Yesterday Prepared Me For What’s Next
What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What would you do?
While I was confident in my ability to fulfill the assignment, I admit I didn’t have all the answers initially. Ten years earlier, in 1997, I researched the magazine publishing industry, specifically in the Triad area of North Carolina. I did this to learn more about what is required to publish a magazine, including how to manage a publishing company, etc. Amongst all of the information obtained, I never inquired about how to support my new media company financially. That would eventually pose a problem for me and Huami Magazine.
I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in return acquire life.
Finances and their availability is vital to the survival of any business. I self-funded operating costs for quite some time, especially in the first few years of existence. However, all of a sudden, things changed. Huami Magazine would enjoy the love and support from unlikely sources, including individuals who never exhibited an interest in the product. Doors would soon open and opportunities flowed. Things were looking up for Mykel Media Company, LLC.
The best advice ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet, because someone may get it confused with being arrogant.
As the face and founder of Huami Magazine, I worked hard to spread brand awareness. During this time, there were other challenges I would face, but having the support of the magazine wasn’t one of them. Sales were so good that everything needed to keep our doors open, we received it. God saw something good about Huami Magazine and He made provisions to ensure
Make you tomorrow happen today, but most importantly make it count. Life is but a whisper and we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is telling us.
The message that I want to remind the readers of Huami Magazine is simple. When God gives you an assignment, He will also make provisions for you to see it through. All that we have to do is show up for the assignment.
Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder
Terry L Watson Publisher
www.huamimagazine.com
Terry L. Watson Writer
Monica Montgomery Writer Dorjea’ McClammey Writer Joy Rogers Writer
Tamara Smith
Editor In Chief Terry L. Watson Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Writers Tonya Dixon Terry L. Watson Alana Allen Jeuron Dove
For General Inquiries
www.huamimagazine.com huami.huntsville@gmail.com (336)340-7844
Photographers Perfect Lenz Photography Shaw Photography Group Still Shots Photography
Todd Youngblood Photography
HUAMI MAGAZINE is published 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 E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com
mykelmedia@yahoo.com (336) 340-7844 On The Cover
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“Don’t see me, see God” This simple yet powerful command comes from someone familiar with believing in the power of faith.
Huntsville, AL, resident Shana Howard is a mother, educator, author, businesswoman, and source of inspiration for others. As a student of life, Shana has channeled her tragedy into triumph and transformed countless lives.
In 1996, as a sophomore in high school, Shana described her younger self as popular, social, and beautiful. That was Shana before being involved in a motor vehicle accident that would change her life drastically.
The collision left Shana in a coma for a month and paralyzed for a total of two years. Journeying to healing included loss of sight, inability to speak, and eating through a feeding tube. “Everything I worshiped was taken away,” she explains. Even more, depression developed when lasting remnants of the collision appeared in the form of vision impairments and hair loss. Shana says others noticed the imperfections, and she found it challenging to fit in with her previous crowd. She adds the burden of her new circumstances led to loneliness, dark thoughts, and a laden desire to be normal again.
Shana describes the excitement as she began to regain mobility after undergoing a procedure to correct some of her vision impairments. “I began to realize normality is fluid and not definite,” she said. To help Shana regain a sense of normalcy, she was prescribed an array of treatments, such as physical therapy, counseling, and medications.
As her condition improved, Shana wanted to do more. Soon, she had the desire to attend school. However, her neurologist disagreed and informed her parents that her memory would not sustain her academic aspirations due to her traumatic brain injury. Unsatisfied with the limitations placed upon her by man, Shana put her trust in God and enrolled in Lawson State Community College and received an Associate of the Arts Degree in 2001.
“I have to talk, and I’m always working for God. I’m only tired when I’m leaning on my own strength.”
Shana was able to supersede the limitations placed on her. She obtained her Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Education from Alabama A&M University in 2005, Masters of the Arts in Physical Education from Alabama A&M University in 2010, and an additional Master’s Degree in Leadership in 2018 from Alabama A&M University. “I began to realize my life is my testimony.,” she says.
Although the physicians and clinicians diagnosed Shana with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), she has reimagined and redefined TBI to “Testimony Beyond Imagination”. “I have to talk, and I’m always working for God. I’m only tired when I’m leaning on my own strength,” she says. Even more, her steadfast belief and faith have inspired others, and she shares her story in her book, Brain-E-Yak Wonders.
