Huami Magazine Richmond March/April 2021 by Terry Watson

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Author, Community & Youth Advocate

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Your Purpose Is Not A Laughing Matter A Letter From The Editor

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

A long time ago, when I was a much younger man, and a student at the most prestigious high school in the city of Greensboro, something happened to me that would change my life forever. This segment of time A Letter theperiod EditorEnglish class, and the first week of a new was during myfrom fourth school year.

What if tomorrow didn’t of ayour plans, hopes Back then I was mischievous, very arrive? sarcastic,Alland self-proclaimed and dreams wouldn’t a street to park on. What if my ‘class clown’. I would try to sethave the tone for my classroom amongst everything thatand youI thought, decided the to put off until tomorrow classmates with jokes, bigger the audience, thenever grander my performance could be. However, in this particular class, the teacher happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy was a formidable opponent. She was short inthe stature, veryofelegant day, and you could spare someone trouble makingand full of finesse, and seemed to lock in on me like a torpedo before tardy bell promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly the expired even sounded. Her name was Mrs. Kerr, and I would soon learn that she today? What would you do? wasn’t one to play around. I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. One day while in English class, I began to get comfortable and execute Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm my form of cheap humor. I led off with a cough, and a slight sneeze; silly believer knowing thatwell God wouldn’t anythinginto on me acts that usuallyinworked pretty with getting put my audience position. that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would But my act was snuffed out immediately. “Don’t you sneeze or cough in be that if I chose to sitThose idle and accept whatspoken it presented I I my. Take outside”. were the words directlyto tome. me and have found that very boring. In myinto opinion, opportunity knew she was serious byto thebeway Mrs. Kerr stared my eyes. From that is aI blessing that isn’t to everyone. challenge point on, never laughed in herafforded class unless I was led byAher permission to do so. to I must admit that my egoWhat was aislittle but can I would eventually me is an adventure. thebruised, worst that happen? get over If Iit.do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in In soreturn many words, helped me to understand my purpose in no acquireshe life. laughing matter. I genuinely appreciate Mrs. Kerr. She helped me to understand the English instruction she provided was not a laughing matter, The best advice ever given to me happened when someone and I or anyone else wouldn’t prevent the learning and growth of other told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so students.

I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference As the school year progressed, I began to look forward to between my fourth what God blesses me with and what life can burden period English class and spending time with Mrs. Kerr. I soakedme up with every bit as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident andthem of information that she had to offer, studied every poem, and recited when be quiet,and because back to her withtoprecision, made it a someone mayshe getchanged it confused point to show her that my life by stopping me from robbing myself of with being arrogant. sound instruction.

Make you tomorrow

Mrs. Kerr obviously loved and happen today, butme most her otherimportantly students, thousands of them make it count. she encountered for several decades of Life is but a whisper and teaching. She is my hero. Students like me we must put ourselves in a all deserve a hero such as Mrs. Kerr in their position what classrooms, eitherto in hear the form ofita is peer or telling us. instructor. She helped me to understand that my purpose was no laughing matter.

TerryL.L.Watson Watson Terry

Editor/Founder

HuamiMagazine.com

November/December 2014

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L. Watson

Publisher

www.huamimagazine.com Gamal Williams Editor In Chief Writer Terry L. Watson Writer Trea’Sure Prince Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Laci Ollison 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, NCeditor by may be submitted to the 2021 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

On The Cover

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CONTENTS

MARCH/APRIL 2021

RICHMOND

Author, Coach, Speaker

L Michelle Jewell

On The Cover

Love For His Community Terence Doctor

It’s All About The Art

Jay Maxwell

The Marching Elites Drill Team

Mark Cooper

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Izabella McDonald

Peyton Zora Doctor

Also Featured

Angelique Jonelle Her voice will blow your mind. Meet this radical gospel artist who is in love with God. San Diego, CA

Lakeisha Bradley This serial entreprenuer knows something about overcoming obstacles. Greenville, SC

Richmond - March/April 2021

Autumn Shelton Honeyed Lips and Skincare LLC has opened their first physial location. Learn more about the owner. Nashville, TN

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Author, Community & Youth Advocate

