Business Social Culture
SPEAKER
| AUTHOR | ENTREPRENEUR
Hello, I’m PAULA FARVE, also known as “The Real Shea Queen”.
Welcome to Shea Queen Organics, where we celebrate the power of natural beauty and empower individuals to embrace their inner royalty.
Our mission is to provide soothing, all-natural products for hair and skin that uplift and nourish.
Driven by my passion for natural ingredients, I embarked on a path of discovery and innovation. With hard earned expertise and an unwavering commitment to quality, I handcraft each product with love and care.
From luxurious shea butter to carefully selected herbs and botanicals, every ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to enhance the natural beauty of your hair and skin.
Shea Queen Organics is more than just a skincare brand. It’s a movement that embraces diversity and promotes self-love. I believe that everyone deserves to feel confident, radiant, and proud of their unique beauty. Through my products, I strive to uplift individuals of all backgrounds, especially those who have faced harmful chemicals in their past beauty routines.
My vision extends beyond skin care. I dream of creating a world where natural alternatives are widely embraced and where major chains recognize the importance of clean and sustainable beauty. I am on a mission to educate, empower, and make a lasting impact.
At Shea Queen Organics, I invite you to join our royal family. Discover the transformative power of nature, indulge in the luxurious experience of my products, and embrace your true beauty. Together, let’s rewrite the narrative of beauty standards and unleash the queen within you.
www.beautydirectstudios.square.site
Focus is Lost When It Becomes Inward
A Letter From The Editor
There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!
The greatest thing about life is that it’s a gift God blesses us with. Of course, we have all heard that before we were even born, God had us in mind. It is all part of His master plan, and we each have an assignment and purpose. I also believe that God doesn’t assign us a purpose without an expectation of obedience and fulfillment, and to do that has often proven to be a daunting task.
A Letter from the Editor
What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What would you do?
For those who follow the publication of my editorial letters, you may find that I often reflect on my childhood to describe experiences that have shaped my life, more specifically, my life as a Christian and believer. It was as a child that I established a life of prayer, and as an adult, I learned that prayer with God gives me free access to talk and converse with Him, regardless of the day, time, or place. The further that I walk with God, I learn that He wants me to seek Him for all things, as God desires to be included in all aspects of my life, the life that He blessed me with. His word confirms this in the book of Matthew 6:33, which says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in return acquire life.
Life is full of distractions, yet we do not have to allow ourselves to be distracted by them. Our ability to focus on what is important and the tasks ahead of us can ultimately determine our successes and failures. Remember what God shared in Matthew 6:33: He wants His children to stay focused on Him. We must continue to talk to God and listen for His voice in all situations; by doing so, we are able to walk the path designed just for us by Him. I admit that I have experienced my greatest share of defeats during the moments when I turn away from God or look inwardly for direction. God’s direction comes from God, and we do not possess the ability to lead ourselves as He does.
The best advice ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet, because someone may get it confused with being arrogant.
Make you tomorrow happen today, but most importantly make it count. Life is but a whisper and we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is telling us.
Looking inwardly for direction can mute what God is telling and showing us and expose us to outside noises that ordinarily wouldn’t exist or have an impact or effect. Connect to the fact that God has prepared for us, and trust in His plan always. One of the greatest things I have ever been told that has always been proven correct is that man will always let you down. Trust God and Him alone.
Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder
Terry L. Watson
Jackson, MS
Unveiling The Walter Payton Collection Jackson State University
Greensboro, NC
Becoming A Caregiver Caring and Comfort
Natchez, MS
Celebrating Black Culture BlackNatchez.org
Meet the founder and executive director of Higher Purpose Co. Dr. Tim Lampkin Jackson, MS
He is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one cute kid. His name is Cameron Pennix.
nov. 5th 2024
Jackson State University Unveils The Walter Payton Collection, Inspiring Future Generations
Jackson State University Campus Store (JSU) proudly announces the new Walter Payton Collection, a tribute to one of history’s most iconic football players. The collection is part of the Campus Legends Program by @rootsoffight and honors Payton’s legacy as a Tiger and his extraordinary impact on and off the field.
