Huami Magazine Mississippi Nov./Dec. 2023

MISSISSIPPI

®

Nov./Dec. 2023 Vol. 2 Issue 5

Radiant Dreams Healing & Gifts Mississippi - Nov./Dec. 2023

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“We looked like a wholesome, loving family on the outside, but on the inside, our house was a living hell. I had a controlling father, and my mother was his punching bag. I felt abandonment, fear, anxiety, and depression. I didn’t take care of my childhood trauma, so it showed up in my adult life. I wanted control, and the men in my life were victims of my wrath. My life came full circle when I met a man just like my father.

It is time for my story to be told my way. My trauma. My triggers. My truth.”

Dear Abuser…

www.roslynnecamper.com

Your Voice is Your Ticket A Letter From The Editor

Everything that will come to us in life is connected to our voice. The word of God shares there is power in what we speak.

We can speak about things that can change our outlook and circumstances: greatness, healing, abundance, prosperity, deliverance, victory, etc. With the same voice, we have the option to speak of detriment and destruction.

I am reminded of what my mother told me as a young boy, “Be careful what you say”. When faced with adversity throughout my life, the outcome has always been connected to what I said.

Whatever thought I allowed to reside in my mind about a situation, my actions would align with it. If I believed that I could win, I won; if I thought I couldn’t, I did not. It all came down to what I spoke to myself.

Imagine the challenges and adversity Brain Surgeons face within their profession. They are asked to care for patients who have suffered trauma to their head that involves bleeding, swelling, and ultimately life-threatening conditions. The degree of difficulty in their actions within the operating rooms is off the meter; still, they must remain calm and complete their assignment. If the surgeons spoke doubt and were unable to care for their patients, they would fail. They would fail if they allowed fear and disbelief to dictate their actions. Instead, they must speak with assurance, and by doing so, their confidence in their abilities will arise. It all comes down to what they speak to themselves.

God speaks to us, and He doesn’t expect us to be quiet.

Whatever you want and need, open your mouth and speak. Your body language should speak for you. How we treat others speaks for how we feel about ourselves. You will only go as far in life as your voice will take you.

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L. Watson

Publisher

Monica Montgomery Dr. Marrissa Dick Terry L. Watson Dorjea’ McClammey

Writer Writer Writer Writer

Tamara Smith

Snuggs Photography Photographer Still Shots Photography Photographer Chris Kelly Photographer Howard Gaither Photography

huami.mississippi@gmail.com (336)340-7844 General Inquiries terry.editor@yahoo.com Mykel Media Company LLC Greensboro, NC 2023 All Rights Reserved

Your voice is your ticket to the greatness that God promises. Speak about what you expect to happen in both moments of gaining and relinquishing and giving and receiving, as the impact effect is the same. We must use the voices God gives us, as it pleases Him when we do.

Terry L. Watson 4

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CONTENTS

NOV./DEC. 2023

MISSISSIPPI

Cammo Cleaning LLC

Cameron Woodard Littrell

On The Cover

Charronda Hairston

Radiant Dreams Healing & Gifts

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Hero Fitness LLC

Jerome Teasley

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Dreadloc Divas Loc Studio

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Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

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Tracie Lee

Autumn Thornton

Also Featured

Foluke Houston Gaddis There is power in what you allow to come out of your mind, and enter your heart. Learn more about AffirmMePlease.

Memphis, TN

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Percy B. Lawson His has lived a life of service to his community and country.

Learn more about his journey.

Greensboro, NC

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Dr. KL Burns Her path to becoming one of Tennessee’s newest dentists began while working another job. She took a leap of faith that changed her life.

Murfreesboro, TN

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Radiant Dreams Healing & Gifts

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by DP Photography LLC

Charronda Hairston was born and raised in Mississippi. She is the daughter of Jennifer Hairston and the late Charles R. Hairston. Charronda is also the proud mother of Alyria Denis, who will be graduating from high school in December. As an aspiring business owner and the founder of Radian Dreams Healing & Gifts, LLC, she says that sharing the tools and knowledge with others as they take their own path to greatness is awe-inspiring.

After graduating from Pascagoula High School, Charronda obtained her Bachelor’s of Science degree in Chemistry from Alcorn State University. She worked as a chemist for several years before leaving the industry for a career in education. She taught Chemistry and Physics at Moss Point High School and then at her alma mater, Pascagoula, and taught aerospace engineering and robotics. “I have always been told I love a project, so even though I loved teaching and helping students reach their dreams, leaving the safety net to pursue a dream of working for myself and helping others has been one of my biggest and most rewarding accomplishments,” she says.

