Huami Magazine Mississippi March/April 2021

MISSISSIPPI

®

Mar./Apr. 2021 Vol. 1 Issue 1 FREE

Building Tiers To Success Mississippi - March/April 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

1

Listen To Every Episode On The Following Platforms

www.mykelmedia.com

www.thisiswhoiam.libsyn.com

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

Your Purpose Is Not A Laughing Matter

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

A Letter Fromfrom The the Editor A Letter Editor

A long time ago, when I was a much younger man, and a student at A Letter from the Editor the most prestigious high school in the city of Greensboro, something What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes happened to me that would change my life forever. This segment of time and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if was during my fourth period English class, and the first week of a new that you decided to put off until tomorrow never What if tomorrow didn’t arrive?

All of your plans, hopes schooleverything year.

happened? would beano reason to save a rainy and dreams There wouldn’t have street to park on. for What if day, you could someone theand trouble of making that youspare decided to put off until tomorrow never Backeverything thenand I was mischievous, very sarcastic, a self-proclaimed promises.

What if your last opportunity seemingly expired happened?

There would be no reason to save for a rainy ‘class clown’. I would try to set the tone for my classroom amongst my today?

What would you do? day, and you could someone the trouble of making classmates with jokes, and spare I thought, the bigger the audience, the grander my performance However, in this particular class, the teacher promises. could Whatbe. if your last opportunity seemingly expired was a formidable opponent.

She was short in stature, very elegant and full I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. today? What would you do? of finesse, and seemed to lock in on me like a torpedo before the tardy bell Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm even sounded.

Her name was Mrs. Kerr, andlike I would learnon that believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything meshe I’ve been told that I often seem I do soon too much. wasn’tHonestly, one to play around. that I couldn’t sometimes wonderand how would I feelhandle. like I amI not doing enough I’mlife a firm be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything onme. me I One day while in English class, I began to get comfortable and execute haveI found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity that couldn’t handle.

I sometimes wonder how life would my form of cheap humor. I led off with a cough, and a slight sneeze; silly is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone.

A challenge be usually if I chose to sitpretty idle and what itmy presented to me.

I acts that worked wellaccept with getting audience into position. to me is an adventure.

What is the worst that can happen? have found that to be very boring.

In my opinion, opportunity But my act was snuffed out immediately. “Don’t you sneeze or cough in If aI do nothing, and if I try I words don’t, but instead learn is blessing thatI fail, isn’t afforded everyone.

Adirectly challenge my. Take that outside”.

Those were theto spoken to me and I something newbyabout myself.

Relinquish your pride and in that to me an adventure.

What thestared worstinto that can happen? knew she wasisserious the way Mrs.isKerr my eyes.

From return acquire life.

If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn point on, I never laughed in her class unless I was led by her permission to do so. something I must admit thatabout my ego was a little bruised,your but Ipride wouldand eventually new myself.

Relinquish in get over it. best The advice return acquire life.ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so In soI many words, she me toto understand myapurpose inonly no have pressed myhelped way given through doors with key thatsomeone The best advice ever me happened when laughing matter.

I genuinely appreciate Mrs. Kerr.

She helped me to hopeme provided. have also learned the today. difference between told to makeImy tomorrow happen In doing so understand the English instruction she provided was not a laughing matter, blesses and what cana burden with Iwhat haveGod pressed my me waywith through doorslife with key thatme only and I or anyone else wouldn’t prevent the learning and growth of other as well.

I compare it toalso knowing when be confident and hope provided.

I have learned the to difference between students. whenlife tocan be quiet, what God blesses me with and what burdenbecause me with someone may get it confused as well. compare it to knowing be confident and As the schoolI year progressed, I began when to lookto forward to my fourth with being arrogant. when to be quiet, because period English class and spending time with Mrs. Kerr. I soaked up every bit someone may get confused of information that she had to offer, studied every poem, anditrecited them Make you tomorrow with being arrogant. back to her with precision, and made it a butchanged most my point to happen show hertoday, that she importantly make it count. life by stopping from robbing myself of Makeme you tomorrow sound instruction.

Life is but a whisper and happen today, but most we must putmake ourselves in a importantly it count.

Mrs. Kerr obviously loved me and position to hear what it Life is but a whisper andis her otherwe students, thousands of in them telling us.put must ourselves a she encountered for several decades of position to hear what it is teaching. She is my hero. Students like me telling us. all deserve a hero such as Mrs. Kerr in their Terryin the L. Watson classrooms, either form of a peer or instructor. She helped me to understand Editor/Founder Terry that my purpose wasL. noWatson laughing matter.

4

www.huamimagazine.com

4

HuamiMagazine.com

Editor/Founder November/December 2014 Want To Advertise?

4

HuamiMagazine.com

November/December 2014

Terry L. Watson

Editor In Chief

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

TerryWriters L. Watson Alana Allen Editor Tonya Dixon Publisher Terry L. Watson - Deputy Terry L. Watson Writers Alana Allen Jalessa Rogers

Writer Tonya JeuronDixon Dove Fanta Dorley WatsonWriter Terry L. Alana Allen Laci Ollison Photographers Writer Jeuron Dove Lenz Photography Dorjae’ Perfect McClammey Writer Shaw Photography Marrissa DickTamara Smith Group Writer Photographers Still Shots Photography Trea’Sure Prince

Writer Perfect Lenz Photography Who Shotya Photography Gamal Williams

Writer Shaw Photography Group Still ShotsLayout Photography

Shotya Photography AshleighWho Crawley Photographer Mykel Media Company Linda Bennett Dorjae’ McClammey Photographer Layout Howard Gaither Photography Seawards Dawson Photographer Mykel Media Company mykelmedia@yahoo.com Michael Duncan

Linda Bennett Photographer

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

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

Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility Mykel Media Company.

