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There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!
Your Purpose A Laughing Matter There Are NoIsIf,Not Ands, Or Buts About It! A Letter Editor A Letter Fromfrom The the Editor A Letter Editor A long time from ago, the when I was a much younger man, and a student at What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? of your plans, hopes the most prestigious high school in the city ofAll Greensboro, something and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if of time happened to me that would change my life forever. This segment everything thatperiod you decided to put off until tomorrow was during my fourth English class, and first week ofhopes a never new What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? Allthe of your plans, schooland year.dreams There happened? would be no reason to save for a rainy wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if
day, and you could someone theuntil trouble of making everything that youspare decided to put off tomorrow never
Backhappened? then I wasWhat mischievous, very sarcastic, a self-proclaimed promises. your last Thereif would be opportunity no reasonand toseemingly save for aexpired rainy ‘class clown’. I would try to set the tone for my classroom amongst today? wouldspare you do? day, andWhat you could someone the trouble of making my classmates with jokes, and I thought, the bigger the audience, the grander promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired my performance could be. However, in this particular class, the teacher I’ve been that I often today? Whattold would you do? seem like I do too much. was a formidable opponent. She was short in stature, very elegant and full Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm of finesse, and seemed to lock in on me like a torpedo before the tardy bell believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything meshe I’ve been told that I often seem I do soon too much. even sounded. Her name was Mrs. Kerr, andlike I would learnon that that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm wasn’t one to play around.
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be if I chose to sit idle and accept whatput it presented believer in knowing that God wouldn’t anything to onme. me I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would One day while in English class, I began to get comfortable and execute is aof that everyone. A challenge be ifblessing Icheap chosehumor. to sitisn’t idle and accept what it presented to me.silly I my form I ledafforded off with atocough, and a slight sneeze; acts that worked pretty wellboring. with getting audience into position. to usually mefound is an adventure. What is the worst that can opportunity happen? have that to be very In mymyopinion, But myis was snuffed immediately. “Don’t youinstead sneeze or cough in Ifact nothing, fail, and if I try to I don’t, but learn aI do blessing thatI out isn’t afforded everyone. A challenge my. Take that outside”. Those were the words spoken directly to me something new about myself. yourcan pride and in and I to me is an adventure. What is Relinquish the worst that happen? knew she wasnothing, serious by theand wayifMrs. stared into my eyes. From that return acquire life. If I do I fail, I tryKerr I don’t, but instead learn point on, I never laughed in her class unless I was led by her permission something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in to do so. I must admitadvice that my ego was a little bruised, but I would eventually The best return acquire life.ever given to me happened when someone get over it. told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed myever way given through doors with a key thatsomeone only The best advice me happened when In so many words, she helped me toto understand my purpose in no hope provided. Imy have also learned difference between told me to Imake tomorrow happen today. In doing so laughing matter. genuinely appreciate Mrs.the Kerr. She helped me to what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with I havethe pressed way through doors with key that onlymatter, understand Englishmy instruction she provided was anot a laughing as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident hope provided. I have also learned the difference between and I or anyone else wouldn’t prevent the learning and growth of and other when to be quiet, because what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with students. may get it confused as well. I compare it to knowingsomeone when to be confident and As the school year progressed, I beganwhen to look forward to my fourth with being arrogant. to be quiet, because period English class and spending time with Mrs. Kerr. up every bit someone mayI soaked get it confused of information that she had to offer, studied every poem, and recited them Make you tomorrow with being arrogant. back to her with precision, made it a happen today, butand most point to importantly show her thatmake she changed it count.my Make you tomorrow life by stopping me from robbing myself of Life is but a whisper and happen today, but most sound instruction. we must putmake ourselves in a importantly it count. position what it is Life is buttoa hear whisper and Mrs. Kerr obviously loved me and telling us. we must put ourselves in a her other students, thousands of them position for to hear what it is of she encountered several decades telling us. teaching. She is my hero. Students like me
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all deserve a hero such Mrs. Kerr in their Terry L.asWatson classrooms, either in the form of a peer or Editor/Founder instructor. She helped to understand Terry L.me Watson that my purpose was no laughing matter.