Swimming has been therapeutic for Shana. As a kid, she always loved to swim. Her passion has helped her to form a program called All-Around Athlete. In 2019, All-Around Athlete was founded in Huntsville. Shana says she initially set out to give kids something to do during the Covid 19 pandemic, and so she decided to train some young individuals how to swim. Word spread quickly, and the rest of the story is still being told.
“My purpose is to give people an awareness of water. Water is created to give a sense of peace. God created more water than land because it is symbolic of Him,” she says. “I believe everything with a purpose in life is attached to water. Trust water, trust God. Don’t be scared of water if you believe in the man that walked on it.”
As if her plate wasn’t already full, Shana has started a nonprofit organization called Swim With Spice. While targeting the North Huntsville, Madison, and Decatur areas of Alabama, the mission of Swim With Spice is to teach people of all ages to swim. It also invokes encouragement through the rigorous movement of the body. Shana has demonstrated through her organization that conditioning the body through swimming can improve the learning process. “Swimming can improve cognition in three ways. It can enhance the mind by increasing awareness, productivity, and engagement. It is also an activity that stimulates nerve cells in ways that allow them to bind to one another while making way for new information to be stored. Lastly, swimming aids in a child’s development by stimulating growth,” Shana says.
Shana has decided to use her testimony and life experiences to inspire and uplift others. In the future, she hopes to continue uplifting through her vocations as an educator, coach, and motivational speaker. To learn more about Shana and her programs, please visit her website. h
Kristeona Pitts Watkins is, first and foremost, a believer of Christ Jesus and knows without a doubt that her path is orchestrated by and through Him. “It is in Him that I can fulfill my roles as a daughter of two amazing parents, Gene and Joyce Pitts, and wife to the love of my life, Terry Watkins II,” she says. Kristeona is also a devoted friend, mental health advocate, and business owner.
Kristeona is the face and founder of Huntsville, AL, based Mind Your Journey Counseling Services. The products and services offered by MYJCS include individual counseling services for children, adolescents, and adults. They also offer virtual and in-person services to accommodate their clients’ needs. Kristeona says that MYJCS is in the process of developing a mindful self-directed journal that is designed for their clients and others who want to become more self aware. The goal is to release this product in February 2023.
Kristeona was born in Clarksdale, MS, and raised in Mound Bayou, MS, also referred to as “The Delta”. Kristeona says “I grew up as an only child to parents who were married 14 years, even before I was conceived. I would like to think that I had an idea of what I wanted to do early in life, which was helping people.”
In 2007, she entered her first year at Mississippi Valley State University, where she initially studied Speech and Communication. By the end of that year, Kreisteona decided that was not the path for her. Not only did she change her major, she transferred schools and became a proud alumna of Jackson State University after graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. She went on to attend Alabama A&M University and received her Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology and Educational Specialist in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. After completing her required hours as an Associate Licensed Counselor, she became a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Alabama.
Kristeona says it’s her belief that if a person changes their mindset, their thoughts, behaviors, and how they navigate life will then follow. “We are all on our own individual journeys in life. If we are mindful, if we are intentional, our journeys can be one of peace, happiness, and fulfillment.
MYJC was established in September 2021. However, Kristeona says it was created in her mind long before its physical manifestation. “I knew that before I could be the leader of my own business, it was important to serve under others and gain much-needed experience. I began my mental health career as a Youth Care Worker and gained experience working with adolescents placed in a residential treatment facility for behavioral, addiction, psychiatric, emotional, and conduct disorders. From there, I worked at a local mental health agency, a children’s advocacy center, a hospital, and a private group practice and serviced children, adolescents, and adults. Working in different areas of mental health equipped me with the experience needed to manage a diverse group of clientele effectively, but it wasn’t until I went through and completed almost three years of supervision as an Associate Licensed Counselor that I acquired what was needed to be an effective business owner. Under my supervisor, I learned what counselors aren’t taught throughout their matriculation in school. She encouraged and helped me step out on faith, reminding me not to allow my fears to stand in the way of my goals,” she says.
In regards to inspiration, Kristeona says there is a “who” and there is a “what” that gets credit for doing so. “The “what”, is my purpose. My purpose drives my everyday life. My purpose and the pursuit of has impacted how I’ve navigated my life and helped me secure a career that provides me with much fulfillment and joy. My “what” has led me to find purpose, and my purpose led me to the field of counseling,” she shared. My “who” is my father, unequivocally. Growing up, I watched my father, with limited education, find a way not to let his circumstances from childhood limit how he shows up in the world. He was comfortable becoming a doctor, but he realized his purpose was to become a self-employed farmer. You see, the thing about purpose is it’s usually attached in some way to things we enjoy. Although being a doctor allows lives to be saved and helps aid people in need, farming does the same, but he gets more enjoyment outside working as a farmer versus being inside as a doctor. God made a way and gave my father a sense of purpose that he couldn’t find by being a doctor. You can’t tell him that farming isn’t his purpose. You can’t tell him that it isn’t at the essence of his being and that he doesn’t do it well. As a counselor, I feel the same.”