Charronda also loves to travel, cook, read, and make her friends and family smile.

With Radiant Dreams Healing & Gifts, she has an abundance of opportunities to do just that. She says, “I established Radiant Dreams in 2020 during the pandemic. I wanted to bring a metaphysical store to the Mississippi Gulf Coast that was nonjudgmental and focused on personal individual healing.”

In early 2024, she plans to open Well of Radiance Holistic Wellness Center, which will be one of the first Black-owned wellness centers on the Gulf Coast in Mississippi.

The Well of Radiance Holistic Wellness Center is also an extension of Radiant Dreams and a result of various workshops and classes that Charronda conducted. She says they needed more room due to expanding and focusing on holistic health practices.

So, the next logical step was to find a way to separate the retail store from the holistic detox services to provide her customers with the personalized relaxation services they deserve.

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While many of Charronda’s services are designed for women ages 18 and up, she also offers services for men and teens. Her workshops and yoga classes are open to everyone, and she says her goal is to provide an inclusive set of services to co-create with her clients in reaching their dream state of life. In the retail store, she offers various metaphysical tools and supplies one could need in spiritual practices. “We have sage, incense, crystals, candles, books, skincare, herbal teas, and organic bitters; if we don’t have it in the store, we can normally find it for our customers who ask. Currently, we offer limited detoxification and holistic health services, but the Well of Radiance will offer a full range of detox, Womb, and massage services,” she says. In 2024, Charronda will hold workshops, retreats, yoga classes, sound healing, and other activities focused on finding inner peace and community.

Being a business owner has its perks, and Charronda shares she loves the connections made with each of her customers. “A quick shopping trip often turns into an hour conversation, a cup of tea, and a ‘I will see you soon’. Being able to help others physically, mentally, and spiritually reconnect to their higher selves is an awarding experience,” she says. Additionally, every interaction with her customers provides healing for Charronda. “I learn from them as much as they learn from me. The feeling of community and unconditional love is spread with every connection.”

So, who has impacted Charronda’s life the most? There are a few names that she shares. “Both of my grandmothers impacted my perseverance and strength. My dad had always been my biggest cheerleader and grounder. He kept me in check, taught me to be open-minded and non-judgmental, and approached every situation with firm compassion and fairness. His favorite phrase was always “Handle It”. No matter what choices you make, you should look at them objectively and “Handle It” with grace and integrity.”

Charronda also recognizes many other successful Black women who have played a key role in helping her to become the woman she is today. There is Tamika Jones, who is the owner of Let Go Let Goddess Coaching, and LaShun Teboh from The Ankh Academy of Holistic Healing. She says LaShun has been instrumental in mentoring her while she focuses on helping women heal their bodies and spirits. Additionally, she recognizes Tajuana Lee with Royal Vision Society, LLC, who she says has been one of her biggest cheerleaders. “These women have taught me how to do business as a holistic practitioner. They also lead by example and are always a phone call away. More importantly, being able to have them as part of my current network reminds me that anything is possible.”

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When something is new in a community, many create a scary narrative of how it works. That fear stops people from reaching their full potential and stepping into holistic healing.”

Charronda says one of her biggest challenges in business has been marketing and getting customers to step out of fear and try a new way. “When something is new in a community, many create a scary narrative of how it works. That fear stops people from reaching their full potential and stepping into holistic healing,” she says. “I’m still navigating the challenges and learning how to step out of my comfort zone and put a face to the name of the business.”

Charronda’s advice to other aspiring business owners is to not be afraid to take the risk to go after something you want.

“If that idea or thought gives you butterflies or makes your heart flutter, go for it. Allow yourself grace and celebrate your small wins. Your journey shouldn’t look like anyone else’s. Also, remember to always lead and serve in love, open your heart, and start every day with gratitude and love. Unconditional love is the key to bringing our world back in balance.

Love is gentle, kind, and freedom,” she shares.

Looking ahead, Charronda plans to expand her brand even further. In 2025, she will take wellness retreats and offer more workshops, services, and events focused on physical, mental, and spiritual healing. To learn more about Radiant Dreams Healing & Gifts, LLC, please visit their website. h

Charronda Hairston Radiant Dreams Healing & Gifts, LLC 6616 North Washington Ave. - Suite E Ocean Springs, MS 228-238-3977 www.radiantdreamsgifts.com

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“AffirmMePlease”

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Foluke Houston-Gaddis

Saving lives and saving souls. It is often said the power of life and death lies in the tongue, so it’s imperative that one be mindful of what is spoken from one’s mouth.