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

Comments concerning this publication written permission from the publisher prior to be Media submitted to the editorresponsibility by doing so. may Mykel doesn’t accept Email or Telephone E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com for statements made Email by individuals featured or terry.editor@yahoo.com huami.mississippi@gmail.com advertisers.

Comments concerning this publication or toto the editor by 336-340-7844 may be submitted Mykel Media Company, LLC E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com P.O. Box 20102 terry.editor@yahoo.com 2021 All RightsNC Reserved Greensboro, or to 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE Mykel Media Company, LLC 2014 All Rights Reserved P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2014 All Rights Reserved

On The Cover

Photo by Shaw Photography Group

Want To Advertise?

Call 336-340-7844 Call (336)340-7844 On The Cover

Photo by Shaw Photography Group

Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844

CONTENTS

MARCH/APRIL 2021

MISSISSIPPI

La’Roy Crumble

Willie Wilkes

On The Cover

Building Tiers To Success Latoya Skinner

6

Branding is Her Speciality

Yolanda Smith

12

32

She Loves To Listen

Darnita Samuels

Mia’s Ohh So Good Seasonings

Mia Collins

18

37

Also Featured

Brandon Emmitt He has made sacrifices. Now he is making delicious dishes.

Dallas/Fort Worth, TX

28

Jarell Smalls He almost died, but God has something else planned for his life.

Charleston, SC

Mississippi - March/April 2021

22

Prince Antonio Kelly He is the cutest, and has been selected as Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby.

HuamiMagazine.com

38 5

6

HuamiMagazine.com

Mississippi - March/April 2021

Building Tiers To Success

By Laci Ollison Photos by Seawards Dawson Many people grow up with dreams of becoming successful. Some wish to be a successful doctor, some hope to be a successful lawyer, and others aspire to build their own business, create an opportunity for themselves, and become a successful entrepreneur.

For the few that are lucky enough to build their own business, the road can be long, hard, and tough.

Most, unfortunately, quit under pressure. But there are some entrepreneurs, like Latoya Skinner, who have thrived in multiple industries, dominating, and establishing multiple businesses while creating jobs and opportunities for their communities.

Born and raised in Belzoni, MS, Latoya Skinner is the definition of a serial entrepreneur. Now residing in Powder Springs, GA, this mother of three, Keydarius, Jamarius Jr., and Jakilah is a mover and shaker, and business mogul. She credits her parents, Brian and Caruthia for instilling in her the courage to push through many adversities. Additionally, Latoya prides herself at being someone who other individuals can look up to for inspiration. Her life she hopes represents what can be possible when you visualize, manifest, and strategize.

Latoya may be focused on making moves; however, she hasn’t lost her southern charm or residence.

Owning almost ten different businesses, Latoya has built an empire for herself and hopes to inspire others to go after their dreams as well. “Growing up, I always stated that I wanted to own my own businesses,” said Latoya. “When I was nine years old, I wrote a book and one of the topics talked about my dream of becoming an entreprenuer when I grow up.”

She also admits, however, that she wanted to build her businesses for financial stability. Growing up in a poverty-stricken environment and watching her family struggle financially is what motivated her to start her businesses. That motivation led to something else, and before she knew it, Latoya was well on her way and leaving no doubt in the minds of those around her.

7

So, what has she accomplished? Today, Latoya is the owner of Tax Genie LLC. Her firm has three different locations.

She also owns Platinum Freight LLC, which operates four over the road trucks and has provided stable employment opportunities to qualified candidates. Additionally, there is Shifting Gears which operates two trucks. She also owns 1st Choice Auto Brokers of Georgia, a used car auto brokerage, Prime Time Investments, which is an all ethnic based real estate invest firm with over fourteen properties in its portfolio, Sheltered Arms Inc. (a group home facility under development), and A Luxury Limo Ride LLC which provides luxury vehicle rentals for parties and events.

Although many entrepreneurs who have multiple businesses are tasked with hiring individuals to help them manage and operate their businesses, Latoya prides herself in being very hands on with all her entities. “Other than Tax Genie, I solely run the other business by myself. With Tax Genie, I have entrusted operations to others who I am confident in their abilities to manage it. Sheltered Arms will have multiple people running it once it is fully operational,” she says.

One of the primary reasons she relies on assistance with her tax firm is the influx of business during the tax season, which is usually at full speed from December to April. Her investment firm is located in Belzoni, so there’s typically a lot of back and forth traveling involved with building, remodeling, and getting properties ready to go, all year round.

Fortunately, Latoya can work from anywhere with this segment of her empire. “A lot of it is internet based, so that provides me with the flexibility of being offsite and still being able to meet the needs of my clients,” she says.

“Seeing my clients win and grow, and be proud of their accomplishments is the best reward this journey has offered thus far.”

8

One might ask where she gets the drive to do so much.

Latoya says it all begins with family. Her family is her biggest motivation and inspiration, and the reason why she desires to be successful. She also has a fear of not being as financially stable as she has always dreamed about. “It is imperative that I leave a legacy for my children, and that is enough to keep me motivated,” she said.

What Latoya loves most about being an entrepreneur she says is being able to impact the lives of others. “I do a lot of building and helping other people get set up in the right way. Seeing my clients win and grow, and be proud of their accomplishments is the best reward this journey has offered thus far,” she says. Additionally, Latoya shares that her two biggest inspirations are Oprah Winfrey and a home healthcare mogul from her hometown of Belzoni, Clara Reed. “Mrs. Reed has had a significant impact on my journey as an entrepreneur,” Latoya says.