When asked what she would change about her journey in life and her career, Kristeona says, “If I’m honest, I don’t believe anything in life happens by chance or circumstance. Therefore, when I reflect on my journey of things that have happened, I know that they were all things that prepared me for this journey in business. I have no doubt that these experiences will be key to my success.”
Kristeona’s advice to future entrepreneurs and others who may follow a journey similar to hers is, “Don’t ever be afraid to ask questions. When you’re in college pursuing the degrees, talk to your academic advisor and let them know your specific plans for your career. Seek out people who are already where you want to be and ask them to mentor you. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and network with others; this will get you far. Be open to exploring different areas of counseling to see which works best for you. Recognize that being a counselor is not easy. Pay it forward. Remember, even if you don’t see things grow to fruition with clients, you know that you planted a seed. And finally, remember to implement self-care because it is essential.”
Moving forward, Kristeona plans to continue being an advocate for mental health. “We teach everything in school, from math and science to home economics and vocational school. Although these are important subjects, is mental health not as important? Mental health aids in how we show up in the world, and we should provide education on it. This is needed to further our efforts in decreasing stigmas and assist in looking at mental health as a positive thing, not a negative one.” Please visit their website to learn more about Kristeona and Mind Your Journey Counseling Services. h
www.mindyourjrny.com
By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Marcus Boyd
As a young boy, Marcus Boyd was perceived as someone without a voice. Today, Marcus’s voice is heard and recognized on various levels and platforms. “I create and make things from nothing,” he says. The young folks say they got it out of the mud, but for me, I made a rose from concrete,” he says.
While he has Autism, Marcus doesn’t allow his condition to slow him down. Eleven doctors once told him in two states that he was brain dead and would never get an education. Those same doctors said to him that he would never talk or function on his own, that he would never cook or do anything for himself, and would rely on the assistance of a caregiver. Yet Marcus has defied their predictions; Marcus Marcus is a leader, a visionary, a goal-getter, a brand hustler, and an empire grinder.
Marcus says his past was horrific and full of challenges. “I was beaten, bullied, I had my ribs broken, I was peed on and even left for dead. He has lived in 17 foster homes, 16 group homes, 16 mental hospitals, and four inpatient centers. He has been homeless and ate from dumpsters as a means to survive. At his lowest point, Marcus tried to commit suicide, but God had other plans for him.
Marcus says he never imagined that he would become a brand and that others would be interested in his life. He knew he wanted to help change lives and help change the status quo of how people perceive Autism. In doing so, he has become an international, five-time award-winning Autism Activist. He works with governors, mayors, city council members, state senators, organizations, and foundations to produce rights, laws, and benefits for Autistic individuals and families in the United States and around the world. “I am using my testimony as a light to give hope to others who may be going through what I did. I want to bring acceptance, inclusion, awareness, justice, and new opportunities for Autistic families,” he says.
So, how did Marcus begin? He shares it was during August 2017. He had already been diagnosed with Autism and rapped about his condition in some of his music. The music was fine, but he knew he had to take it to another level. He connected in Atlanta, GA, with Manisha Holiday, who he calls his Godmother. Manisha, a celebrity PR, encouraged Marcus to focus on sharing his story of being Autistic rather than his music. During that time, Marcus’s interest was music. Still, his ability to survive was more important, so he took Manisha’s advice and began using his platform to bring awareness to Autism and individuals infected by it, and the rest is history.
Marcus shares that he could not do all he does without God’s blessing. “With all the blessings God is allowing me to be a part of and do, I give God all the glory and honor. I worship His holy name because He is the reason for this season,” he says. The platform that Marcus is blessed to utilize, he says, is one of the things he loves most. “I love the amazing, incredible people I meet and the stories I hear. Having Autism and speaking up for Autism and the millions of voiceless individuals and their families is priceless. I spent fourteen years of my life being nonverbal and battling other conditions associated with Autism. Now I get to use my voice to help bring real change,” he says.
Being an Autism activist is not easy work, Marcus shares. “There are autism advocates who advocate for their child, family member, or a friend, and those who are actively on the battlefield operating with limited resources. I come from the projects and the ghetto, where grinding is celebrated, and few are educated, and that presents challenges for me.” One of the essential things Marcus has learned is to invest and believe in himself.
