VBD Magazine - October 2025

VICTORIOUS

• EDITING

• PUBLISHING

• BOOK PROMOTION

• AUTHOR COACHING

• WRITING COURSES

• WRITING SEMINARS

• WRITING WORKSHOPS

• WRITING CONFERENCES

VICTORIOUS BY

DESIGN

Victorious By Design (VBD) Magazine is a leading quarterly lifestyle, business, and literary publication for personal, professional, and organizational transformation, growth, and success. Our magazine provides game-changing brand visibility, while delivering practical advice, actionable strategies, teachable moments, inspiring narratives, and tools that integrate faith with various aspects of life, business, and literature.

We feature inspirational authors, business leaders, ministry leaders, purpose-driven influencers, industry experts, and other phenomenal individuals who are eager to share their insights with you. We created VBD Magazine just for you. Each issue highlights the incredible achievements of individuals who have harnessed their God-given talents and are using their expertise to positively impact lives. Our goal is to inspire you to reach beyond your fears and walk in your purpose so that you can live victoriously. We are your go-to empowerment oasis, and we are excited to be a part of your growth and success.

VBD Magazine is a publication of Victorious By Design (VBD), LLC. The content is published in good faith. The views expressed in the articles, editorials, and all other content, reflect the author’s opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editor or publisher. VBD does not endorse any organizations, programs, websites listed, advertisers, or the accuracy of claims made by the advertisers in this magazine.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Ann Marie Bryan

MANAGING EDITOR

Paula Hamilton

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Beverlyn Johnson

FEATURES EDITOR

Icylin Morgan

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Dr. Henritta Stewart

SNR. FEATURE WRITER

Bindu A. Chowritmootoo

Dr. Jacquiline Cox

Dr. Ruby Evans

Mark C. Jennings

Kerry-Ann McPherson

FEATURE WRITERS

W. Mason Dunn

Sardia J. Jennings

Kay Johnson-Clennon

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ramona Powell Dennis

Pastor Danyelle Scroggins

FRONT COVER DESIGN

Brittany Rockwell

www.victoriousbydesign.com

Lighting the Path to Purpose and Power FROM THE DESK of Ann Marie Bryan

Four years ago, VBD Magazine began as a spark, a simple but powerful desire to create a publication that would shine a light on purpose-driven lives and amplify voices of faith, excellence, and resilience. I remember praying over the very first issue, unsure of how the journey would unfold, but fully confident in the God who called it into being.

Today, that spark has become a radiant flame—touching lives across nations. I stand in awe of what God has done through this platform and through every incredible person whose story has graced these pages. As we celebrate our 4th anniversary, we do so with a growing global community, a legacy of powerful stories, and a bold vision for what’s next.

Over the past four years, we’ve had the privilege of featuring hundreds of individuals from around the world—authors, entrepreneurs, community builders, and leaders in ministry, business, education, media, and the arts—who have proven that faith and excellence are not mutually exclusive. These purpose-driven individuals are walking boldly in their assignments, overcoming trials, breaking generational cycles, and lighting the way for others.

From the very beginning, we set out to highlight excellence not only in achievement but in character—excellence rooted in faith, guided by integrity, and anchored in purpose. Every page has been crafted with intentionality to reflect those values. It has been humbling to see the fruit of that vision: voices amplified, brands elevated, and testimonies shared with power and grace.

We’ve celebrated women of wisdom, innovators reshaping industries, authors penning legacies, and leaders advancing equity in communities around the world.

And in each story, one theme remains constant: purpose—purpose that cannot be shaken, delayed, or denied.

In this special anniversary issue, we continue that tradition. We honor the incredible influence of men of faith whose resilience is reshaping the narrative of leadership in the home, marketplace, and ministry.

Our cover story features the legendary Dr. Mathew Knowles, whose trailblazing influence in music, education, and business has impacted industries and generations. His insight on legacy and leadership is a masterclass in perseverance and reinvention. We also spotlight our Star Power List: 10 Influential Men in Business and Leadership, whose faith and excellence continue to move the needle in their industries. And you’ll meet Last Call, the dynamic gospel duo whose music carries the sound of surrender and victory for those seeking authentic worship.

Of course, none of this would be possible without the extraordinary team behind the scenes. I think of the countless hours poured into editing, designing, planning, and praying over each issue. A heartfelt thank you to the VBD Magazine team for your dedication, creativity, and unmatched work ethic.