Like most sound businesspeople, Latoya has a fiveyear plan in place. During this period, she is focused on expansion that will involve all her businesses. She also hopes to continue her entrepreneurial journey and remain an asset-based business.

Latoya has some advice for aspiring entrepreneurs that she feels is extremely important to know before starting a business. “I am big on legalization. Get all of the necessary things set in place for your company to be a brand,” she says. “Although the process can be daunting, I am confident if individuals set up their businesses the right way, it will be worthwhile and spare them a lot of unnecessary stress down the road. These are tips that I emphasize to up and coming entrepreneurs, which helped me to become more organized and successful as a business owner.”

Latoya Skinner

Tax Genie Usa www.taxgenieusa.com 1-888-TAX-9770

She also adds that aspiring entrepreneurs should have good marketing strategies in place, including reserving domains and reserving social media handles, logos, and getting necessary paperwork and operating agreements in place to ensure their business can be protected. She states it is also wise to consult with a business lawyer or business advisor to assist with filing the correct paperwork to establish your business. “Entrepreneurs should invest in gaining knowledge they may not already have. There are free resources available on the internet and in local libraries. Yet, if you are still needing further assistance, it may be wise to hire a consultant or marketing firm to assist with their business, and to help with reaching the goals they have set,” Latoya says.

While the future appears to be very bright for Latoya, she doesn’t appear to be taking any time off. Remember, her children are depending on her. Their legacy is depending on her. To learn more about Latoya and any of her brands, contact her directly. h

Latoya’s book, Tiers to Success will be released December 2021 10

La’Roy Crumble Wine Company

By Ayana Bryant Photos by Seawards Dawson Starting a business during a global pandemic could be a daunting task for most, but Latony Crumble and Willie Wilkes have embraced the challenge with open arms. The year of 2020 introduced several obstacles to the world but also birthed La’Roy Crumble Wine for these two business partners.

Wilkes, 31, originally from historic Memphis, TN didn’t necessarily intend on becoming a business owner within the wine industry when first starting his career. Upon graduating from Job Corps pursuing the electrical trade, Wilkes then relocated to Atlanta, Georgia with hopes of becoming an electrician.

When this career path revealed itself to be unsuccessful, Wilkes then returned to school and pursued a track in heating and air. This opportunity eventually led him to meet his now business partner Latony Crumble.

Crumble, a Virginia native and former professional dancer saw the potential of creating his own wine from being so heavily involved in the entertainment industry. So, from there an idea as well as a distillery contact in Detroit would propel the duo to start La’Roy Crumble Wine.

The name La’Roy comes from a cross between Crumble’s first name Latony, and Wilkes middle name, Roy. This black owned business is based out of Atlanta, Georgia and has grown pretty quickly since their launch in late 2020. La’Roy Crumble has developed five signature flavors that are currently available for retail, a Moscato blend, an Alicante, a Dago red, Pinot Grigio, and a Chamblee.

Continued on the next page

13

When asked what motivates and inspires them to continue growing their business, both gentlemen stated that being able to network with so many people and seeing the growth they’ve already acquired is the biggest drive for them. For Latony Crumble, his faith has played a big role in never giving up stating “I believe God gave me a gift to start something from the bottom and bring it to life.” Wilkes explains that connecting with people has always been an easy thing for him and that he is grateful for this business opportunity. He sees it as “a platform to be able to reach an even broader group of people”.

“The sky’s the limit and I see no limits on where this brand can go.”

Crumble and Wilkes discussed the challenges they have faced. One of them is being unable to secure investors and acquire loans to start their business, but they explain it has only encouraged them to work harder to fund it themselves.

They both understand they are still in the early stages of this new journey and face more challenges that haven’t yet been reached.

Continued on the next page

14

15

After only operating in four months of business and starting out with five different flavors of wine, both Wilkes and Crumble have no desire to slow down any time soon. Plans to continue growing their business are already in motion with four new flavors already in development.

So, what lies in the future for La’Roy Crumble Wine you might ask? “The sky’s the limit and I see no limits on where this brand can go” says Wilkes. Plans for mainstream distribution are definitely in the cards. Despite the challenges and issues these young men might have encountered, they both say that it hasn’t deterred them. They plan to continue moving forward one day at a time. Let’s all raise a glass to the success of this thriving new business and say Salud!

For more information about La’Roy Crumble Wine, and to purchase your selection, please check out the company via Instagram @La’Roycrumble_wine, and on Facebook at La’Roy Crumble. h

17

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.

Continued on the next page

19

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.

Continued on page 18

20

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.

Darnita D. Samuels MSA MA LMFT darnitasamuelsmft@outlook.com 919-807-1692 Instagram: ddsmft_therapist 21

22

HuamiMagazine.com

Mississippi - March/April 2021

Good God, Almighty “I came from a single parent home and I was raised by my grandmother and mother who are both great women of faith. They raised me and my siblings through difficult circumstances ...... Even though I didn’t grow up with a father in the home I still had a great covering because my grandmother really stressed the importance of being in church and prayer.”

By Marrissa Dick - Photos by Jarell Smalls Music is an important part of our daily lives. Many people listen to music from the time they wake up in the morning to the time they go to bed. Through music, artists write stories that cause you to become emotional because the listener can identify with the words. It would be fair to say that music is a cultural way of relating to people and its variety of sounds are endless; however, no genera of music has the rich history of Gospel music. Gospel music has been relevant in American society for over a century and its impact is still prevalent till this very day.