Along with God, Marcus acknowledges his grandmother as his greatest source of inspiration. “I couldn’t put a price on what my grandmother has done for me. She looked past my Autism, loved me, and forced me to tap into my own greatness,” he says. Marcus also says that his best friend, Queen Carter, for showing him how to love. He also says that Queen has greatly impacted his brand and cause. He shares other sources of inspiration: Gary Sinatra, Manisha Holiday, Tracy Bumpers, John Mcclung Jr., Minista Todd, Jacquetta Quashie, Tina Bridges, Veronica Tess Myers, Alexander Myers, Jessica Nash, Kathy Taylor, and Dorothy Carr.
As life continues to happen for Marcus, there is no telling what will happen next for him and his brand. In the meantime, Marcus will continue to use his voice and testimony to uplift others and fight for those affected by Autism. He encourages those interested to keep watching and believing in God’s plan. h
It all comes down to what is seen through her eyes.
Arizona-based photographer Angelia Malbrew describes herself as a woman of God. She is also determined to create a life she loves and a legacy she can be proud of.
Angelia is a loving wife, mom, daughter, sister, friend, mentor, educator, and successful entrepreneur. She is the oldest of two amazing daughters to her parents, whom she says were both solid and dedicated examples.
Angelia attended school in the hospitality state of Mississippi. In 2011, she made a move to Arizona and continued her education. Today, she is the owner of Angelia Malbrew Photography LLC. “I am a traveling luxury portrait photographer with a flare and a passion for making my clients look and feel like celebrities. I offer luxury portrait experiences by rolling out the red carpet and offering a full-on celebrity affair,” she says.
Angelia realized her love for photography many years ago, and making a career out of it only made sense. She shares, “I developed a love of photography when I received my first Polaroid camera when I was around 12 or 14 years old. I began taking photos of my family and friends at school, and little did I know that would be the start of something beautiful. My late father, Clayton, was a huge influence in my life, and watching him take everyone else’s photos at family gatherings is one of the reasons I fell in love with art. My cousin, the late Nate Edwards, motivated me and was never too busy to help or push me to become an amazing photographer.”
The excitement her clients express when they see her work is something Angelia says she loves about photography. “I love how their faces light up like a kid at Christmas when they see the back of my camera. I love how they get excited and cry when they see their images upon delivery. I also love being an artist blessed by God to create art and freeze time. I love what I do more than I could ever articulate, and I know I was born for this,” she says.
Understanding her purpose and being able to enjoy the success she has, Angelia would be remiss not to honor those who have impacted and inspired her the most. Her late grandmother, father, and mother ensured she would be upstanding, successful, and well-rounded. “I do what I do and keep going because God has an amazing purpose for me. My husband and family have been very supportive and kept me going when I needed them most. I owe it to them and myself, as well as other little brown girls that see me as an inspiration to be the best I can be.”
Some of the challenges Angelia says she has faced in business is trying to prove herself to those that aren’t familiar with the process of being photographed professionally. “Luxury isn’t cheap, and cheap isn’t luxury,” she says. Another challenge is educating and advising her clients about how important it is to have professional photographs and legacy portraits. “Sometimes, when people are used to doing things a certain way, it takes a bit of convincing and several connection advances to win them over. That’s ok, and I am here for it all. I welcome challenges.”
In the future, Angelia plans to take the world by storm, create more memorable portraits, and offer exceptional service to all that step in front of her camera. She also plans to continue taking her brand of photography around the globe. “I want to photograph people in every part of the world. My clients, fans, and viewers may miss the chance to travel, so I want to show them the world through my eyes. Keep watching, I am on my way,” she says.
Her advice to those who may follow a path similar to hers is to pray, work hard, pray some more, keep moving, and never give up on your dreams. She also says to stay humble and always find a way to give more than you take. h www.angeliamalbrewphotography.com
Action is a necessary component required to bring change to a community. The type of action to which others who desire change will respond to. The kind of action that addresses the concerns and problems of a community and produces solutions that improve living conditions. Such an organization exists, and is answering the call for change.
Based in Houston, TX, The New Black Collective was developed by four high school friends; Ebony Joiner, Shaquala Warren, Kevin Thomas, and Jasmine Bledsoe. With each member reigning from Waco, TX, they share a variety of degrees and certifications from HBCUs to Ivy Leagues. Another member, DeAundra Moore, serves as Program Manager and is passionate about empowering and supporting others through direct community interaction.