But at the center of it all is you—our readers, contributors, ambassadors, and partners. Your support, encouragement, and belief in this mission have carried us further than we could have imagined. You’ve shared our stories, sowed into the vision, and helped us reach new heights. Thank you. You are the reason this platform thrives.

So, what’s next for VBD Magazine?

At the core, our mission remains the same: To light the path to your next level of

unprecedented success—through faith, strategy, and purpose.

We’re dreaming bigger. We’re reaching farther. And we’re going deeper. In the coming months, you’ll see expanded digital platforms, global partnerships, exclusive interviews, continued growth in our publishing services, and the exciting launch of the Victorious You (VYou) Collection. We’re also thrilled to announce that VBD Magazine now has its own dedicated website: www.vbdmagazine.com.

As you turn the pages of this issue, I pray you find encouragement, clarity, and renewed conviction. Whether you are leading in your home, your church, your business, or your community—remember, you matter. You don’t need a title to lead or a stage to make an impact. All you need is courage—courage to believe, to serve, to stand, and to fully step into your God-given assignment.

As we step boldly into year five, may this issue remind you that legacy is built one step of obedience at a time. Whatever God has placed in your hands, nurture it. Water it. Trust Him to multiply it.

From my heart to yours, thank you for making VBD Magazine what it is today—a beacon of hope, a source of strength, and a platform for unstoppable purpose.

Here’s to four remarkable years—and to the many victorious years ahead. And here’s to you, our VBD family: May you rise higher, dream bigger, and live bolder in the days to come.

Stay safe, stay connected, and as always, stay victorious.

Enjoy this issue.

Ann Marie Bryan

Editor-in-Chief

ISSUE 19/2025

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Meet Our

Click/tap on the card to visit the writer's respective website or social media page.

DANYELLE SCROGGINS

Author & Senior Pastor of New Vessels Ministries

Danyelle Scroggins is the senior pastor of New Vessels Ministries North in Shreveport, Louisiana, and chaplain at Ochsner LSU Health Center, Louisiana’s trauma one health center. She owns Divinely Sown Publishing LLC, a company that specializes in the publication of books divinely sown into the hearts of writers. Danyelle is the author of both Christian fiction and non-fiction books.

KERRY-ANN MCPHERSON

Feature Writer & Administrator

Kerry-Ann McPherson is a Christian leader and administrator with a passion for growth. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, being in nature, and embracing the arts, especially music and literature. She writes monthly articles on LinkedIn for empathetic leaders, providing advice and tips for transforming professional relationships. Kerry-Ann joins the team as a Feature Writer for VBD Magazine.

DR. JACQUILINE COX

Bestselling Author & Literary Coach

Dr. Jacquiline Cox is a bestselling author, publisher, and founder of Listen Linda Publishing. As Mrs. Illinois USA Ambassador, she uses her voice to empower others through faith, storytelling, and resilience. As a contributing writer for VBD Magazine, she brings her signature blend of bold encouragement, literary excellence, and faith-forward inspiration to every article.

RAMONA POWELL DENNIS

Author, Teacher & Inspirational Speaker

Ramona Powell is an author, teacher, and inspirational speaker. She has used her upbringing in a Christian home to help channel her love for Christ and her desire to be an inspiration to all. "Sometimes we go through things to strengthen our faith and to be a testament to others." She loves sharing her life experiences to show that no matter what life throws at you, you can overcome and prevail.

BINDU A. CHOWRITMOOTOO

Senior Feature Writer & Author

Bindu Chowritmootoo is a leadership and business coach with over 25 years in healthcare and the founder of Manifest with Bindu. She has partnered with 200+ companies to empower growth and excellence, while also raising funds for children’s education through Bloom India. A Certified Professional Coach, she has been featured in Frisco City Lifestyle and honored with Female Entrepreneur of the Month and 50 Under 50.

W. MASON DUNN

Feature Writer, Author, & Writing Consultant

Waletta Mason Dunn is an author, publisher, and writing consultant. She is the author of five Christian fiction novels and several journals. The breadth of her personal and professional experiences has contributed enormously to her fascinatingly inspirational writings. Waletta uses wisdom gained in the trenches as the foundation for her writing and consulting ministry. As a Feature Writer for VBD Magazine, she is committed to inspiring readers while strategically aligning her content with the magazine’s growth and impact objectives.