JSU’s Director of Auxiliary Services, Kamesha Hill, emphasized the importance of honoring Walter Payton’s contributions to the university and the world.
“The Walter Payton Collection is a proud moment for JSU. He embodied the spirit of excellence we celebrate daily at our institution. Not only was he a superior athlete, but he was also an overall excellent human being. It is our privilege to continue his legacy through this collection, which we hope will inspire generations of students and fans alike, reminding them of the greatness that began right here at JSU,” Hill said.
From 1971 to 1975, Walter Payton, affectionately known as “Sweetness,” revolutionized the running back position at JSU. His signature mix of grit and grace defined his style, with powerful runs that thrilled crowds and set records. Payton’s brilliance as a player was unparalleled. He broke the SWAC single-game record with seven touchdowns, ran for a school-record 3,563 yards, and scored 65 touchdowns, an NCAA record of 464 points.
After being overlooked by SEC schools, Payton’s decision to stay close to home made him a campus legend and established him as a symbol of tenacity. Payton set a JSU record running for 3,563 yards in his career and averaging 6.1 yards per carry. He scored 65 total touchdowns and an NCAA-record 464 points. He was a three-time Black College All-American and a two-time FCS All-American. His success at JSU was the springboard for his Hall of Fame career with the Chicago Bears, where he became one of the most respected players in NFL history.
The Walter Payton Collection at JSU serves as a reminder of where his journey to greatness began. It also highlights the university’s long-standing tradition of producing top-tier athletes who lead with both class and game, a style that Payton epitomized.
Today, the Walter Payton Collection cements his place in the hearts of all who understand the spirit of “Sweetness” and his lifelong connection to Jackson State University.
PaulaFarve
The Real Shea Queen, LLC
By Terry L. Watson
by Paula Farve
Paula “Shea Queen” Farve is a native of Bay St. Louis, MS. She is the lucky number 13 of 14 kids. She comes from a diverse background and culture. Her mom is of African descent and Creole, and her dad is of Choctaw and French descent. Paula is a mother of two adult kids and grandmother of five beautiful grandchildren. She is also the owner of The Real Shea Queen, LLC dba Shea Queen Organics, a skincare company that produces handmade, allnatural hair, skin, and body care products.
Paula is a natural beauty enthusiast. Blended with her cultural upbringing and expertise in becoming a Master Herbalist, she incorporated growing her own herbs and formulating organic, chemical-free products that hydrate, repair, and protect the whole body from head to toe. As a child, Paula says that she and her siblings were never sick and never missed school. “My Mom and Dad were always like, here, drink this. We did, and we got up and went to school the following day,” she says. Paula’s products embody a commitment to sustainability and holistic wellness, providing cruelty-free alternatives for personal care. She says, “My products are formulated for healthconscious individuals seeking nontoxic ingredients, as well as eco-conscious consumers who prioritize sustainability, cruelty, and environmentally friendly practices. I also cater to those with sensitive skin and certain allergies and skin conditions.”
Paula has an Associates Degree of Occupational Science. She is also a Certified Phlebotomist, Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, Business Administration Degree, and Master Herbalist. She is also studying to become a Master Gardener through the Mississippi State Extension Program.
“My products are formulated for healthconscious individuals seeking nontoxic ingredients, as well as eco-conscious consumers who prioritize sustainability, cruelty, and environmentally friendly practices.”
So, how did Paula begin her business? She refers to her son, who is 25 now. He suffered from Eczema as a child. The chemicals from the topical ointment contained steroids and, therefore, caused hyperpigmentation of his skin. Paula visited an internal medicine doctor, and it changed their lives, as this was her introduction to shea butter. Fast forward to 2015, when she faced divorce and had to find a way to supplement her income, Paula was serving as a coordinator for an assisted living facility. She began using shea butter on her patients. The staff saw a huge difference in the patient’s skin and encouraged Paula to market it, and things took off from there. She also joined a community garden and made it her mission to educate her community on the power of plants.