HuamiMagazine.com Richmond - March/April 2021

By David Hendricks Photos by Terence Doctor They say that “It takes a village to raise a child.” Terence Doctor provides Hopewell, VA with a much-needed leader in the African American community to lead its village. Terence was born in Queens, New York and spent the first four - five years of his life there before relocating to Richmond, Virginia, where he currently still resides. In Richmond, Terence is known for his devoted community involvement and concern for the betterment of people, specifically African Americans. After graduating from Hopewell High School in 2004, Terence went onto to attend Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, NC before transferring to Virginia State University. After a few semesters at VSU, he decided to take some time off from school. “I needed a break and wanted to give myself an opportunity clearly think my next step in life,” he says. He recently reenrolled in school at Liberty University. Terence has faced his share of challenges. He grew up in a single-parent household with his mother, as an only child in Hopewell. This was in a neighborhood where hearing police sirens and gunshots were an accepted part of the landscape. “It was normal in my neighborhood which was also filled with talents and gifts, but had limited resources and little encouragement for the youth,” Terence said. He knew as a child that he wanted more out of life, and he also wanted to give back to his community when offered the chance. Terence’s book, “Please Give Me A Dollar” is essentially the journal of his life, made public. It is an inspirational and motivational book of nuggets or what he calls “life lessons” that he’s learned with the purpose to inspire others to find their happiness and purpose. He says his inspiration for writing the book was rooted in his passion to inspire others to go after their dreams and happiness.

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Terence also leads a non-profit organization called Blueprint to Manhood, which is geared for young men ages 7-17. It focuses on uplifting, mentorship, and guiding young men into their journey of manhood. He created Blueprint to Manhood due to a lack of programs and events for young men within his communities, outside of sports. He has also published another book, Please Give Me A Dollar, which focuses on mankinds obsession with money. “The concept of using “dollar” was speaking from the viewpoint of searching for self and happiness and compared it to a form of currency. In other words, one’s happiness or “dollar” may appear insignificant to others but has the most worth in their life. I do not want or desire what others have, I want my happiness or “dollar”.” Terence’s goal was to always to be active in the community rather than to be a leader. “We are obligated to be active in the community in someone or another. As Brother Malcolm X once said, ‘So early in my life, I had learned that if you want something, you had better make some noise’. Me being active in my community is my ‘noise’ and paying homage to those before me, to carry on and push towards equality,” Terence said. According to Terence, the importance of Self-Love is the most important life lesson. “When you understand and know who you are, there is no limit to where you can go.”

TerenceDoctor22@gmail.com Facebook: Terence Doctor Motivational/Author Facebook: Brother A.P. Instagram: pharaoh_doctor Facebook: Blueprint to Manhood Instagram: blueprinttomanhood

Terence’s inspiration is God, his wife Joni, his children Cameron and Peyton Zora, his hometown of Hopewell, Virginia, and the surrounding areas. He is also inspired by young, optmisitic people who are looking to better themselves and their environments. He also considers his family to be his biggest accomplishment. Becoming an author, founder of a non-profit, and enrolling back into college, are some as well. “They’re all big accomplishments because growing up I didn’t feel that they were achievable goals,” he says. Terence is prouder of “Blueprint to Manhood” than “Please Give Me A Dollar because he values seeing young men growing more positive in our communities is better than anything he’s done individually. He loves the community aspect of his nonprofit organization. Terence’s advice to young people would be “Accept accountability for your actions, adjust and live your life for the better. Things may be rough right now but continue to stay the course and believe in you! Tap into your greatness. Be great in all you do, for the world is yours,” he says. In the near future, Terence and his wife will be expecting their new baby girl in May 2021. He is also looking to complete his degree and another book will be published in the near future as well. h

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Honeyed Lips and Skincare LLC 10

HuamiMagazine.com Richmond - March/April 2021

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.

Continued on the next page

“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.”

Continued on the next page

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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

