Pretty & Saved Magazine

THE CHURCH GIRL LIFESTYLE

EAT HEAL PRAY

Johnson Johnson A Woman of Faith

EDITOR'S NOTE

Running a business while staying focused on God's plan for our lives is a beautiful journey of faith and purpose. It requires a delicate balance between ambition and surrender, as we trust in His divine guidance and wisdom. In this issue we highlight women doing just that in their business and personal lives. Making the ultimate decision to seek His will in every decision, nurturing a spirit of integrity and love, and staying connected through prayer and reflection. As they navigate the challenges and successes, they find solace in knowing that their business becomes a vessel for His glory, impacting lives and bringing forth positive change. With God as the ultimate CEO, they run their businesses not only for profit but also to serve, uplift, and honor His kingdom

A Woman Of Faith

BRIANA MICHELLE

CEO Of Studio11 Design Co.

Briana Michelle is a firm believer of Jesus Christ and the gospel, a mother of three, and an entrepreneur. She believes wholeheartedly in the power of prayer, intercession, and putting God first in both personal and professional areas of her life. She has always believed in God but recently gave her life back to Christ after discovering some great turmoil in her life and swears by the belief that with God, you can and will overcome anything that life throws your way Briana enjoys many things, but most of all she loves to cook, listen to gospel music, to read and study her Bible, and design graphics and websites for other small businesses.

Briana is the owner of Studio11 Design Co., which is a branding and graphic design agency for service-based businesses and organizations She assists faith-based, purpose driven services with building a strong brand presence that resonates with their target audience. She believes that partnering with God will help encourage and uplift other business owners to follow their purpose and enjoys being a part of their journey. Briana is currently looking to partner with and create branding for services of all kinds to help advance the kingdom of God through entrepreneurship.

What motivated you to start your own business?

Studio11 Design Co. is a rebrand. My original business, QueenLuxe Media was started during the pandemic to earn some extra income doing something that I liked to do, which was designing graphics. It started off as a side hustle to another business, but then I realized that it was something I truly had a passion for and had fallen in love with. Due to some personal struggles, I took some time away from social media and during that time, God blessed me with an amazing strategy to turn this passion into a functioning business and here we are today. Studio11 is my full-time employment, and I am really enjoying the journey of seeing God’s plan come to fruition.

Tell us about the process to start your brand, what did the beginning stages entail for you?

The beginning stages were all about strategy God told me that this business is going to reach and help many people and so my first steps in my rebrand were all about having systems in place to be able to handle the influx of clients when I start to increase and expand Secondly, I had to carefully outline my audience and narrow down exactly who I want to provide services to. Then came the legalities such as business name, structure, etc Once all of that was completed, I went into branding, designing my logo, building the website, and things like that.

Tell us about your company, Studio11 Design Co.?

Studio11 Design Co. is a branding company that specializes in assisting service-based businesses and organizations with building their online brand presence We offer full-service branding that includes everything from logos, business cards, flyers, websites and so much more! We believe in keeping God first in your business and submitting all your desires to him so that he aligns your purpose to his will for your business. Studio11 Design Co. is also a nod to my legacy. The name was created from the initials and birthday of my two daughters, Shaniya Denise Cole and Shailyn Daryelle Cole, who were both born on the 11th day of their birthday months.

What role does your faith play in your business?

Faith plays a major role in my business. It is literally the cornerstone and central principle behind the brand. I am believing and trusting God for my clients, my content, my income, and so much more I quit my job in the summer of 2021 and kept the faith to pursue entrepreneurship full-time without a backup plan and God has kept me afloat and surviving As I mentioned before, I did have to start over, but I am fully ready for God to meet me where I am and take me to new heights like he did before.

Howdoyoubalanceentrepreneurshipand faith?

I don’t believe that there is a balance so to speak, I feel that they go hand in hand You must have unwavering faith in God to be able to step into being an entrepreneur As a society, we ’ ve been conditioned to go to school, graduate, and go into a job or career so to be able to blaze your own trail and get out of the “rat race ” takes an incredible amount of faith I am a self-taught designer with moderate knowledge of entrepreneurship, so faith has been my guiding light in this journey of putting all my ideas together and I love how it’s turning out for me

What has been your biggest lesson in your faith walk?