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CONTENTS
MARCH/APRIL 2021
NASHVILLE
Mia’s Ohh So Good Seasonings
Mia Collins
On The Cover
Honeyed Lips and Skin Care Autumn Shelton
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CDB Foundation 37
From Tragedy to Legacy
La’Roy Crumble
Latony and Willie
Huami Magazine Cutest Baby
Izabella McDonald
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Also Featured
Pastor Mitch Summerfield One on One with the leader of Word of God Fellowship Church Raleigh, NC
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Shmeka Gibson She is in the business of helping others get into business. Memphis, TN
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Latoya Skinner The serial entreprenuer is building tiers of success and leaving a legacy. Belzoni, MS
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Honeyed Lips and Skincare LLC 6
By Laci Ollison Photos by Harazim Photography
Rising entrepreneur Autumn Shelton is taking the natural beauty industry by storm. At just 23-years-old, the Nashville, Tennessee native has managed to disrupt the status quo for individuals her age by starting her own beauty brand and opening up a brick-andmortar location in her hometown. Autumn is the owner of Honeyed Lips and Skincare LLC, also known as Honeyed Natural Healthy and Beauty. Through her business, Autumn sells and crafts handmade products for her customers. “I sell and craft handmade all-natural organic lip care, skincare, and wellness products for the overall wellness inside and out,” said Autumn. “Our products are designed to target skin types such as sensitive and dry skin, rashes, eczema, acne, and psoriasis.” Autumn says that she is adamant about helping her customers achieve healthy skin. “Our main goal is to promote healthy skincare,” she said. “So, we do not use any harsh fragrances, chemicals, alcohols, or steroids!” It was also her customers that inspired the young entrepreneur to start her business. “[I was inspired by] helping others through the process,” she said. “I have struggled with eczema, sensitive, and dry skin, my WHOLE life. All the dermatology appointments and endless products that did not work for me was just mind blowing.” After Autumn realized the hard work it took to find products for her skin, that’s when she realized that she had to do something for her own skin, and to help others with similar issues as herself. “Afterwhile I started doing my research and learning about my own body and specific needs,” Autumn said. “I was tired of the steroids and irritants in the soaps and other skincare products I was using and wanted to head in a more all-natural direction.” From there, Autumn gathered the knowledge she had gained and began applying it on her own skin.
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“That’s when I started crafting my own products and changing bad lifestyle habits, and it worked great for me,” Autumn said. “My eczema is now almost completely gone!” When Autumn realized that she was able to clear up her own skin, that’s when the inspiration to start a business came to her. “Once I started getting into making products for myself and seeing how beneficial it was and could be for others, I decided to turn what I was doing for myself into something for everyone,” Autumn said. “I started small with family and friends, got great feedback, and then decided to expand with a plan.” Her products have helped many of her customers get the skincare results that they have been searching for as well. “I have customers that have noticed a wide variety of results,” Autumn said. “From clearer glowing skin, lightening blemishes and dark spots, evening skin tones, less inflammation, and allergic reactions.” Autumn’s wellness products have also had a positive effect on her customers overall physical wellbeing. “When it comes to our wellness products,” she said, “sea moss gel and elderberry syrup customers have reported more energy, fewer aches, and pains, as well as better immunity, digestion, weight loss, lower cholesterol, improved a1cs, and longer/stronger hair and nails. Although her business is now growing, Autumn says that she did face some challenges during the process of opening up her physical store location. “The hardest part was just trying to get everything together from a product aspect and to a shop aspect,” said Autumn. “I wanted it to be an amazing outcome and create a comfortable space for everyone. I always carry a homey vibe and that is what attracts people to me. From a product perspective, I had a lot of new things I wanted to make and get on the shelves before opening.” Autumn says that she is also still learning to balance all of her life responsibilities as well. “Balancing everyday life, my healthcare career, and my business can be challenging sometimes yet very rewarding. It just requires having a strong structure and organization. I love what I do in every aspect of my life. Working in health and beauty is my heart and calling.”