An English playwriter, William Congreve, once wrote, “Music has charms to soothe the savage breast, to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.” This famous quote has been put to the test in the medical community with both humans and animals alike to witness the calming affect that music has on the brain and the body. Research has shown that music has both calming and healing properties. These healing properties can be seen in Gospel music as people have been known to fall down on their knees in worship to release their heartache, pain, fear, and even their joy. Gospel music could possibly have this type of affect because it was born from “Negro Spirituals” which were hymns that were sung by slaves in the South. Such songs as “Follow the Drinkin’ Gourd”, “Wade in the Water”, and “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” were bellowed aloud while working in the fields to send coded messages to runaway slaves on how to get to freedom - - the Underground Railroad. Gospel music is so inspirational that it can invite The Holy Trinity to “come on in the room” and He will indeed enter. Meet Jarell J. Smalls, Gospel singer extraordinaire, minister, COVID-19 survivor, author, and one who pays homage to his ancestorial Gospel roots. Minister Jarell is a native of (downtown) Charleston, South Carolina and was raised by his grandmother and mother in The New MaryAnn Missionary Baptist Church located in unincorporated towns of Cainhoy, Wando, and Huger South Carolina also known as DC or “Deep Country”.

It is through this ministry where he initially gained an appreciation for “Good Old Fashion Church”. He shares, “I came from a single parent home and I was raised by my grandmother and mother who are both great women of faith.

They raised me and my siblings through difficult circumstances. I mean we lived in the projects and we survived off of government assistance. Even though I didn’t grow up with a father in the home I still had a great covering because my grandmother really stressed the importance of being in church and prayer. So, I grew up in a little church called The New Continued on the next page

23

MaryAnn Missionary Baptist Church and that’s where my gifts were founded. I remember always getting in trouble at church because I would tear up fans so I could use the wooden handles for drumsticks. It was my grandmother who would tell everybody to leave me alone because I was going to be somebody one day and she was right. And so, the drums became my passion and eventually I got my first drum set and I went down in the church history as the first recorded drummer ever in the church.” Being a survivor isn’t new to Jarell. In 1989 when hurricane Hugo made his presence known Jarell can remember “wading through the water” with his family to reach the Gilyard Auditorium which had been converted to an evacuation shelter. Like most who survived Hurricane Hugo, the Smalls family lost everything but St. James 5:16 tells us, “The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much” and it was being immersed in prayer that he and his family came through by always keeping God first in their lives in good and bad times.

In the mid-1930’s Black churches began using the Hammond organ, a cheaper version of the pipe organ, during its services. This newly invent organ afforded musicians the opportunity to control melodies while simultaneously being able to play the bass using their feet. Soon the Hammond organ became an essential companion to the rhythmical preacher and forged the sound of praise break music. Jarell recalls, “I worked at a music store in Charleston called Fox Music House. I had a wonderful mentor there by the name of Mr. Charles Fox. Mr. Fox trained and taught me how to sell drums, keyboards, and he also taught me how to demo the Hammond organ. One of my strategies was to demo the organ at the church that wanted to buy it. So, when I arrived at that particular church, I would play that Hammond organ like I was in church and they would fall in love with the organ. In 2009 I was voted the top Hammond salesman in the USA.” This is one of Jarell’s first accomplishments, but it was one that could have made or broken his musical career.

He shares, “I was doing really well still playing the drums and the Hammond and then I had an opportunity with the Charleston Symphony Orchestra. Well, I didn’t have formal training in any of the instruments I played so I couldn’t read music; I played by ear. I was always able to slip through the cracks until one day the gig was up. The Official Conductor, Mr. Vincent Dan, came in, we went over a song, and I missed one chop on the song. It was scripted by notes, but I didn’t know that because I couldn’t read music. Of course, he caught it, stopped the rehearsal, and threatened to sue me because he thought I would mess up his show. But God is good, and he gave me another chance. I will never forget what he said to me. Mr. Dan said, “It’s okay to fake your way through, but it’s even better to know your way through”. That experience and those inspirational words helped shaped who I am as an artist today.” Constructive feedback when given in the right spirit can be appreciated by anyone. Thank goodness Jarell Smalls was humble and emotionally mature enough to accept it.

Continued on the next page

24

As Gospel music progressed it did so initially with male dominated quartets singing a cappella. The similarities of how Gospel music has emerged throughout history certainly parallels Jarell’s beginnings. “My family had a Gospel group called, The Sensational Gospel Singers, but all I did with them was play the drums. I was introduced to Huilo Johnson and we started a group called, The Gospel Inspirations. When we got together, we recorded our first cd entitled, “Get Ready”. Now that song became very popular, and it afforded us the opportunity to travel all over the country performing it.” Jarell credits his time with the quarte as one that matured him as an artist. After a prosperous season of performing with the quartet, Minister Jarell, eventually embraced his calling as a solo artist in the Gospel industry. He credits Lee Williams and The Spiritual

Mississippi - March/April 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

25

26

HuamiMagazine.com

Mississippi - March/April 2021

QC’s for his style of singing. “I grew up listening to his music on the radio. Everybody called me little Lee Williams he was my mentor, and he didn’t even know it. Then one day I was afforded the opportunity to meet Mr. Williams and sing for him and it’s been a blessing ever since. Through that meeting the doors were opened for me to meet other Gospel bedrock groups such as Darrell McFadden, the Canton Spirituals, and Doc and the Hi-Lites. We all know that favor ain’t fair, but it’s certainly a blessing for the person that the favor is bestowed upon.

Throughout his career Jarell has recorded many notable songs that have gone viral. Such songs as “We Wish You A Merry Christmas in July” and “Mary Rock The Baby” afforded him the opportunity to travel overseas and throughout Europe singing those coveted titles. When he returned home those songs were even more popular and still today are the most requested songs.

