DISRUPTORS THE MAGAZINE E1V1

SHE STEPS FORWARD

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Dear Sisters,

I trust this message reaches you in high spirits and excellent health. As we step into the fifth month of 2024, it brings me immense joy and anticipation to reach out to you and extend an invitation to this year’s retreat. In our ever-evolving world, where forces seek to push women back, there exists a rising tide of individuals who recognize their purpose and bravely step forward in their authenticity. They are shattering barriers, disrupting the status quo and embracing the transformative power of their actions. Our theme for this gathering is “SheSteps Forward.”

This year’s retreat will offer a more intimate setting, fostering deeper connections and collaborations among attending women. It provides a nurturing environment where participants can engage authentically, share experiences and collaborate on initiatives that empower and uplift. The “SheSteps Forward retreat serves as a celebration of these courageous strides, a gathering where women are encouraged to step into their fullest potential and ignite positive change in their communities and beyond.

I am delighted to share that the retreat will be held at the Doubletree Hilton in Schaumburg, Ill., August 8-10. The esteemed venue offers an exceptional setting for our event, surrounded by the area’s top dining spots, shopping options and opportunities for relaxation. Additionally, all hotel stays include a complimentary full breakfast each day.

During the three-day retreat, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with like-minded women, take meaningful steps toward their personal and professional goals and engage with our expert speakers. This immersive experience promises valuable networking opportunities, insightful discussions and practical guidance to propel participants forward on their journeys of growth and empowerment.

Our lineup of retreat speakers comprises accomplished women who have not only achieved remarkable success and garnered respect in their respective fields but are also enthusiastic about sharing their expertise. They are equipped to provide practical guidance and actionable steps to aid you in moving forward confidently.

I encourage you, whether you’re an up-and-coming or experienced entrepreneur, a leader in faith-based communities, a nonprofit advocate or simply someone seeking alignment with their purpose, to join us. This is an unmissable opportunity to be part of the EmpowerHer movement. Seize the moment to step into your purpose and craft the legacy you envision. Let’s unite to forge a future where all women thrive, are cherished, discover their purpose and establish generational legacies for the present and future generations.

Warm regards,

Sanja Rickette Stinson

Dr.

Sanja

Rickette Stinson CEO EmpowerHer Ventures, LLC

DR. SANJA RICKETTE STINSON

DR. DOROTHY PATRICK WILSON

APOSTLE DR. SHARON PETERS-RUFF

TIA MONET SINGLETON TIFFANY SLEDGE

PUBLISHER’S

I AM THAT WOMAN

BY DR. SANJA RICKETTE STINSON

As the curtains closed on the fourth quarter of 2019, little did I anticipate the upheaval that would grip the world in the throes of one of the most horrific pandemics of the 21st century.

Despite feelings of uncertainty and trepidation, I heard within me a message with resounding clarity: “Sanja, do not shy away from disrupting the norm.” Though the significance of this message eluded me at the time, as a devout Christian who regularly documents her inner musings, I faithfully recorded this divine nudge.

It wasn’t until the waning months of 2021 that the message echoed louder, clearer and with a palpable sense of purpose. What had seemed like a fleeting whisper now materialized into something more profound – a movement was beckoning. Thus commenced the odyssey of “Disrupting the Status Quo,” a series of books that transcended mere literature to become a rallying cry for change. This movement birthed volumes 1, 2, and 3, each a testament to the transformative power of faith and the courage to embrace disruption.

The newfound contributing authors of these volumes, emboldened by their faith, refused to linger on the sidelines any longer. Women of all ages stepped into the spotlight with a renewed sense of empowerment, seizing the opportunity to shape their destinies as authors. Through these groundbreaking anthology projects, we’ve had the honor of uplifting women across the globe, united by a common thread of faith. Their stories are testaments to the symbiotic relationship between faith and entrepreneurship, demonstrating that they are not mutually exclusive but are complementary forces.

Many of these women had never fathomed themselves as writers, let alone had they envisioned attaining Amazon best-seller status. Yet, through this platform, they discovered their voices and shared their narratives with the world, leaving an indelible mark on the literary landscape.

This movement has catalyzed the emergence of a new wave of entrepreneurs. Some have expanded their literary repertoire by publishing additional books, while others have ventured into music production or embarked on entrepreneurial ventures of their own. Fearlessly embracing the unknown, they have shattered conventional expectations and redefined their trajectories, inspiring others to follow suit.

Today marks a pivotal moment as we unveil the “Disruptor Magazine” premiere 2024 issue, introducing a platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of women who have fearlessly challenged the status quo. Among the trailblazers featured in our inaugural issues are several of the remarkable women whose stories grace the pages of volume 3 of “Disrupting the Status Quo.” These women come from all walks of life, and they embody the essence of courage, resilience and unwavering faith, serving as beacons of inspiration for all who dare to dream and disrupt.

The power of women’s voices cannot be overstated. Women possess the unique ability to be the catalysts for change and to profoundly and enduringly drive progress. As we reflect on the collective strength and resilience of women everywhere, let us not forget the importance of unity and solidarity. When we stand together and lift each other up, we can harness the full potential of our voices and effect meaningful change in our community and beyond.

Allow me to extend a heartfelt invitation to all women to join us in this journey of disruption and empowerment. Whether you stand as a seasoned leader or are just beginning to find your voice, know that your story matters. Together, let us boldly proclaim, “I AM THAT WOMAN,” ready to challenge the status quo, defy expectations, and carve out pathways to a more equitable future for generations to come.

Welcome to “Disruptor Magazine” – where women’s voices are heard and celebrated, and women are empowered to enact meaningful change in the world.

10 WINONA REDMOND PR MAVEN LEVERAGES CONNECTIONS TO OPEN DOORS TO JUSTICE & EQUITY

15 5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT PUBLISHING

32 BEYOND THE LABELS RECOGNIZING THE HUMANITY BEHIND HOMELESSNESS

34 FINAL WORD THE MARKINGS OF A DISRUPTOR

WOMEN’S HEALTH

WEIGHT LOSS:

THERE’S NO SECRET TO SUCCESS

BY DR. CRYSTAL HINES-MAYS

The year 2024 has gotten off to an amazing start, and many people have shifted into high gear as they are focusing more on their health and wellness. I’m Dr. Crystal Hines-Mays, founder of INSPIRE, LLC, a board-certified family, practice physician, fellow of the American Academy of family physicians and a certified life coach.

