PHILADELPHIA
®
Jan./Feb. 2022 Volume 1 Issue 6
Community Hero Action Group Philadelphia - Jan./Feb. 2022
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My Expectations and The Truth A Letter From The Editor
I would have to say that I grew up poor by world standards. There Are No If,myAnds, Or Butspoured About It! I never felt like it because mother constantly unconditional love into my other siblings and me. Her love wouldn’t allow me to focus on what I didn’t have or anything A Letter the Editor I could be from missing. However, as life happened, I realized that when compared to others, my experiences were more complex. Even still, I had the opportunity to overcome them. What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and of dreams wouldn’t have athings streetIto park on. What One the most important learned from my if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never upbringing is that the truth will always override my happened? The There would reason to save for a rainy expectations. very firstbe carno that I owned, I purchased day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making for myself. It wasn’t a new vehicle, but it was mine. It had a promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired few dents, and the tires didn’t match either. The heat or air today? What would you do? conditioning didn’t work, and the exhaust pipe would shake like a leaf when I started the car, probably because it was I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. being held in place by the wiring of a close hanger. With all of Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm its imperfections, my car was a beauty in my sight, and I was believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me very appreciative to own it. 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 Though it seemed I drove that In carmy foropinion, all eternity, it only have found that to like be very boring. opportunity survived one year I didn’t gas in A the fuel tank, is a blessing thatwith isn’tme. afforded tokeep everyone. challenge andtoI never changed the oil either. I drove it fast, and on cold me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? mornings I didn’t allow it toifwarm up. Rarely did I bathe If I do nothing, I fail, and I try I don’t, but instead learnit or even provide it with routine or preventative maintenance, something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and inand before I knew it, my first and only method of transportation return acquire life. slowed down and shut off in the middle of the road. The best advice ever given to me happened when someone See, I expected to run forever, the truth is so told me to makemy mycar tomorrow happen but today. In doing I never did anything ensure thatdoors it would. I have pressed my to way through with Iaexpected key that only myhope car toprovided. go whenIIhave needed to but never considered my alsoitlearned the difference between what God and blesses me treatment’s with and what life can me withto thoughtless erratic impact onburden it. I expected well. I compare it to knowing to beinconfident rideasforever, but the truth is I neverwhen invested my cars’ and future. when to be quiet, because someone confused I’m saying thatmay we get willitonly get withwhat being arrogant. out of life we put into it. How will we ever expect to know God Make youtime tomorrow if we never spend with Him? happen today, but most My goal in life is to win. For this importantly make it count. to happen, I must be willing to do is but a to whisper andalign what isLife necessary win and must put in ais myself we with what is ourselves true, which position to hear what it is God’s expectations. telling us.
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www.huamimagazine.com Terry L. Watson
Publisher
www.huamimagazine.com Ellen Richardson Editor In Chief Writer Terry L. Watson Writer Terry Watson Allen - Deputy Editor ArielleAlana Kilgore Writer Dorjae’ McClammey Writer Writers
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mykelmedia@yahoo.com (336) 340-7844 HUAMI MAGAZINE is published quarterly by the Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any portion of this publication is prohibited without written permission from the publisher prior to doing so. Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility for statements made by individuals featured or advertisers. Comments concerning this publication Greensboro, NC may be submitted to the editor by 2022 All Rights Reserved E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com terry.editor@yahoo.com or to Mykel Media Company, LLC P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2014 All Rights Reserved
Terry L. Watson
Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder
On The Cover
Photo by Shaw Photography Group
JAN./FEB. 2022
PHILADELPHIA
CONTENTS
Attorney Justin Camper 10 Justin Camper Law
On The Cover
Community Hero Action Group
Nicole McGruder
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Kelvena Benson
KB Branding
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Drink 2 Shrink
Coach LaKesha Spencer
Huami Magazine Cutest Baby
Railyn Kate
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Also Featured
Nykisha Banks For her, it’s more than just teaching her young students the art of dance. Atlanta, GA
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Debbie Leverette Meet the face and founder of Debbie’s Got The Tea. She has natural methods to help with common ailments. Greenville, SC