In 2016, Jarell recorded a song entitled, “Prayer Room” a remix rendition of “Come On In The Room” originally sung by the Georgia Mass Choir. He put his own spin on the old Gospel song then gave it away for free. How many of us know that when you plant good seed in healthy soil and water it with a truthful heart it will not return to you void. Jarell also gave that song away and his harvest returned like a boomerang as that song went viral, too. Throughout his career his music has garnered national acclaims as his music has been considered for both the Grammy and Stellar Awards. Jarell Smalls and Company has currently released another hit single entitled, “We Need Your Power” which is steadily climbing the Gospel Billboard charts.

Jarell’s musical career has also allowed him to sing for many notable people. He shares, “I’ve sang for events with the NAACP. I even sang for Senator Burnie Saunders campaign.

I’ve played for then vice president, Joe Biden, and I’ve sung for Hillary Clinton. My music career has allowed me to work with and learn from notable singers like Ty Trippet, Hezekiah Walker, and Anthony Brown. I mean from Pastor Kim Burrell to Leandra Johnson. All of these Gospel giants support my work.” So, what makes these Gospel greats so enticed by Jarell’s music?

“I’m told that people enjoy my music because my style of singing separates me from everybody else. I just call it Gullah Geechee Gospel. I have an accent that causes a lot of people to mistake me for being Caribbean or Jamaican, but I’m neither.

I’m from downtown Charleston so I sing the way I talk. I don’t try to add any bells and whistles or runs. When I sing my intent is for you to keep your mind on Jesus. That’s probably why I really appeal to the great aunts and uncles, the grandparents, you know that generation because they can relate to the sound and the words.” Thank goodness for The New MaryAnn Missionary Baptist Church. It was on those hollowed and prayed up grounds where the Spirit moved over his body, went underneath his skin, ebbed through his bones, and rested in the marrow for such a time this.

better. So, I went to the hospital and I was told that I had pneumonia. I was given antibiotics and a steroid, and they sent me home but that next day I took a turn for the worst. I called my sister because I was having difficulty catching my breath.

She suggested that I go back to the hospital, but I didn’t want to do that because I was there the day before. Well, she came over, took a look at me and called 911. When the paramedics arrived, they looked at me the same way my sister did, and they rushed me to the hospital. I must have passed out because the next thing I remember is being in a glass room and feeling pain shooting through my leg. I understand now that the doctors were trying to drill a path for an IV to be inserted through my bones, but because I was fighting, they couldn’t finish the procedure. I remember seeing the doctor throw up his hands and I heard him say, ‘We’ve done all we can do,’ and then I was left there by myself. It was like they were waiting for me to die. When I woke up again it was three weeks later, and I was strapped down. I was told by Nurse Charles that I had died three times and had been placed on a ventilator to keep me breathing.

Spiritually I must have known something was happening because I kept telling myself that I wasn’t dead I just couldn’t accept that but at the same time I still see things going on, but nobody could hear me. I was in the hospital for almost a month before I could even speak to anyone. After I was released, I started having panic attacks so I had to go to therapy which was the best thing that could have ever happened. Through counseling I gained an understanding of what happened to me. I learned what panic attacks actually are, why I was having them, and I learned how to handle them. I was also able to gain clarity on other things in my life.” It suffices to say that freely sowing musical seeds paved the way for Minister Jarell Smalls to find favor with the Roper Charity Foundation because he was blessed to have his $300,000 hospital bill paid in full. You see, when you give out of the abundance of your heart you shall reap the reward.

Jarell Smalls has made significant deposits into the lives of many congregations throughout the land. He is a man full of wisdom, strength, faith, and power. He desires to continue traveling the world singing and preaching the unadulterated gospel of Jesus Christ. Be on the lookout for his first book entitled, “I HAVE A REASON TO LIVE: Surviving COVID-19” which is soon to be released. You may want to purchase an advanced copy because everything he does in the Kingdom has the tendency to go viral. h

Often times when people start out with humble beginnings and they achieve financial success some have a tendency to squander their monies, but that was not going to be Jarell Smalls story. Instead, he thought about investing his monies, so he opened a restaurant in 2019 called, Mama Pearls Kitchen in Allensville, South Carolina. The restaurant became a success as it served southern cuisine like your grandmother used to make until COVID-19 forced it to close its doors. Jarell shares, “The pandemic didn’t just shut down the restaurant, it shut me down too. It almost took my life. When I first started not feeling well, I quarantined myself for 11 days, but I wasn’t getting any

Mississippi - March/April 2021

For Booking Info Jarell Smalls www.jarellsmalls.com

HuamiMagazine.com

27

28

HuamiMagazine.com

Mississippi - March/April 2021

By Fanta Dorley - Photos by Michael Duncan “The community was always supporting me, but I know it was God that was guiding me” From the family kitchen to kitchens around the world, Chef Brandon Emmitt has earned his place as one of the nation’s premier Chefs. If you ask him, he’d say, “I’m just doing what I love to do”. With an armor of modesty and humility, along with a spirit of curiosity and skill, Chef Brandon shows us how carving a path can be all that it’s cooked up to be.

Brandon Emmitt was born and raised in the Dallas/Frisco area of Texas. Being the younger brother of the five children, he was the recipient of life’s lessons and benefits. “My dad kept us in church and busy with school so there wasn’t much room for anything else,” he says. “As a rising high school football star, many of the community supported my journey, and even encouraged me to pursue a professional career in the NFL,” Brandon shares.

