed in their dreams and in hers. Writing down her plan and doing things one day at time is how Brown met her goals. She also explained that having a support system and having specific people to do things she isn’t able to, aid in her accomplishments as well. “We all have strengths and weaknesses, but we must know them and ask for other ideas and expertise. This is how people grow and become great. It takes a village,” Brown said. Moving forward, her goal is to keep making products, specifically for African American women. Being that she has concise knowledge on women, it is her duty to continue to empower and educate those around her. “Vanity is not a bad thing, neither is wanting to look good. I believe you shouldn’t be deprived of that. It should be a part of who you are,” she says. To learn more about Kimberly Brown and the Perfect Skin Code product line, please contact her directly or visit her h website.

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www.terrasboutiquestore.com By Terry L. Watson Photos by Still Shots Photography The world of fashion is constantly evolving. There is glitz, glamor, and gorgeousness, all of which assume new definitions, every day. For Terra Cornelius, change is another in-demand and exquisite ‘new arrival’ piece; she is ready for it and always up for the challenge. She is a woman full of pizazz and has an effervescent personality that’s reflected in her personal style. Accompanied with her sincere aim to please her clientele, the result has impacted her fashion business, Terra’s Online Boutique, with loyal patronage. She consistently leads with her personal mantra, “What Matters to You, Matters to Us.” Terra quenches her thirst for fashion by offering an extraordinarily colorful experience through her online clothing boutique, where she showcases multiple, curated collections. In the aesthetically pleasing platform, one will find an array of multi-seasonal garments which can be worn on several different occasions. To complete the ensemble, elegant and chic accessories are available — from rhinestone earrings to cow-print fedoras, one might discover their true style through Terra’s eclectic selections. “One of my personal beliefs about clothing is they should align with your personality and aspirations,” she boldly remarks. April 2018 marked the much-anticipated birth of Terra’s Online Boutique. Opening her own store, she says, is something she has always desired to do. Everyone knew Terra was meant for it; the only thing she needed was a slight push which she had received the previous year.

She shared, “I will never forget. I was serving as an adjutant for my cousin, Pastor Bridgett Battles one night. She started pushing me around the church and then suddenly, she stopped, turned me around, and looked me square in the eyes and said, ‘You help push everyone else with their dreams and visions. Tonight, God told me to push you!’ That prophecy hit me like a ton of bricks and it never left. I was in the office one day thinking about that conversation and decided to start my boutique. I began messaging website designers while at lunch to see who would respond, to no avail, but I kept pushing. I called my goddaughter, Ariel Thomas, and asked if she could create a website for me. She said yes; So, I gave her my credit card and told her to get started. I added that I needed it to go live by midnight and she went right to work on it. When I got home, we worked on it together and had it published at the exact time I wanted it to be. We created the collections with only one item in them, but it was finally live! After that, I went into my closet and pulled out all of my boutique items. These were the brands I contacted and started shopping with.” Terra genuinely finds joy in being a boutique owner. She expressed, “I love seeing and hearing about my clients lighting up when they try on something from the boutique, affirming their inherent beauty and worth. My boutique has been a source of inspiration, affirmation, and motivation for countless women. It’s not just about selling a product; it’ my ministry. I realized that the most seemingly well put together women didn’t actually feel good about themselves. I wanted Terra’s Boutique to serve as a vehicle of inspiration and recognition of personal power; mainly because I hadn’t always felt good about myself. I knew this wouldn’t just be an on-line boutique, it would be a platform to elevate and affirm women.’ Born and raised in High Point, N.C., she is the youngest of four siblings. Contrary to the stylish woman that we see right now, image wasn’t important to young Terra. She stated, “I wasn’t a tomboy, but I wasn’t overly concerned with what I wore. My clothing didn’t need to be pressed. My Mom picked out all my outfits and even took care of the ironing until I was in the ninth grade. She wanted to make sure my clothes matched and looked neat.” Things began to change as Terra navigated her way through high school at High Point Central. “I became more interested in dressing well and looking nice. I’d never been into luxury brands, but I knew that I liked quality,” Terra recalls. Growing up, her family did not have a lot of money—however, her mother, Frankie Pike

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was a gifted seamstress. She made a lot of Terra’s clothing which contributed to her developing style. Terra shared, “Once I was set to go on a field trip. That morning, mom got up early and made me an outfit.” Terra’s Mother worked for a company that made denim wears, particularly trousers. Whenever they had employee sales, she would be able to get some Calvin Klein, Texas, and Gloria Vanderbilt jeans for her daughters. Other times, she would just opt for cheaper jeans. To make them look expensive, she would bring home labels from work and put them on the jeans. Terra’s journey to success has been a bumpy ride. She’s had her share of personal challenges from divorce to not being able to have children of her own. She’s relied heavily on her faith to get her through life’s ups and downs. “I have allowed my faith in God to inspire me, and I clearly understand that I’m only in competition with myself. A friend, Angela Briggs told me once, I had to know I was a “winning hand”. That affirmation took me to a whole new place, mentally. I knew then who I was, and whose I was, and knew I could not lose or fail,” she shares. Photo by Ward Legacy Studios