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Philadelphia - Jan./Feb. 2022
Whitney Lynn Learn more about the face and founder of the Whicked line of products. Phoenix, AZ
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Community Hero Action Group By Arielle Kilgore Photos Provided By Nicole McGruder The phrase, “...it takes a village to raise a child,” stands true today in the life of Nicole McGruder. Most people don’t consider the foundation of that village, making sure it is sustainable and healthy for that child to grow. Nicole knew the importance of this and how her organization would be the roots of that village. Nicole is the founder of The Community Hero Action Group. This non-profit organization educates the Black community about voting, health, and civic issues through community events such as online forums and town hall meetings. The organization also supplies resources and services to those in need. Nicole says Community Hero is passionate about breaking the cycle of stagnancy in the African American community. The group is composed of well-trained and passionate individuals who work in underrepresented communities, especially the Black community, to close the void of progression where the community’s needs exist. “Our mission is to decrease the wealth and health disparities in the Black community utilizing education and strategic collaborations,to ensure we have a financially stronger and healthier Black community,” she says. Nicole grew up in Philadelphia, PA but spent most of her childhood in California. Nonetheless, her adolescent years foreshadowed the various issues and topics she would be standing for. After high school, she lived in Ohio, attended Cleveland State University, and eventually graduated with a bachelor’s in English. Next, she received her Masters for Urban Planning Design and Development. After meeting and marrying her husband, Nicole moved back to Philadelphia, where she says the real work would begin. “My passion is health. If we are not healthy, really nothing else matters.” Nicole has always desired to serve and help anyone she could. She shares her life of service began in the emergency room on the night shift at Cleveland State University Hospital. She would also become a team lead assistant analyst and department administrator at Kaiser. She has also served as a caretaker for her mother-in-law. Her volunteer work has also involved her being a girl scout leader and serving on the board for Habitats for Humanity. Even as her life was being shaped, she knew there was still more to do.
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She has served as the political action chair for the NAACP State Conference of the 2020 election cycle, working on projects like voter registration, awareness campaigns, and advocating for civil unrest in communities. After working with the NAACP, her focus changed to the development of the Community Hero Action Group. One of her first intiatives was Vote Today Montco, which included the Golden Window project. “The was a first on many fronts, where you could actually get your ballot, register to vote, and cast your ballot all in the same day,” she says. “I didn’t realize how much I love community engagement until I started with all the work that I was doing in 2020.” The Community Hero Action group always brought light into Nicole’s eyes. She recalls the energy that was present even in the early development stages. “From the special voting events that were held with the sounds of Public Enemy playing, to the voting rallies held for black communities. While traveling to polling stations to influence underrepresented communities to take action, to the educational forums conducted on health and living disparities of African Americans; There was always positive energy present. Even still, Nicole always thought, what more could she do to help advance her people. Nicole has committed to not just talk about the improvement of her community. She is actively seeking and building tomorrow’s leaders. “It all starts with health. We die at a higher rate than our counterparts from diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke. That’s not because our bodies are faulty. It is because of systemic inequities,” Nicole explains. She is seeking answers and resolutions for those directly affected by these ailments. This has included collaborating with the Medical Society of Eastern Pennsylvania to provide a scholarship fund for Black students that will assist them with taking and preparing medical exams and more. For Nicole, she believes her work is never done. From seeing African Americans displaced on the streets living in tents, to helping young girls believe they can pursue a career as a judge, she knows that her work is more important than ever. The PA Engage Day event held at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, Nicole says, gave the youth in her community a natural look into their futures. There was a youth mock court held with the Honorable Judge Nichols as a special guest. In the end, a student’s life was changed as she saw that she could be a judge as well. In the future, Nicole would like to increase her organization’s presence and create attainable housing for poor African American communities. She also hopes to continue serving anyone who needs her help. For more information about the Community Hero Action Group, please visit their website. h