At the time, that did not seem too far-fetched to achieve being that Brandon had begun receiving awards and was looking forward to landing a full athletic scholarship at a local university. As the young NFL grew into adulthood, he began to develop strong morals and values which placed him in a dilemma with his environment. He remembers, “As I grew older, I realized that I couldn’t be in the NFL, because It directly went against my spiritual values of working on Sunday,” he says. Brandon believes Sunday is sacred and should be used to spend time with God and family. So, he had to find something else to do.

Just about that time, tragedy struck his childhood. His parents decided to get a divorce which hit him emotionally hard. “I thought what am I going to do? So much is going on and I just don’t know what to do,” he says. During this time, his mother became sick and most of his family was scattered around the country, and Brandon found himself in a position to make some tough, life decisions. However, he did what he knew best. He got down on his needs and began to pray.

Through his increased prayer-life, he was able to reflect on things that molded and shaped his values in order to give him direction. So instead of going to college as planned, life’s challenges took him on a path of self-reflection and seeking direction.

First, he reflected on his father. He shares, “I watched my father work 12-hour days and still came home and cooked for us. And when he cooked, he threw down”. Being from Louisiana, you can just imagine the various dishes that grazed the table. Hot water cornbread, black eyed peas, and fried chicken. He next reflected on head culinary chef instructor and school mentor, Robert Bifulco. When Brandon’s parents divorced in 2002, he decided to stick around and help his mom out instead of going away to school. While working odd jobs, Brandon was encouraged to take advantage of a program offered at a local community college that provided him with an Associate of Applied Science Culinary Arts Degree. “That’s when I came across Mr. Bifulco. He stayed on me and kept me grounded,” he says. Brandon realized that he not only needed skill development, but also personal development. That’s what Robert Bifulco provided.

After finishing at the top of his class in the Culinary program, Brandon worked at a major hotel kitchen and that was the beginning of his of his life’s career. “I decided, I wanted to travel the world and learn how to make dishes from other cultures,” he says. After starting at a Continued on the next page

29

hotel with a friend in California, he sought opportunities that was posted through the hotel. The position allowed him to make bold and risky moves like transferring to the hotel’s location in South Beach Florida. After he learned all that he could from the Floridian culture, he traveled to Puerto Rico and worked there for one year. Next of the map, Chef Brandon travelled to San Bernardino, CA but didn’t stay long due to a great opportunity to work in the Dominican Republic, after a short stay there, he moved back to Dallas.

By 2014, He reunited with his old childhood friend and got married. In addition to having his son that year, he also gave birth to his dream of catering.

Unfortunately, in 2016 he had to start all over after going through a divorce. “God got my attention. I began to pray more and ask God for direction,” he says. He felt like God was punishing him for not being obedient, but soon came to realize the bad experiences were just inspiration and motivation. In the beginning of March 2020, he decided to make a post on social media of a dish he made. He posted a dish online every day for five months. His consistency paid off. “I can remember God saying, ‘You post your food, and I will send them to your page Next, he rented community kitchen spaces to prepare meals and Emmitt’s Catering was born. His niche is not having a set menu. “When a client calls to tell me what they want to eat, it is a good challenge for me to create that experience for them,” he says. Although based in Southland, TX, Emmitt’s Catering is open to travel and has a staff of six people and can offer services as a personal chef, meal prepping, and online cooking classes.

Chef Brandon also finds time to give back to the community by providing meals from frontline workers as well as those experiencing homelessness. He has developed a go fund me page called “Ware Against Hunger since November 2020.

Cooking for other gives him a level of satisfaction and pleasure that is indescribable. “When I see the happiness, my food brings to people, I can’t pick a favorite dish because it’s trumped by the common feeling of providing their favorite experience,” he shares. “With everything I do, I want people to know that their food was made with love. So, I tell them that with every delivery.”

Moving forward, Chef Brandon plans to take his “experience” around the globe. He is not sure how God is going to connect all those dots, but he knows it will happen. Currently, he is the number one ranked in a nationwide contest called “Favorite Chef”. This win will catapult his vision into place by awarding him a $50,000 cash prize, as well as a feature in Bon Appetite Magazine. When asked how the ranking makes him feel, he responded, “It is not about titles but more about the inboxes that I am getting with people honoring me and asking my opinion.”

Chef Brandon understands that when God gives to you, the more you must give to others. With all of his life experiences, he rose beyond the concrete and proved that all experiences do make you stronger and all gifts will make room for you. You just must keep focused and stick with it. To learn more about Chef Brandon, please contact him directly. h

30

HuamiMagazine.com

Mississippi - March/April 2021

Emmitts Catering www.emmittscatering.com 817-993-9731 Mississippi - March/April 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

31

Branding 4 Success LLC

32

HuamiMagazine.com

Mississippi - March/April 2021

By Dorjae’ McClammey Photos by Faith Blackwell Photography Introducing, Yolanda M. Smith, a people growth leader, and brandthrupist.

As a personal branding expert and career coach, Yolanda has a passion for helping others achieve their highest potential by unleashing the power of personal branding. She teaches her clients how to articulate their value, live authentically, and stand out so they can earn, lead, and win more.

Born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana, Yolanda grew up in a singleparent household with her brother and was blessed to never want for anything. Her mother, an amazing woman who did everything for her children, always told her that she can be anything she wanted to be as long as she worked hard for it. Her mother instilled this mindset into Yolanda giving her the power and courage to make whatever she wanted, a reality.

Yolanda attended St. Rita Catholic School for elementary, and there she had a community of people that cared for her.

Her mother was adamant about making sure she received the best education so, when it was time for her to attend high school, they moved out to the suburbs which opened the opportunity for her to enroll at North Central High School, a township school. “There I received a sort of culture shock with only 10% of the population being African American, and realized I had to learn how to assimilate with others, she says. While this was easy for my brother, it took me a minute to adjust, then finally, I guess I realized well, if you’re going to have fun, if you’re going to live fulfilled, you’re going to have to figure this one out.”