Launched in 2019, The New Black Collective is a nonprofit organization that services the minority community through community outreach programs. The idea was born out of a need each member was aware of. They also genuinely wanted to give children and adults something positive to look up to.
“To amplify the quality of life in our community, promote culture, and education; through community intitiatives and partnerships with other organizations.”
Led by Jasmine, who believes in giving back and enriching her community, The New Black Collective operates under the mission to implement community initiatives that improve access to education, investments, opportunity, and sustainable services. “I learned that surrounding myself with people who can help me is like being surrounded by tangible Godliness,” Jasmine says. The group offers curated programs that are free to the community. They also host annual events, including a Back 2 School Drive and Coats N’ Cocoa, and collaborate with other organizations and businesses in Waco, and Waco ISD.
What motivates the group as a whole? They say, “God and people. Our love for God has inspired us to love people aloud. Our people inspire us so much. Knowing that we come from a strong people who have built so many things from the ground up is an inspiration. The tenacity and perseverance of those that have come before us will always be true inspirations. They did, we can.”
Like any other startup, The New Black Collective has endured its share of trial and error. One challenge they shared was that learning what works for them as a business and what doesn’t serve them has been pivotal in their journey. They were able to overcome such challenges through mentorship and counsel. “We believe one does not know everything. So we talk to people that know a little bit more than we do and apply what we’ve learned,” they said.
Moving forward, the plan for The New Black Collective is to be a legacy of labor and love. They also hope to expand and build sustainable and forward-thinking programs. To learn more about the program and to find ways on how to get involved with their programs, please visit their website.
“I learned that surrounding myself with people who can help me is like being surrounded by tangible Godliness.”
Jasmine Bledsoe President
By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Timieka Tillman
Professional Hairstylist Timeka Tillman loves making people feel comfortable, relaxed, and, most importantly, beautiful. Timeka is the owner of Pensacola-based Loyalty Hair Studio.
“As a salon owner I love helping others grow. I also love to see people reach their goals. Most importantly, I teach others that God leads my path and having faith is a must,” she says.
Loyalty Hair Studio is a one-stop salon that specializes in something different. Their team consists of a barber, loctician, and hairstylist with a focus on natural and relaxed hair. Timeka says their clients always come first, and great customer service is their top priority.
Timeka is a native of Junction City, Kansas. At the young age of 17, she became a single parent to her son, Timothy. That experience, she says, sparked her drive and helped her focus on her future. She shares that her daughter, Tatayana was born extremely premature at just 25 weeks. That experience taught her about having faith and encouraged her to depend on God to lead and direct her path. Her youngest son, Tyking has taught her how to appreciate all that life has to offer.
Timeka graduated from Junction City High School in 2002. She says, “I knew Kansas was not where I wanted to stay. I wanted more for my son and me, so I moved to Pensacola in 2003. Once there, she worked different jobs before attending cosmetology school at Pensacola State College in 2010. Once acquiring her cosmetology license, Timeka would go on to work in several salons, she says, until God pushed her into ownership. In March 2020, right in the middle of the Covid 19 pandemic, Loyalty Hair Studio was born.
Timeka says she was the little girl doing everyone’s hair, from French rolls to ponytails and pin curls. “God blessed these hands of mine.” Talented for sure, Timeka still had to build up an adequate clientele in order to sustain her business. After working for Regis corporation for five years, she transitioned to a booth rent-based salon. “That is where I learned that everybody doesn’t want to see me become successful. This is where I learned you must surround yourself with people who will help you win and grow,” she says. “After doing booth rental for a couple of years, God said that it was time. I can remember that day clearly. It was in February 2020, and I was on the phone with my aunt. I finally spoke the words of ownership.”
For years, Timeka had told herself to focus on her kids and owning a salon wasn’t in the cards for her. Yet, she confesses that God’s timing is all that matters. “God spoke to me and I packed up my belongings and started to look for a spot for me and my clients,” she says.
By now, it’s obvious that her kids are her biggest inspiration. She is also inspired by the love and support they continue to show her. As a business owner, she also advises others who may follow in her footsteps. “Don’t prolong something that’s not right, and don’t give people that have done you wrong a second chance, not when it comes to business. Surround yourself with people that want to see you win. Pray and ask God to lead you in the right direction because having faith and a relationship with God is the most important thing to have in business,” she shares.