My biggest lesson in my faith walk has been learning to take my hands completely off situations and give them to God. It is said that you cannot pray and worry, so a big test of my faith is being able to release my own will to do God’s It is an everyday struggle because I have become accustomed to doing things my own way But, with constant prayer and building my relationship with God, I am learning to do things less of my own way and more of His. Another one is learning to forgive as God forgives. I realize that you must let go of things to receive the fullness of what God has for you and so one of my biggest tests is just learning to accept things for what they are, forgive people, and move on.

How do you remain focused during the difficult moments of entrepreneurship?

Ok, so this is a little bit of a transparent moment: staying focused is actually a major struggle for me As a mom and entrepreneur, I honestly have yet to cultivate a routine that works well with all the tasks that I have to complete daily. However, I have found that God will use the uncomfortable situations that he places you in to keep your focus on what he’s called you to do. So, if you know that you are in a place that you don’t want to be in, you must put your best foot forward, pray, and work extremely hard to get yourself out of that situation. Knowing this is usually the push that I need whenever I am lacking focus, strength, and motivation

What is next for you, where do you hope to see your brand in the next 3-5 years?

Next for me is building my brand to be able to impact society on a global scale. In the next 3-5 years, I pray that God blesses my business to collaborate and build with a team of designers to be able to handle the many projects we will be taking on. I also pray that I am blessed with an office space and that I can start the nonprofit organization that was placed on my heart many years ago Other than that, I pray that I grow stronger in my relationship with God and am living exactly as he has called me to

What advice would you give to other faith-based entrepreneurs?

I would tell other faith-based entrepreneurs to keep their businesses centered around God and his word and to keep Him first. Stay prayerful and don’t forget to give Him the glory when things start increasing and expanding Also, never compromise your relationship with God for monetary gain and if something feels off, don’t pursue it

Website: www studio11designco com

Connect On Social Media

Personal

Facebook: Briana Michelle

Instagram: @therealbrianamichelle

TikTok: @briana michelle32

Business

Facebook: Studio11 Design Co.

Instagram: @studio11designco

TikTok: @studio11designco

PRETTY PAID & SAVED

Photo by Godisable Jacob

A Woman Of Faith

ANGALA PORTORREAL CEO Of DivaSpeaks

AnGala Portorreal is a native of Dallas Texas currently residing in Charlotte, NC. Televised talk show host, Ministry broadcaster, and motivational speaker that solely focuses on relationships. I am the voice of reason and your relationship concierge.

AnGala is a devoted wife and mother of two beautiful daughters Mrs Portorreal is a former corporate treasury analyst, part-time fashion blogger, and relationship podcaster, and has recently become a flight attendant and one of Charlotte's newest televised Talk Show hosts! AnGala started her journey as a relationship enthusiast with the now-defunct Charlotte In Crowd as a columnist writing bi-weekly articles that focused on relationship woes DivaSpeaks Relationships guest appearances include an invitation as a contributing panelist on the Fierce Vulnerability Book Tour circuit and multiple repeat appearances on the popular Midday Madness Show on 104.4 FM internet radio, co-hosting a segment on the show; The Voice of Brain Injury, and special guest on the Black Love & Marriage Our Way Podcast.

In addition, DivaSpeaks Relationships Previous Appearances include Spectrum Cable channel 22, AT&T Uverse channel 99, Access 21, Access 21's Roku channel VOD on the station's website (TvAccess21.com)The NOW Television Network, Daily Gospel Ministry, Kingdom Purpose TV, The Agape Network, Empowered Living TV, STRIMM TV & and Creo TV on Roku !!!!

The journey has continued with the success of DivaSpeaks Relationship Podcast continuing to gain momentum, the launch of DivaSpeaks Relationship Television Show airing on Access21 ( local television station out of Charlotte), Spectrum, AT&T U-Verse, & Video on Demand. In addition, DivaSpeaks Relationships Ministry has successfully landed on The NOW Television Network and Satellite TV (Starting September 1st) and multiple cable networks

Broadcasting on International Television to over 83 Countries, 236 Million Homes on cable and satellite television in The United States, Western Europe & Sub-Saharan Africa INTELSAT Satellite TV Channels: 50,249,259,80,364,&72.