Many of my patients ask me about weight loss. Some common questions: What’s the secret to losing weight and being healthy? What is my ideal weight? What is the difference between a low carb diet, keto diet, high protein diet or plant-based diet? Should I intermittently fast to lose weight?

Well, if you have not noticed, there’s no quick remedy to losing weight and maintaining your weight loss. But I will share one thought with you: Weight loss starts in your mind. There are numerous studies at universities, hospitals and in research trials that look at the chemical reactions within our brain. These chemical reactions regulate how our body burns fat, and carbohydrates and stores proteins. Moreover, these hormones are controlled by the types of foods that we consume, the food our bodies need for energy, and how we process stress and manage our mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. But in addition to the hormonal components that regulate how our body processes food and nutrients, we also have the opportunity to make better food choices, reduce our stress, exercise and develop healthy sleeping habits, therefore promoting a healthier lifestyle in order to lose weight.

Here are several strategies to help with setting your weight loss goals. Consult a doctor. Start by evaluating your current physical and mental health.

1. Weight loss begins with goal setting, focusing on healthier food choices, and strategically planning to select foods with a lower calorie value.

2. Meal planning and timing matter. Late-night snacks can cause spikes in your blood glucose levels and slow your body’s ability to metabolize fat, carbohydrates and proteins. Eating every two to three hours helps to keep a steady state of hormone levels that regulate your metabolism and reduce cravings for simple sugars such as candy, breads, processed foods and sugary drinks.

3. Resist compulsion... emotional eating, binge eating, overconsumption or under consumption of food and drink.

4.

Introspection is paramount to determining why you “do what you do.” Self-analysis leads to correction of negative behaviors and formation of new habits. During your physical exam, your doctor may conduct a depression or anxiety screen. If you have symptoms of these disorders, seek counseling to learn techniques to process your feelings to avoid compulsive eating behaviors.

5. Choose to make a lifestyle change, not follow a diet. When we participate in commercial dieting to lose weight, after the diet has concluded, we quickly revert back to our prior habits. Consider changing your food choices. Prep your meals and plan ahead. This will help to reduce snacking on sugar-filled snacks or fatty foods.

6. Consider eating lean pieces of meat like chicken, turkey and fish. Avoid pork, which is high in sodium, and beef, which has a high fat content. If you are consuming meats, reduce the intake of all meats to one to three servings a week. Plant protein may be a healthy substitute and can reduce inflammation in your body.

7.

Consider keeping a food journal or using an app on your cell phone to log water intake, food choices, vitamin use, etc.

8. Get a good night’s sleep. Sleep is restorative and allows the body and mind to rest and resume homeostasis. Also, when we allow our body to rest, we have energy to exercise and reduce the hormones in the body that cause stress, weight gain, anxiety and depression.

9.

10.

Exercise. Easy workout schedules are less stressful and easily accomplished. Thirty minutes daily for four to five days a week is all it takes to encourage the body to burn calories for weight loss. Walking is the best form of exercise, and it is inexpensive.

Lastly, enjoy the journey. Laugh, dance, explore your surroundings! Increasing your endorphins has been shown to promote weight loss and build stamina for maintaining your goal.

Many patients ask whether these techniques work for weight loss. Yes! I am living proof! I use many of these techniques and practices with my own personal weight loss journey. Over two years I lost over 70 pounds, and now, five years later, I have maintained my weight loss. I have accomplished my weight loss goal without weight loss surgeries, weight loss pills or injections. If you’re ready to learn about programs, seminars or lifestyle changes that will empower you to become your most authentic version, then join me by visiting my website at www.drinspire.org.

Redmond wynona

PR MAVEN LEVERAGES CONNECTIONS TO OPEN DOORS TO JUSTICE & EQUITY

Wynona Redmond is a bright, caring, energetic champion of the potential in all of us. Her belief in the power of community and the urgency of the access that must be unlocked to serve all in need drive her desire to build a better world.

Guided by faith, powered by people and emboldened to craft solutions that improve lives, Wynona is a trailblazer and shepherd, dedicated to implementing meaningful change and committed to ensuring that together, we win.

She is a nationally recognized public-relations leader, influential community builder and vibrant media personality who helps globally renowned firms and community organizations achieve business goals.

Through her media group, Wyn Works, and as president of Chicago-headquartered Wyn-Win Communications, Wynona helps clients build 360-degree strategic communications solutions that powerfully promote and protect their brands. Wynona is a sought-out expert who architects compelling solutions that drive the bottom line.

As the president emeritus of the National Black Public Relations Society and associate publisher of “Who’s Who Black Chicago,” Wynona excels at helping C-suite executives turn market activation into true community engagement. Reverend Jesse Jackson agrees,

citing Wynona’s unprecedented ability to mobilize audiences, saying, “She consistently gains the trust of both the people in the community and the client.”

Wynona’s award-winning Wyn-Win Communications is a woman-and-minorityowned agency, recipient of two 2023 Golden and Silver Trumpet Awards, presented by the Publicity Club of Chicago, for her team’s outstanding work in healthcare. Wyn-Win is frequently enlisted by C-suite leaders to serve as their organization’s agency of record for strategic communications, government relations and stakeholder engagement (community leaders, partner organizations and community groups). Additionally, WynWin is regularly enlisted to serve as a partner to an organization’s existing agency of record to deliver strategically aligned solutions that powerfully and precisely engage a brand’s minority audience to achieve effective return on investment.