Germantown, TN, resident Foluke Houston Gaddis, along with her husband, Rodney, has launched a new line for verbal fashion designed to empower others through affirmation. “I am a person who has discovered my purpose: to positively impact others with my gift. I can accomplish this while using my skills from my Human Resources background and my business venture, AffirmMePlease,” she says.

AffirmMePlease, Foluke says, is a manifestation of her aspirations. She says since she was a little girl, she has always written down her thoughts and spoken about them. “I was raised by two parents who were Christian and Spiritual leaders who raised my siblings and me to believe in God and pray and ask God for His provision and His power. I wrote down so much that my mother told me to stop writing so much and leaving it around my house,” Foluke laughs. Fortyone years of affirming herself and believing in the power of provision that is assigned to her through the word of God has ultimately produced AffirmMePlease.

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During the pandemic, I, like many other people, felt the psychological and negative impact of Covid. Being isolated really accelerated and amplified solitude and depression. I really used biblical affirmations during that time to encourage myself. ”

Foluke says she has affirmed herself through some very tough situations, illnesses, and difficulties. During the Covid 19 pandemic, she says things really came to a head.

“During the pandemic, I, like many other people, felt the psychological and negative impact of Covid. Being isolated really accelerated and amplified solitude and depression.

I really used biblical affirmations during that time to encourage myself. I had them everywhere in my house, on my bathroom mirrors, on my workstations, and in other places. I also listened to them at night before going to bed to assist with getting myself out of that season of hopelessness. I also entered a 40-day fast and only digested God’s words, sermons, and affirmations. While I was going through the fast, God put it on my heart to share my affirmations with others. I wasn’t obedient, but God kept pulling at me. When I came out of the fast, I was transformed. I stepped out of faith and began sharing my vision with the world via social media.”

She was scared in the beginning, mainly due to the fear of what others would ask her. Still, Foluke pressed on, and as of today, AffirmMePlease enjoys the company of 40,000 social media followers. “Having that level of support confirms that there is definitely a need for this type of content,” Foluke says. She posted her content nonstop for two years, and soon, God shared the next step for AffirmMePlease with Foluke. “I listened to a message shared with a pastor, Darius Daniels, and he said “You’re asking God for an increase, but He isn’t going to just pop money in your pocket; God is going to give you an idea”.

That made my spidey senses go off, and I realized what God was trying to tell me,” she says.

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Today, AffirmMePlease is transitioning from being a social hub of global followers to being a lifestyle brand. “As a lifestyle brand, we meet our customers where they are. We take a holistic approach to infusing our customers and followers with positivity and inspiration. We are launching our apparel, drinkware, digital, ebooks, journals, affirmation flashcards for kids, and more. We also will continue to post daily content and have created a private playlist for Spotify,” she says.

When asked what she loves most about her company, Foluke says she loves to hear feedback from clients who have experienced AffirmMePlease. I consider my brand a haven for hope, and others do as well. So many people have reached out and asked me to continue to post our affirmations. I smile because that’s my “why”. We have a tool to encourage each other, affirm ourselves, and understand that we have an inert ability to bring ourselves from dark places. I suffer from seasonal depression, and during those times when my perception of my self-image is low, being able to create affirmations brings me hope and uplifts my spirits,” Foluke says.

Foluke and her team of creatives have created unique and one-of-a-kind designs. Their messages are intentional and often have a ripple effect with their messages. “There are so many apparel brands available, but we wanted to be unique,” she says. Additionally, AffirmMePlease strives to reach others, even those who may not be wearing their brand but simply walking by someone who is. The impact of the message is the same.

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As a lifestyle brand, we meet our customers where they are. We take a holistic approach to infusing our customers and followers with positivity and inspiration.

Moving forward, Foluke shares she will continue to respond to what God has told her to do with AffirmMePlease. “We will continue to provide products and offer our clients experiences. We are an inclusive brand, and our products are for everybody,” she says.

Before AffirmMePlease officially launched, the appetite for their products was apparent. “Before launching, we gave away a free affirmation devotional for those who subscribed to their website. In only a few weeks, over 200 people signed up to receive the journal. If that is any inclination of what we want to experience, who knows what is to come? We are expecting a steady increase in sales and a passionate customer base,” she says.