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Whicked Lashes, Extensions & Entertainment By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Whitney Lynn Fearless, Strong, Hardworking, and Confident. Those are three words that best describe Phoenix, AZ resident Whitney Lynn. Originally born and raised in Milwaukee, WI, Whitney is a talented entrepreneur and the founder of the Whicked line of products, including Whicked Lashes, Whicked Luxe Extensions, and Whicked Entertainment. Whicked Lashes offers individual eyelash extensions such as Classic, Hybrid, and Volume. With her Whicked Luxe Extensions, Whitney offers quality and affordable hair extensions and wigs. The Whicked Entertainment segment provides event planning services, party planning, concerts, business seminars, and more. Whitney has always been a big dreamer. Since she was a little girl, she looked up to and admired her mother and other powerful women. “I wanted to be somebody special and of importance. I wanted my legacy to be talked about positively,” she says. Her journey began after her transition from Milwaukee. In the Spring of 2016, she was now a resident of Phoenix, AZ, and decided to enroll in beauty school to study esthetics. Once she finished the program and became licensed, she was presented with an opportunity to learn the craft of eyelash extensions. After months of learning and working, she was encouraged to branch off into her own practice, and Whicked Lashes was born in July 2017. Things began to move at a face pace for Whitney. She went from doing eyelash extensions to training new estheticians. ‘I’ve trained around 300 women from Milwaukee, Dallas, Phoenix, Atlanta, and Mexico,” she says. Whitney knew she wanted to do more than just eyelash extensions, and after a few years of being in the lash business, she decided to venture into another lane of selling wigs and hair extensions. Philadelphia - Jan./Feb. 2022
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“As a young girl, I remember going to the hair salon with my mom to get our hair done. I’ve always gotten compliments on how good my hair looks, so why not create a business out of it? That’s how I created Whicked Luxe Extensions,” she says. Whitney created the Whicked Entertainment brand during the onset of the Covid 19 pandemic. “I have a passion for bringing people together and having a good time. I love to make people feel good about themselves, whether it be making them look and feel more beautiful, important, or visible,” she says. Whitney has experienced her share of trials. In 2006, her mom passed away after losing a battle with breast cancer “I was in the big adult world with no guidance. But I persevered and pressed on. My motto has always been “make your next move, your best move””, she says. She also credits her two older brothers for constantly encouraging her. When she transitioned from Milwaukee to Arizona in 2015, they were the support system that helped make her move more comfortable. Whitney says she loves being able to connect with people. “I’ve always been a student of life, and I try to learn something from every person that I encounter. I love that I inspire so many people around me, young and old. That lets me know that I am doing something right,” she says. Whitney isn’t the kind of person who will settle. She is a go-getter. “I always want more. Some may call it arrogant, but those who really know me understand that part of me. I’m creating generational wealth, and I must believe in myself first to create it. That’s the key to my success. On this journey, I’ve learned that people love taking chances on people who believe in themselves versus someone who doesn’t. No matter what it may be that you are doing, if you are confident, you have a fighting chance,” she says. Her plans moving forward are to keep working to become a being a better version of herself. “I plan to create an entire Whicked Empire, and venture off into the world of real estate world,” she says. Who knows, you might see a “Whicked Estates” in the near future. To learn more about Whitney Lynn and her Whicked products and services line, please contact her directly. h
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Justin Camper Law, LLC By Terry L Watson Photos Provided by Justin Camper Attorney Justin Camper says his life’s mission is to be a “Champion of Purpose”. He believes God created everyone for a purpose to do something to make the world better. Justin is known from his clients for being a genuine and passionate advocate, who goes above and beyond to provide the best results possible. He is a small business and trademark attorney located in Northwest Indiana. Justin completed his educational journer through Purdue University Northwest and obtained an undergraduate degree in Political Science. He received his law degree from Valparaiso University Law School. Next, Justin began practicing law as a Lake County Prosecutor in Indiana. He worked in the Prosecutor Office for one and a half years before transtioning to several law firms ranging in the areas of business, criminal defense, civil litigation, and municipal law. He also briefly worked as an Administrative Law Judge for unemployment. Today, he works in his own practice, Justin Camper Law, LLC, which he started in August 2020. He also works with Stidham Legal, P.C. as a contract attorney assisting with criminal cases. Within his practice, Justin says his main area of law is to provide small business legal services. These include, but are not limited to, LLC/nonprofit formation, contracts (drafting and reviewing), online legal protection, trademarks, copyrights, and business litigation.