HuamiMagazine.com Richmond - March/April 2021

By Gamal Williams Photos by Ronald Smith Photos by Gamal Williams “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach him to fish and you’ll feed him for a lifetime.” – Lao Tzu It’s a rainy day in the Pheobus section of Hampton, Virginia. A black SUV pulls into the empty parking lot of Mercury Entertainment Center, an old bingo hall converted into a community center and home to the award-winning Marching Elites. The silhouetted figure behind the steering wheel surveys the nothingness presence in the parking lot, then slowly exits his vehicle. The first thing one notices is his appearance; black hat, black jacket, black jeans, black Adidas…and a shiny law enforcement shield dangling from his neck. In many black neighborhoods, this means trouble. Not in Hampton. Here, he isn’t a threat. Here, he is a hero. Here, he is Colonel Cooper. Colonel Cooper removes his keys to unlock the Entertainment Center’s double glass doors with sadness in his eyes. “If it wasn’t for this COVID, this place would be filled.” The foyer of the cement building is decorated with photos of Marching Elite teams from years past on the left, posters of concerts to the right. “We’ve had a lot of people come through here. The Persuaders, Blue Magic, The Temptations, Gerald Alston, Lenny Williams…they come and hold their concerts here. I’ll tell you; it would be old and young up in here. Everybody having a good time,” he says. Where do the proceeds go? “You’re standing in it,” Colonel Cooper explains. “All of those concerts are to benefit the program and the community.” There is a longing in his voice. He stares out into the vast space of the Entertainment Center, but one can tell Mark doesn’t see empty chairs, unused parlor games, or a vacant stage; he sees memories. Mark Cooper grew up in Hampton, having seen the best and worst it could offer. “I was headed towards the wrong path. My older brother was killed when I was 15, and he 17. Stabbed right in front of me. I had to step up. My mother was diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome and had to be in a wheelchair. My younger sister was disabled. I promised God if He got me and my family through this, I would give back,” he shared. A few years before his brother’s death, Mark saw a marching group called the Blue Diamonds led by a man named Sgt. Moon. “They were sharp. I was like ‘Wow,” Cooper says. “I want to do that!” The then 12-year-oldwent into his backyard and started mimicking what he saw. Before long, he formed his first marching team, the Bay Avenue Steppers. Joy takes over his voice when he speaks of the Steppers. “We were good. I had been creating my own steps and marches. I called it military-style funky drill.” After his brother’s death, marching became an outlet, and soon, would become his focus. Mark joined the Hampton High School Drill team, quickly becoming the team leader. The Hampton High School Crabbers became renowned for their precision and unique style, winning two national titles. After graduating, Mark

enrolled in the Army Reserve Officer Training program at Hampton University. Even with a full course load, and a mother and sister that needed his support, Mark kept his promise to give back. He returned to Hampton High to coach the marching and drill teams. During his junior year at Hampton University, the time came where he had to make a choice; leave for the Army and become an Officer or let that dream go to stay home with his mother, sister, and the children of Hampton. The choice wasn’t really a choice at all for Mark. “I had to stay. My mother and sister needed me here. No one else could take care of them. Plus, I had made a promise.” Upon graduation, Mark went to work at the Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind. It was there that Mark found his true calling. “One day I was out in the courtyard, practicing some drills. I was so into what I was doing that I didn’t notice some of the kids were watching me. Now, the students were legally blind and deaf, but did have some ability to see and hear. They came up to me and said ‘Mr. Cooper, can you teach us to do that?’ I said yeah, but I wondered how am I gonna teach these kids how to march? I talked to the teachers at the school and the administrators, and we came up with a plan. We developed our own sign language specific to the movements we made for the kids who couldn’t hear. For the kids who couldn’t see, we developed special cadence and movements to work with them,” he shares. What happened next was nothing short of amazing. Founded in 1989, the students of The Golden Elites from Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind became one of the most formidable teams in the nation. Two years later in 1991, they competed in the National Drill and Dance Team Championships in Orlando, Florida. The only hearing-impaired/sightimpaired team in the competition went toe-to-toe with non-impaired teams. Colonel Cooper begins turning the overhead lights on, pointing at the many activities that fill the 21,631 square foot facility. A large banner celebrating the 25-year anniversary of the Marching Elites hangs overhead. There are casino games along the left wall next to one of the two concession counters. A sea of tables, each with two chairs form an arena-style arch around a large stage to the right. “That’s the stage right there. This is concert level equipment; speakers, lighting, everything,” says Colonel Cooper. “In fact, we have an upcoming performance, and the kids are supposed to come in and rehearse. We have this program called Old School and the Youngsters. I’ll get up there and sing old school music, the good stuff, and the kids back me up.” It’s only when he speaks of meeting up with the children later that evening, that he smiles for the first time, but then his renowned focused glare comes back. With all the success the Golden Elites of the Virginia School for the Deaf and The Blind achieved, as well as his track record of winning at Hampton High School, in 1991 the City of Hampton

School Superintendent reached out to Mark and asked him to implement a similar program in a local elementary school. Mark formed the Marching Elites for 4th and 5th graders. The next year, the Superintendent wanted him to do it at another school. The year after that, the Superintendent asked Mark to implement his style of leadership, mentorship, accountability, and love in all 33 Hampton public schools. In 1993, Mark decided to form the Marching Elites. “I worked with the school district to get the word out for the open enrollment. I was expecting maybe 100 or 150 students to show up. Instead, 1,500 kids showed up. We could only take 300.” How did one man teach 300 kids how to march? He didn’t do it alone. He had help. His former students from the Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind showed up, to give back. As we tour the facility, what’s surprising is, besides the banner and photos in the foyer, nothing points to this being a facility for a nationally acclaimed drill team. We then make our way to the back of the facility, and behind the stage, secluded from normal view, is the trophy room. Two large display cases hold what a massive table could not, all filled with trophies. “These kids are amazing. Three national championships, and we have been all over; appeared 106 & Park on BET, Showtime at the Apollo, performed at the (2016) Chic-Fil-A Bowl, you name it,” he shares. I ask why all of this isn’t out on the main floor. “The Marching Elites, the drilling and the marching, that’s just the hook. That gets the kids in the door, the parents too,” Mark replies.