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Even with the normal challenges that come along with building a business, Autumn says that there is nothing about her journey that she would change. “I absolutely love being a product of my environment and rubbing off on others and helping them understand a better way of living,” said Autumn. “Change can be uncomfortable but very needed in some cases. You cannot expect results if you don’t try.” Autumn also encourages aspiring entrepreneurs not to give up in the pursuit of their own dreams. “Never give up. No matter what challenges are thrown your way you have to keep going,” she said. “No one ever said it would be easy. Build relationships and understand that everything is not for everyone but what you are doing is for someone and they will be grateful for what you are doing.” And when things do get hard, Autumn says that it is her own journey that keeps her motivated. “My own personal journey motivates me to keep going,” she said. “I have been able to touch and help so many who have some of the same challenges as me and to be able to talk to them and tell them ‘hey we’ll try this or do this to see if it works for you’ makes me feel so good. It’s a blessing to be a blessing.” Over the next few years, Autumn hopes to continue to grow, scale, and expand her business. “I see myself growing and venturing into other sectors of health and beauty,” said Autumn. “Opening Up another Honeyed location outside of TN is in the plans as well. I am working very hard to improve the overall aspect of Honeyed’s products and services!” To learn more about Honeyed Lip and Skin Care, please stop their new location, or visit their website. h
Pictured with Autumn is her fiance and co-owner, Nate
907 Rivergate Pkwy Suite E-10 Goodlettsville, TN 37072 www.honeyedbyautumn.com
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One on One with
Pastor Mitch Summerfield Word of God Fellowship Church 3000 Rock Quarry Road, Raleigh, NC 27610 www.wogfc.org
Who is Pastor Mitch Summerfield? This is a very layered question. He’s a very lovely son, husband, brother, leader, pastor, and in some cases, he’s also a mentor, and entrepreneur.
When did you become the Pastor of Word of God Fellowship? I officially became the Pastor of Word of God Fellowship on March 3, 2018.
What is the focus and foundation of your ministry? Healing hurting people spiritually and naturally is the foundation at Word of God Fellowship. As a leader and pastor, my utmost desire and love is community. One thing I realized as a child, was that I was always a giver. My father raised myself and my siblings to be a giver, to never be selfish, to be willing to give your last, be willing to help others no matter how God blesses you. I stuck with that. I saw my father do it, I saw my mother do it, I heard them preach it. That has always been my thing, and it’s what I wanted to do. In college, me and my friends started a company that helped the underprivileged community, people that have mental health disabilities. I’m dyslexic and was born with dyslexia, which is a developmental delay. I’ve always been partial to people who are underprivileged, who are fighting, who are trying, but in some ways have not been given the opportunity. I would say the fabric and core of who I am is healing hurting people.
How has your ministry impacted your life? After the loss of both my parents in 2017, the church was a family started ministry which started over 30 years ago. The people in the church have watched me grow up. The people who serve in ministry with me have wrapped their arms around me, wrapped their arms around my vision. They didn’t try to stifle who I am. They adjusted and we just got involved together. Especially during this pandemic, I witness people really carry out the vision from soles to polls, Covid 19 testing, helping the community, and education arms. All the things I have a vision for the people with the church just helped support the efforts and that was so refreshing. Continued on the next page
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What is your testimony? I would say my testimony is overcoming every obstacle that had me thinking I wasn’t going to amount to anything, as well as all of the stereotypes that have been placed on African American men for centuries. So many people get swayed by things in their lives. If I would have gotten swayed by the amount of losses I had, I think I would have given up on my faith. My biggest/ greatest testimony is staying true to my faith, and making sure my faith is stuck to the fabric of who I am.