Paula says her ability to overcome, as well as her self-healing journey of her past, inspires her. “My transgressions have enabled me to pivot and change when deemed necessary. I have faced repossessions, homelessness, divorce, and PTSD, which I have overcome to become a better version of myself. Knowing oneself is knowing what you represent and stand for. Accountability is everything. I just roll with the punches and take every day as another opportunity to be not only great but yet greater,” she shares. “I get to wake up every day and create at my own will. I get lost in the passion to create products.”
While things haven’t been perfect, Paula says that she would not change how things have transpired. From the mistakes came powerful lessons that, in turn, are blessings. She only adds that she would have started earlier but admits that everything happens in its timing.
Moving forward, Paula says her vision is to replace harmful products one household at a time. “I am committed to teaching my community the power of plants. I also look forward to becoming a household name and being marketed on a franchise level,” she says.
By Terry L. Watson
Teedgra Carter of Raleigh, NC, is the owner of Art Time Studio, which is located in Garner, NC. Her company offers highquality acrylic painting and drawing classes, watercolor workshops, and paint parties. Teedgra says, “ is all about creativity and excitement, where you can express your ideas and let your imagination run wild. We offer a wide variety of events that will get your creative juices flowing.”
She is married to Clovis Carter, and together they have four children. Teedgra has over 20 years of teaching experience and has a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts and a Master’s in Art Education and Fine Arts. She is also passionate about helping individuals find their creative side and fostering their love for art. She adds, “Art Time Studio LLC. is an art studio that focuses on bringing out the creativity in adults and children. Our unique flair helps bring out your artistic confidence by drawing guidelines on the canvas for individuals who are nervous about painting for the first time.”
Teedgra’s sessions are two hours long and are designed to allow her clients to immerse themselves in their art and achieve their creative goals. “Bring a friend or come solo and join our community of art lovers,” she says. “Our mission is to inspire and empower you to create your masterpieces, even if you are a complete beginner. At Art Time Studio, we know how to have fun!”
Art Time Studio
Teedgra says she has always had a love for art and teaching. With this love, it made perfect sense for her to open a business that offers paint parties. Additionally, she has a natural knack for meeting people, and with Art Time Studio, it provides a space to help others discover their creative skills.
As a small business owner, Teedgra faces some small challenges. One, she says, is finding customers. She counters this by advertising on social media and using word-of-mouth advertising. That method has proven to be effective as her clients often post and share their experiences online.
Looking ahead, Teedgra hopes to continue sharing her creative juices with other creatives. The beauty and honesty about art is that it provides freedom to create whatever the imagination allows. At Art Time Studio, there is room just for that. h
Learn More About My Experience of Being A Caregiver For My Mother
By Terry L. Watson
CHAPTER SEVEN: Caring and Comfort
The truth about being a caregiver for my mother is being comfortable, for both she and I, has never been something that we’ve truly experienced. From the very beginning, when the decision was made for her to live with me in my home, an adjustment was required from both of us and even to this day, we are still working on adjusting.
When the word comfort comes to mind, one might think that I may be referring to its physical relevance. Regarding caregiving, comfort is associated with various topics. For my Mom, it has always been my goal to ensure she has all that is needed to give her the best opportunity to thrive. While she may suffer from being a stroke victim, that doesn’t mean that all hope is lost. I faithfully believe that her full recovery is within reach, and with proper care, love, and support, it’s very attainable. While we travel this journey together, as her caregiver, I believe the least that I can do is make the most of what we face.
As Mom is confined to a wheelchair, it makes it very difficult to properly position her. This applies to when she is sitting in her recliner or resting in bed; finding the best comfortable position is something that we strive for and pray for. If Mom is not comfortable while sitting in her recliner, it can affect how she enjoys watching television, talking on the phone, and even interacting with others. As her caregiver, I pay attention to how she reacts to what is provided for her. I can imagine this is something that other caregivers encounter as well.