The future looks bright for Timeka and Loyalty Hair Studio. Her goals moving forward are to enroll in classes that will allow her to offer different services. She also intends to teach others coming into the hair game about what she has learned. “I know I can help other stylists perfect their craft, and I also want to help aspiring entrepreneurs avoid many of the hardships I did. I also see myself organizing a Women’s Empowerment group to help young women grow to be their own boss. There are plans for a product and retail line as well. I have much more to offer in this world, and Loyalty Hair Studio is just the beginning,” she says.
In 2018, the world was formally introduced to Wakanda. A world where people of color lived and ruled in a modern economic and progressive society of fair trade and collaboration. As portrayed in the fantasy fiction movie Black Panther, Wakanda is a black utopia untouched by the outside world. To most, it was a fantastic work of fiction, but to Rodney and Stephenie Smith, it was as real as you or I, and as possible as starting a simple courageous conversation. Rodney and Stephenie (Steven-ee) Smith have made it their mission and business to create a space where sustainable transformations takes place through courageous conversations about race and equity. The Smiths are working to change society toward racial equity.
Sophic Solutions, LLC is a change management and consulting firm based in Kansas City, Missouri. Sophic provides educational consultation to schools and school districts, offers change management solutions to various organization types, and conducts diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging training for a variety of companies and associations. Sophic also designs educational curriculum, offers professional development sessions, and facilitates team-building activities in addition to several supplementary management improvement services.
“Sophic Solutions was born out of our passion and experiences in our respective professions,” Rodney explains. “Our goal was to overcome our own daily dealings with some of these discriminatory practices. It came from being faced with marginalization in our own professional environments.”
Dr. Rodney D. Smith is also Vice President for Access and Engagement at William Jewell College in Liberty, Missouri. As an academic, his natural curiosity caused him to question and investigate how implicit bias became so ingrained in American culture and how to change it. “As an academician, I began to study the origins of the divide we as a country are experiencing. It ushered me into wanting to learn more about how we got here.” These are the questions Sophic Solutions encourage their partners to ask and explore.
Dr. Smith began teaching courses in the area of social justice and equity. As word spread of his knowledgeable and practical approach to this conversation, he received invitations to speak and educate others. Fast-forward to 2018, after leaving a post in the not-for-profit sector, Stephenie assumed the role of managing partner of their business. As a social worker, Stephenie had a front-row view of how unawareness and avoidance affected underserved communities in the area of social equity. Her passion for helping people find efficacy in their lives and community made her stand out.
“Although Sophic Solutions was founded in 2007, I continued to work for outside organizations until 2018. I have always been blessed because while working for majority white social service organizations, I created a safe space for my team and the people we served. I was able to use my role, personality, and the way I lead, to create a “Black” space within those entities,” Stephenie explains. Creating a relevant space wasn’t just about carving out and cultivating an environment where the concerns of black and brown people were heard, but were responded to with a demonstration of cultural humility. It was also essential to how the work was being done and those doing it.
Stephenie has leveraged her 20 + years of direct practice and organizational leadership experience to support her partners/clients. As the lead consultant with leaders across several sectors, Stephenie is able to stimulate curiosity about how outcomes are generated. With a belief that outcomes are produced through the system, Stephenie is able to guide teams through examining the Pedagogy, Policy, Practice, and People (Culture) of the organization. Stephenie explains, “Often times when organizations are seeking change, teams stop at simply transforming behaviors. While behavioral modification can be key, it is equally important to ensure the system of that organization does not have policies, practices or a culture that tolerates or promotes inequity.” Therefore engaging in a holistic approach to change is imperative. Stephenie’s approach is very much aligned with her discipline as a Master’s level Social Worker. Her commitment to this value- driven practice creates room for social emotional attention that must accompany the process of change.
In addition to leading Sophic Solutions, Stephenie serves as an adjunct professor at Avila University while also contributing to several community boards. Stephenie reminds us, “It is important to connect the dots in every area of our lives. Meaning this is not just the work that I engage in, but the life that I live.”
As husband and wife business partners and parents to two wonderful children, family is vitally important to the Smiths, “We were both privileged to have parents who are Black professionals that taught us how to seek and use knowledge to further ourselves and our community,” Stephenie explained. “When you have role models in the home that set the standard, you are compelled by those expectations. My mother is a retired educator, and my father is a retired agriculturalist. So, I grew up understanding that I am responsible to my community and that is how Rodney and I have raised our children, and I’m proud to say that they have embraced the idea that it takes action and understanding to move the culture forward.”
With recognition from the community and other entities, Stephenie and Rodney received requests asking them to help create equity-centered schools, companies, and organizational groups.