The Marching Elites, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization runs more than just its award-winning drill team. Seven minutes away from the Mercury Entertainment Center, is another facility, the Elites Youth Motivational Center. The Youth Motivational Center boasts a newly renovated gaming area, a STEM and computer lab, juice bar, and plans to build a studio for children to explore their musical talents. Most importantly, the Youth Motivational Center serves as an after school and summer camp, the latter providing children three meals a day from its in-house commercial kitchen, at a price of $65 per week. “I keep the bingo hall open a few nights a week to help pay the bills and subsidize these programs,” Mark states, “but the concerts, the prize money, all of it goes to keep these programs going for the low-income families…even if the kids don’t march.” The third and newest facility, houses The Little Tin Soldiers, a childcare center and accredited school, serving ages six weeks to 12-years-old. When asked how he can staff all of these different facilities, he responds with pride. “We are a 95% volunteer organization. Part of a child being enrolled in the Marching Elites drill team is that the parent or guardian must volunteer in some capacity. It takes a commitment from the parents to be accepted. From fundraising, to cooking staff, to mentorship programs. If their grades aren’t up to par, we have parents and former students that tutor. We even have a security team that travels with us on the road. I certify them.”

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We travel to the Elites Youth Motivational Center, its parking lot empty as well, except for two large vans parked behind the building. As we enter, the sounds of men at work can be heard echoing throughout the empty space. “I got some people in here fixing some lights.” The building is divided into two parts separated by a 4-inch wall; one side is set up to host receptions, parties, or smaller concerts; the other is used for a kid’s paradise, full of games, computers, books, and televisions. Colonel Cooper isn’t wasting this time. He would much rather have his buildings filled with children marching or studying or talking with one and other, but he settles for having contractors in the building making improvements for when they return. “I think the best part of all of this is when the kids themselves give back.” One such kid, is now a United States Navy Reserve Officer and dental surgeon, Lieutenant Commander Donovan Caves. Dr. Caves was one of the early Marching Elites members, joining in 1996 along with his younger sister. “At first it was just something to do, but it’s easy now to look back at it in a mature way. We have a large community and the kids in the program were from all different schools, kids that wouldn’t normally hang out. It was a way to come together other than sports,” Dr. Caves shares. When asked about Colonel Cooper, he pauses then lets out a loving chuckle as he begins to talk. “Coop, he is just…amazing! He’s so selfless and humble. I was fortunate in that I was able to hang out with him more than typical kids, and I’ll tell you, that man…as long as there’s a need, he will find a way to fill it. What really amazes me is that people are trying to find some sense of normalcy with COVID and everything, and somehow, he is fighting to help others. He has a way of making the extraordinary seem ordinary. It’s how he taught us, and what he taught us. Discipline and wanting to be disciplined to where you wanted to excel at being disciplined. Communication, precision, giving back. Skill sets that we would use throughout life. He would always tell us though ‘It’s not extraordinary; it’s what’s expected,’” Dr. Caves concludes.

Sasha lets out a long sigh to collect her thoughts. “While we were practicing, he would talk to us. Telling us stories, giving advice, encouraging us. He is just so special. I love him.” She continues, “And all of us that marched together, we still go back, we help the kids in the program now with their marching and join them in parades. All because of Colonel Cooper.” The noise coming from the contractors in the adjacent room lets him know he needs to address something. He turns back to our conversation, but his eyes say everything. Our time has come to an end. As we rise, he turns to me. “Is there anything else I can do for you?” Not wanting to tell him no, I simply thank him. He extends his hand; I open my arms and hug him. In our day together, I learned so much from Colonel Mark Cooper. Lessons of humility, selflessness, sacrifice, perseverance, and commitment. He smiles one last time, then he does something that surprised me, but probably shouldn’t have. He invited me back. “When we open back up, when all this is over, come on by. Bring your son.” Yes, Sir. I most certainly will! h