AnGala has partnered with a local Charlotte firm to help with the development and promotion of her relationship/ dating games. The invention is patent pending, currently debuting on the national trade show circuit, and is listed as the first invention featured in the InventHelp 2022 catalog. Relationship Therapy and Surviving Infidelity Therapeutic Card games are featured on Amazon, eBay, and Etsy. Recently, Mrs. Portorreal launched the official DivaSpeaks Relationships Amazon Fire and Roku channel, as well as the podcast has been programmed into the Roku channel podcast catalog.

What Motivated you to start your own business?

My motivation came from wanting to own something that I could be proud of. I wanted to have something of my own that I created from my vision, passion, and purpose. My desire of wanting to build something from scratch and allow the seed to eventually produce income and help others was the driving force.

Tell us about the process to start your brand, what did the beginning stages entail for you?

The process involved connecting with my divine purpose. I took a long look over my life and identified what was unique about me, what am I known for, what I enjoy, and what am I able to do effortlessly

After all of that was established, I came up with a name for the business that describes me and what the business was about. The rest was history.

Tell us about your company Diva Speaks.

DivaSpeaks Relationships is a platform that was established to speak to and about relationships. (matters of the heart) A platform that addresses dayto-day issues, problems, or challenges everyday couples face. It was designed as a space for conversations, healing, empowerment, advice, and encouragement.

What role does your faith play in your business?

Faith plays a major role in the ministry side of DivaSpeaks Relationships. My faith is my moral compass when I dispense advice or share my thoughts. I refer to the word of God for relationships or marriages in trouble or on the brink of collapse. My beliefs based on the word of God provide encouragement for my audience in a world where the alternative is always divorce or walking away.

How do you balance entrepreneurship and Faith?

I maintain my balance by never compromising and always representing my faith to the highest honor. I also understand that there are times when my faith and my business must remain separate.

What has been your biggest lesson thus far in your faith walk?

The biggest lesson in my faith walk has been; people will listen to what you say and watch what you do. Privacy is key in all things.

How do you remain focused during the difficult moments of entrepreneurship?

I remain focused by remembering why I started. In the moments where I get discouraged and want to slow down, I reach out in prayer and then I call into remembrance all of the beautiful souls who have reached out to me to let me know how my ministry/ business has impacted their lives and relationships.

What is next for you, where do you hope to see your brand in the next 3-5 years?

My next ministry project is underway. I have a 3rd relationship therapy game set coming out that will be ministry-based and bible based to assist couples in a crisis.

What advice would you give to other faith-based entrepreneurs?

My advice: Remember to whom much is given, much is required. Be prepared to do the work, stay focused, and never compare your journey and success with others!

What does it mean to be Pretty and Saved to you?

Pretty and saved = Being beautiful on the outside but also doing the work to maintain that level of beauty on the inside. Having a level of beauty that attracts people to the light within you so that you may share the gifts that our Heavenly Father has placed in you and your life.

Website: Diva-Speaks-Official.Com

Social media:

Facebook @ TrueDivaSpeaks

Tik Tok DivaSpeaksRelationships1

Instagram DivaSpeaks Official

YouTube DivaSpeaks RelationshipsTV

Twitter FashionFinance7

Sis, You attract endless Blessings and Miracles.

Photo by Godisable Jacob

A Woman Of Faith

I'EESHA JOHNSON CEO Of EAT HEAL PRAY

I'eesha is a dedicated minister, plant-based chef, nutritionist, and health coach with a passion to empower Women of Faith to transform their lives through the power of wholesome eating, spiritual growth, and holistic wellness. As the founder of Eat HEAL Pray, I’eesha combines her deep spiritual connection and culinary expertise to guide women on a transformative journey towards optimal health and well-being while empowering them to embrace a healthy lifestyle that aligns with their spiritual values

With a profound understanding, a deep-rooted belief in the power of faith and the connection between nourishing the body and nurturing the spirit, I’eesha has developed a unique approach that blends the principles of faith and nutrition Through her empowering ministering, personalized health coaching sessions, and delicious plant-based recipes, she helps women align their physical, emotional, and spiritual selves, unlocking their full potential for a vibrant and purposeful life.