Another area of comfortability that presents itself as a challenge happens when it’s time to take Mom to the doctor or when she has visitors inside our home. I have noticed that Mom doesn’t always appear to be happy when she has to interact with someone other than her immediate family. I get it and understand that she lost a great deal of independence as a result of suffering her stroke. Even more, Mom is a very classy woman with a lot of sophistication, and having to depend on someone for her very basic needs can be uncomfortable and even embarrassing.
Just as little kids might stare at something that they see for the first time and find interesting, my Mom and I have experienced that type of behavior from other adults while out in public. I don’t know if it is because they are surprised to see a grown man care for his mother; I would do it a thousand times again if I had to. I don’t know if it is because they are intrigued by seeing my Mom in her condition. Regardless, over time, we have adjusted and settled into the pockets of joy that our situation provides.
It’s not easy being a caregiver, and I know it’s not easy for my Mom either. This assignment isn’t something that everyone can handle, and I have learned to understand that it is not about being comfortable. Caring for someone in a manner that my mother requires doesn’t always allow for us to be comfortable. h
I decided to share my experience as a full-time caregiver for my mother to consult, console, and inform other families who may be going through a similar situation. As a son, caring for my mother never feels like work; if so, it is a labor of love. Please continue to follow this message, Becoming A Caregiver, in Huami Magazine. I hope that sharing my experience will help others. From one caregiver to the next, God Bless You!
Dr. Tim Lampkin
Information obtained from Online Source
Founder and CEO of Higher Purpose Co.
Dr. Tim Lampkin is the Founder and CEO of Higher Purpose Co.®, a 501c3 economic justice nonprofit building community wealth with Black business owners across Mississippi by supporting the ownership of financial, cultural, and political power. Dr. Lampkin has over a decade of community development and entrepreneurship experience.
He previously managed the Racial Equity Program for the Mississippi Humanities Council, which won the national 2018 Schwartz Prize. Dr. Lampkin also worked for Southern Bancorp Community Partners to implement multi-million community initiatives and has advised rural entrepreneurs in several counties served by Delta State University.
The Mississippi Business Journal selected Dr. Lampkin as one of the 2019 Top Entrepreneurs in the state. Ashoka selected him as the first person in Mississippi for the lifetime social impact fellowship. The Motley Fool Foundation recently announced him as Mississippi’s first Financial Freedom Fellow. He serves as President of Dr. Lampkin Impact Ventures, LLC providing economic justice advising, impact speaking, and creative digital content.
Dr. Lampkin serves on the board of the Cooperative Food Empowerment Directive and the Mississippi Humanities Council. He previously served on the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis Community Development Advisory Council and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Consumer Advisory Board (CAB). He completed the Authentic Leadership Executive Program at Harvard University.
Dr. Lampkin is a proud graduate of Mississippi Valley State University and has completed graduate degrees at Delta State University, Bellevue University, and the University of Arkansas.
BlackNatchez.org
Information obtained from Online Source
Celebrating Black Culture & Achievement in the Miss-Lou Region
BlackNatchez.org was founded in June 2021 in response to the growing need to preserve and share the culture and history of African-Americans in Southwest Mississippi, with particular interest in Natchez. BlackNatchez.org works toward the attainment of these objectives through community development, educational programs, tourism and the preservation of historic sites and points of interest. We promote love, collaboration, and understanding of ALL people, with specific emphasis on Black achievement, Black history, and Black empowerment. We rely upon support from individuals, charitable foundations, government grants and corporations to fund our cultural programs and community redevelopment projects.
The vision of BlackNatchez.org is to show the entire world how fun and brilliant Black people really are.
BlackNatchez.org seeks to elevate and preserve Black culture in Natchez by:
-Providing opportunities for local citizens and visitors to deepen their knowledge, understanding, and engagement with Black culture in Natchez.
-Preserving and activating historic African-American sites and points of interest and helping curate their stories
-The continued economic development and redevelopment of predominantly Black areas in Adams County.