What Inspired Her

Growing up on the West Side of Chicago inspired Wynona to pursue a career in public relations. After witnessing the inaccurate portrayal of her neighborhood, her friends and her neighbors on nightly news reports, Wynona knew there were broader, richer, urgent stories to tell about the community in which she lived. Her experience at Whitney Young High School, where she studied alongside Michelle Obama, stoked her desire to challenge the gatekeepers. Wynona understood just how potent a career in public relations could be to guide, shape and reframe the images, ideas and rhetoric transacted across TV screens, newspaper mastheads and radio airwaves. As a communications major at Loyola University of Chicago, Wynona studied the role the media plays in shaping the narrative, in shaping history and in shaping the nightly conversations we have with our families at the dinner table. Most important, Wynona’s desire to confront power structures and change narratives was rooted in a deep, faith-based notion of love, care and community. Her mission to challenge media gatekeepers grew from her desire to build a just and equitable world where all felt seen, safe, respected, connected and understood.

She says, “The most powerful thing I’ve learned is that it’s not about me. It’s about what we can do for others. It’s about the actions that we can take and the optimism we can share.”

But Wynona’s first inspiration came from her mother, though her mother never worked in the industry. She recalls that her mother had a God-given gift to care deeply, love immensely and express genuine interest in everyone. Her mother never met a stranger. Her mother talked to everybody, everywhere they went – in the line at the store, to the cashiers and even to the postman, who would stop on his rounds for extended conversation.

Everybody on the block knew Wynona’s mom, and Wynona says she is eternally emboldened by the lessons in communication and community-building that her mother introduced her to.

Mobilizing Communities: Educating and Empowering Target Audiences

Wynona’s path to launching a successful agency began through securing an internship at strategic communications firm, Hill+Knowlton Strategies. Her career grew robustly as she accepted leadership roles to guide public affairs for the Illinois Department of Children & Family Services, the Chicago Housing Authority and Cook County Hospital. Wynona went on to serve as vice president of Corporate Responsibility and Communications for Safeway-owned grocery chain Dominick’s, overseeing its foundation and political action committee, simultaneously helping to guide government affairs. Wynona also worked as vice president of social responsibility for the Northstar Lottery Group, where she deepened her dedication to building solutions that had a positive impact.

Finally, in 2012, through the encouragement of Rev. Jackson and the understanding that her network was her net worth, Wynona launched Wyn-Win Communications. Her first client, Cheryl Grace, senior vice president of Strategic Community Alliances and Consumer Engagement at Nielson, the global marketing research firm, reiterates just how effective

and pinpointed Wynona was at delivering comprehensive solutions that enabled an enterprise to achieve its goals: “We needed to maximize our community outreach, and Nielson was very interested in reaching out to churches in particular since they are large gathering places for African Americans,” Cheryl recalls. “I knew we needed to hire Wynona because she had one-on-one relationships with pastors with large congregations in Chicago, and she is so good at getting community groups to galvanize around causes. We were literally in a church every Sunday... We had access to stand at the pulpit and let the congregations know just how important their opinions were. I would not have had that kind of access had it not been for Wynona.”

Executive Leadership: Building Connections, Expanding Access, Inspiring Future Leaders

Wynona recognized the power of trust, relationships and access when looking to build inroads with community groups. Wynona cites Rainbow/Push, JP Morgan & Chase Bank, Rush University, Census Bureau, Nielsen, Walgreens, United Negro College Fund, Regional Organ Bank and Aetna as key current and recent clients on whose behalf she and her team have delivered solutions.

Through Wynona’s leadership as a board member, church leader, host of the hit radio show “Community Chatter,” executive editor of the hyper-relevant media industry blog PR/P and the inspiring video podcast, “Your Mama,” Wynona builds and brings to life not only flawless strategies and programs, but

also compelling, educational and heartfelt content that illuminates the powers, people and passions that strengthen the bonds of community. Says Wynona, “We help the greatest companies in the world ensure their strategies don’t die on the pages of a PowerPoint. We help clients connect their vision to the community members who can most significantly benefit.”

Projects That Have Had a Positive Impact

The engagement for Neilsen is an example of Wyn-Win’s working in deep partnership with its client to engineer a solution that truly benefits the community.

Additionally, Wyn-Win’s 2023 award-winning program for Wellness West, a non-profit organization that allows hospitals, health systems, community mental health centers, community health centers and social service organizations to share information and coordinate services to close gaps in the system, speaks to Wynona’s dedication to unleashing solutions that powerfully uplift the community. Wyn-Win’s pro-bono work to promote the God First Ministries and Juneteenth Illinois highlights Wynona’s commitment to helping community leaders supercharge their impact.

Wynona’s Vision for the Future of Public Relations

Wynona believes that as media consumption continues to decentralize, and media channels continue to multiply, public relations will continue to play a critical role in understanding what story needs to be told, which target audience segments must understand that story and which channels and activation strategies will play an essential role in driving engagement and behavior change. No matter the era, no matter the topic, no matter the technology and no matter the channel, Wynona believes the letters PR will always be rooted in “People and relationships, power and resources.”

With generational behavioral gaps expanding, burgeoning new digital channels amplifying the interaction points at which consumers

access and act upon information, and difficultto-penetrate old-boy networks still hindering unlimited access to decision-making “room(s) where it happens,” public relations leaders will continue to be promoter and protector, shepherd and steward, sword and shield, in helping businesses activate consistent, cohesive, relevant, personal and targeted messages.

Today, in a world where an unexpected tweet or single TikTok video can abruptly place a brand in the line of fire, it is critical for leading organizations to ensure that they have an

agency partner who has proactively built a mechanism to easily and quickly facilitate trusted, accessible dialogues with key audience segments and stakeholders, to amplify impact in moments of joy and correct misinformation in moments of crisis.

Wynona’s Contribution to “Disrupting the Status Quo”

In her guest chapter, titled Succeeding Doesn’t Mean Soul-ing Out, Wynona articulated a powerful roadmap on how to align your life’s work with your core values. First and foremost, Wynona advises, “All money isn’t good money. I only activate teams around causes I believe in.”

By staying true to her faith and by partnering with changemakers who share her interest in architecting solutions that uplift communities, she offers five key takeaways on how to lead a meaningful career in strategic communications and public relations, without “Soul-ing Out.”

1. Right Clients, Right Impact: Align your business with your beliefs. Be intentional in client selection, choosing projects that align with your values and contribute to positive change.