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Justin shares he knows the process of hiring an attorney is often accompanied with many questions, and that is why he firm works to ensure every clients understands the services they are being provided with. “The first step is for us to work with our clients and come up with a plan to get the results they need. Through our understanding of the law and your understanding of the circumstances, we will craft a path to success,” he says. As an attorney, Justin shares he loves being able to help small business owners fulfill their dreams. “I am a small business owner, so I know what it is like to have a dream and vision of building a business. It gives me so much passion to help future entrepreneurs and current business owners protect and grow their business using legal strategies from my firm,” he says. “I’m inspired and motivated by small business owners who pursue an idea that helps change the lives of people. My vision is to live in a world where people can use their gifts and talents to create products and services that enable them to live in their God-given purpose.” Justin shares he truly grateful for all that he has encountered as an attorney, including the many ups and dows. He also shares if he could change anything about his journey, he would have focused more on business law from law school and taken on opportunities that would have given him experience for the type of law he practices now.,” he says.
www.justincamperlaw.com 219-281-6166 Facebook: Attorney Justin Camper Instagram @justincamperlaw
To anyone who is thinking of pursuing a career as an attorney, specifically business attorney, Justin offers some helpful advice. He says, “Fearlessly pursue your goal. If you want to be a small business attorney, do your best in law school and make great relationships with your colleagues, professors, lawyers, and businesses in your area.” In the future, Justin hopes to eventually expand his law firm and focus on different practice areas such as real estate and entertainment law. He also would like to advocate for small businesses and nonprofits continually through the government. Additionally, he hopes to create and invest into his own small businesses and nonprofits that are designed to help transform people’s lives. To learn more about Attorney Justin Camper, please contact him directly or visit his website. h
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Kelvena Benson KB Management
By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Kelvena Benson
Kelvena Benson, also known as Kelvy B, wears many hats. She is a wife, mother of two beautiful children, a Professional Admin at a Fortune 500 Company, CEO of KB Management, and an author. KB Management Brand Operations, LLC is the official name of Kelvena’s company. She provides small business owners who are looking to fill the digital gap in brand operations and strategies with brand management. She offers a wide range of services such as creative digital content, website construction, business development, custom printing, and more. Her book, A Creative Path, is a mentor-styled guided workbook for creatives and entrepreneurs that shows them how to trust the process and adapt to change while going through their creative journey. Kelvena was born and raised in Milwaukee, WI. She shares, “I was raised in a very traditional environment, where checking the boxes was the norm. I was blessed to be surrounded by a hard-working, educated Christian family. As I began to have my own family and figure out what kind of life I wanted to build for myself, the way I knew wasn’t fulfilling.” Growing up in Milwaukee, Kelvena admits, was tough. When the chance arose to see something different, she was all for it. “Finding a new place, new people, and new opportunities changed the game for me. I realized my own strength when I moved out of my city, and although I’ll always love it and have roots there, it was the best decision I could have ever made,” she shares. She relocated to Austin, TX in 2017, to pursue other opportunities and further her professional career. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management. Although her entrepreneurial journey started in the beauty industry, she was constantly intrigued by business and technology. “Relocating has opened many doors for me and allowed me to further those passions, and focused on building my own branding company,” she says. Kelvena’s creative path started when she jumped off the porch and launched a cosmetics/beauty company in 2014. In 2017, she transitioned her focus to branding. “I was asked to assist various entrepreneurs and small businesses with building their brands. I started by freelancing my services and as my network grew, so did the number of inquiries. So I embraced my new lane and birthed my brand,” she says. Over the past four years, Kelvena has helped over 200 people elevate their brands with clean, professional, and modern services.
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Fast forward to 2021, KB Management Brand Operations, LLC came into the mix. This part of the company focuses on small businesses and career professionals looking to enhance their brand awareness with effective brand management. “The goal of this transition is to build long-term relationships with clients while building a team of experts to help further the success of her client’s brand building,” she says. “We also expanded our business by adding short-term rentals, KB Management Stays, as an extension to the company.” What sets KB Management apart from other companies that offer similar services? Is their commitment to delivering the best experience possible. “When you come to us for assistance, we seek to build a long-term relationship to ensure your personality, purpose, and vision is embedded into your brand. While building and providing solutions to your problems, we connect you with experts, resources, and tools to further your success. Kelvena says she is inspired by the opportunity to serve others. “I’ve always been ambitious and optimistic. My biggest motivations are my children and my husband. My children are so talented, and leading by example with their Dad means the world to me. My husband and I have been together since high school and the fact he saw me for who I am today speaks volumes. He believes in me more than I believe in myself sometimes,” she says. One of the biggest challenges Kelvena has overcome as an entrepreneur was trying to do it alone. She says, “I realized the team I needed was always around me, I just had to be ok with reaching out for help.”