While based in Germantown, TN, AffirmMePlease does ship nationwide. Moving forward, Foluke says one of her goals is to create partnerships with nonprofits that support underrepresented communities so that they can provide sponsorships and products. “That is another way we can stay close to our mission and values,” she says. To learn more about AffimMePlease, please visit their website. h

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Percy B.A Legacy Lawson of Service

By Terry L. Watson Photos provided by Demetris Lawson

When defining the life of Percy Lawson, there is actually one word that can accurately capture what it is: service. At 84 years of age, Percy is still quite sharp. His memory and ability to reference life’s experiences are quite impressive. He also dotes on his family whenever he gets the opportunity and shares his love for God without hesitation.

In 1938, Percy was born in Caswell County, NC. As a child, he was raised with two brothers and one sister by his mother and father. Percy served in the United States Navy for 12 years, with four of them on active duty and the remaining serving in the Reserves. He was honorably discharged from his duties in December of 1968. He has been married to his wife, Loanne, for 65 years and recently celebrated their union in September of this year. Percy and Syretha have two children.

Percy quit school in eleventh grade and joined the military against his mother’s will. He initially tried to join the Marine Corps, but that didn’t work out. Percy returned home, and his mother advised him to return to school. He stayed at home with his parents, but his father continued to encourage him to do something with life. Percy’s mind was set on the military, even though his first attempt at enlisting failed. In 1956, he successfully joined the US Navy and began serving his country.

After leaving the US Navy, Percy returned to Greensboro and worked as an NC Mutual Life Insurance insurance agent. He also worked with the North Carolina Department of Corrections until he became unable to walk. Percy graduated from Rutledge College in Greensboro, NC, with an Associates Degree in Business Management in 1980. He continued his education by attending Greensboro College, majoring in Accounting, and graduated with honors.

In 1982, he went into business and opened the Lawson Accounting Firm. His company provided accounting and bookkeeping services to churches and businesses in Greensboro for over 30 years. He has also worked for the Internal Revenue Service. Until 2021, Percy managed Lawson Accounting Firm, but due to his disabilities, he passed the responsibilities along to his daughters, and the name was changed to Lawson Accounting and Associates.

Regarding accounting, Percy says it is a very technical field. “Most people believe you should be a mathematician to be an accountant. That part is true, but it’s not a requirement. I’ve had quite a bit of training in math, but being a mathematician isn’t required. You must also be sharp in business, have sharp morals, and be pretty exact,” he says. Percy admits that his accounting career and his career with the US Navy shaped his life.

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Family is very important to Percy. He has conducted extensive research on his family and found photos of his family members dating back to five and six generations from him. He has photos of his GreatGreat-Grandmother and Great-Great-Grandfather. “I had a strong father figure as a child. He instilled the importance of working for what we want in life. I feel like men have an obligation to set the trend for their families. Your family’s name is something that every man should be proud to carry on. In my 84 years of life, I have never been to prison, and I don’t intend to go now.

I have also worked really hard to support my family,” he says. “I don’t have any sons, only three daughters. My only grandson was killed in Washington, DC, in 2002, and before he passed, I tried to instill things into his life that would be important to his survival. When I meet young men, I want to know what kind of work they do and what their interests are. My obligation is to let them know how important it is to have a job or find ways to support themselves. I pride my life on being honest with others,” he says.

“I had a strong father figure as a child. He instilled the importance of working for what we want in life. I feel like men have an obligation to set the trend for their families.”

Pictured above is a young, Percy Lawson. He served in the United States Navy for 20 years and retired with honors in 1965.

In addition to all of his other accomplishments in life, Percy is also an accomplished author, having written two published books, “From The Bottom To See, A Brand New Me” and the other “From Slavery to Ownership”.

More than anything, Percy shares that he has loved the opportunities he’s had to serve his country and others through his business. While his journey has had many challenges, he shares that it has been all worth it.

Percy’s advice to others is to live life to the fullest.

“Never give up on life. Life isn’t over until it’s over,” he says. There is truth to what he said, as Percy is currently working on publishing his third book. h

Pictured with Percy Lawson are his daughters Demetris and Beverly, son-in-law Bryan, and wife of 65 years, Syretha.

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Serenity Smiles Dental Care

By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Dr. KL Burns

At Serenity Smiles Dental Care, everyone is treated as family. Led by Dr. KL Burns, Serenity Smiles is quickly becoming one of the top oral care providers in the Murfreesboro, TN, community.

Dr. KL Burns is the first dentist in her family. She attended Xavier University of Louisiana and obtained her undergraduate degree there before attending Dental School at the University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center and acquiring her Doctorate of Dental Surgery in 2008.

She has over 15 years of experience working with adults and children and is focused on providing general and cosmetic dental care with a gentle touch and warm bedside manner.