2. Build Bridges Between Corporations and Communities: Link corporations to under served communities through collaborative projects and initiatives, where both sides can win.

3. Uphold Trust as a Core Value: Prioritize authenticity and transparency by aligning your business practices with your faith, vision for the future, and shared community values.

4. Reject Misaligned Work for Long-Term Success: Turn down projects that contradict your values to prioritize work that resonates with what you believe.

5. Disrupt for Good: Focus on Positive Change: Commit to fighting for good, actively disrupting the status quo for the betterment of communities and people in need.

Her Role as Disruptor

As a natural-born communicator who loves to connect with people, Wynona says her firm’s

mottos is “Together we win,” a reminder that disruption is less about how we take it apart and more a about how we put it back together in a way that uplifts both sides. As a female entrepreneur inspired and informed by brave disruptors throughout history, Wynona believes that every public relations leader must ask themselves, independent of age, ethnicity or gender: How can we best navigate moments that will define who we become generations from now? What are we doing as a society to address these challenges? What are we doing as an organization? And, no matter our positionality, how can we leverage our personal and professional lives to disrupt in a way that inspires the justice, equity and access that we seek?

Wynona’s Take on Industry Trends

Wynona notes that the tactics and tools of community engagement have changed, but the ‘why’ remains the same. Wynona believes that the challenges we face may grow more nuanced, and our need to understand the landscape and ecosystems in which communities must be engaged remains unchanged.

How Her Background has Influenced Her Approach

Across both public and private sectors, Wynona has relentlessly championed the value of diverse perspectives a commitment to understanding all voices that needed to be at the table, and building a table big enough to include those voices. Her efforts to build and drive discourse over a large, inclusive table served as the connective thread through her various public affairs and communications.

Wynona’s Taglines:

People say that Wynona’s “heart is bigger than the room.” And she truly believes that “Heart Work, Not Hard Work” is the engine that drives effective community building.

The Role of Faith in Wynona’s Work

Faith sits at the center of Wynona’s life and work. Faith powers Wynona’s vision of building a world where all can equitably thrive. In fact, a single Bible verse inspires the core of Wynona’s work: “Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed.” – Proverbs 16:3.

“When you go into business, you learn that God is your source, and you learn to pray a lot more. I always tell people that Jesus is my CEO. I’m not in business on my own. I have a corner office and a higher power that I report to,” says Wynona. As a female entrepreneur who serves as executive leader of a womanand-minority certified agency, Wynona sees faith as a powerful guidepost that helps her determine which clients and projects best align to her team’s values. Wynona begins each day grateful, thankful and blessed.

Her faith has helped her help clients not only bring calm and sanity to challenging dialogues, it has also has emboldened her to know when the status quo must be disrupted. YOU MAY CONTACT WYNONA AT wynwincomm wynwincomm wynona-redmond

ABOUT 5 THINGS TO KNOW PUBLISHING

FROM DR. DOROTHY P. WILSON

After working in the publishing and marketing business for decades, I’ve gained a lot of wisdom. Here are five tips to help get you started:

 START SMALL. There are lots of ways to become a published author — you can pen a blog; write a solo book or contribute a chapter to an anthology project; write a column; contribute to a magazine or an ebook — so don’t be intimidated because you think you have to write an entire book to be published. Start small by writing a chapter in an anthology book or submitting a blog or column to another publication or platform.

 SET ASIDE YOUR HESITATION. Most of my clients say they’ve been interested in publishing for quite a while but ... “didn’t know how to get started” or “wondered how much it cost.” Stop wondering and get answers so you can move forward. Ask a publisher/editor/writing coach! Find a good fit for you. Make sure you feel comfortable learning from the person you choose. Select someone who doesn’t just help you to produce your book but who is also willing to coach you and help you grow through the process.

 LEVERAGE PUBLISHING. Don’t publish a book and let a stack of them collect dust in the garage. Work with

someone who can help you produce a topquality publication, develop a strategy and leverage your investment of time and money.

 PROTECT YOUR BRAND. There are a lot of “I can help you publish” promoters on social media. Yes, many people know how to design and run a grammar and spell check, but that’s not publishing. Choose an experienced person who can coach you on framing your book, anthology or magazine, help you organize your thoughts, develop a winning strategy, help protect you from legal issues and ensure your brand is well represented and that you’re able to capitalize on your investment.

 GET STARTED. Every heard the saying, “Can’t never will?” There’s never a “good time” to do something that will require you to step outside of your comfort zone, spend money and invest time. When you publish, you place a gift in someone else’s hand. When you publish, you tap into a very effective tool to amplify your message and elevate your brand. If you are a coach or consultant, you need to publish. If you have a platform you want to grow, you need to publish. If you want to build new connections, you need to publish. If you are seeking more speaking/ coaching opportunities, you need to publish.

WHAT’S YOUR NEXT STEP?

Don’t let “publish a book” just sit on your 2024 “list”; take the leap.

Let me help you...

 One of the easiest ways to get started shaping your message is to participate in an anthology book project. You have to write only one chapter; you’ll get to meet some great people, and you’ll have the benefit of promotion that you don’t have to power yourself.

I have a great opportunity available right now. Two coaching sessions with me are included!

“Eat Fear for Breakfast!” Devotional & Journal - This devotional is designed to help Believers overcome fear so they can live their faith louder. Co-authors will help readers grasp and live by Timothy 1:7, which teaches us this: “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

Co-authors of this devotion will share about frustration, insecurity, rejection, anger, pride and other outcomes of fear they’ve personally struggled with and how they have been able to overcome by the Word of God.

Each devotional reading will include a key scripture, sharing by the co-author on their struggle and how God helped them, a prayer, a space for readers to journal, more about the co-author and how to connect with the writer.

MORE ABOUT DOROTHY

Dorothy P. Wilson is a successful serialpreneur, award-winning publisher and editor with 30-plus years of experience. She is an international speaker and podcast host who creates platforms to help amplify messages and elevate brands through publishing books and magazines, producing podcasts, hosting international conferences and developing creative marketing strategies. She is passionate about inspiring others to not just publish but to leverage publishing for greater impact.