BlackNatchez.org was founded by Joseph A.C.Smith in June 2021. Joe is a Natchez native with over 20 years of experience in community development, civic engagement, religious and arts programming, and project management. He is a distinguished graduate of Howard University where he earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree, with honors. h
Chokwe Antar Lumumba
The Mayor of Jackson, MS
Information obtained from Press Release
Chokwe Antar Lumumba is the 53rd mayor of the City of Jackson, Mississippi. Sworn in at 34 years old, he is the youngest mayor in Jackson’s history. He is an attorney, a husband, a father, and the son of two life-long community activists—the late Mayor Chokwe Lumumba and Nubia Lumumba.
Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba
Under Mayor Lumumba’s leadership, the City of Jackson has bolstered community oversight of the police including establishing Mississippi’s first policy on releasing the names of officers involved in shootings; won a nearly $90 million settlement in a lawsuit against Siemens, recouping losses to the City related to water infrastructure, billing, and metering issues; and embarked upon the largest infrastructure improvement initiative in the City’s recent history.
Mayor Lumumba is the recipient of several awards including the National Black Caucus of State Legislators 2017 Nation Builder Award and more recently, the Frederick Douglass 200 Award in the area of politics. He has also been recognized as one of Mississippi’s Top 50 Most Influential Leaders. He earned his juris doctorate from Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas in 2008 and is a member of the Mississippi Bar Association and the Magnolia Bar Association. In 2019, he completed the Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative. Mayor Lumumba has appeared as a repeated contributor on CNN, MSNBC, and ABC. He is the recipient of the 2022 John F. Kennedy New Frontier Award.
In 2022, Mayor Lumumba, with the support of his Congressional delegation and local leaders was able to secure nearly 800 million dollars in federal grants and direct appropriations. Those funds will be used to improve the City of Jackson’s water infrastructure and increase the overall quality of life for Jackson residents. This historic funding means Jacksonians will have access to clean, reliable drinking water.
Mayor Lumumba is married to Ebony Lumumba and the couple has two daughters, Alake’ Maryama and Nubia Ngozi.
Houston’s Caribbean Realtor
By Terry L. Watson
Photos by Monique Hoggard
Monique Hoggard is a Caribbean Realtor representing the beautiful island of Trinidad and Tobago. Monique has worked as a mobile personal trainer since 2014. She has also worked as a travel agent for five years and wears many hats in business. Yet, her main goal is to help people and bridge the gap between the Caribbean Community and the African Diaspora.
Monique is originally from Brooklyn, NY. Now firmly planted in the heart of Houston, TX, Monique shares that she appreciates Houston’s Caribbean community. Monique sits on the Executive Board of the Houston Caribbean Professionals Association. She is also a member of the Trinidad and Tobago Association of Texas, Grenada Houston Association, and Nigerian American Multicultural Council.
Monique shares that she and her partner lender have been working to inform others about the free grant money available through Harris County. “Many of the black and brown communities aren’t aware because we’re the last to get the information. I am helping to change that. I’ve been partnering with churches, radio stations, television stations, festivals, and just talking to individuals. If I’m at dinner, getting my car serviced, setting up at mixers as a vendor, or sitting next to someone on the plane, I am sharing information. I’m a people person, so it doesn’t take much for me to speak to anyone, especially if there’s good energy present. As long as people are willing to listen, I’ll continue to find a way to be a resource,” she says.
Many of the black and brown communities aren’t aware because we’re the last to get the information. I am helping to change that. I’ve been partnering with churches, radio stations, television stations, festivals, and just talking to individuals.
Monique started her career in real estate a little over two and a half years ago. She credits her ex-husband, who is in the same business, for creating the spark. Additionally, she shares that helping families who thought home ownership wasn’t a possibility is what she loves most about her career. “When my clients get their keys and see that smile on their faces, it’s an amazing feeling for me. I know I was meant to be doing this.”
One of the most interesting and impactful parts of Monique’s career, she says, is dealing with investors. “I’ve had my share of shady experiences.. So now I know how to approach investors and wholesalers. It’s funny because many don’t believe I understand the business until we really started talking.”