Her next move landed her at Indiana University - Kelly School of Business which she paid for herself, in full, without taking out a single loan. While in school, she and a friend started their own business, a clothing line of imprinted sportswear called Yotra Designs. Once she graduated, the duo shut their business down and Yolanda moved to Tennessee after accepting a job in pharmaceutical sales. She would eventually hold different roles in the industry, but soon focused on expanding her education and went back to school to obtain her master’s in business administration at Indiana Wesleyan University, and in true Yolanda fashion, paid for it herself. She now lives in Indianapolis and is married with two children. This is also where Branding 4 Success, LLC was born.

Back in 2009, Yolanda was asked to be a part of a team that would help create employee engagement strategies. One day, she was in a meeting and in walked the CEO of the company she worked for. He was going around the room Yolanda shares, asking everyone who they were and what they did. When he got to her, she choked. At that moment she knew

33

she had blown the opportunity to tell the single most highest-ranking man in the company, something interesting about herself, and not just her job title. She took that as a learning experience. Fast forward to 2013, she is now the chairman of the board of the non-profit organization, Girl Talk Incorporated.

While brainstorming on how the organization could do more for the girls in programming (ages of 10 to 18), she started researching topics and came upon the idea of, you guessed it, personal branding.

After doing more research, she ended up creating a personal branding workshop. While presenting these workshops to the girls, she noticed that their mothers would stay for the sessions, and told her how they need the information as well. Yolanda took that as an opportunity to take her workshop to the next level and serve corporate professionals.

She held two workshops during one of the employee resource group forums at her company, both packed with hundreds of participants and when she took the stage, she knew she was in her element. In that moment, she knew this was her calling. “That’s when I knew, I have something here. I just knew...this was my purpose, to help others build a powerful personal brand” she says.

The real magic of Branding 4 Success happens when Yolanda and her team help others discover their true self, their superpower and passion. Now let it be known that the difference between Yolanda and other motivational speakers is that she follows up with action. While some motivational speakers inspire you in that moment, Branding 4 Success not only inspires, but offers practical solutions to get you into action through classes, workshops, coaching, and more. Yolanda helps people take the journey of not only branding themselves, but also bringing their vision to reality, “I take people through a process to help them understand what their purpose and values are, know their why, and then know their worth.

Because once someone gets this, they acquire a level of courage and confidence that is unwavering,” she says.

Along with her business, Yolanda has authored a best-selling book called Reputation to Reward: Mastering Your Brand Signature to Earn More, Lead More, Win More. She also facilitates masterclasses to corporate and non-profit organizations, and associations. She has an online course called Reputation to Reward: Creating and Maximizing Your Brand Signature and provides individual and group coaching programs which are customized based on the client’s needs. One of her popular programs is the Brand Assessment Survey, where she uses a validated tool to assess people’s brands. Her other coaching programs are customized to ensure she helps clients brand themselves and strategize to accomplish their goals. She is also a National Public Speaker available for booking.

Yolanda emphasizes the importance of having a powerful personal brand, especially during the uncertain times the world is currently experiencing. People are starting to feel invisible due to the isolation from the pandemic. “How do you maintain and elevate your visibility so you can continue to achieve the reward you desire?”. She states you must use the best of what you have, to keep moving forward.

34

Continued on the next page

Mississippi - March/April 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

35

“It’s not about getting back to normal; we won’t be going back to normal, and who wants to go back anyways. Who said it was all that great,” she says? “I like the idea of getting to a better place, something new and exciting. Now is the opportunity that individuals have to be able to transition and reinvent themselves and start doing what they are passionate about.”

Yolanda teaches her clients everything she has learned through her own trial and error, so they will not make the same mistakes.

Fortunately, she has experienced success, despite not having any mentors or coaches until she was mid-career. “I often stop and think about how much further I could have gone faster if I had guidance. When I was faced with certain obstacles, I realized I could have navigated through them better if I knew the protocols of corporate America,” she says. She learned that you must be strategic and intentional with the things you do to ensure you get results, and that not everyone is interested in your opinion, so think before you speak.

“Influential people are not concerned with always being right; they are concerned with being effective,” she says.

A major situation that helped push Branding 4 Success forward happened when her job underwent a massive restructuring. All her coaches, mentors, and sponsors were gone. Team Yolanda was out the door and the replacement boss was not exactly her cheerleader.

It seemed like they made it a mission to bring Yolanda down and she took the wait and see approach. “I knew I had not done anything wrong,” she shares. That was a huge mistake as the narrative they created resulted in Yolanda being demoted, and the remainder of her team were taken away. This became a true nightmare for her. Yet, Yolanda stated that she knew in the end, she had no one to blame but herself. “I knew how to brand myself. I knew the importance of telling your story because if you don’t tell your story someone else will and it may not be the story you want to have told. The reason I didn’t crumble is I already had built my brand, I was confident in myself, and when you build your brand, you know who you are,” she said.

She has also made it clear that just because she is an entrepreneur, she wasn’t going to stop generating multiple streams of income. She didn’t leave her employer, and now, as a parallel-prenuer she still works in the corporate setting, and her employer is a big consumer of her branding services. “They utilize me to teach employees how to be visible and gain recognition for the expertise they have to advance their careers.

Yolanda notes that her greatest satisfaction comes from seeing others succeed, “working with other people and seeing their successes is one of my greatest accomplishments.” It should also be mentioned that she has many awards under her belt, including the LRL President’s Award for Diversity, the 360PM Elite Award for Transformational Leadership, and the Indianapolis Business Journal named her one of the 2017 Women of Influence. She admits that receiving external rewards and recognition is awesome because it lets her know the work she’s doing truly matters.