What is your viewpoint of the Covid 19 pandemic and how has Word of God responded? There have been a lot of people who have died and lost their lives. And I feel horrible, from a natural perspective. It has hurt our people, our nation. During the Black Lives Matter Movement, you think of how many black lives, both male and female, that have been murdered and killed? It has been traumatic. I feel like the pandemic has created a sense of trauma that is going to take a while to heal from. On the other side, there’s another perspective to see of those who survived. I feel if we listen and learn, we will become stronger after. If we can get through this, we can get through anything. We had to stay home, we had to wear masks, some people have been without food, others without electricity, some have been kicked out of their homes. I believe that in some cases for people it will be a fresh start for people. I feel it will be an awakening moment that they learn from this. Some people’s families got stronger, it got hard for a long minute but then strength began to happen. We’ve spent more time with our families,and spent more time in our homes than ever before. It’s like the whole world had to slow down for us to witness and experience these things. It’s been uncomfortable, traumatic, stressful, frustrating. But for me in some ways it’s been rewarding because I’ve learned and listened which is something difficult to do when you’re caught in the hustle and bustle of everything.
How are you and your church involved in your community? We’ve always had a prison ministry for men and women. We’ve always fed the community and that’s something I always want to continue just because of my giving spirit. I think the younger generations are called to lead that charge. The younger generation is very cause and purpose driven. The churches over the years have steered away from it and now they are coming back to it. When we do that as leaders and as churches it ignites something in young people, it ignites something in the community. I believe that’s one way we begin to rebuild the community.
Who or what inspires you the most? One is studying God’s word which inspires me the most. The second is watching people develop and grow to go from one place in where they started from joining the church or started ministry. Lastly is reaching my community.
When it’s all said and done, what would like for your legacy to be? I would want my grandchildren’s grandchildren to continue the message of healing hurting people. I feel like in this world it’s always going to be somebody hurting, someone in need. If we care about others more than we care about ourselves God will always bless us. I would want that message to continue. I would want that to be what the Mitch Summerfield legacy is all about.
If anything at all, what would you change about your journey? I think I’m not sure what those things would be. I’m sure I’ll find a way to put more down time in. I’ll have more time for self care, in the beginning of my ministry. The first three years of my ministry I had to roll my sleeves up and get to work. I had to just jump right in and go for what I knew. I was doing on the job training developing people, getting a hold of ministry, and preaching and teaching. So going into year five of ministry and year ten, I’m really focusing on having more down time for self care. h
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Mia Collins
Let Her Spice Up Your Life By Terry L. Watson - Photos by Mia Collins What is the use in eating if the food doesn’t taste good? Pose that question to Mia Collins and she would probably present some spices direct from her product line, Mia’s Oh So Good Seasoning. Mia is sort of a down home girl from Arkansas, who is currently living the Vegas life in Las Vegas, NV. Her mission is to add flavor to every household, one jar at a time. “I would like to see Mia’s Ohh So Go Seasonings collaborate with major retail markets and expand to other countries throughout the world. She isn’t too far off the mark, as her products can be purchased in 36 states, and two countries (United States and Jamaica). Mia’s intrapreneurial spirit was planted into her life as a child. “I am inspired mostly by my mother and father. I lost both parents before I was age 25. My mom passed away when I was 16 years old on Mother’s Day, a day I will never forget. I grew up seeing my mom as an entrepreneur. She did nails and makeovers for women, and always worked hard to provide a good life for us. Thinking about her drive, truly keeps me motivated,” Mia says. The official name of her business is Mia’s Ohh So Good Seasonings & Cookware. It was established in 2015 and according to Mia, the rest is history. “After 14 years in the food industry, I wanted a change, so I went back to Corporate America. However, my customers still wanted that flavor. Some friends suggested I start selling my seasonings as a side hustle. The orders started to flow in, so much so, that I needed a website to track them. Next, I launched Uncle L’s Errthang Seasoning, and in 2017, we rebranded and Mia’s Ohh So Good Seasonings was created,” she says. Over the years, additional flavors have been added to Mia’s brand. While Mia offers a variety of seasonings, her best and top seller has been her Errthang Seasoning. “People love it because it’s good on Errthang. I currently carry 14 Flavors. My top five are Errthang, Apple BBQ, Ranch Steak & Garlic, and Peppercorn Herb. I also carry Zesty Lemon Pepper, Cajun Hot, Salt Free, Yo Favorite Burger, Spicy Taco, Spicy Errthang, Cheesy Popcorn, Fish Fry, Spicy Garlic Pepper, and Chili in a Bag,” she says.