Dr. KL Burns’s journey as a dentist began quite interestingly. She says, “I was the youngest worker in the chemistry lab at a local brewery in Memphis, TN. One night, the chemistry and microbiology lab people were talking, and I realized that all my co-workers had a story about what they wanted to do with their lives but didn’t follow their dreams for whatever reason. I didn’t want to be in my forties, unhappy with my job, ruminating on what I should have done. So, I decided to pursue my dream and apply to dental school.”

Dr. KL Burns firmly believes in healthy dental habits, creating healthy teeth and gums, resulting in beautiful smiles. Her practice offers a wide range of general dental care, including restorations, extractions, root canals, partials and dentures, teeth whitening, orthodontic braces, and clear aligners, and we will be offering Botox at our monthly Self-Care Saturdays starting in December.

After working for other practices for a period of time, the opportunity for Dr. KL Burns to have her own became a reality. She says, “I had a dream about what I wanted my office to look like and the atmosphere I wanted for anyone who walked in. I dreamt of an office that didn’t look, feel, or smell like your typical dental office.

As a result, when patients walk in my office, they’re first greeted by our aromatherapy, embellished in calmness and tranquility. The walls are a relaxing lavender gray, and when you’re in the chair, you are surrounded by either rainfall or ocean sounds and the visuals on the television screen. We also offer noise-canceling headphones for those patients who are more comfortable listening to music from their phones. I also treat patients who suffer from dental anxiety and phobias, as I intend to make everyone’s dental experience as pleasant and relaxing as possible,” she says.

“I didn’t want to be in my forties, unhappy with my job, ruminating on what I should have done.

So, I decided to pursue my dream and apply to dental school.”

What Dr. KL Burns says she loves most about her profession is the opportunities she has to restore smiles and confidence in her patients.

She also shares, “People don’t realize how important your oral health is until it’s too late and you find someone who hasn’t smiled or eaten properly in years. I love the looks on their faces after we’ve finished their treatment and given them the mirror to look at. It’s very fulfilling knowing that we have helped change how they feel about their appearance and provided them with what they need to live happier and healthier lives.”

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When not helping others in her practice, Dr. KL Burns enjoys spending time with her family, specifically her children. They inspire her, and she hopes they will look at their mama and see that it’s never too late to follow your dreams. “I got a late start for dental school and an even later start opening my dental practice, but it’s never too late to start. I wish I could have done this years ago, but mentally I don’t think I was ready, and that’s ok. There are no time limitations on when you start as long as you do. I always tell my kids that we believe in dreaming big in our house, so exhibiting that is a great feeling.”

Teaching yourself how to do things or hiring people who can help you do what you cannot do is a steep learning curve and has been a challenge Dr. KL Burns has faced. She is a first-time business owner, and juggling when to save money and add people to her staff is also challenging. She says, “I’ve had to realize that it’s okay to delegate because I can’t do everything by myself.” Her advice to others who may be faced with similar challenges or follow a journey similar to the one she has is very clear. “Anyone who is willing to be a business owner has a certain amount of bravery already, but I’d advise those who may be on the fence about making that jump into entrepreneurship to just do it. Ensure you’ve got all your pieces in order, but don’t be afraid to bet on yourself. Stay prayerful and grateful every step of the way, and never forget to take the time to stop and smell the roses along the way. Every step of this journey builds you into a stronger, more efficient you. You must embrace that.” h

513 N. Thompson Lane Murfreeboro, TN 37129 615-640-4697 www. serenitysmilesdentalcare.com

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Tracie Lee

Dreadloc Divas Loc Studio LLC

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Carlotta Coco Smith In the community of Jacksonville, FL, Tracie Lee has firmly planted herself as the face and founder of Dreadloc Divas Loc Studio LLC. Her company specializes in professional styling services for locs, natural, and more. She also offers and sells products to assist her clients in maintaining their healthy hair.

Tracie’s journey in business began quite remarkably. She shares, “From my early days in hair school in December 1998 to finishing my education in September 1999, my commitment to my craft has been constant and unwavering.

I have worked in various hair salons in areas such as Macon, Georgia. I also worked in my parent’s business, “Ed and Gloria’s Boutique”.

“My journey as a salon owner is both insightful and admirable, and learning

Throughout her life, Tracie has been blessed with the support and guidance of her parents, Gloria and Edward Fuller, who instilled in her the values of education and entrepreneurship. Opening her own salon marked a significant milestone in her career. While she worked in other places, and those opportunities helped to shape her, returning to the beautiful city of Jacksonville in 2014 was a culminating moment for her.