Connect : dwilson@dwilsonandassociates.com

dorothy.p.wilson.1 thedorothywilson dorothy p. wilson

WOMEN WHO

CONQUER

MEET THE “DISRUPTING THE STATUS QUO 3” CO-AUTHORS

EULA LATRICE BOYCE

In her quest to overcome many challenges, including being a single teen mom, feeling abandoned by her father and enduring dysfunctional relationships, Eula Latrice Boyce finally decided there was no other choice for her but to try God.

“I knew that I didn’t want my children to experience any of what I had experienced, so God was my only option,” she says. “I struggled in the beginning, still wanting to live my way instead of God’s way.”

It wasn’t until she truly started learning how to listen to his words and not her own that her depression and sense of defeat would leave. She joined a church and surrounded herself with like-minded, spirit-filled people.

“I no longer worried about what other people thought of me. I am in awe of how God’s presence and love comfort and carry me. I wake up every day and choose joy!” she says.

Today, Eula is an accomplished real estate broker with a wealth of experience who has established herself as a trusted professional. She loves helping clients find their dream homes or make lucrative investments.

Aside from her career, Eula is a devoted wife, mother and grandmother of six. She and her husband, Charles, have been happily married for 19 years. They have five wonderful children. Eula balances her professional and personal life with grace and dedication, finding joy in both realms.

With her wealth of knowledge and experience in the real estate market, Eula has weathered various economic cycles and navigated the ever-changing landscape of the industry. She stays ahead of the curve by continually expanding her professional network, attending industry conferences and keeping up with the latest market trends and technologies.

YOU MAY CONNECT WITH EULA AT elboyce42@icloud.com

CHARMAINE RICKETTE

Charmaine V. Rickette, president and CEO of Uncle Remus Saucy Fried Chicken, is a best-selling author, thought leader and business coach. Charmaine graduated from Columbia College, completed business courses at the Living Word Christian Center’s Joseph Center Business School and attended Pal’s Business Excellence Institute. Charmaine is the chairperson of the Austin African American Business Networking Association. She encourages women to step confidently out of their past, boldly into their present and intentionally into their future.

From the perspective of someone who has years of entrepreneurial experience, Charmaine stresses that age is not a hindrance. She says that it’s never too late to keep trying and striving. She believes that this magazine will validate the authenticity of women from all walks of life who are boldly sharing their stories and seeing their confidence grow as they take their places in the roles of disruptors.

She says: “Life lessons that can be shared always create synergy. Being connected with one other through sharing experiences is everyone’s focus. We all want each other to win.”

Charmaine has seen the power of women’s testimonies lift others up.

“The journey you have had up until this point was preordained for you to be an overcomer, disruptor and a conqueror. Don’t let fear continue to paralyze you from sharing your story,” she says. “There is more than likely someone who has been through it, is going through it or needs the strength to be set free from it, and your sharing your journey could be freeing and inspiring. Share your story with humility and boldness so that others will know that they, too, can become a disruptor.”

LILLIAN A. BALL

Evangelist Lillian A. Ball has always wanted to write and says that it took her a while to put pen to paper, but once she started, she says, “I was able to really dig deep, and the thoughts and words began to flow.” Writing has helped her take a step back and see her experiences from a broader perspective. “I truly didn’t realize what all I had gone through,” she says.

While Lillian candidly shares the painful experiences of several failed marriages, she also uplifts readers with her faith and positive outlook. “Through all the hurt and pain, I still believe that God has a husband just for me. I am waiting to be found,” she says. “I just believe that the Lord has something for me. When I feel the Holy Spirit moving in me to do something, doors open. I am usually in the right place at the right time. I just have to go through the door.”

Her message is that there is a future. “You do not have to settle, nor do you have to stay; just keep pressing forward.”

A native of the Southside of Chicago, Ill. Lillian now resides in the south suburbs of Chicago along with her mother. Evangelist Lillian is a mother of two adult children, a son (Devin); and a daughter, (Adriauna); and the grandma to one adorable little guy. Evangelist Lillian has worked full-time at the same law firm for over 25 years. Evangelist Lillian holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a focus in Christian ministry and currently has a desire to return to school for her MDiv. She is an active member of New Faith Baptist Church International where she serves in the Christian Education and Evangelism Ministry.

Lillian may be reached at annetteball31a@gmail.com.

YOU MAY CONNECT WITH LILLIAN AT annetteball31a@gmail.com

People truly seeking to elevate in their God-given purpose come together to be transformed to Live Your Faith Louder.

Dr. Dorothy P. Wilson

SATURDAY, AUGUST 3, 2024

LILLIAN HARRISON

Lillian Harrison is a resilient and inspiring author, visionary entrepreneur and social advocate who has dedicated her life to empowering others and fostering positive change in her community. A deeply devoted mother of two sons, Lillian embarked on an unexpected path when her older child faced legal troubles. Faced with this daunting challenge and its ramifications, she discovered her calling to uplift those who had been marginalized by society. Unfazed by the odds, Lillian fearlessly ventured into the world of entrepreneurship and founded QLC Enterprises LLC, a construction company that offered opportunities to individuals re-entering society after incarceration. Through this initiative, she not only provided valuable employment but also instilled hope and a sense of purpose in those often dismissed by others.

Lillian established a transitional housing program for sex offenders, embracing the belief that redemption and growth were possible for everyone willing to change. Her own experiences as a victim of rape gave her unique insight into the journey of healing, allowing her to guide others toward a brighter future with empathy and understanding.

Lillian also founded a successful nonprofit organization that continues to have a positive impact on others’ lives. Through her writings and mentorship, she encourages her sons and others to conquer their fears, embrace life’s challenges and strive for greatness.

YOU MAY CONNECT WITH LILLIAN AT elevatedcdc@gmail.com

INA JOHNSON MYERS

Ina Johnson Myers is the founder and CEO of When She Rise LLC. She is also an international keynote speaker, a resiliency coach and a five-time best-selling author.

About the trials she has faced in her life, she says: “God always hears us. He hears our cries and our moans. He always hears our despair. Through God’s redemptive powers, I have been able to use the lessons learned. I am so grateful and thankful for all the trials he saw fit to protect me from or guide me through.”