Her cookware line was launched in January 2021. Pre-Seasoned cast iron skillets were the first items to debut. They were a huge hit and sold out of inventory in just week one. Fortunately, she has restocked them and can be purchased directly from her website. To compliment her cookware, she also offers Mia’s Ohh So Good Recipe Book, oven mitts, and aprons. Like most other businesses around the country, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted Mia’s business, but not in a negative way. While many businesses struggled during the pandemic, Mia says she was positioned to win. “More people were doing home cooking, to be safe. People wanted to add a new flavor to their meals, and we were in position to meet their demands. We updated all our social media information, developed new and improved logos, including packaging. We also were fortunate to receive sound mentorship and collaborate with other businesses. We reached a new audience by doing tradeshows in 2020, which help to expand our audience, and capture a new market in the process,” she says. Business has been good for Mia, and while she wouldn’t change much about her journey, there is one thing she admits she could have done differently. “I wish I would have researched my website more before going with what I have. I’m working on implementing an E-commerce website that will allow me to reach a bigger audience and increase my resources,” she says. For anyone who may be thinking about starting a business, Mia offers the following advice. “Do your due diligence and research the industry that you are entering. If possible, incorporate your business and follow legal guidelines that are in place. And most importantly, try to collaborate and connect with like minds as much as possible,” she says. In the future, Mia is looking forward to expanding her cookware line of cast iron skillets to full cookware sets. She is also a lady who understands the power of numbers. “I am looking to participate at tradeshows with 25,000 or more attendees,” she says. She also has five new Food Ambassadors on her team that are helping to promote her brand around the United States. They are in Memphis TN, Philadelphia PA, Las Vegas NV, Little Rock AR, and Shiloam Springs AR. h
www.miasohhsogoodseasoning.bigcartel.com
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Informatoin provided by Daron Sellars Photo by Still Shots Photography The National Black Professional Athletes Foundation (NBPAF) is honored to announce a partnership with two powerhouse organizations to address longstanding systemic inequalities in communities of color. In collaboration with the United States Tennis Association (USTA) Southern Section and the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), NBPAF will host multiple virtual awareness events this year across the South to continue the important conversations on social justice, advocacy, and police reform. The events’ target audience will be underrepresented minority youth who are disproportionately affected by racial injustices. Daron Sellars, CEO of the National Black Professional Athletes Foundation (NBPAF) is eager to launch this initiative and feels the impact will be immediate. “Being able to partner with organizations like USTA Southern and NOBLE are important to NBPAF, particularly when it comes to social justice issues and the effect on young people of color. We want to engage early to help them understand how to navigate the complexities of the current environment in which we find ourselves in today. Having events with people who look like them in the sports world as well as the legal system is imperative with building trust and we want to be on the forefront of creating transformative and impactful change.” USTA Southern shares this sentiment and looks forward to collaborating on the upcoming events as well. Home to over 20,000 youth through their National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL) chapters, USTA Southern has worked for decades to all youth, regardless of race, gender, and income through tennis instruction, academic support, leadership development, and life skills. The late Tennis Champion and social activist, Arthur Ashe founded the National Junior Tennis League in 1969. USTA Southern Director of Diversity, NJTL & Grants, Cee Jai Jones adds, “Partnering with the National Black Professional Athletes Foundation allows us to bring a social responsibility initiative to our teens in an impactful way. We are excited for them to gain greater awareness
and insight on social justice from athletes and public servants while also empowering them to serve as change agents in their own communities.” The first event will kick-off virtually in February and will be hosted in Greensboro, NC, a historical city to many civil rights demonstrations. Other cities where events will be held later this year include Atlanta, GA, New Orleans, LA, Memphis, TN, Nashville, TN, Louisville, KY, and Birmingham, AL. The National Black Professional Athletes Foundation honors the history, legacy, and accomplishments of black athletes through a global platform that empowers them to change lives through community advocacy. Inspired to make an impact. For more information, please contact the National Black Professional Athletes Foundation at www.nbpaf.org/contact h
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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.