Tracie hails from Jacksonville, the city in which she was born and raised. She graduated from Terry Parker High School. Next, she attended FCCJ (FSCJ), honing her business administration skills, a field that would serve her well in her future endeavors. Tracie also embarked on a 20-year journey in the retail industry, gaining valuable experience and expertise. Yet, her heart longed for her true calling, which was cosmetology. With unwavering determination, Tracie obtained her cosmetology license at Macon School of Beauty in Macon, Georgia. This was a pivotal moment in her life, as it marked the realization of her first love and set her on a path of passion and creativity.

from past experiences, including failures and mistakes, is a valuable approach to personal and professional growth.”

Beyond her successful career, Tracie finds immense joy and fulfillment in being a mother to two incredible children, Malcolm and Morgan. “The joys of grandmotherhood have also graced my life with the presence of Mason,” she says.

“My journey is further enriched by my partnership with her amazing husband, Tommie Lee.” Mississippi - Nov./Dec. 2023

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Some of the products offered by Tracie at Dreadloc Divas Loc Studio are T.Necole’s Key to Your Loc, which is a revelation in the world of hair care, offers a comprehensive range of solutions designed to cater to her client’s unique needs.

There is Foam Control:, one of T.Necole’s signature products that allows her clients to re-twist, coil, create curls, and maintain their locs with ease. It’s also perfect for refreshing lock styles.

There is also Scalp Juice, a refreshing elixir that soothes and revitalizes the scalp and provides relief from itching and discomfort. Scalp Juice is also a true healer, addressing various scalp issues, including eczema, with care and precision. Her Diva Butta is for those in need of deep moisturization.

This shea butter-based product is a luxurious treat for excessively dry skin and scalps. “It hydrates, nourishes, and rejuvenates, leaving your hair, scalp, and skin feeling silky-smooth and radiant. Bid farewell to eczema and dryness; Diva Butta has got you covered,” Tracie says. And finally, there is the Loc Refresher, which revives locs from the scalp to the core, making it an ideal companion for those post-gym refreshers. Plus, the refreshing lemongrass scent energizes one’s senses, leaving locs smelling divine. All of T. Necole Key to Your Loc products are infused with the invigorating scent of lemongrass.

Tracie Lee

Dreadloc Divas Loc Studio LLC 478-284-4055 dreadlocdivas410@gmail.com 9951 Atlantic Blvd - Suite 410 Jacksonville, FL 32225 www.dreadlocdivas.com

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Tracie says she was inspired by her auntie, Evelyn Fuller, who also introduced her to the world of hair at a young age. From learning to do soft curl perms to assisting her auntie with clients and eventually styling her hair. Tracie has taken every inspiration and uses them to help make people happy. Whether it’s weddings, birthdays, achievements, or simply enhancing their beauty, her role as a LocHealthtian and stylist goes far beyond the physical transformation. “I become a friend, a confidant, a source of comfort, and a pillar of support during those crucial moments in my client’s lives.” Tracie says that Betty Jackson, her godparent, also impacted her life, both personally and professionally.

Like most business owners, Tracie has been faced with a few challenges along the way. Building a team that aligns with her goals is often a long and challenging process for Tracie. Still, she says the rewards of having a dedicated and dependable team are immeasurable. “I have overcome this challenge and now have a strong team in place,” she says.

“My journey as a salon owner is both insightful and admirable, and learning from past experiences, including failures and mistakes, is a valuable approach to personal and professional growth. I have used those lessons as stepping stones to create a more prosperous and fulfilling experience for myself,” she shared. h

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MAGAZINE

Established November 2007 Greensboro, NC Time really flies by when you are having fun! That is exactly what the experience with Huami Magazine has been like for the past 16 years. What began by having a one-on-one conversation with God has grown into a national publication that specializes in recognizing black excellence.

Over the next twelve months, we invite our readers and supporters to assist in celebrating this monumental accomplishment. We will share some of the experiences, the highs, and lows and highlight key individuals who have helped Huami Magazine become what it is today.

Below, we are showcasing the cover of the very first edition of Huami Magazine, which was launched in Greensboro, NC, on November 7th, 2007. Featured on the cover is Evan Chisholm, one of Greensboro’s homegrown talents. He is a fashion designer and aspiring entrepreneur. In this edition, we also showcased Pastor Lee Stokes of Destiny Christian Center in Greensboro and shared some information from the 2007 North Carolina A&T State University’s Homecoming Celebration. If you are fortunate to possess a printed copy of this treasured edition, hold on to it and share it with others.