DR. RUBY EVANS

Senior Feature Writer & Educator

Dr. Ruby Evans, a visionary educational leader, holds degrees in Mathematics from Grambling State University, Applied Statistics from Louisiana State University, and a doctorate in Higher Education Administration with a minor in Theoretical Statistics from the University of Florida. A dedicated professor, statistical consultant, and philanthropist, Dr. Evans is also an avid reader with a passion for the written word.

SARDIA J. JENNINGS

Feature Writer & Healthcare IT Professional

Sardia J. Jennings is a former cardiac nurse turned healthcare IT professional. She holds a degree in nursing from Auburn University. Her love for writing is matched by her passion for purpose. As a writer for VBD Magazine, she fuses her expertise in health and technology with her love for writing and faith.

MARK C. JENNINGS

Senior Feature Writer & Attorney

Mark Claude Jennings, Esq. is a distinguished attorney, communicator, and purpose-driven storyteller. With a deep commitment to faith, justice, and community impact, he brings a unique blend of legal expertise and narrative excellence to VBD Magazine. As a Senior Feature Writer, Mark is dedicated to uncovering stories that inspire, empower, and reflect the heart of transformational leadership and service.

KAY JOHNSON-CLENNON

Educator, Actuary, & Author

Kay Johnson-Clennon is a multifaceted professional, juggling roles as a devoted wife, mother, author, educator, and associate actuary with over 15 years of experience. Her passion lies in demystifying intricate calculations, which is reflected in her compelling writing style. She finds joy in blogging, volunteering, and sharing her wisdom, embodying a spirit of curiosity and boundless energy. In her role as a Feature Writer for VBD Magazine, Kay aims to inspire readers and contribute to the company’s mission of excellence.

VICTORIOUS BY DESIGN

4th Anniversary

TheLighting Path

FOUR YEARS OF FAITH, VISION, AND VICTORIOUS LIVING

by Ann Marie Bryan

It all began with one question— simple in form, piercing in impact.

“What reason are you going to give God for not starting your magazine?”

Those words, spoken by Kimi Johnson, CEO of PurposePals Publishing, cut through hesitation and reignited a longshelved dream. For years, I had carried the vision of a publication that would inspire others to live victoriously—a magazine that would celebrate faith, purpose, and excellence. I had voiced that dream while serving as Editor-in-Chief of Purpose Driven Women Magazine under Kimi’s leadership, but as life’s pace quickened and responsibilities multiplied, I tucked it away for “another time.”

When Kimi asked that question years later, it felt less like a suggestion and more like a divine summons. That night, I sat before the Lord in prayer—no agenda, just surrender. Out of that sacred conversation, a new assignment was born: Victorious By Design (VBD) Magazine—a publication that would weave faith into every facet of life, business, and literature.

DIVINE FOUNDATIONS AND BOLD BEGINNINGS

Every dream requires guidance, and God placed incredible people on my path. I will forever be grateful to Business Mogul Pasha Carter, co-founder of The VIP Network Inc., who expanded my knowledge of magazine publishing and brand leadership. Working with Pasha as Managing Editor of VIP Global Magazine for nearly a year stretched my creative capacity and strengthened my confidence to build something of my own. Both Pasha and Kimi were instrumental in shaping what VBD Magazine would become—a place where purpose, professionalism, and faith converge.

Our debut issue launched in October 2021—while the world was still recalibrating after global uncertainty. Yet God’s timing was undeniable. That first issue became a declaration of resilience and hope, setting the tone for what would follow: faith-filled storytelling, inspiration, practical advice, actionable strategies, and editorial excellence anchored in authenticity.

THE VISION

From day one, our mission was clear—to inspire, equip, and empower individuals and organizations to walk boldly in their God-given purpose. Every article, every feature, every photograph exists to remind readers that victory is not an accident. It is the product of divine design—of faith aligned with purpose and discipline rooted in grace.

What began as a quarterly publication soon blossomed into a global platform. We have featured hundreds of thought leaders, entrepreneurs, ministry pioneers, educators, authors, and creatives who exemplify faith-driven excellence. Their stories are living proof that when God calls you to something, He also equips you to accomplish it.

Behind every issue stands a team of extraordinary visionaries—writers, editors, designers, and ambassadors—who pour their hearts into producing content that uplifts and empowers. Together, we’ve grown from a magazine into a complete ecosystem of empowerment, offering publishing services, merchandise, leadership initiatives, and global collaborations.