Yolanda has shown us that she is a non-stop woman of motivation. In January, she experienced a few nights of restlessness and was constantly awoken out of her sleep, and hearing the words, “Look Up, Get Up, Level Up.” At first, she ignored it, but once it happened the second night, she realized she wasn’t going to get any sleep until she figured out what this meant. So, she looked up, got up, and went to her office, and she began brain dumping. “Within two hours, I had a full-blown 4-week group coaching curriculum outlined to be conducted on a specified day for 2-hours, each week,” she says. The program sold-out in 2 weeks and launched in February and she is hosting the monthly series for individuals who want to achieve next-level excellence by building a brand, creating strategies, and developing a positive digital footprint. Can you guess the name of it? If you said anything other than “Look Up -Get Up -Level Up” I’d be disappointed. I would join quickly because her classes are filling up fast.

Looking forward to the future, Yolanda is currently working on her next book. As she continues her journey, she plans to invest in Branding 4 Success full time. Her end goal is to be a premier branding and career coaching company, helping people around the world discover their passion and purpose to reach their highest potential.

If you are interested in connecting or learning more about Yolanda and Branding 4 Success check out her social media handles and website, LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/branding4success, Twitter - @_YolandaSmith, Instagram - branding4success, www.Yolandamsmith.com, or contact her at yolanda@yolanda-smith.com h

Helping Client’s Unleash The Power of Personal Branding www.yolandamsmith.com 36

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 37

MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

Prince Antonio Kelly The son of Dominique and Latisha Kelly

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

His Legacy Lives On

By Gamal Williams Photo by CDB Scholarship Foundation Inc

How does one turn tragedy into legacy? When the Butler family experienced the tragic murder of her father, the question wasn’t first and foremost in Khadijah Butler’s mind. Craig Butler’s life was an inspiration to Khadijah. Her face lights up when speaking about him. “My father was a family man; he was the life of the party. He was big on having a moral compass, and how my sister and I were to be perceived in the world. He was also a very giving man. He was murdered when I was 19, shot in the groin by a 14-year-old boy over a dispute. Yet, in that short amount of time in my life, he dropped so many jewels on me,” she shares.

The trial of her father’s murderer took a toll on Khadijah. “My first year at Temple University was tough. The trial was over the summer; it was on television and in the newspapers,” she says. She remembered her father’s lessons on education and fearlessness and stayed the course. After graduating summa cum laude with her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology (the study of the mechanics of body movements), the native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, saw herself working for her hometown team. “I initially wanted to be an athletic trainer for the Eagles! I thought it would be such a cool thing not only as a woman, but as an African-American woman,” she says. When Khadijah went to ply her craft, the hurdles necessary to break into the NFL as an athletic trainer left her a bit discouraged.

“I had to decide and learn how do I pivot. Initially, I though about nursing, but then an old friend said ‘Why don’t you get into clinical research? You have such a big heart and already give back so much.

That is an industry you don’t see us in,’” Khadijah says. The idea intrigued her. “I thought ‘Okay. I could still use my degree. I could still focus on science. I could be a part of a new medical treatment or medication that could help people, especially with what’s going on today with COVID-19. Plus, I saw that there wasn’t really a lot of African-American women in that field.”

Undeterred and renewed, she decided to recommit herself to school and obtained her Master of Science in Management from Rosemont College. “I get my work ethic from my father, my fearlessness from him,” she shares. Khadijah accepted a position as a Project Data Manager for Clinical Research Organization, an opportunity that became extremely fulfilling for her. Yet, despite all of her success, Khadijah felt she could be doing more. It was then

she remembered the life of someone that molded her into the strong, black woman she is today, her father.

Khadijah wanted to honor her father’s memory while helping the youth of Philadelphia. “We all know the gun violence that occurs in Philly, the educational gaps that exist in America, and when I think of the 14-year-old boy, who is now a man and still in prison, I wondered how could I tie all of that together to honor him? I wanted to redirect our youth on education and not gun violence,” she says.

In January 2020, Khadijah started the Craig D. Butler Scholarship Foundation with the goal of providing scholarships to deserving students. According to the Craig D. Butler Scholarship Foundation website, the CDB aims to aid young adults from under-served populations to pursue higher education. Each year, the CDB Scholarship Foundation will seek future high school graduates to offer financial support as they pursue their dreams in the aftermath of gun violence. The CDB Scholarship is an annual, merit-based competition, that focuses on instilling philanthropic values in ambitious, driven, goal-oriented individuals.

“I didn’t want to make the scholarship centered around what happened to my dad,” Khadijah explains, “but so many people became connected to my story. I decided if I was going to start a business, I wanted to do something to memorialize him. I toyed with the idea for years, then finally decided to just do it. I said, ‘This is the time!’ I wanted to do something to give back and build our family legacy,” she says.

Khadijah smiles now when she talks about her father, because it always leads to discussions of the CDB and how his legacy lives on. “It’s been twenty years since his death, and I miss him, but I am giving back to Philly and getting his name out there in a positive light through the scholarship,” she says.

Hard work. Sound morals. Giving back. Principles that define who Craig D. Butler was as a man, husband, and father, and now his legacy lives on thanks to his daughter for future generations to emulate.

To learn more about the Craig D. Butler Foundation, visit www. craigdbutlerscholarship.com or you can email Khadijah at info@ craigdbutlerscholarship.com. h

39

For advertising information, please call 336-340-7844

www.huamimagazine.com