We thank everyone for their constant support, and we couldn’t do any of this without you! h

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6616 Washington Ave. - Ste E Ocean Springs, MS 39564 228.238.3977 radiantdreamsgifts@gmail.com www.radiantdreamsgifts.com Facebook & Instagram @radinatdreamsgifts

Autumn Thornton The daughter of

Armani Thoirnton and Gregory (Feva) Bonds

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Cameron Woodard L ittrell Cammo Cleaning LLC

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Cammo Cleaning LLC Cameron Woodard-Littrell was born in Detroit, MI, but was raised in Atlanta, GA. Today, he resides in Little Rock, AR, along with his wife and daughter, and manages Cammo Cleaning LLC. He graduated from Little Rock Central High School and later attended and graduated from Henderson State University.

Cameron founded Cammo Cleaning LLC on the fourth day of January 2021 in an unrehearsed or nontraditional manner. He says, “I did not research about starting a business, specifically a cleaning business. I obtained my business license from the Secretary of State, obtained my EIN, and began inquiring about a business logo. My next move was to set up a website, email address, and social media pages for my new business. Once I obtained the company logo, I started to advertise, and with the film content obtained from the jobs we booked, we produced a professional commercial, and the rest of the story is history,” he says.

Cammo Cleaning has been recognized as a Best of Northwest Arkansas award-winning Black-Owned cleaning business. Excellence and exceeding every expectation in business are rooted in Cameron’s DNA. He says, “I come from a family of Black entrepreneurs, and I am here to continue the legacy. My mother was the first entrepreneur that I knew. She owned a daycare in Atlanta, Ga, and I saw the drive and passion from her daily.

She bet on herself and it paid off,” he said.

While Cameron may have launched his company without any script at his disposal, his intentions have always been clear. “I created this business to provide high-quality residential and commercial cleaning services to Northwest Arkansas. One of my main focuses is to bring clean and positive energy to people’s homes and businesses. I call it “Clean Therapy”. Another focus is to show minorities and children in our community that you can create, own, and accomplish anything you put your mind to.” Furthermore, Cameron’s drive is connected to wanting to provide his daughter and other minority youth with the entrepreneurial mindset that was shown to him.

“My mother was the first entrepreneur that I knew.

She owned a daycare in Atlanta, Ga, and I saw the drive and passion from her daily. She bet on herself and it paid off.”

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I can grow this business and take the business as far as I want. There is no limit to our success, and I am always willing to provide opportunities for others and show them anything is possible.”

Pictured with Cameron are his daughter, Amy, and wife, Donna Giving back and networking with the Northwest Arkansas community is very important to Cameron and Cammo Cleaning LLC. He has partnered with Walmart and Sam’s Club to advertise their business and expose HBCU students to entrepreneurial passion and mindset. They are a part of the Black-Owned Northwest Arkansas group that displays Black-Owned Businesses locally and via social media. Additionally, they’ve donated cleaning services to help local elementary schools build new playgrounds. Cameron has also mentored other Black-Owned and minority business owners.

What he loves most about being a business owner, Cameron shares, is being in control of his destiny. “I can grow this business and take the business as far as I want. There is no limit to our success, and I am always willing to provide opportunities for others and show them anything is possible.”

There is always a challenge when a person starts a business, especially a first-time business owner., and that also applies to Cammo Cleaning LLC. Cameron shares, “I’ve had to continuously learn the ins and outs of how to run a business, including hiring people that will treat business the way I expect them to. Along with managing the company’s finances and advertising, it’s been a hard but enjoyable process. The more you learn, the more you grow, and the more opportunities are presented to you and your company.”

Cameron says there’s absolutely nothing he would change about being a business owner. The process and growth have been a blessing, and I have learned there are no shortcuts to success. “I appreciate all the ups and downs. Those things make you and your business stronger,” he says.

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Cameron shares that in the future, his company is working towards becoming the #1 residential and commercial cleaning company in Northwest Arkansas. They’ve also started a podcast called “Clean Therapy, A Podcast By Cammo” where he provides information about the daily operations of a business and business owner. He also interviews other entrepreneurs and provides business coaching on the podcast. He is also working on starting an all-purpose cleaning product line, with an expected launch date in 2024.

In closing, Cameron shares a message that he hopes will resonate with other entrepreneurs, specifically Black business owners. “The world is fueled by people making a positive impact.

Black people have positively impacted the world from the beginning of time and will continue to make a positive impact. Black inventors and entrepreneurs have laid the foundation for today’s world. I want to continue to be a part of that legacy and motivate the next generation.”