In candidness, Terra reveals, “I love God, family, friends, and fashion, a good laugh, success, and money. I’m an unapologetic money lover. It’s not everything, but we all need it to survive.” Although earning is a remarkable motivator, Terra discusses that what makes her work harder is her love for the clients. Moreover, her primary focus remains to be her ‘why’—her reasons for sharing her passion for fashion to the world. “I want this to be my retirement plan, so it needs to be successful.” When it’s all said and done, Terra shares, “Don’t be afraid to be yourself. This is your superpower. There will be many folks doing the same thing or something similar; however, your personality will set you apart. You must be willing to be accountable for your mistakes and treat people well. Often, people will remember their experience with you and not the product or service. Therefore, you must always be kind.” Terra is a proud graduate of North Carolina A&T State University and has been employed for more than 25 years in the field of Human Resources. In addition to being a boutique owner, she also owns T&T Tax and Notary. She’s also an illustrious member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. The future looks very bright for Terra and her boutique. She plans to add more styles and variety to her collection which will provide her clients with a more enriching experience. To learn more about Terra, please visit her website. h

Photo by India Reaves

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Mia Collins

Let Her Spice Up Your Life By Terry L. Watson - Photos by Mia Collins What is the use in eating if the food doesn’t taste good? Pose that question to Mia Collins and she would probably present some spices direct from her product line, Mia’s Oh So Good Seasoning. Mia is sort of a down home girl from Arkansas, who is currently living the Vegas life in Las Vegas, NV. Her mission is to add flavor to every household, one jar at a time. “I would like to see Mia’s Ohh So Go Seasonings collaborate with major retail markets and expand to other countries throughout the world. She isn’t too far off the mark, as her products can be purchased in 36 states, and two countries (United States and Jamaica). Mia’s intrapreneurial spirit was planted into her life as a child. “I am inspired mostly by my mother and father. I lost both parents before I was age 25. My mom passed away when I was 16 years old on Mother’s Day, a day I will never forget. I grew up seeing my mom as an entrepreneur. She did nails and makeovers for women, and always worked hard to provide a good life for us. Thinking about her drive, truly keeps me motivated,” Mia says. The official name of her business is Mia’s Ohh So Good Seasonings & Cookware. It was established in 2015 and according to Mia, the rest is history. “After 14 years in the food industry, I wanted a change, so I went back to Corporate America. However, my customers still wanted that flavor. Some friends suggested I start selling my seasonings as a side hustle. The orders started to flow in, so much so, that I needed a website to track them. Next, I launched Uncle L’s Errthang Seasoning, and in 2017, we rebranded and Mia’s Ohh So Good Seasonings was created,” she says. Over the years, additional flavors have been added to Mia’s brand. While Mia offers a variety of seasonings, her best and top seller has been her Errthang Seasoning. “People love it because it’s good on Errthang. I currently carry 14 Flavors. My top five are Errthang, Apple BBQ, Ranch Steak & Garlic, and Peppercorn Herb. I also carry Zesty Lemon Pepper, Cajun Hot, Salt Free, Yo Favorite Burger, Spicy Taco, Spicy Errthang, Cheesy Popcorn, Fish Fry, Spicy Garlic Pepper, and Chili in a Bag,” she says.

Her cookware line was launched in January 2021. Pre-Seasoned cast iron skillets were the first items to debut. They were a huge hit and sold out of inventory in just week one. Fortunately, she has restocked them and can be purchased directly from her website. To compliment her cookware, she also offers Mia’s Ohh So Good Recipe Book, oven mitts, and aprons. Like most other businesses around the country, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted Mia’s business, but not in a negative way. While many businesses struggled during the pandemic, Mia says she was positioned to win. “More people were doing home cooking, to be safe. People wanted to add a new flavor to their meals, and we were in position to meet their demands. We updated all our social media information, developed new and improved logos, including packaging. We also were fortunate to receive sound mentorship and collaborate with other businesses. We reached a new audience by doing tradeshows in 2020, which help to expand our audience, and capture a new market in the process,” she says. Business has been good for Mia, and while she wouldn’t change much about her journey, there is one thing she admits she could have done differently. “I wish I would have researched my website more before going with what I have. I’m working on implementing an E-commerce website that will allow me to reach a bigger audience and increase my resources,” she says. For anyone who may be thinking about starting a business, Mia offers the following advice. “Do your due diligence and research the industry that you are entering. If possible, incorporate your business and follow legal guidelines that are in place. And most importantly, try to collaborate and connect with like minds as much as possible,” she says. In the future, Mia is looking forward to expanding her cookware line of cast iron skillets to full cookware sets. She is also a lady who understands the power of numbers. “I am looking to participate at tradeshows with 25,000 or more attendees,” she says. She also has five new Food Ambassadors on her team that are helping to promote her brand around the United States. They are in Memphis TN, Philadelphia PA, Las Vegas NV, Little Rock AR, and Shiloam Springs AR. h

www.miasohhsogoodseasoning.bigcartel.com

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