With, not for is Sophic Solutions’ approach to assisting organizations in achieving their goals of self-sustaining social change. “We strongly believe in working with organizations to help them identify and address the areas of social inequity within their companies or groups,” Stephenie explained.
“Helping companies understand what implicit bias is, that it really exists and that its existence is the cause for the racial inequity that we see in society, is an important first step for the organizations that engage our services,” Rodney explains. “If asked, most of these organizations will say that they are made up of ‘good people.’ So, the next question is, ‘Can good people cause black, brown, and female workers to feel marginalized and overlooked?’ These kinds of questions can open the door to the kinds of courageous conversations that must take place so that change can happen.”
Over the years, Sophic Solutions has been a catalyst for change across a variety of platforms. Their website features many testimonials from partners and individuals who have benefited from their approach to social justice. As a result, Stephenie and Rodney have been recognized by their peers and the community at large.
In 2021, Sophic Solutions received MARC’s Leadership Award. This award honors people and organizations that advocate regional concepts, approaches, and programs; address regional challenges; apply innovative solutions to regional problems; and advance a regional vision of excellence and opportunity. In 2022, Stephenie Smith, MSW, was selected as the Missouri Social Worker of the Year by the Missouri NASW chapter. The duo has been featured on several podcasts that spotlight social change as they continue to get their message of hope, empowerment, and self-efficacy out to the community.
As they move forward, Sophic’s vision continues to grow. “Growth is one of our goals”. Stephenie says, “Within the next two years, we hope to add more associates dedicated to promoting and educating about social justice, equity and inclusion. Although we are based in Kansas City, Missouri, we serve all over the country. We also want to grow how we do the work, so we are excited about the recent launch of Sophic Circles. Sophic Circles are practical engagement workshop opportunities for our peer partners. We refer to our clients as partners, and Sophic Circles allow partners in like industries or organizations to connect and create community. The long-term benefit is that these circles become an ecosystem of change.”
Sophic Circles brings Rodney and Stephenie’s vision into view. “We know that this work happens best in community. When change agents are isolated, they are less likely to demonstrate the behaviors necessary to perpetuate change. The future of racial equity and inclusion cannot be achieved in silos, but by agents of change working in community to educate ourselves and others.”
So, is Wakanda real? According to Dr. Rodney Smith and Stephenie Smith, with hard work, sacrifice, and a willingness to ask hard questions and then apply practical solutions, the answer is Wakanda is in all of us. We have to be willing to cultivate it.
The son of LaSaudia Moore
Family is essential to Flem Preacher Sr. He is the sixth Flem Preacher in his family and the second generation of leadership in the K-9 Safety Consultants firm.
K-9 Safety Consultants LLC was launched on January 29, 1985, by founder Flem Peacher V of Detroit, Michigan. K9 Safety Consultants is a household name and brand people can trust. K9 Safety Consultants has trained private firms, law enforcement agencies, celebrities, athletes, and the general public. The “K9 Safety Method” enhances the relationship and communication between dog owners and their furry friends.
Flem Peacher VI, the company’s CEO, and his wife, Talitha Peacher, the company administrator, along with his sister, Flemesha (Peacher) Armstrong, president, are in charge of securing the family-run company for the next generation.
The founder of K-9 Safety Consultants was Flem Peacher V. This business was not just a job but a calling. Birth from tragedy, the founder Flem Peacher V built a legacy that would span over forty years.
“Our story started with a near-fatal mauling. When my dad was around thirteen, he was walking down the street, and a neighbor’s pit bull got loose. The vicious attack left my father close to death. Needless to say, that experience traumatized him. After surviving that attack, my father was terrified of dogs. It didn’t matter what kind. He couldn’t be around them or see them. If someone said the word, he would panic, looking around to see if there was a dog nearby. My grandfather was concerned and didn’t want his son to continue to live in terror. He firmly believed that the best way to get over your fear was to face them head-on. So, my grandparents bought my father a puppy. This helped him see that not all dogs were the same. As he bonded with the dog, my grandparents noticed that he had an unusual gift for training the dog. This confirms that everything happens for a reason. If not for the attack, the talent my father possessed may have never been revealed.”
After overcoming his fear, Flem’s father fell in love with dogs. Everyone around him noticed his unique gift of reading a dog’s behavior. They also noticed that he could train dogs to perform practically anything on command. Through experience, he began to develop what is known as the “K9 Safety Method.” This method has been proven and used worldwide to transform millions of dogs into model citizens. “After marrying my mother, my dad moved to Arlington, Texas, and went on to receive many specialty certifications. Including Schutzhund training.”