Monique’s advice for others who may follow a similar path to her is to know that real estate isn’t always easy, but it can be rewarding. “Everyone has a niche; you just have to figure out what yours is and what works for you! Don’t chase the money. This is a people business, so you definitely have to be creative. Also, know that this business is going to take you out of your comfort zone, and being shy doesn’t get you far,” she says. Monique says that international business is in the near future. h
Huami Magazine Community Awards 2025
Charlotte Marriott Center City - Charlotte, NC
We are coming to the Queen City of Charlotte, NC.
Please mark your calendars for June 7th, 2025, as the Huami Magazine Community Awards will take place at the Charlotte Marriott City Center. Following up on our first gala of 2023, we are excited for the opportunity to present Black Excellence from various parts of the Huami Magazine network, which covers more than 23 states around the country.
Community Leaders, Business Leaders, and NonProfit Organizations will be honored and recognized for the great work they have done and continue to do in their respective communities. There will also be some great speakers, good food, and entertainment. This a formal, black tie event, and one that you don’t want to miss.
www.read-huamimagazine.com/awards-gala-2025 June 7th, 2025
The evening will begin with a Red Carpet Reception at 5:30 pm. The Gala Reception will start at 6:30pm
For more information, please call 336-340-7844. Seating is limited and group packages are available. Tickets are on sale and can be purchased at the link listed below. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For sponsorship information, please send a detailed email to mykelmediaco@gmail.com h
TAR Syndrome Associat ion Jylan M. Ross
By Terry L. Watson
Jylan Ross of Lexington, KY, is the founder of the worldwide TAR Syndrome Awareness movement. This movement is now nationally recognized during the month of April and is directly connected to an organization that he also leads, TAR Syndrome Association.
Jylan himself has TAR, and according to information taken from the online source, wwwrarediseases.info.nih.gov, TAR is defined as the Thrombocytopenia-absent radius syndrome (TAR syndrome) is characterized by the absence of a bone called the radius in each forearm, short stature, and thrombocytopenia. The thrombocytopenia often appears first in infancy but becomes less severe or returns to normal over time. Infants and young children are particularly vulnerable to episodes of severe bleeding which may occur in the brain and other organs. Other signs and symptoms vary but may include heart defects, kidney defects, and other skeletal abnormalities. About half of people with TAR syndrome also have difficulty digesting cow’s milk.
The TAR Syndrome Association was founded on March 10th, 2022. The vision of the nonprofit was sparked by a conversation that Jylan had with his friend Morgan Robinson in regard to starting an online petition to raise more awareness for TA. “She has been my right-hand person since the beginning. She saw the vision and helped turn the vision into reality,” Jylan says of Morgan. She was eventually appointed the organization’s president, and today, it offers financial assistance to TAR Syndrome patients who need help paying for surgeries, medical equipment, etc.
“I love giving people with TAR Syndrome a voice. These are individuals who may have been pushed to the back burner for so long.”
Jylan describes himself as a family-oriented man who loves people. He loves to put other people before himself, which has shaped his character. His motto is, “Use whatever you have, and make the best of it.” Jylan shares, “I love giving people with TAR Syndrome a voice. These are individuals who may have been pushed to the back burner for so long. I am inspired when my fellow TAR brothers and sisters feel included by having their voices heard. Some have come out of their shyness, and because of the movement, they are ready to share their stories. This inspires me to keep going.”
Some of the challenges that Jylan has faced with his organization is racial and medical discrimination. He says, “There have been doctors who didn’t want to do medical research regarding TAR Syndrome because they didn’t feel it was relevant enough. Hearing those words was very hurtful and disappointing, but it sparked a fire within me to do more so that the TAR Syndrome community will always be relevant.” The racial challenges he’s faced Jylan describes as when medical facilities learn TAR Syndrome Association is run by a person of color; they tend to shy away from supporting it.
Moving forward, Jylan says he intends to make sure that his TAR brothers and sisters will forever be relevant. “I will fight for disability inclusion because it’s time for a change.”
Jylan Ross TAR Syndrome Association h