As a plant-based chef, I’eesha is dedicated to showcasing the incredible flavors and health benefits of whole, unprocessed foods Her upcoming cookbook, set to be released soon, is a culmination of her culinary expertise and passion for creating delicious, nutrient-dense meals that nourish the body from the inside out. The cookbook is a comprehensive guide for Women of Faith, providing them with practical recipes, meal plans, and insightful tips to embrace a plant-based lifestyle effortlessly. She demonstrates that healthy eating can be exciting, satisfying, and accessible to all

As a certified nutritionist, I’eesha understands the intricate relationship between food and overall well-being. In addition to her cookbook, I’eesha offers transformative health programs, personalized guidance and evidence-based nutritional advice to help women optimize their health and achieve their wellness goals. These programs combine her extensive knowledge of nutrition, her spiritual guidance, and her expertise as a

health coach to provide a holistic approach to health and wellness. Through one-on-one coaching, group workshops, and online resources, she equips women with the tools and knowledge they need to achieve optimal health, a renewed sense of purpose, and to make informed choices that support their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

I’eesha’'s mission is to empower Women of Faith to prioritize self-care, nourish their bodies, and deepen their spiritual growth so that they can live with intention, joy, and purpose. Through her ministry, culinary creations, and transformative health programs, she is making a profound impact on the lives of countless women, guiding them towards a path of wholeness, fulfillment, and divine grace.

What Motivated you to start your own business?

It's not just a business for me it's a heartfelt mission to empower women to take charge of their health and cultivate a deep connection with their bodies and spirits.

My journey towards healing began with a wake-up call a moment of realization that I needed to prioritize my well-being. It was during this time that I turned to my faith in God for guidance and strength. As I progressed on my healing journey, I realized that true wellness extended beyond physical health. I embraced the idea that a healthy mind and soul were crucial components of overall well-being. By cultivating positive thoughts, practicing mindfulness, and deepening my connection with God, I experienced a profound sense of inner peace and restoration. Inspired by my own transformation, I felt a deep calling to help others on their healing journeys Thus, Eat HEAL Pray was born a business and ministry dedicated to empowering women through healthy eating and faith, offering a roadmap for others to achieve optimal health and lead abundant lives

Tellusabouttheprocesstostartyourbrand, whatdidthebeginningstagesentailforyou?

ItentailedalotofaskingGodwasthisthepath HehasformeandwhatHewantedmetodo bothprofessionallyandasaministry.

Thatwasfollowedwithalotofconfirmations, YES!TherestwascompletelyDivinelyledonceI surrenderedtothewillofGodandprayedand fastedforprovisionsandguidance.Ienrolledin classes,certifications,gotinthekitchenand begantodevelopmybrand.

Tell us about your company Eat, Heal, Pray?

Eat HEAL Pray, a platform dedicated to sharing my personal journey of healing and empowering women through healthy eating and faith.

I was no stranger to the challenges faced by many women hormonal imbalances and other common health issues. These conditions not only affected my physical health but also took a toll on my emotional and spiritual well-being. Frustrated with the constant battle, I decided to take matters into my own hands and find a holistic solution.

What role does your faith play in your business?

To keep it simple, Everything!

How do you balance entrepreneurship and Faith?

For me they go hand in hand. I'm a Kingdom builder, and my goal and mission of Faith is to advance and build up the Kingdom of God by helping and serving others in the Body of Christ to live an abundant life according to His word.

What has been your biggest lesson thus far in your faith walk?

To trust God and walk by faith truly and not by sight. That when God gives you His word, you can trust it to come to pass. But we must be obedient to His word and stay in His word.

How do you remain focused during the difficult moments of entrepreneurship?

Staying in His word.. reminders of what I'm doing and why I'm doing it. It also helps to have a good support system in place of like Kingdom-minded women of God.

I think it's imperative to stay connected to God and to remind myself that He won't let me fail. I speak His word over my business and life daily, especially through the difficult moments.

What is next for you, where do you hope to see your brand in the next 3-5 years?

Hopefully and prayerfully to be a household brand of wellness to Families of Faith with products and programs to help them live healthy and healed life according to the Word., bringing Glory to God.

What advice would you give to other faith-based entrepreneurs?

Keep the faith. You will be tested, but remain strong in your faith, keep pressing. There will be refining moments for sure, but trust the process and ask God for provisions for the vision Get around like minded Kingdom minded and driven women who will pray with you and for you

Prayers, Dreams and

Those

Desires are already in fruition sis.