Her company specializes in narcissistic abuse awareness, recovery and victim prevention. Although narcissistic abuse affects both men and women, she advocates for women to understand the difference between healthy and narcissistic love and relationships. She helps women develop the tools to spot red flags during the dating phase and to recognize the not-so-obvious narcissistic personality traits and mannerisms to avoid. She also helps them focus on the Christian approach to walk through their healing journey from toxic relationships by discovering their true purpose according to who they are in Christ. Her own experiences with toxic relationships throughout her military career and beyond are why she advocates for women to be aware of whom they allow to sit at their table. She teaches that red flags do not turn green over time, and she helps women understand that broken and abused women raise broken and/or abused children, who in turn are very likely to repeat the generational cycle.

Ina is an Army combat veteran who retired after 24 years of service. She is challenged with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and is a survivor of both MST (Military Sexual Trauma) and narcissistic abuse.

As a granddaughter of two WWI Veteran grandparents and the daughter of two WWII Veteran parents, she doesn’t just speak, write and coach about resiliency; it’s all she knows.

YOU MAY CONNECT WITH INA AT imyers@whensherise.com

NEFETARI MELLS

Nefetari Mells describes herself as a moonflower because, she says, “A moonflower grows and thrives in the night when everyone else is asleep. After my mother’s death, not being around other women and being raised by my father, I questioned myself. I questioned my identity, worth and value. Not having had conversations with my grandmother and mother about what it means to be a woman, I’ve had to learn from their lessons and a few of my own.”

Nefetari expresses herself through abstract art and poetry. “I have my mother’s quest and desire to learn new things. I have an associate degree in theology and a bachelor’s degree in social work. I attended night school and learned how to weld aluminum and steel. I have taken classes for surface pattern design, and I’m even learning how to make toys,” she says.

Through therapy, coaching and mentoring, Nefetari says she has developed a sense of self value and self-love. “I set healthy boundaries and truly love myself. I have found my voice and confidence and know exactly who I am. I used to feel like a little girl hidden in a field of flowers —lost, unseen, unheard. Now I am a woman who has used the dark lessons as a fertilizer to plant seeds of health, wealth, abundance, positive self-talk and grace.”

Nefetari, born in Mobile, Ala., is a hybrid Southern belle who was raised in Detroit, Mich. A graduate of the University of Southern Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in social work, she also holds an associate degree in theology. Nefetari’s vast career experience in administration and medical social work has led her to a role as a federal supervisor. In her spare time, Nefetari enjoys reciting poetry, creating abstract art, enjoying cultural experiences and listening to jazz on vinyl. She resides in Richton Park, Ill.

YOU MAY CONNECT WITH NEFETARI AT nefetarimells@gmail.com

LATOYA BURKHALTER

La Toya Burkhalter is a fiancé and a loving mother of two beautiful teenagers, a boy and a girl. She devotes herself to creating diverse life experiences for her family. She enjoys spending time with family and friends and having fun outdoors. She lives by her grandmother’s statement: “I ain’t gone let no grass grow under my feet, and you better not, either!”

From DeVry University, La Toya holds a bachelor’s degree in technical management with a concentration in hospitality. She is as passionate about her real estate and property management career as she is about her family. She has 11-plus years of experience in the real estate industry and is known as a trusted professional. She has managed over 200 properties, assisted renters, first-time home buyers and sellers. As a Realtor, property manager and owner of a project management and consulting firm, she leads with honesty and integrity. In her work, La Toya helps insurance companies place families who are in need of short-term housing because of unforeseen circumstances.

LaToya is focused on motivating and empowering others through prayer and life-filled experiences; she’s a listener. She is very compassionate, supportive and filled with love, faith and pure joy.

La Toya holds the position as the first secretary of the First & Finest Black Women of Real Estate Sorority, whose mission is to motivate industry experts to eradicate the disparity of knowledge in minority communities by providing education and services related to financial literacy, investments, and home ownership. The sorority is the first of its kind. The members pledge to build a better tomorrow by demolishing the stereotypes that exist today.

YOU MAY CONNECT WITH LA TOYA AT burkhalterlatoya@yahoo.com

La Toya Burkhalter “@ladytoyab_realtor”

La Toya Burkhalter

TIA SINGLETON

Raising and acting as guardian for many children led Tia M. Singleton to look for ways to save money and time. “I was a single parent and head of the house,” she recalls. “I had to make the tough decisions. One learns very quickly how to improvise and to make the best use of what is available in the home. On a tight budget, I learned how to cut boys’ hair and was the hair and fashion stylist for the girls. This means that I created my own hair care products. I began to notice that my ointments, potions and remedies worked well. Family, friends, and people in the community asked for them.”

Interest in her homemade products led to her starting a business, Tia Monet Inc., and today she creates products that reflect her belief that, as she says, “A healthy body knows what to do.” On her Facebook page, she educates people about the importance of a healthy mind, body and spirit. She says, “Let’s renew the mind with vital information and build the spirit so that the whole person is in alignment.”

She feels that her path has been directed by God and says: “God has a way of ushering us into our destiny, even when we cannot see where our lives are going.”

Tia hails from Chicago, Ill., and is an international powerhouse preacher and teacher of the Word of God. She is director of case management for Matthew House Inc., where her profession reflects her passion for serving her community and her country. Tia is a United States Army veteran and a former Chicago police officer. She is a graduate of Ferris State and Destiny Christian universities. She deems motherhood her greatest accomplishment and has raised eight children. Tia is an entrepreneur, business owner of Tia Monet Inc., and a sought-after conference speaker. She is a champion for the underdog and a woman who never limits her possibilities.

YOU MAY CONNECT WITH TIA AT eset@gmail.com

GINA EVANS

Gina Evans’ tagline is that she talks about sex for a living. As an HIV training specialist, she informs the public of the current laws and trends in sexual health. While this might seem an uncomfortable subject for some, Gina says that she is comfortable with being uncomfortable. “It’s the only way to move my agenda forward. I must admit, though, that there are times when I am frozen with fear, and it’s always over the craziest thing — like writing a book. I am a national speaker, yet the thought of being a writer scared my soul.”