THE HEARTS BEHIND THE PAGES

When readers turn the pages of VBD Magazine, I want them to encounter more than success stories—I want them to encounter hope. I want them to feel

BEHIND EVERY ISSUE STANDS A TEAM OF EXTRAORDINARY VISIONARIES—WRITERS, EDITORS, DESIGNERS, AND AMBASSADORS—WHO POUR THEIR HEARTS INTO PRODUCING CONTENT THAT UPLIFTS AND EMPOWERS. TOGETHER, WE’VE GROWN FROM A MAGAZINE INTO A COMPLETE ECOSYSTEM OF EMPOWERMENT, OFFERING PUBLISHING SERVICES, MERCHANDISE, LEADERSHIP INITIATIVES, AND GLOBAL COLLABORATIONS.

seen, valued, and strengthened in their own journey of faith and purpose.

Victorious living is holistic. It means thriving spiritually, mentally, relationally, and professionally. Our team intentionally curates content that speaks to all these dimensions because we believe that every person, regardless of background or circumstance, is designed for victory.

Behind the glossy pages stands a circle of brilliant, faith-driven professionals whose excellence breathes life into every issue. To our phenomenal editorial family—Beverlyn Johnson, Icylin Morgan, Paula Hamilton, Dr. Henritta Stewart, Dr. Dacia Morgan, Dr. Ruby Evans, Dr. Jacquiline Cox, Marko Nedeljkovic, Attorney Mark Jennings, Bindu A. Chowritmootoo, Kerry-Ann McPherson, Kay Johnson-Clennon, W. Mason Dunn, Sardia Jennings, Aleksandar Stankovic, Millicent Battick, Shaun Battick, Ramona Powell Dennis, Pastor Danyelle Scroggins, Brittany Rockwell, and Donna-Marie Hamilton—thank you for exemplifying grace, excellence, and unity.

And to our Global Ambassadors—Apostle Veryl Howard, Dr. Rhonda M. Woods, and Dr. Elissa Gabrielle—thank you for representing Victorious By Design with power, integrity, and distinction. Your influence has amplified our message of faith, leadership, and empowerment across continents.

A PLATFORM OF EMPOWERMENT

At its core, VBD Magazine is a ministry. It exists to glorify God through the stories of those who reflect His grace in the marketplace and beyond.

Over these four years, we’ve evolved from a source of inspiration into a catalyst for transformation. We’ve highlighted leaders who merge excellence with faith—visionar-

ies who don’t just succeed, but serve. From award-winning authors to entrepreneurs, our features continue to showcase the unstoppable power of purpose.

Our cover stories have included visionaries such as:

l Pasha Carter, Business Mogul & Co-founder, VIP Network, Inc

l Bindu Chowritmootoo, Life & Leadership Coach and Serial Entrepreneur

l Dr. Dwaine Cooke, Consultant Neurosurgeon

l Eric and Dr. Sakeisha Hylick, Marriage and Relationship Success Strategists

l Stacey-Lee Abrahams, HR Consultant, Artistic Director & Philanthropist

l Dr. Joseph Plummer, Professor of Surgery (General and Colorectal) at UHWI & Head of the Department of Surgery, Radiology, Anesthesia, and Intensive Care at UWI, Mona Campus.

l Taylor Kirkpatrick, Entrepreneur & Pageant Winner

l Dr. Ravi Patel, Board-Certified Internal Medicine Physician

l Dr. Rhonda Wood, Mental Health Advocate and Entrepreneur

l Dr. Jennifer Harris, Real Estate Broker & Founder/CEO of Purses, Pumps, and Power Network™ and Ladies First Capital™

l Kimberla Lawson Roby, New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author & Speaker

l Chuck and Bree West, OCTET Productions Executives

l Derek and Sherene Lewis, Entrepreneurs & Owners, Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks (Orlando, FL)

l Dr. Velma Bagby, Dating-Relationship Coach & CEO, Adoni Publishing

l Dr. Elaine Bryan, Honorary Consul for Jamaica in Atlanta

l Dr. Venner Alston, Apostle, Author, Educator, & Prophetic Voice.

l James “Butch” Rosser Jr., MD, FACS, and his wife, Dana Rosser

l Her Excellency Dr. Theresa A. Moseley, Educator, Global Peace Ambassador, & Founder, TAM Creating Ambassadors of Peace LLC.

l Dr. Mathew Knowles, Entrepreneur, Entertainment Executive, Professor, Author, & Globally Sought-After Keynote Speaker

Each story reinforces one truth: faith-fueled excellence changes the world.