Photo by Godisable Jacob

A Woman Of Faith

DR.MONICAL. SANDERS

SENIOR PASTOR/AUTHOR

Atrue woman of Faith, Dr. Monica Sanders has spent many years gaining knowledge and insight to further grow in her ministry. She has completed schooling from several great universities graduating with her Bachelors of Administration in communication, Master of Science in Administration, Master of Education in Organizational Leadership and most recently her Doctorate of Education in Counseling Psychology from Guilford School of Theology, Greensboro NC

Over the years Dr Monica Has been blessed to serve in several different areas in the workforce as well as in ministry She is currently serving with great joy as the Senior pastor of Kingdom Fellowship International in Charlotte NC She has held several titles to help her prepare for such a role, Executive Director of A LOTT of Sista Love, Inc, Library & Admissions Administrative Assistant of Union Presbyterian Seminary, Human Resources Consultant of Kingdom Consulting and Senior Director of Human Resources & Office Services at America’s Blood Centers

Dr Monica possesses several skills and qualities that aid to her amazing gift Being skilled in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategies, Policy and Governance, Financial Business Systems, Consulting, Human Capital Management, Operations Management, Pastoral Care and Business Technology. These skilled has helped her further her reach in ministry.

God has blessed Dr Monica over the years to write many books to help bring more disciples into his kingdom She is the author of the following:

Being Intentional, Every day, 2022

Life’s Journey, Practically, 2021

Practical Inspired Quotes, 2018

Practical Guide: 21 Days of Consecration, 2018

Pocket Book of Prayers: Prayers for Growing Girls, 2016

Beyond The Veil, 2013

A Heart Matter, 2013

What motivated you to start your own business?

There is such a call for counseling today We live in a world where our mental health is failing us and it’s time to talk about our feelings, to check our thoughts, emotions and to know it is required.

Tell us about the process to start your brand, what did the beginning stages entail for you?

As I hold a doctorate in Counseling Psychology it was important to gain trust so the process begin with workshops The workshops open space for reliability, truth and to also share knowledge, education and experience. It allowed others to see and also establish me as a trusted source.

Tell us about your ministry?

My ministry is two-fold for I have been a pastor of an amazing ministry called Kingdom Fellowship International for over 11 years. My focus is empowering others to live their purpose that God has given them. I do it (guided by God) showing others through The Word of God, who they are purposed to be and how to achieve their goals, establish their mission and values.

What role does your faith play in your business?

Faith for me plays a major role. Our strong belief in God provides trusting and regarding God for the work He has established us to do.

HowdoyoubalanceEntrepreneurshipandFaith?

ThereisnobalanceinentrepreneurshipandFaith, theygohandinhand,youcannothaveonewithout theother.Youmustcontinuetobelieveandtrust yourselfforthe“why”,thewhyofyourcalling.You werecalledtodowhatyoudoespeciallyinmoments whenyouareinbusinessdespair.

Whathasbeenyourbiggestlessonthusfarinyour faithwalk?

Mybiggestlessonthusfarinmyfaithwalkistheawe ofGod Godisalwaysfaithfulevenwhenwearenot, evenwhenwefeelinadequateanddoubtful

How do you remain focused during the difficult moments of entrepreneurship?

I can remain focused during the difficult moments by remembering the why and the faithfulness of God. “If He did it before, He will do it again”

What is next for you, where do you hope to see your brand in the next 3-5 years?

In the next 3-5 years, my prayer is that I’m walking in God’s purpose reaching those who have been challenged mentally while thriving in a practice of emotional wellness

What advice would you give to other faith-based entrepreneurs? Trust God and remember your why!

Sis, Please realize that the approval of other people don't dictate your wins especially when God has his hands on it.

Pexels Photo Photo by Craig Adderley

A Woman Of Faith

HARRIETTE PATRICK-BARRON

AUTHOR/MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER

Harriette Patrick Barron is an author and motivational speaker. She is not afraid to tackle hard, but relevant subjects, in her writings and social media posts. Growing up as a pastor’s daughter, she had a chance to participate in helping hurting people in her community and in her church. The desire to help those in need reached over into her professional career as well For over twenty years she has worked with a variety of people dealing with difficult situations. She has served as a Mental Health Crisis Case Manager, A Child Abuse Investigator, A children’s Foster Home Care Worker, and A home Health Attendant for disabled adults

The Author believes that her life experience has only enhanced her connection with her audience through her writing style and strong storytelling ability. Harriette believes that through her faith in God, her life challenges have worked to make her better and not bitter She graduated from Sam Houston State University with a B.A in Sociology. Harriette Patrick Barron lives by her motto, “Use your pain as a steppingstone and not as a burial ground.” She loves her family and sunny Texas days.