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Mississippi - Nov./Dec. 2023

Personal Training Coach Hero Fitness

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Jerome Teasley Jerome Teasley is a household name in the physical fitness community in Greenville, SC. He is a family man with one son, Danzel, and two daughters, Maya and NaAsia Friz. He is also a proud graduate of Southside High School. As a native of Greenville, Jerome has devoted many years of his life to helping others learn and understand the importance and value of living an active and physically fit life.

Jerome is the CEO of Hero Fitness and is a Personal Training Coach. He has over two decades of training experience, is also a celebrity trainer, and has coached world-renowned life coach and public speaker Precious Bivings. He offers services to both men and women and is a Personal Trainer for Professional Body Sculpture & Body Builders and a Professional Judge for Bodybuilding Shows under two Organizations. Under his leadership, over 11 personal trainers were able to establish and grow their fitness careers.

Jerome also mentors other Personal Trainers, offers Corporate Team Building services and has even found time to manage a Nonprofit Organization called “Hero Wellness for Youth”, as a means to give fitness back to his community. “My mission is to save lives by promoting a healthier lifestyle through transformation of mind, body, and spirit,” he says. Jerome, also known as Coach by many, founded Hero Fitness LLC over 13 years ago. He shares that he wants to help as many people as possible transform their bodies, regain their confidence, and tap into their fountain of youth. Additionally, Jerome is an active member of his community and compassionate about youth’s wellbeing.

“I thought, what if I could have helped her change her diet and given her an exercise regime? She may still be here.”

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Jerome’s journey as a physical fitness trainer resulted from a life-changing experience he endured. His mom, Lottie C. Teasley, passed away at the age of 56 due to health complications. That experience saddened Jerome but also got his attention, and his response would impact many others. “I thought, what if I could have helped her change her diet and given her an exercise regime? She may still be here,” he said. “I said enough is enough! I made it my life’s mission to learn as much as I could about health and fitness and help live healthier as well.”

Jerome launched his personal training career at The Imagine Center in Greenville, an area that is currently known as Relentless (Health & Wellness) Life Center. He grew his brand by training hundreds of people at Planet Fitness and Pro Fitness Gym. There, he also learned the art of running his very own gym.

Hero Fitness was opened during the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, and while much of the world was brought to a screeching halt, Jerome said nothing was going to stop him from helping his community get fit and changing the narrative. “Opening up a gym in the middle of a pandemic was very challenging.

So, I focused on one client at a time. A new company with other plans bought out the location of my gym. I was looking to open another spot, but honestly, I stuck to my belief that God always has my back. Soon, a megachurch pastor came and asked me to train him and to be over his gym. Even more, I would still get to train my other clients. I sat still, and God did the rest,” he says. Since opening, Jerome has helped thousands of people, in-person and virtually. He has also partnered with Relentless (Health & Wellness) Life Center to help meet the ongoing demand for his life-changing services.

What does Jermome love most about what he does? He says, “I’ve trained people of all walks of life, and I found that everybody wants the same thing: someone to believe in them and give them hope when hope isn’t available.

I give them that! When my clients trust the process, they can turn their entire lives around because they see that everything they’ve ever wanted has always been on the inside of them.

Sharing their doctor’s report about not being on three or four different medications reminds me of my why.”

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Jerome says God, family, and clients have impacted his life more than anything. “I see some of my clients come in with the weight of the world on their shoulders, and it shows up on their bodies. Yet, they continue to show up and keep showing up, and seemingly, out of nowhere, these same clients have a new walk and new talk. Their pain has turned into their purpose. Some have started businesses, embarked on new careers, and made significant lifestyle changes. Their mentality changes, their circle changes, all because they started believing in themselves. Fitness really does that to people. It’s Freaking Amazing!”

Jerome finds inspiration in the challenges he has endured and overcome in life. “When I think about how strong my mom was and how much she overcame, I’m inspired. My father has also been a big inspiration in my life. Every year I present one of my clients with a Lottie C. Teasley award in honor of my mother’s memory,” he says. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Urban League of the Upstate. In addition to Hero Fitness, he established the free Upstate Bootcamp and has served as a launching pad for several young fitness trainers.

Jerome advises others who may follow in his footsteps to know that you are your brand. He says, “You have to be the example for your clients to realize they can do it. Also, find your niche and master it. People will remember how you made them feel about themselves, so treat everyone with respect regardless of their race, size, title, or economic status.”

Moving ahead, Jerome plans to launch a Mentoring Program for Trainers called “Fit for Business”. He is also launching an online apparel store called “That Hero Drip” and has plans for a workshop resort called “The Hero Ranch.”

To learn more about Jerome Teasley and Hero Fitness, please visit their website.

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