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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.
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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
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Innate Success Corp.
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By Teyah Gilmore Photos by Shmeka Gibson People who have innate abilities are bred with special qualities. These qualities can help them become successful in their career or life. Shmeka Gibson and Innate Success Corp. focus is to bring out their clients’ natural talents, because being special is not for the ordinary. Located in Memphis, TN, Innate Success Corp. provides a variety of business options, tools and resources needed to develop business owners, organize business practices, enhance the leader traits in individuals, and promote potential business leaders. Innate Success core services also gives guidance and writes grants for companies allowing them to potentially have funds for future projects. Innate Success core service provides sustainable advice and business models for companies. Other aspects include data analysis, a virtual learning site and personal/professional development workshops that help the clients build a stronger foundation. Many of the services are offered through contracts or a paid membership through the virtual learning site. In sense, they are planting seeds for companies to grow, and not just for the companies that can afford it. Shmeka is a strong advocate for the community and offer many opportunities for individuals looking to start a business or enhance a skillset. She offers a business mentorship program for start-up and grassroot businesses to receive organizational and program development. Gibson also has her own radio show called “Mindset Shift” which airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 am, EST. As a writer, she has authored three books based on a model she created called Changing the Mindset©. This model applies Psychology principles to help people alter their behaviors to change their behavior. Her business is centered around the Changing the Mindset© concept. Shmeka believes that everyone deserves to have a chance to be great, mainly because she was given one as well. Before Innate Success Corp. (previously known as SG Consulting and data started in 2018) was re-branded and launched in 2021, Shmeka was on a journey to finding her own innate gifts. Her career began with her working in social services, 17 years ago. However, at that time in her life, she felt it was time to change. “I’m going through the data piece. I’m going through processes and systems, and then, that’s when I decided to change my degree from counseling to industrial organizational psychology.” exclaimed Shmeka while working for a company before her own.
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“Probably about a month later, I did a story with a local magazine here in Memphis. They were asking me questions about my consulting business and grant writing and wanted to know how businesses become sustainable. That magazine article was a success and from that moment, I went from making $30,000 annually to booking $30,000 contracts.”