Faith Based Books:

“The Wedding This Summer”- Fiction

“The Conversion of The Thug”-Fiction

“Coffee time with Daddy”- - None Fiction

“By This Time Next Year 2nd edition- fiction coming soon

What motivated you to start your journey into writing?

I started writing at age 11 and it started as something very therapeutic for me I was bullied because of my dark skin and big glasses so I wrote out my feelings on paper. I began to tell my story and the story of others through my writings.

Tell us about the process to start your brand, what did the beginning stages entail for you?

It is so funny because I didn’t even think about having a brand It took me some time to realize that all my writings, motivational speaking, and even my career were all building other people. To be honest I still don’t know what my brand exactly is, I just know that I am called to encourage and motivate others to be their best. I am still on the journey myself.

Tell us about your books?

I have my next four books already named and they are still in my head. My current novel is called, “The Wedding This Summer,” and it is a game changer. I address romantic love after trauma, forgiveness, and even embracing death when it is truly inevitable I received a literary of excellence award for this one and I am so pleased about that My other books are focused on everyday people doing extraordinary things. My books reach men and women no matter what journey they are on.

What role does your faith play in your business journey?

There is no way to separate the two My faith comes out in my characters and subject matter I realized that I could be financially compensated by using the very gift that God gave me. When I write my stories that encourage those who are struggling with their life’s journey, I feel that God has given me a special way to help others look up for help.

How do you balance entrepreneurship and faith?

These are two things that I do not have to balance because my faith guides me in everything that I do. I pray before I make important business decisions. I can’t claim to be a successful business woman, but I can claim to have vision to become one that is comfortable in her own skin. I am not there yet, but it is within my reach. I am still learning from other successful women about entrepreneurship.

What has been your biggest lesson thus far in your faith walk?

After making many mistakes in life and business, I learned that no life experience has been wasted, which means you can use even the hard lessons that you have learned to help someone else. Another lesson is that you have to keep dreaming even when you just want to give up. You will die emotionally, mentally, and even physically if you ever stop dreaming and making plans for your future.

How do you remain focused during the difficult moments of entrepreneurship?

It all goes back to keeping your focus on what you want out of your entire life. Just because things are difficult now, doesn’t mean they will stay that way. I tell myself, “Harriette, this is only a season.”

What is next for you, where do you hope to see your brand in the next 3-5 years?

I am working on the third installment of my Novel Trilogy. Next I hope to write a screen play or several to bring my books to the big screen. My desire is to take my brand and message to the world. People really need to hear some good news and I have it for them.

What advice would you give to other faith based entrepreneurs?

I heard a preacher say that if you see a problem and it really disturbs you deep inside, then you are probably called to work in that very area. I couldn’t agree more. My advice would be to find that thing that moves you. Find that thing that you have to address Find that thing that you just can’t leave alone and fix it Ask God to give you a way to fix the problem and find your voice in this world.

"Use your pain as a stepping stone and not as a burial ground"

Sis, Your vision can't be contained. Quit expecting people to understand what God gave you.

Pexels Photo by Godisable Jacob

A Woman Of Faith

DOMOJONES

CEO of Walking By Design

Being diagnosed with a brain tumor at nine to going through 187 chemotherapy treatments, I realized my story wasn’t just meant for me, there’s people that need to hear my journey. I self published my first autobiography called “#DamagedButNotDead” taking you through the journey of my life and sincd then, I’ve published three more books and co-authored two After having to use a walker at age 22, that developed a a business called “WalkingByDesign” which customizes medical accessories and during the Pandemic, being stuck in the house ignited a love interest for podcasting, so iI started a podcast called “Don’t let the disability fool you” interviewing the disabled community and essential caregivers

During my journey, I realized I can help people with how to change their mindset dealing with the struggles of life, so I became a Master Certified Disability Confidence Coach but I personally go by DisabiliT ConfidenC Cōch If that’s not enough, August of 2021 I wanted to take my podcast to another level, so I started my live talk show called “1 Billion Brave” representing the One Billion people in the world with disabilities giving them a space to share their stories of how they break the stigma beyond their conditions. I just recently had the opportunity to publish my first Children’s Disability Coloring Book called “Don’t Let The Disability Fool You” and all complete and publish my fourth book called “Early One Sunday Morning ” Which takes you through the journey of my life being a PK with two dads as Pastors in two different denominations!