BUILDING A GLOBAL FAMILY

From the United States to Jamaica, from Africa to Europe, VBD Magazine has become a bridge—a global family of believers, creatives, and leaders united by purpose. Each connection reminds me that faith has no borders, and excellence, when anchored in purpose, resonates everywhere.

What began as a dream whispered in prayer now echoes through boardrooms, classrooms, pulpits, and homes. Every message we receive, every collaboration we witness, every life touched affirms that obedience births overflow.

THE NEXT CHAPTER

As we step into our fifth year, the vision expands beyond print. VBD Magazine has its own digital home—a dedicated website with interactive archives, multimedia storytelling, and access to our full ecosystem of empowerment.

We are creating spaces for leadership programs, virtual summits, and live features that connect purpose-driven people from around the world. We are deepening our commitment to charitable impact through our partnership with St. Monica’s Children’s Home, continuing to serve with compassion and excellence.

If there’s one lesson I’ve learned through this journey, it’s this: purpose unfolds in God’s timing, not ours. What began with one question became a calling. What began as a whisper became a worldwide witness.

So, to our readers, partners, and supporters—thank you for being part of this divine story. Your belief fuels the mission, your prayers sustain it, and your testimonies prove that God’s design always prevails.

Here’s to four years of impact. Here’s to stories that awaken, voices that uplift, and faith that endures.

And here’s to you—our VBD Family—for walking this victorious journey with us.

St. Monica’s Children’s Home

A VICTORIOUS BY DESIGN CHARITABLE INITIATIVE

At Victorious By Design, we believe in the power of giving back and transforming lives. Through our Charitable Giving Initiative, we are honored to support St. Monica’s Children’s Home, a safe haven providing love, care, and opportunities for children in need.

Your generosity helps provide: Nutritious Meals & Essentials Education & Opportunities Safe Shelter

Be a part of the change: Make a Donation Become a Sponsor Spread the Word

VICTORIOUS BY DESIGN IN THE Spotlight

They didn’t start with a stage. They started with a sound—a sound of unity, surrender, and unshakable faith. Meet Last Call, the gospel duo featuring Tricray Astwood and Adrian Jones, whose harmonies were first forged in private worship and prophetic prayer long before they echoed through concert halls. What began as a spiritual alignment has grown into a bold, undeniable voice for a generation longing for authenticity, healing, and hope.

Their harmonies carry weight not merely because of vocal technique, but because of their testimonies. Their music resounds with the urgency behind their name: Last Call—a divine reminder of the times we are living in and a call to anchor one’s faith in Christ while there is still time.

“God literally gave us our name,” Adrian recalls. “We tried coming up with names, but nothing worked. One night, I went to the bathroom at a sushi restaurant, and at the sink, I heard the audible voice of God say, Last Call. I came back to the table and told Tricray, and we both knew—that was it. Our name is symbolic of the end times we are living in and is a call for people to make their calling and election sure.”

A MEETING OF HEARTS AND VOICES

Before forming the duo in 2015, both Adrian and Tricray were solo artists and worship leaders, content to serve faithfully where God had placed them. But God had a bigger plan.

“I was invited to a youth service, and Adrian happened to be leading worship,” Tricray remembers. “I was in awe of his vocal ability and approached him right after. From that point, we connected regularly, and eventually, I joined his

OUR NAME IS SYMBOLIC OF THE END TIMES WE ARE LIVING IN AND IS A CALL FOR PEOPLE TO MAKE THEIR CALLING AND ELECTION SURE.

Last Call

by Ann Marie Bryan WORSHIP AND THE SOUND OF A GENERATION

church. We sang together on the praise team—and that’s where the common ground of worship truly began.”

Through friendship, fasting, and prayer, Last Call was born—not as a career move, but as a ministry mandate.

WORSHIP THAT TRANSCENDS BORDERS

The journey from Bermuda to global recognition wasn’t smooth, but it was marked by God’s hand. Their breakout single, Victory, reached #1 on the Billboard and Mediabase charts and earned them a BMI Songwriter Award.

“This moment was monumental for us,” Adrian reflects. “To come from a small island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, to have the number one gospel song in America was mind-blowing. The most amazing part of receiving those accolades was knowing that God was with us and that He called us to make a global impact.”

That impact continues with their self-titled EP, releasing October 31, 2025. The project, they say, is some of their best work yet—filled with vertical songs of worship, corporate anthems, and even a surprise

genre twist. “The songs are about who God is and us, as His children, learning to trust and believe in Him more,” Tricray explains. “While many of the songs are designed for corporate worship, some are vertical—personal expressions of devotion sung directly to God.”