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Gibson worked for many companies that enhanced her skills and pushed her to the fullest potential. She always had a skillset in data base management and processing systems, but those skills were nurtured and enhance through her professional experiences. Through life, she experienced relationship shifts and business trail and errors, but she was not determined to give up. Things took off fast. One of her published books in her Changing the Mindset©. trilogy would give her the break of her life. “Probably about a month later, I did a story with a local magazine here in Memphis. They were asking me questions about my consulting business and grant writing and wanted to know how businesses become sustainable. That magazine article was a success and from that moment, I went from making $30,000 annually to booking $30,000 contracts,” she says. From those contracts she supported organizations with applying for emergency relief funds and non-profit grants. Those opportunities helped her, and her staff stay employed during the pandemic and to sustain her business. Donations poured in for the mentorship program which allowed Innate Success to offer free services to 20 businesses worldwide to help their business also stay sustainable. Gibson also donated to other nonprofits during the pandemic. Therefore, the community so strongly resonates with her. From her family, friends, and constituents in the community, Shmeka has been supported along the way. From mentoring workshops to almost finishing the final Changing the Mindset© book, she intends to return that love by helping clients and communities be their best selves. In the pages of her legacy, she hopes that it is written that her focus is not only about success, but how she got there and helped other people. “When I leave this earth, I want people to say that Shmeka creates opportunities for other people. Shmeka made sure she brought out the best in you, and excellence was always, always the standard when you interacted with Shmeka,” she says. Considering this, Shmeka also loves to give people joy. In the meantime, she will continue to pour into the lives of others and serve her community, with a heart of joy. Nashville - March/April 2021
Shmeka Gibson 901-238-7511 www.innatesuccess.org service@innatesuccess.com
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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. Continued on the next page
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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.” 30
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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 32
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Alex D. Banks II, Saxophonist FB: Alex D. Banks II IG: @alexdbanksii Contact Information: Phone: 256-631-1268 Email: info@alexdbanksii.com
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Arshawna Warren Christian Branding & Marketing
By Jalessa Rogers Photos by Arshawna Warren In the era of smartphones and social media there are many ways that both can help establish and grow your business. For example, in the middle of a pandemic, social media has presented itself to be a useful platform for businesses such as churches and other ministries. Arshawna Warren, a Cleveland, OH native, is a Christian branding and marketing professional. With her business, I Am Arshawna LLC, she has been successful utilizing social media as a tool to help ministries stay active and spread their message and information. Born and raised by a single mother in Cleveland, Warren was an active child, involved in singing, dancing, painting, acting, and ministry. “Being an only child raised by a twotime breast cancer survivor, my mother made sure I was educated on self-breast exams,” she says. During a selfexam, Warren discovered a lump and was later diagnosed with breast cancer at the tender age of sixteen. After being examined by her doctor and having a lumpectomy, her cancer was discovered and removed in surgery. After her experience with breast cancer, Warren started a workshop called Be Pretty in Pink, in 2013. “My workshop was created to educate middle school and high school girls about breast cancer, encourage them, empower them, and teach them about the seriousness of breast cancer,” stated Warren. Her willingness to help other young girls and educate them about breast cancer gained national attention, and she was invited to be a guest on the Steve Harvey Show. In 2015 with the help of Steve Harvey, she was able to turn her workshop into a nonprofit organization. As a recent psychology graduate of Baldwin Wallace University, Warren reflects on how her childhood was the reason she chose her school and major. “Being bullied as a child made me want to help young people with their mental health. Although I did not want to stay close to home, I felt that God wanted me to go there,” she says. “Whatever God has for me, whatever that is, I am going to be helping somebody reach their full potential,” said Warren.
Growing up as an active church member helped Warren figure out a growing market that she could navigate and be successful in. “As a Christian branding and marketing professional my goal is to help different ministries, churches and brands navigate the social media world and market themselves in a professional way,” stated Warren. Now that it is the third month in this new 2021 year, it has been almost a full year since the first stay at home orders were announced throughout the United States. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a lot of churches and ministry leaders decided to close places of worship and stream their services online. When asked about working with ministries and navigating them during this time, Warren stated that helping ministries navigate social media and their online presence is a big part of her business and has been even before the pandemic. “I genuinely believe that my ‘why’ and my purpose is to help people, but it starts from the home. How you cater to the people who are around you, your family members, and your friends, they are what motivates me. I’m truly encouraged by their love and their support.” stated Warren. She feels that her motivation has always been her family, and they are one of the biggest reasons she has accomplished so much in her young life. Motivation to her has been labeled as her “whys” and her “whys” are her family and the people who she serves. In her business, she has worked diligently to help ministries spread their message about God in an effective way. Warren’s main goals are to have a perpetual effect and reach more people, and to pay it forward as much as possible. She is also a big advocate for mental health because she was bullied as a child, so she plans to “give back to so many people who are struggling,” said Warren. The future looks bright for Warren and she isn’t displaying any signs of slowing down. She shares her motivating mantra, “whatever God has for me.” To learn more about Arshawna Warren, please visit her website. h
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
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