As we finish our tour, Colonel Cooper finally decides to sit down, and at the pace he has been moving, this might be the first time he has rested all day. “Donovan Caves, he is a great man. He’s on my Board of Directors now. Another young lady, Harmonie Mason, she has her own law firm now, Harmonie Law. She’s on my Board of Directors as well. They all came up together.” He smiles, then dives into his phone, asking me to excuse him, as if he could offend. It’s his daughter, a senior in college, returning his call. He then mentions another one of his many, many success stories. Sasha Anderson, a Howard University senior, could hardly hold her emotions in when talking about Colonel Cooper. “I joined the Marching Elites in 8th grade. I had seen some pamphlets at school and decided ‘Why not?’ As soon as you get around him, and the program, and the other kids, you see it’s a place of love. It helped to get kids off the streets and it became something to look forward to. The best part is when the Alumni came back and taught us and marched with us. But Marching Elites became a family, you know. Marching allowed a release. I would look forward to Saturdays where we would all get together and talk. We all were experiencing things, but when we marched, there was an intensity to it because we knew it was more than us, it was bigger than us. He built that in us,” Sasha says.

Mark Cooper

The Marching Elites Drill Team www.marchingelites.com (757) 727-9120

MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

Izabella McDonald The daughter of Shantell McDonald and Gary McDonald

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

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HuamiMagazine.com Richmond - March/April 2021

La’Tesha Eturnul

Paving The Way, While Blazing Her Own Trail

By Terry L. Watson - Photos by Eternul La’Tesha Ni’cole is shattering glass ceilings in the music industry by providing inspiration and opportunity. The San Diego, California native turned her passion and natural gift into a business by becoming a full-time artist, Chief Executive Officer, and record label owner. Also known as her artist’s name Eturnul, La’Tesha Ni’cole is a long-time songwriter and artist. She started her indie record label “805 South” in hopes of helping other artists build up their brand as well. “I have been doing music for a while and recently decided to go full fledge,” La’Tesha said. “I am still in the process of building the label and getting a few more basics but I have made the platform going forward pretty smooth.” La’Tesha said that she started her business because she realized that there was something more that God required her to do. There was indeed a true calling on her life. She realized that she wanted to live for a true purpose, a God purpose. She realized that she was called to inspire others through music, positive slogans, and more. In addition to her record label, La’Tesha also has a clothing and apparel company too. The brand shares a name with her record label. “We have over fifteen designs, but we are currently running the 805 South Brand hoodie and masks sets,” she said. “We like to create slogans that inspire other people.” Continued on the next page

HuamiMagazine.com Richmond - March/April 2021

The inspiration behind 805 South was also in hopes of inspiring and uniting her community to come together for the greater good of each other. “805 South was originally started in 1998 to help bring our city together without discrimination, color, creed, or prejudice from neighborhoods from each other,” La’Tesha said. In addition to inspirational designs, 805 South also produces designs that raises awareness around physical health and common diseases. “We also like to implement health wellness designs too,” she said. “Some of our upcoming designs, are Overcome Lupus, Overcome Cancer, God or Nothing, The Heart of San Diego, and more.” La’Tesha said that her biggest challenge as a business owner has been finances and focus. “I would say finances and the full focus was challenging,” she said. “Having to provide for your family and run any business takes both.” Now that she has found a way to manage her finances and focus, La’Tesha said that she has seen substantial growth in her business. Being able to balance them now has been a huge turnaround for her. She’s finally starting to experience the fruit off all her labor. When times get hard, however, La’Tesha looks to a few individuals for motivation to keep going. “My purpose, my children, others, and God Almighty motivates me.” La’Tesha said that when it comes to building a business, she would encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to educate themselves. “The educating yourself is the first step as an indie artist,” she said. “Placing yourself around likeminded individuals like yourself that may have more seasoned experience in your desired profession. Saturate everything like a hard drive. Keep balance at home and work. Believe in yourself and never be afraid to invest in yourself.” La’Tesha said that when doing that, you should not put out a budget before making a busines and marketing plan first and stick to it. “Remember you can do it, no matter who says you can’t.”

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“When I was younger, I used to watch the Disney Channel a lot. China McClain really inspired me. Every time I saw her sing and act, I wanted to be just like her. I also wanted to be an inspiration to others and inspire people the same way that she inspired me.”