www.kbbrandmanagement.com IG: @kbmanagement_kelvy_b FB: KB Management
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Kelvena plans to continue serving small businesses through KB Management in the future. She says she desires to employ more creatives and provide a healthy and flexible working experience. “We are adding more short-term rentals to our portfolio this year and in different locations. I am looking forward to collaborating with other amazing brands on social events and initiatives designed to educate and empower through our expertise. Additionally, I am working on my second book, with plans for its release within the next year. Besides taking over the world, I plan to elevate my kid’s brands and help them strive for everything they set out to do.” h
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Debbie Leverette Debbie’s Got The Tea, LLC
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By Ellen Richardson Photos by Bernard Smith
When you envision someone starting a business from scratch, how often do you hear someone say that they started a business “by accident”? This is precisely the story of Debbie Leverette and her wellness company, Debbie’s Got The Tea. The Anderson, SC resident has always dedicated her life to helping others. She began her career path as a pharmacy technician, cosmetologist, and health care coordinator before realizing her chosen career path was doing more harm than good. “I was placing medications into the hands of people who had no idea what they were putting into their bodies. I needed a change.” After leaving her job in corporate America, Debbie found herself in a low place. “My life was in the garbage can at the time, so I asked God to help me. It was during that place that I remembered what my parents and grandparents taught me. I was taught before calling on the doctor for help, see what can be done naturally at home first,” she says. Growing up in a family that preferred using natural remedies, Debbie was accustomed to using such products to address any personal needs or health problems. She weighed the benefits of using a natural product versus something man-made, and the results were persuasive. She saw improvements within her own health and with one of her close friends who had tried her products. Soon word got around about her teas and their benefits. This is how Debbie’s Got The Tea was birthed; by word of mouth. In addition to her cold-pressed teas, Debbie also makes all-natural products that address skincare, hygiene, oral hygiene care, pain relief, sinus and allergy relief, hair care and growth, and sexual health. Debbie also addresses total wellness of the mind, body, and soul through individual consultations, motivational speaking, excercise sessions, group and business seminars, social gatherings, and mentorship programs. She is also a certified detox therapist. She offers detoxification of the total in this role, including lymphatic detoxification using wood therapy.
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“After seeing how the all-natural products improved my overall well-
being, the first thing that I wanted to do was help others, especially women like me, to find their way to a better way of living as well.”
“Debbie’s Got The Tea is much more than amazing healthy tea blends. I have created a signature blend of herbs and flowers that provide my clients with a plant-based option, which is a better option for our bodies. I and many others are thriving because of not only what I make, but how I make it,” she says. Debbie said when she started her business, she was on many medications and going through a tough time in her life. This involved surviving a domestic violence situation which caused trauma and PTSD. “After seeing how the all-natural products improved my overall well-being, the first thing that I wanted to do was help others, especially women like me, to find their way to a better way of living,” she says. The desire to help others also led her back to school. She would soon obtain a degree in human services and even launched a campaign for county council in the community of Anderson County, SC. “I have always been told that if you want to see a change, you have to be the change that you want to see,” she said. Although she hasn’t been elected into office, Debbie knows God has a plan to continue to use her to make a difference, whether in the political realm, as an entrepreneur, or even as a famous talk show host.