She has taken monumental leaps of faith. “When I was 53, and we were in the midst of the pandemic, I quit my good job with the county. I saw a need to serve the community my way and took the shot in the dark. Here I am, now, thriving and surviving. It was not easy, as the county refused to give me any of its cases; therefore, I had to start from scratch. I went from having 102 patients to zero patients. After I’d worked for 26 days of getting no referrals, the very first referral came in. The person had my mother’s initials. I never stressed another day because that was my sign from God that my personal angels were working on my behalf, and everything was going to be all right.”

Gina continues her work as a public health expert. She owns Monday Night Mingle, NEFUSE Case Management & Training Services. She is a contributing author to the anthology “Disrupting the Status Quo 3.” Gina appears quarterly in media platforms to discuss updated statistics for HIV and sexually transmitted diseases. She has been featured in “Crain’s Chicago Business.”

Gina moderates Candid Community Conversations, a monthly discussion about black health that highlights health inequities and disparities. Her latest project is Tuesday Night Tingle, dispensing MPox/ COVID/flu vaccines to members of the community. She also appears monthly on the “Xavia Fox” morning show.

YOU MAY CONNECT WITH GINA AT gina@mondaynightmingle.com

DOROTHY P. WILSON

Dr. Dorothy P. Wilson found her true purpose and passion after facing one of the most challenging seasons in her life. “In 2012, I was laid off from the company where I had worked for 15 years. I was severed from a 28-year career in newspapers. That was 28 years of overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds to attend college, advancing in newsrooms with few faces that looked like mine, not only taking a seat at the executive leadership table but also leading with confidence. That layoff opened up a pathway to my greatest opportunities!”

That layoff helped Dorothy to pivot. “It forced me to transform my mindset about reaching for the golden ring: A high-paying corporate position. That no longer held appeal for me. I wanted to DO SOMETHING. Something that mattered. I wanted to create legacy. I didn’t want to live on this earth for 95 years and not leave a lasting impression,” she says.

Today, Dorothy is an award-winning publisher and editor. She is an international speaker, publishing coach, podcaster and FaithInspiration Network founder.

She publishes “Gulf Coast Woman” and “Gulf Coast Weddings” magazines; cohosts the “I See You” show; is managing partner of CWR Digital Gulf Coast; is cofounder of Success Women’s Conference, which reaches over 17,000 people at its annual summit; and is president and owner of DWilson & Associates, a publishing and marketing services firm. She has been named an SBA Women Business Champion, one of the Top Most Influential African-Americans in the State of Mississippi; and a Top 10 Woman Business Owner by the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO); she has received the Pat Santucci Spirit of the Coast trophy, One Coast Community Leader award, Mental Health Association Humanitarian of the Year award and the Tom Tandler Lifetime Achievement Award for community service. Her book projects include New York Times bestseller, “Katrina: 8 Hours That Changed the Mississippi Gulf Coast Forever,” “Little Book of Weapons: How To Defeat Your Giants,” and Amazon-bestseller “Unboxed: 25 Women Share How To Break Free & Soar.”

She is a graduate of the University of Georgia, Knight Ridder Executive Leadership Program and Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses.

YOU MAY CONNECT WITH DOROTHY AT dwilson@dwilsonandassociates.com

DR. CRYSTAL HINES-MAYS

When her children were very young, Dr. Crystal Hines-Mays came home from work after a 12-hour shift. When her husband asked her how work had been, she said, “Work was great, because I quit!” Recalling the moment, she says, “I felt a release… freedom — freedom from the mind-numbing routines, freedom from the confines of the restrictive box I tried to live in, and freedom from peoplepleasing.”

With time to commit to herself, she pursued her visions. “God allowed me time to rest my mind, purge my heart and develop into the person he created me to be,” she says.

She began taking a deep look into her mental and physical health. She learned to listen to her internal cues and paid attention to her mind and body. She studied God’s word and learned to confide her heart to him. She saw her anointing more clearly. She began to meditate and focused on practicing gratitude.

“I started to believe the vision that God placed in my head — the visions were grand! They were teaching, speaking, traveling and helping more and more women live their truest, most authentic life,” she says.

From this life-alterin experience, she created I.N.S.P.I.R.E., LLC — Igniting New and Successful Partnerships to Increase, Rejuvenate and Empower Women. “I learned to take a chance, and I gained my voice as I aligned with God’s purpose for me. I knew I had a servant leadership spirit, but it was God who knew the richness and fullness of how he wanted me to help and serve people on a much larger scale.”

Dr. Crystal, a graduate of the University of Illinois College of Medicine who completed her residency training in 2002 in Oaklawn, Ill., is a certified transformational coach. She continues her mission as an American Board of Family Medicine-certified physician and fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians.

YOU MAY CONNECT WITH CRYSTAL AT

https://www.drinspire.org

@drinspirellc

Dr. Crystal Hines-Mays, MD, FAAFP

@drinspirellc

Dr. Crystal Hines-Mays I.N.S.P.I.R.E., LLC

COMING SOON!

RICKETTE STINSON

BEYOND THE LABELS

RECOGNIZING THE HUMANITY BEHIND HOMELESSNESS

BY DR. SANJA RICKETTE STINSON

Throughout my four decades as a provider of service for the homeless and as founding CEO of one of the largest daytime programs in the Midwest, I’ve come to understand that homelessness does not define a person; it’s merely a temporary situation they are experiencing.

Despite the recent shift in terminology from homelessness to “unsheltered,” the harsh reality remains the same: These individuals are without a place to stay, often forced into uninhabitable conditions. They might resort to riding transit all night, seeking shelter in unsafe environments or even sleeping in their cars until the vehicles are repossessed.

In the inaugural issue of “Disruptors,” it’s essential to delve into why supporting the humanity of people experiencing homelessness is paramount. Humanity is about seeing humanity in others and treating them with dignity and respect, while judgment is about imposing our own values, beliefs and standards onto others without considering their individuality or humanity.