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Although there have been bumps in the road, there is nothing that La’Tesha would change about her journey. For the most part, she believes everything happens for a reason and in due season, she adds, “there are divine connections that are taking place and what is supposed to happen will happen.” One of these such connections exists between La’Tesha and the artist signed to her record label, Angelique Jonelle. La’Tesha’s current focus is assisting Angelique with getting her brand up and running with the release of her first single coming out March 2021. Angelique, also from San Diego, is a 20-year-old inspirational and gospel singer who currently lives in Murrieta, California. She is an inspired vocalist who loves to sing, dance and act. She was singing for as long as she can remember and her mom said when she was four years old, she used to wear her ponytail as a wig, and put on make up and put on high heels and sing as my alter ego. “I am an inspirational and gospel singer,” she said. “That is what I want my ultimate brand to be.” The rising singer has always had a passion for singing and encouraging others, and that is what ultimately inspired her to begin her singing career. “When I was younger, I used to watch the Disney Channel a lot. China McClain really inspired me. Every time I saw her sing and act, I wanted to be just like her. I also wanted to be an inspiration to others and inspire people the same way that she inspired me,” Angelique says.

Angelique has lit the stages at The “Texas Gospel Music Excellence Awards 2019” with Eturnul, and graced the stage with srtist Angela Bennett, Detroits Young Men 4 Christ, Lemmie Battles, Nikki Berry, Gloria Cooks, and many others. Along with Eturnul, they performed at the Bobby Jones Presents Show In July 2019, adding a new flavor to the Gospel Music industry. Angelique said her biggest challenge as an artist and singer has been gaining the confidence to fully be who she was called to be. Finances have also posed a hurdle for her. “I didn’t have the finances to really invest in myself, so I didn’t have the confidence and it made me a little bit more nervous,” she says. Although Angelique wishes that she would have invested in herself earlier on, and gained more experience as a performer, she is now more confident than ever and is ready to continue her journey of becoming an artist. She also hopes that other aspiring artists will learn from her journey and take advantage of opportunities to perfect their craft as early as possible. “I would tell other entrepreneurs to keep investing in yourself,” she said. While Angelique hopes to continue to grow as an artist and eventually expanding to become an actor, La’Tesha hopes to grow her record label into a lucrative business. h

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by B Smith Photography

It is impossible to judge a book by its cover. When looking at Lakeshia Bradley, this applies just as well. One would have to peel back the layers of her life in order to get a glimpse of what she has endured, survived, overcome, and triumphed through. Lakeisha is a well-known entrepreneur in the Upstate area of South Carolina. Born and raised in Kingstree, S.C., she describes her native home as a city with few opportunities available. Yet, she managed to beat the odds and made it out later relocating to Greenville SC. There, her dreams became a reality. In Greenville, Lakeisha has established herself to be a successful businesswoman. Her portfolio is very diverse in that she offers tax services, childcare services, and health care. Through LM Tax Service, Lakeisha assists clients with every tax related need such as starting their professional tax practice, tax preparation and planning; individual, partnership, and corporate returns, including S Corporations. Lakeisha shares, “We have been providing personalized tax and accounting services throughout South Carolina since 2000. With our certified training and expansive financial knowledge, we are equipped to handle all accounting needs, no matter how complex they may be. Whether someone requires assistance at the personal or corporate level, we are ready to serve tax planners and accounting advisors.” As the founder of Little Wonders Learning Center, Lakeisha shares their goal is to create an environment that both nurtures and educates children. “With our experience and knowledge, we help children feel safe and cared for while the parents are away. Unlike other types of childcare, we provide your child with the individual care and attention they deserve. Each child may have different needs, so we emphasize individualized care as much as possible,” she says. Continued on the next page

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Through her third business, Care for All, Lakeisha ensures client medical needs are met with the help of Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), and Registered Nurses (RNs). Lakeisha has seen her share of trials and tribulations. She has seen more rejection than acceptance also. “The testimony I live by every day is no matter how many doors may close, keep pushing until the ones who turned you down ask you for a job,” she says. Lakeisha’s entrepreneurial journey began when she started to focus more on her personal growth than the opinion of others. “Learning to become comfortable in my own skin was very important and it’s one of the things I always speak to my clients about.” True joy started to find its way into my life when I stopped denying what I was here for, my purpose,” she says. “I am inspired mostly by my mother. She was always determined and dedicated and gave me the best life possible. There was never a time my mother gave up and that motivated me to keep pushing even when the job seemed too hard to handle.”

“It’s only because of God that I am able to do what I can. Because His love fills my heart, I am committed to sharing that same love with those who are connected to me, both professionally and personally.”