MINISTRY ROOTED IN RELATIONSHIP

What makes Last Call’s music resonate is not only the sound but the source.

“The songs that we sing, and write come from a personal relationship with our Savior,” Adrian shares. “The most important things in our lives are our relationships with God and our families. Before we write a song or grab a mic, we make sure that we are connected and good with the ones who love us most.”

Both now fathers, Adrian and Tricray admit parenthood has reshaped their

EVERY TIME WE GET DOUBTFUL, OR WE WANT TO QUIT, GOD ALWAYS SEEMS TO GIVE US A SIGN TO KEEP GOING.

faith and ministry. “We like to say that we learned from the best, and that would be Abba Father,” Tricray explains. “We do our best to father our children using the Bible’s instruction. We also do our best to love our wives as Christ loves His church. When you become a parent, your faith is tested financially, spiritually, and emotionally. Thanks be to God, that He has helped us prevail in each of those areas.”

“Perfection isn’t the goal, love is,” Adrian insists. “If we continue to submit our lives to Christ, He will continue to teach us through grace and mercy how to be better men. And if we are better men, then our families and ministry will be better.”

Balancing recording, touring, and family life is never seamless, but the duo credits their wives’ support as the key. “It makes it easier when your family supports what you do,” Adrian says. “Both our wives love God just as much as we do and they make sure that we are supported and are in a good space to do God’s work.”

A SOUND THAT HEALS

Last Call believes gospel music holds the timeless role of pointing people to Jesus.

WHILE MANY OF THE SONGS ARE DESIGNED FOR CORPORATE WORSHIP, SOME ARE VERTICAL— PERSONAL EXPRESSIONS OF DEVOTION SUNG DIRECTLY TO GOD.

“Gospel music has always been about creating awareness of who God is,” Tricray explains. “Jesus is the answer to every problem, whether globally or personally. Gospel music isn’t the bridge, but it is the One that gospel music exalts, that is the Bridge. When we as gospel artists lift and magnify the name of Jesus, gospel music does what it’s supposed to do—it heals this broken world through the power and blood of Jesus Christ.”

LASTING IMPACT

For Adrian and Tricray, success is not only measured in chart positions or accolades; it’s measured in impact—on the next generation, on families, on faith.

“Our prayer is that we can inspire those coming up after us to know that God is real and He works,” Tricray affirms. “We would like for our lives to be testament that God is able to save you, raise you, and sustain you. We would also like our legacy to be the music that we made, but nothing is more important than showing the world the God that made us who we are.”

That legacy now includes their independent label, Tridan Music Group, under which they are releasing their new EP. The move hasn’t been without challenges—financial strains and industry setbacks have tested their resolve. But every time doubt creeps in, they say, God confirms His promise. “He told us to do this, and He told us that He will work it out. Every time we get doubtful, or we want to quit, God always seems to give us a sign to keep going. So that’s what we do—we keep going until God says otherwise.”

LOOKING AHEAD

October 31, 2025, will mark the release

of their highly anticipated EP—a project that promises to usher listeners into deeper worship while showcasing the creativity that makes Last Call stand out. “Preorders open October 17, with music videos, promotional events, and touring already in the works.

After a decade of ministry together, Adrian and Tricray know the cost of the

call—but they also know the joy. Their music is ministry, and their name is a mission. As their new project prepares to launch, their name Last Call is a divine summons—one that carries across oceans, across generations, and into the hearts of all who will listen.

Dr. Mathew Knowles

LEGACY, LEADERSHIP, AND LIFE LESSONS

by Ann Marie Bryan

Few leaders have left as indelible a mark on business, entertainment, and culture as Dr. Mathew Knowles. Best known as the driving force behind the global phenomenon of Destiny’s Child, Beyoncé, and Solange, his influence extends far beyond music into sales, marketing, academia, authorship, philanthropy, and health advocacy—establishing him as one of the most versatile visionaries of his generation.

With over 450 million records sold, a $75 million acquisition in fashion, and billions generated in revenue, Dr. Knowles stands as a global entrepreneur, cultural icon-builder, and proven revenue driver. His ventures include partnerships with brands such as Pepsi, L’Oréal, and McDonald’s—proof that his brilliance is not confined to the stage. Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice, Dr. Knowles brings together over 40 years of corporate and academic experience, combining boardroom insight with global stage impact to transform brands, teams, and lives.