Embracing the principle of prioritizing humanity over judgment compels us to move beyond the stereotypes and biases often associated with homelessness. Rather than succumbing to the urge to make quick judgments, we aim to offer empathy, understanding and compassion to each person we encounter. In my experience as a servant leader, I have seen one fundamental truth become abundantly clear: Seeing beyond the labels of a person’s life, regardless of their current circumstances, is essential to providing meaningful service. As individuals who embrace servant leadership, recognizing the inherent humanity within each person is vital to fulfilling our roles. It’s crucial to constantly ask ourselves, “Do I truly acknowledge their humanity, or am I allowing judgment to cloud my perception of the individual before me?”

Providers of homeless services must actively promote these ideals with intentional effort. We must conscientiously put aside preconceived notions and biases. Subsequently, it’s imperative to nurture the capacity to listen with genuine openness and receptivity. Listening goes beyond simply hearing words; it involves truly understanding the experiences, needs and aspirations of the individuals we serve. This requires empathy, active engagement and a willingness to suspend judgment. By fostering a culture of deep listening within our organizations and communities, we create space for individuals experiencing homelessness to feel heard, valued and respected.

We must acknowledge the dignity and value of every individual, regardless of their housing situation. By steadfastly adhering to these principles, we cultivate an atmosphere conducive to fostering genuine connections, thereby nurturing with trust, empathy, respect and solidarity.

Here are some actions that providers of homeless service can take to further support individuals who experience homelessness.

1. Provide trauma-informed care: Recognize and address the trauma that individuals experiencing homelessness may have endured. Offer services and support that are sensitive to their experiences and prioritize their emotional well-being.

2. Foster partnership and collaboration: Collaborate with other services providers, community organizations and government agencies to create a comprehensive network of support for individuals experiencing homelessness. By working together, we can leverage resources, share expertise and maximize impact.

3. Advocate for systemic change: Address the root cause of homelessness by advocating for policy changes, affordable housing initiatives and increased funding for homeless services. By advocating for systemic change, we can create a more equitable society where everyone has access to safe and stable housing.

4. Educate and raise awareness: Increase public awareness and understanding of homelessness by providing education and outreach resources. Challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about homelessness and promote empathy and compassion toward those experiencing it.

By actively promoting the ideals of empathy, openness and respect, providers can create a more inclusive and compassionate approach to servicing individuals experiencing homelessness. By recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, fostering genuine connections and taking actions to support them, we can work toward ending homelessness and creating a more just and equitable society for all.

Dr. Sanja Rickette Stinson is the founding CEO of Matthew House, a nonprofit organization working alongside three founding African American men to birth forth the vision of the nonprofit organization. Matthew House is a daytime supportive service center and the largest in Chicago. The organization serves both men, women, and families experiencing or at risk of becoming homeless.

FINAL WORD

THE MARKINGS OF A DISRUPTOR

BY APOSTLE SHARON PETERS-RUFF

It seems as though I was always destined to be a disruptor of the status quo. My mother became pregnant with me three months after the loss of her 9-month-old baby boy. He was sick and died in her arms. As you might imagine, my mother had deep sorrow and was grieving after the loss of her only child. Well, God released me into the earth to “disrupt” my mother’s sorrow with the joy of a “girl child’s” birth. Imagine that! My mother conceived me in sorrow, but after my birth, my mother had joy and gladness! My birth disrupted her sorrow.

Disruptors are different. We break the monotony with our distinction and by our coming forth. I will talk more about that word “distinction,” but first let’s define monotony.

Dictionary.com defines monotony as wearisome uniformity or lack of variety, as in occupation or scenery. The continuance of an unvarying sound; monotone. Sameness of tone or pitch, as in speaking.

This means disruptors are change agents.

Disruptors bring change to wearisome uniformity; we bring variation to our occupation.

Disruptors come on the scene like Jesus and create new sightings and doings. We bring color and excitement to the mundane.

Disruptors will usher in a new sound. We can ignite the sound of heaven like Jesus did for the New Testament believers in the UPPER ROOM in Acts 2:2!

NOW, ABOUT THE DISTINCTION OF DISRUPTORS:

When I was growing up, my mother always told me I was different. When I would ask for permission to do what everyone else was doing, my mother would reply, “No, Sharon, you’re different!” Although my mother never told me how or why I was different, she did govern my distinction.

@apostlesharon.ruff

@apostlesharonp

DIFFERENT OR DISTINCT IS A MARKING OF A DISRUPTOR!

Jesus was a disruptor. He moved differently. He forgave people! He healed people! He fed thousands! He went where others would not go! He talked with people whom others shunned! Jesus was a disruptor of the old and introduced the NEW! This is why some leaders had a problem with Jesus. So, be aware, disruptors: You will be appreciated by some, embraced by others as a refreshing change agent, but you also will be loathed and rejected by some. Now, women, be about your assignment.

That’s another marking of disruptors… we pioneer the NEW! We will blaze the trail with something new, and we are fearless doing it, too.

NOW, BACK TO DIFFERENT OR DISTINCT:

Though my mother could discern my distinction or difference, it took the God in me to reveal my distinction as a pioneering woman. Like Deborah, I discovered that God called me as an apostolic woman to go into work that was dominated by men.

Though I was a woman, God had graced my spirit greatly to be aligned with my male counterparts and do a work for him. This took confidence in (he who calls), but also perseverance, which is another marking of a disruptor! We can see an assignment through! Despite the trial and the tribulation, disruptors see it through to completion. We do not start then stop; disruptors finish the assignment through perseverance.

So, if you see these markings and more, then perhaps, you’re a disruptor, too! Don’t be afraid to pivot (i.e., turn) or make a turn to get into this SHIFT.

Systems can become outdated; places can become mundane and no longer be effective and often can go unchanged and be void of a methodology upgrade; however, God will use disruptors as the catalysts to ignite a longoverdue change. Woman, that just might be you! Go ahead and realize: “Tag, you’re it!” See the markings of a disruptor on you; God is with you.

Apostle Sharon Peters-Ruff is founder/president of Sweet Rose of Sharon Women’s Ministry.