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Those examples of determination and diligence continue to play a huge role in Lakeisha’s life. It would be too easy to just walk away and call it quits, plus that wouldn’t please God. “It’s only because of God that I am able to do what I can. Because His love fills my heart, I am committed to sharing that same love with those who are connected to me, both professionally and personally,” she says. Moving forward, Lakeisha plans to expand her business to other areas and give her daughters the rope. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to never give up. “Always remember that Amazon was once small, but now it’s our everyday source of online shopping. Keep pushing,” she says.

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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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Author

By Fanta Dorley By Todd Youngblood Entrepreneur, multi-level marketer, radio show host, multi best-selling author, and motivational speaker. These are some of the ways to describe L. Michelle aka Lynette Michelle Jewell. If you allow her input, she will say she’s a diamond in the rough and is taking the nation by storm with priceless, and purposeful precision. She has a philanthropic soul and finds ways to give back to her community through a personal community organization she has founded. Her organization assists with daycare and afterschool assistance, and partners with another organization called HOPE for Humanity. She also serves on their Board of Directors. Born in the suburbs of Southern Maryland near the outskirts of Washington DC, L. Michelle is no stranger to hard work. Having a mother who was a teacher, and a father that was a business owner, learned how to be a boss at a young age. “Being a teacher’s child, I always had to work hard in school. Yet, I still found time to get into mischief with my family and friends,” she says. Continued on the next page

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Even though she is an only child, being surrounded by that village motivated and shaped her. “Grandma taught me how to love and make sure nobody wanted for nothing,” she says. “Everyone in the family had their area of expertise and learned from each other. “Others learned from watching my dad, how to start and run their own business.” This is where the entrepreneurial spirit was planted into her mind, beginning with buying penny candy, packaging it together and selling it to school mates. As she progressed in life, she realized there wasn’t much that motivated her or inspired her to do better. She wanted more, and the only way to get it was to go get it. So, she prepared for greater and headed south to the Queen city of Charlotte, NC. In Charlotte, she began to explore newfound passions in her life. “The move opened new doors in my life and gave me a newfound purpose,” she shares. Soon she became president of a riders’ club, and also an active member of Eastern Star. She also participated in many talk shows and served on panels. As her new life was still unraveling, Lynette searched for additional avenues for personal growth. One that she emphatically ruled out was being e a teacher, just as her mother was. “I could not be a teacher at all. I saw all that my mom went through and even helped her out with her class a couple of times. I would not be able to take it,” she says. It made more sense for her to get involve with communications, because broadcasting was in her blood by way of father. He worked with people like Cathy Hughes and PD Green, and many other great pioneers of the communications and broadcasting industry. Being around her dad exposed her to many radio broadcasts and television productions, which inspired her to start her own radio show: The L. Michelle Show. Launched in 1989, the show shines a spotlight on people making a difference in their community and changing lives while doing so. L Michelle strives to include meaningful and relatable guests. “You never know who is watching. The information that is shared can potentially add great value in the lives of our audience.” While she has enjoyed the thrills of entrepreneurship, it hasn’t come without hardships. “There was a point in which after a divorce, I lost my house, my four businesses, and other things. I went into a great depression for about two weeks. These dark times were not going to be a permanent place for me, mainly because I knew that something greater was inside of me, and because of my steadfast belief in God. Once I took the time to pray and ask for direction, God showed me a glimpse of what He had in store. I was an overcomer. From that point on, I knew my purpose was to give back in a way that only I could do: Write It Out,” she says. Introducing L Michelle, the author.

Her first writing experience was a collaborative book whose focus is to assist people with growing from an employee to an entrepreneur. Her next book was called, “I Am A Survivor: From Tragedy To Triumph”. In this production, L. Michelle recalls major points of her story in which she was abused, and other times when she was the abuser. From that lesson, she has encouraged many people to seek help and simply talk about it. “This is what really starts the healing process. Being a survivor is not a bad thing, not admitting that you are a survivor is what’s bad,” she says. The follow-up book to this one is called, “Wake Up Winning: No Matter What”. This book provides affirmation and motivation to be your best self. “’I Believe is all the affirmation you need to get you started,” she says. All of her writings and books can be purchased directly from her website. L Michelle is a strong believer in the passages that iron sharpening iron. She also believes in being a constant student and personal development. “Look at the gaps in your fingers. That should remind your that you should always be open to learning. A former teacher, Ms. Mclean always told me, “Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do anything”. Until this day, I keep that advice to the forefront of my mind,” she says. When asked about what advice she would give others who may be struggling to find their place in life, she mentioned the following. “Life is a puzzle, and we are still trying to fit in. If you be like you, you will fit in. Find something that relaxes you and relieves stress. If God told you something, make sure to write and say it. It was one of the best things you’ll ever hear. If you don’t believe in something, you won’t believe in anything. If you cannot look at yourself in the mirror, there is something wrong. And finally, you must be able to encourage yourself.” Keep an eye out for this world changer as she continues with her next book that is based on the biblical scripture, Psalm 56:1-3. Her aim is to write what heals her and helps someone else. Moving forward, she plans on building her brand by producing a video for her book. She also plans to establish her own publishing company and encourage others to write their own story. “Everyone should have a book. Everyone has a story that should be told. If not for you, then it is for someone’s healing. h