Yet beyond the accolades lies a man who has known both triumph and trauma. Through discipline, spirituality, and resilience, he has reinvented himself, now using his voice to spotlight issues that save lives—including male breast cancer, a disease he was diagnosed with in 2019.

In our exclusive cover story conversation, Dr. Knowles shared a blueprint for business, faith, and perseverance. What emerged was a masterclass on life itself—delivered with candor, humor, and wisdom forged through experience.

ROOTS IN ALABAMA

To understand Dr. Knowles’ perspective, you must travel back to the dirt road in Gadsden, Alabama, where he grew up in the 1950s in what he describes as a “middle-class Black family that worked very hard.”

His father was a truck driver who convinced his employer to let him use the truck seven days a week. With that single asset, he tore down abandoned houses, salvaged wood and copper, and resold

car parts. His mother worked as what was then called a “colored maid,” earning just $3 a day. But she, too, had an entrepreneurial spark—convincing her employer to hand over old clothes, which she and her friends transformed into quilts.

“My parents were second-generation entrepreneurs,” Dr. Knowles recalls. “They thought outside of the box. They had core values, they had work ethics, they had spirituality. All of those things I learned from them growing up in the South.”

But childhood was not only about quilts and summer visits to his grandfather’s farm. It was also about integration, sacrifice, and trauma. “I never went

MY PARENTS WERE SECOND-GENERATION ENTREPRENEURS. THEY THOUGHT OUTSIDE OF THE BOX. THEY HAD CORE VALUES, THEY HAD WORK ETHICS, THEY HAD SPIRITUALITY.

to a Black school until my junior year of college,” he says. As one of the first Black students to attend a previously segregated school in Alabama, he endured spitballs, taunts, and isolation, experiences that tested his resolve at a young age. “The challenges of my childhood made me successful,” he reflects, “and the trauma sometimes made me fail. But I learned from both.”

Those early lessons in resilience and resourcefulness became the foundation for his next chapter—one that would take him from the dirt roads of Alabama to the boardrooms of Fortune 500 companies.

CORPORATE AMERICA: THE UNEXPECTED TRAINING GROUND

Before becoming synonymous with Destiny’s Child, Dr. Knowles built an impressive 20-year career in corporate America. At Xerox Medical, he was a top global sales representative, pioneering the sales of mammography equipment in the 1980s. Decades later, that knowledge of breast cancer detection would save his own life.

“How ironic is it,” he muses, “that I used to sell mammography equipment, and fast forward, it saved my life because I knew the warning signs.”

Dr. Knowles went on to sell MRI and CT scanners for Philips and later worked in neurosurgical sales at Johnson & Johnson. “If it hadn’t been for my kids,” he admits, “I would have retired from corporate America. I was on track to become the president of a major corporation.”

But destiny had other plans. Inspired by his daughters’ musical gifts, Dr. Knowles redirected his business acumen from medical sales to music management, laying the groundwork for what would become Music World Entertainment.

THE BIRTH OF MUSIC WORLD ENTERTAINMENT

When Beyoncé and her early girl group lost on Star Search—the 1980s equivalent of American Idol—Dr. Knowles found himself asking what came next. Ed McMahon, the host, gave him unexpected advice: “Most of the people that lose go on to be successful.”

It lit a fire. “I believe knowledge is power,” Dr. Knowles says. “So I went back to school, studied music management, production, promotions, and went to every seminar I could.”

Armed with corporate discipline and new knowledge, he founded Music World Entertainment. Unlike most in the industry, he wasn’t just chasing record sales. He was building brands.

“Where the industry was selling records, I was building brands,” he explains. He

MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW MEN CAN GET BREAST CANCER. ONE IN EIGHT WOMEN WILL FACE IT, BUT ONE IN 833 MEN WILL TOO. ONE IN EIGHT MEN WILL BE DIAGNOSED WITH PROSTATE CANCER IN THEIR LIFETIME AS WELL.

partnered with L’Oréal, McDonald’s, and Pepsi, integrating music with global campaigns. “Instead of Destiny’s Child selling hamburgers and fries, they launched McDonald’s salads. It aligned with the brand identity.”

The result? One of the most successful girl groups in history, and two solo careers that reshaped popular culture.

That approach proved just as valuable when faith entered the equation, guiding him to apply the same discipline and strategy to gospel music and beyond.

FROM RELIGION TO RELATIONSHIP

When Michelle Williams chose gospel as her solo path, Dr. Knowles launched a gospel label to support her. “I couldn’t afford for Michelle to fail,” he says candidly. “So I treated gospel music like any other business—branding, strategy, excellence.”