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As a part of her healthy wellness company, Debbie has also started an online talk show called, The Tippy Show. With this production, she allows real, multi-faceted people to join her live, to discuss topics that matter to them. “These diverse topics can range from health and wellness, business, entertainment, and domestic violence. I allow my guests to use their voice to share their God-given knowledge and help others,” she says. Debbie confesses that none of what she has accomplished would happen without God. As the future comes, Debbie plans to continue her path towards addressing the mental, physical, and spiritual health needs of others. She also plans to add some new and exciting products to her inventory. To learn more about Debbie’s Got The Tea, please visit her website. h
www.debbiesgotthetea.com 864-634-8348
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Drink 2 Shrink with Coach LaKesha 28
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By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Lakesha Spencer Drink 2 Shrink sounds almost unheard, yet the concept is a reality for Coach Lekesha Spencer. The fitness enthusiast has transformed her life simply by addressing her health needs head-on. The Detroit, MI native, says her company, Drink 2 Shrink with Coach LaKesha, was born in 2020 through her millionaire mentor, Stanecia Graham. LaKesha says Stanecia was the movement’s visionary, which allowed each partner to personalize and brand themselves in business. The concept is much like a franchise, minus the milliondollar startup cost. “It all began when I went to the doctor for a routine physical. My doctor prescribed me four medications to go along with the six prescriptions I already had. As a nurse, I knew the effects of drugs and the side effects. I had to make a change, so I got my mind right and lost 45 lbs. The rest was history. To this day, all 10 of those prescribed medications have been discontinued,” LaKesha says. For the most part, LaKesha shares her life is one of resilience. After several failed marriages, she learned how to bounce back and become the person she always knew she was. “After committing myself to better my health, I changed my mindset around food and unhealthy behaviors. As a result, I have released 45 pounds, and I look and feel amazing. I now walk with conviction about the products I offer. My ultimate goal is to help others who are serious about losing weight and becoming healthier,” she says. LaKesha describes herself as a devout woman of God and a beacon of light to her family and friends. She was reared as an only child by her loving mother, whom she describes as her best friend. Growing up, LaKesha shares she was taught she needed to go to college to get a good education to become a teacher, doctor, lawyer, or nurse. So that’s what she did. She studied hard, and I obtained her Bachelor of Science
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degree in Nursing. After three years of working as a nurse, she knew that it wasn’t for her. “I often questioned if it was even my calling at all,” she says. That doubt led her to dabble in entrepreneurship. “April 2020, I had an emergency surgery. During that time off work, I realized that my Drink 2 Shrink business was more than a hobby, it really pays. After 28 years of nursing, I relinquished my safety net and became a fulltime entrepreneur.” LaKesha shares that entrepreneurship has afforded her the freedom and flexibility to do exactly what she wants. It also provides her with a chance to take care of her parents. “We have the opportunity to travel the world and enjoy one another,” she says. She shares what she loves most about her business: the results her clients obtain when they follow the designed regime she provides. “I love knowing their results put them in a happier place where they feel so much better about themselves. There is nothing like a girl being able to fit into her favorite pair of skinny jeans again, or her going into the backside of her closet and grabbing her favorite dress that she refused to give up after many years.” In addition to the positive results from her clients, LaKesha says their testimonies of overall improved health inspire her to keep pushing. “I am inspired because I am a product of the product, and I know firsthand the feelings I have from my transformation. I know that I am transforming lives, not just selling a product,” she says. As a coach, she offers this advice to anyone who wants to achieve their goal in life and in health. “Be very persistent and never give up on your goals and dreams. Be yourself and know that you can fulfill your heart’s desire if you don’t give up.”
Coach Lakesha Spencer www.healthylivingwithcoach.squarespace.com Coachblings@gmail.com
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Her plans for 2022 are to stay consistent and build upon the double digits of the year with the expectation of doubling the number of clients that she can help. She also plans to double her income which she says will allow for her to help her family and people in her community. To learn more about Drink 2 Shrink with Coach LaKesha, please visit their website. h
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In The Key of Dance Studio 32
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By Dorjea McClammey Photos Provided by In The Key Of Dance Studio
New Orleans, LA native Nykisha Banks loves to dance. Dancing has been in her blood since she was three years old. She shares, “As a child, I was one of those kids who cried on stage. That didn’t sit too well with my instructor, and my mother was told not to bring me back to participate until I was ready.” That time didn’t come until she was age eight. From there, Nykisha found her footing and continued to dance and flourish. She has danced in many productions, all the way to high school. After graduating, she worked with a dance company where she traveled, continued her training, performed, and ultimately became a dance instructor. Today, Nykisha owns In the Key of Dance Studio based in Conyers, GA. She also has founded a nonprofit organization, In the Key of Dance Performing Arts Inc., and published a book, A Dancer’s Leap Into Accountability. Her book details her 22 plus years as a dancer and dance instructor. Nykisha teaches ballet, tap, jazz, modern, lyrical, and musical theater dance with her studio. She also offers a thorough stretching and conditioning regime, starting at age three up to eighteen, and it’s available for some adult classes. She also takes every health and safety precaution to ensure a safe, covid-free environment for her students. Nykisha’s success as a dance instructor and business owner is rooted in her ability to connect. She is very imaginative, loyal, and, most importantly, an effective communicator. Her success in the small things translates to everyone else’s success, while her goal as a business owner is to be prepared for whatever the day may present. Nykisha takes pride in being a very hands-on, proactive leader. Her loyalty has gained a lot of respect from both her students and parents. “I’m held accountable every day, all day. As a dance instructor and studio owner, I hold the parents accountable, especially when it comes to having their kids ready to perform,” she says.