According to the United Schutzhund Clubs of America or USCA, “Schutzhund is a German word meaning “protection dog.” It refers to a sport that focuses on developing and evaluating dog traits that make them more useful and happier companions to their owners. Schutzhund’s work concentrates on three parts. Many are familiar with the obedience work of the American Kennel Club’s affiliates and will recognize the first two parts, tracking and obedience. The Schutzhund standards for the third part, protection work, are similar to those for dogs in police work.”
Upon returning to Detroit with his wife, young son, and daughter in tow, Flem’s father, saw the need to add another layer to the training of personal security dogs. “When my father moved us back to Detroit recognized that the dogs had to be able to discern their environment. With the crime rate as high as it was, the animal couldn’t properly protect its owner in the streets of Detroit if they weren’t trained to do so. So, he trained them in real conditions.”
This led Flem’s father to go door to door, offering his services. “He went from house to house asking people to let him transform their dogs. And that’s how it started. One house, one client, one dog at a time.”
Eventually, word spread about the success Flem’s father was having, and their clientele grew. By the time Flem was ready to take over the business, the Peacher name was known by dog owners across the country.
One of the many things K-9 Safety consultants prides itself on is that they not only train the dog, but we train the owner. “What makes us unique is that we train the client and their dog. Because the dog is only as good as its handler, and the handler is only as good as the coach. As coaches, we have to educate and empower the handler. Once the owner or handler has completely boughtin to the theory behind what we do, you see a different kind of relationship between the dog and its owner.”
K-9 Safety Consultants’ “both sides of the leash” approach to training gives them success with dogs that most people won’t work with or own. “We are known for dealing with the dogs that most people have given up on,” Flem explains. “We have partnered with rescue organizations and taken on dogs sentenced to be euthanized. We’ve found that most people don’t know how to handle or respond to dogs with behavior issues. Like us, dogs have emotional issues and trauma, but they cannot express it the way we do. That’s where our approach excels.”
Flem and his sister Flemesha were raised watching, helping, and being trained by their father in the family business. Their mother was the executive administrator, and their father the CEO. Just like his name, Flem knew that K-9 Consultants would be passed on to him one day. At the age of twenty-one, he and his wife were newly married and had just purchased their first home. They were starting their new life together, and Flem was preparing to take up the torch when the recession hit.
“It had always been my dream to run the business, but because of the recession, there was no business. Our clients had to choose between paying basic utilities and paying for dog training. All I could do was stand by and watch our business, legacy, and my father’s hard work dry up. My father did everything he could to keep the doors open, but eventually, in about 2007, the banks foreclosed, and K-9 Safety Consultants was no more,” Flem confessed. With fewer clients, employees were laid off. “It was the toughest period in my life. We lost our home and our car. We lost everything. I’ve been a certified master trainer since I was thirteen. I didn’t know anything else.”
After losing everything, Flem found himself at what he said was his lowest point. “I had to work, so a friend connected me with a job as a part-time lunch aid, making $8.00 an hour. I was at my lowest point. My parents were multi-millionaires, so I never knew the kind of struggle I was experiencing. God was humbling me. Ministry wasn’t on my radar then, but God had plans.”
Taking the job as a lunch aid, Flem trusted that there was something bigger ahead. Like his dad, it wasn’t long before people noticed his unique talent. “The students at my school were rough. But they needed someone to give them structure and show them that they cared. Although I was just an aid, I didn’t sit by and allow them to be disrespectful. I knew how to give constructive discipline, and people took notice.”
Even in his dark place, God showed favor to Flem. Within ten years, he went from being a part-time cafeteria aid to Dean of students. “I didn’t want there to be a reason I couldn’t progress, so I went to school to show myself approved.” After losing everything, Flem and his family were finally starting to stand on firm financial ground. But the dream he thought was dead was only sleeping.
“K-9 Safety Consultants had closed physically, but it was always on my mind. So, once I made decent money and we were stable, I started training dogs again. I started just like my father did. I went door to door.”
It wasn’t long before K-9 Safety Consultants was back in business with over two thousand clients. Flem could leave education and go full-time into the training business again.
The company continues to prosper and be a blessing to its community. They won the business of the year in 2022. And through their K-9 Cadet program, they have mentored twentyfive hundred children and youth, ages nine to eighteen, because the Peacher family legacy is bigger than dog training. They have also granted scholarships to students who what to further their education.
“This has truly been a rollercoaster ride, but I wouldn’t do anything differently. God has blessed us beyond measure with a life and legacy that I pray will last another forty years.”
www.ladyespecs.com