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L Michelle Jewell The L Michelle Show 330-288-2144 www.lmichelle.com

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By Trea’Sure Prince Photos by Keisha Heggie Jay Maxwell, also known as Meantime Max, was born in Newark, New Jersey to a creative household. He later moved to Greensboro, N.C., and attended James B. Dudley High School. After graduation, Maxwell went on to attend Winston Salem Barber College and obtained his professional barber’s license. He eventually became a successful barber in the triad area. Maxwell was the youngest of three and has two older brothers. He was raised by a single mother and stated that his mother did her absolute best to make sure that she would raise strong black men, even if she had to do it alone. “My creativity was inspired by “school-teacher mother,” he shares. “She has always been artistic, and her gift eventually rubbed off on me.” To keep him busy, Maxwell’s mother allowed him to assist with creating bulletin boards which ignited his passion for a larger scale of art.

“I did not want my artistry to be put into a box. I enjoy how random they can be, as well as the freedom of expression my artwork provides.” Other than seeing his mother taking art courses in college when he was younger, Maxwell hasn’t had any former training but has always been passionate about street art and graffiti. Unfortunately, his interest led to some trouble and mischief. As a teenager, he was charged for painting the wall of a local grocer, Winn-Dixie. After that, he decided to put a stop to it. After his break from street art and graffiti, he evolved to draw and create mixtape covers for other artist and musicians. He also created flyers for a rap group of which he was a member of at the time. Life would happen and he stopped painting graffiti and street art. Then something horrific happened in our country that would inspire artists from all walks of life to become involved. Continued on the next page

After hearing the news of George Floyd’s murder, a black man who was killed at the hands of a white police officer in Minneapolis, MN, the country responded with swift anger and emotions. Many businesses, including those in Maxwell’s home of Greensboro boarded up their business out of fear of being damaged by vandalism. Turns out, that many of these infractions weren’t being committed by the protesters who marched in peace in response to the killing of Floyd. But instead, were being carried out by criminals. The city started allowing local people to paint on the plywood boards. While taking his daughter to go painting, Maxwell noticed there just were not enough black artists out there participating. So, he got busy and soon many of his works dawned the building of downtown Greensboro. Later the city of Greensboro established a Street Mural Program. It was a huge accomplishment for him to be invited to participate in the “One Love” project in downtown Greensboro. Artists painted “One Love” on Davie Street. Here, he met a lot of the big-time artists who were in town to contribute to this unified cause. Maxwell has a variety of artwork that he does. His artwork ranges from graffiti and wall murals to canvases and poetry. Mainly his creative energies lead him to create large street art. He described his creativity as “a free bird flying.” “This comparison may be cliché but, it is accurate.” It is also important to Maxwell to produce pieces that are purposeful. “I did not want my artistry to be put into a box. I enjoy how random they can be, as well as the freedom of expression my artwork provides,” he says. In his pieces, he also wanted to stop making black men look like victims. Maxwell stated, “I wanted to give black men their power back.” One of his most memorable experiences or works came about a year ago when he lost a good friend of his. Maxwell decided that he wanted to make him into what seemed to be a “black superman” like figure. This piece was very emotional for him, so emotional in fact that he had to stop and take breaks to help keep himself maintained. He also wanted to make sure that he got this particular piece done exactly right. It was done such as it should be, and the finished work has been applauded by onlookers and friends of his deceased friend.

So, what lies in the future for Mr. Jay, “Meantime Max” Maxwell? He plans to use the art to catapult other projects that he has been working on, and he would like to continue selling more canvases. As of right now, Jay Maxwell is continuing to pursue his passion for art. He is also a local barber who owns a barber shop and has been working on producing music. “Meantime Max” is simply a jack of all trades. If you would like to support artist Jay Maxwell, he uses Shopify, but he accepts direct messages on Instagram where he goes by the handle “MeantimeMax” for serious inquiries. h

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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.