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Nykisha founded In The Key of Dance Studio in 2011. That was during a period when she was often hired to train girls and boys in various locations. She ran her company as such until the opportunity for a brick-and-mortar location presented itself. She holds registration twice a year, once in the fall, and another registration session in January immediately after the holiday season. That session is open until March. She also offers summer dance camps.
Photography by Bricen
Nykisha has always found a way to give back, and it made sense for her to launch her nonprofit. In the Key of Dance Performing Arts Inc. sponsors children in need after a thorough interview process. “I am committed to nurturing my community by providing art enrichment through dance. With the nonprofit, our mission is to provide lifelong tools that will aid in building a disciplined lifestyle from a solid technical foundation. There are many ways to reach our youth; we just happen to do it through dance,” she says. Nykisha also partners with another nonprofit, SelfDiscovery: Pain, Positioning, & Purpose Inc. The mission for connecting with them is to promote mental wellness, and they also gifted Nkisha’s company with BuildA-Bears for each dancer that registers. All proceeds Nykisha receives from her book and donations go directly back into her nonprofit.
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Nykisha’s gift speaks for itself. They have won several awards, including the World Dance Championship for a lyrical piece, and received The World Dance Championship Choreography award for that same production. When asked what she loves most about her business, Nykisha shares, “I can do the creative work without push back or constraint.” As someone who used to work in corporate America for years, dance was always her place of escape. Now that she is a full-fledged studio owner, she can do the work that she desires.
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Photography by Bricen
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“I love teaching my young students major life values such as working independently or as a team, holding themselves and others accountable, and presenting themselves in front of others without any fear.” Nykisha also values the impact she has on the lives of those she trains. “I love teaching my young students major life values such as working independently or as a team, holding themselves and others accountable, and presenting themselves in front of others without any fear. For me, it’s bigger than dance,” she says. Nykisha says her inspiration comes from seeing her dancers grow as individuals. “Seeing them no longer calling their parents feeling upset or wanting to give up because they felt like their teacher was too hard on them shows growth to me,” she shares. While Nykisha has enjoyed her journey, it has come with a few challenges. The Covid 19 pandemic has been one of them. After having to stop teaching & training as a result of the pandemic, Nykisha held a brick-and-mortar soft opening last June. She outfitted her facility with new mirrors, floors, ballet barres, fresh paint signs, and a sound system. She says, “It was a faith walk. I opened the doors knowing it was a possibility that no one would show up, but I had to try.” Her faith paid off as In The Key of Dance Studio has enjoyed constant growth, even during the pandemic. As for what the future holds, Nykisha’s plans are very clear. “ I want to grow and produce bigger and more positive memorable experiences for my community,” she states. One thing is for sure; she will continue to dance her way into the lives of others for many years to come. To learn more about In The Key of Dance Studios or purchase a copy of Nykisha’s book, A Dancer’s Leap Into Accountability, please visit their website. Her book is also available for purchase online at Amazon. h
Nykisha Banks In The Key Of Dance Studio 1910 Georgia Highway 20 SE Conyers, GA 30012 678-806-5168 www. inthekeyofdance.com
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MAGAZINE
Cutest Baby
Railyn Kate The daughter of Raisha Mercer and Dexter Bozeman
To submit photographs to be placed in the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby feature, please send a detailed email to huami.cutestbaby@gmail.com