I’m a business owner with a disability, a Master Life Coach with muscle weakness, a podcast host that breaks the stigma and an author with a bold personality I contradict every rule out there!! So my question is, what’s stopping you?! #DontLetTheDisabilityFoolYou

What Motivated you to start your own business?

It started with me! I had to start using a walker at age 27 and I felt like my personality and style wouldn’t fit my walker. So in order for me to actually use my walker, and be comfortable using it, I decided to decorate it to fit me!

Tell us about the process to start your brand, what did the beginning stages entail for you?

The process was kind of tedious but satisfying. There’s so many parts that play into what I do because I knew I was going to target the disability, community and medical accessories that they use daily. So I had to come up with a process of how I can either use their walker and get it to them in a timely matter or offer a brand new walker and be able to take my time and customize it for them. The beginning stages of a little something like making out a plan and literally writing out each step of how i wanted to design, and give options and if so, how many, and what would be the turnaround process. Also had to keep in mind that I do have a disability as well , and I don’t want to overdo it

Tell us about your company Walking by design?

Walking by design is a brand that I made that specializes in customizing, medical accessories, i.e., walkers, crutches, canes, and any medical assessment that a person with a disability wants to make their own.

What role does your faith play in your business?

My fave played a big role in my business, and in life in general. Having a disability and creating a business, it’s a man that takes a lot of faith, because how many hours are against you what are you be physical, mental or just seeing if you’re in relevant in the world we live in today. So I really had to hone in on making sure I’m not doing this for profit but I’m doing this for purpose. And I know that because of my experience in life, there’s someone out there that may need exactly what I’m offering And God didn’t give me this vision when I reason, so I’m going to use what he gave me to my best ability.

How do you balance entrepreneurship and Faith?

I personally believe it goes hand-in-hand I wouldn’t be an entrepreneur without my faith I think it’s impossible stepping out on a vision that God has given you without fully trusting Him by faith that He can lead and guide you through something in writing about, but Him. By myself, I know nothing, but with Him I’m a genius lol.

What has been your biggest lesson thus far in your faith walk?

I think for me, the biggest lesson is knowing that what I went through was for a purpose. You never know what you go through, how that helps someone that you never know could be going through the same thing or something similar. But if you don’t branch out and tell your story, that’s one person that copies questioning how to get out their situation So for me having a disability and being entrepreneur, they give you so many people just like me the mindset a reminder that there’s no one that God can’t use for his glory. The key factor is you just have to be willing.

How do you remain focused during the difficult moments of entrepreneurship?

That’s a hard one because I’m definitely a pusher! Like to get stuff done and not wait Pray for me I’m working on that lol but I had to realize that I’m only one person, and I can’t do it all. So if it doesn’t get done, it just doesn’t get done. There’s no rush in building. All things take time, and as long as your focus is on the purpose, all things work together for the good. And that’s including the pause, that’s including the breaks, that’s including the time that you need to step back and re-configure Staying focused doesn’t mean grinding, staying focus means you’re fulfilling your purpose. I mean, even Jesus rested on the seventh day lol.

What is next for you, where do you hope to see your brand in the next 3-5 years?

That’s a great question! I definitely want to see my brand call global in the healthcare I want to see Walking By Design in hospitals, Senior Centers, Ronald McDonald Hospital and everywhere alike. I want to see customized medical accessories everywhere!

What advice would you give to other faith-based entrepreneurs?

If you have an idea, make sure you love it. Don’t just do it for a check or because it’s the latest trend. Do it because it’s your passion. Because once that “feeling” is over and all the real times when not everyone is rocking with what you’re trying to achieve, you have to lean on your “why” to keep you going. You got this!!

Sis, You are special, You have a purpose. You were put on this earth for a purpose bigger than you!

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