Faith, however, has always been personal. Raised Baptist, later Catholic, and shaped by multiple Christian denominations, he now focuses less on labels and more on spirituality. “It’s really about spirituality, connection, values, and living a life of integrity,” he says.

That integrity was hard-won. “I didn’t know it then the way I do today,” he admits. “But life experience—and can cer—changed me.”

RESILIENCE IN THE FACE OF CANCER DIAGNOSIS

In June 2019, Dr. Knowles sat across from his doctor and heard the words: You have breast cancer.

Yes, breast cancer. The disease most people associate only with women had come knocking. But rather than crumbling under the weight of fear, Dr. Knowles leaned on the very values that had carried him through every season of his life— discipline, faith, and resilience.

“Most people don’t know men can get breast cancer,” he says. “One in eight women will face it, but one in 833 men will too. One in eight

men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime as well. And the survival rates depend entirely on early detection.”

The diagnosis, followed by the COVID-19 pandemic, changed him profoundly. “Oddly enough,” he reflects, “the happiest years of my life have been since my cancer diagnosis. It made me slow down, appreciate sunsets, laugh more with my wife, and truly live.”

COVID triggered severe anxiety, leaving him fearful of death. “I was taking my temperature ten, twelve times a day,” he confesses. “Checking my oxygen meter, paranoid. I didn’t want my wife to leave the house. I finally called my therapist, and he told me: the things we don’t deal with in life multiply in a crisis. For me, it was fear of dying. Once I faced that, I started living more meaningfully.”

He is a believer in therapy and self-improvement. “We don’t learn

But change is necessary for growth.”

That conviction carried into the classroom, where Dr. Knowles spent more than two decades preparing the next generation of leaders with lessons no textbook could provide.

TEACHING BEYOND TEXTBOOKS

Since 2002, Dr. Knowles has taught at Fisk University, Texas Southern University, Pepperdine University, the London College of Contemporary Music, and now serves as the Presidential Executive-in-Residence at Prairie View A&M University. He coined the term “edutainment” to describe his teaching style: education plus entertainment, the mixing of life lessons, humor, and real-world wisdom.

“I’ve never taught from a textbook in 20 years,” he shares. “I wanted to give my students life lessons, mistakes I’ve learned from, and apply academics to real-world situations. And yes—you’ve got to make it fun.”

For him, teaching is also a form of philanthropy. “I give back intellectually. I call it intellectual currency—knowledge that can change lives.” He even offers free downloads of his bestselling book The DNA of Achievers on his website.

SPEAKING TOPICS

Today, Dr. Knowles’ impact is carried not only through his family and businesses, but also through his voice on stages worldwide. As a globally sought-after keynote speaker, he draws on four decades of high-performance execution and global success to equip audiences with strategies that help them lead, adapt, and thrive.

Among the many subjects Dr. Knowles addresses, the following stand out as signature topics:

IT’S REALLY ABOUT SPIRITUALITY, CONNECTION, VALUES, AND LIVING A LIFE OF INTEGRITY.

Business & Leadership

l Building the Brand of Beyoncé – Discover the strategies, mindset, and execution behind developing a global brand powerhouse—and how those same principles apply to your organization.

l Unlocking Your Potential – Learn the leadership strategies that turn possibility into measurable results for teams and businesses.

l Entrepreneurship – A world-class program that uncovers the traits and strategies of elite entrepreneurs who create high-impact, sustainable success.

l The Music Business in a Digital Age – Navigate today’s streaming-first industry with insider insights on branding, monetization, artist development, and staying relevant in a rapidly changing landscape.

Health & Wellness

l The Cancer Journey – An inspiring personal account that raises awareness about male breast cancer, prostate cancer, and the BRCA2 gene—underscoring the life-saving importance of early detection, screenings, and lifestyle changes.

l Mental Health & Well-Being – Breaking the silence around mental health to show leaders, families, and communities how to live, lead, and perform with clarity, resilience, and purpose.

Audiences walk away with proven frameworks that have built icons, transformed businesses, and changed lives.

A GROUNDED VISIONARY

Despite raising two of the most famous entertainers in the world, Dr. Knowles is remarkably grounded. “I’ve always been comfortable behind the scenes. I don’t need the spotlight. I let the artists take credit for success, and I take credit when things go wrong.”

Asked about leadership, Dr. Knowles compares it to basketball: “Every championship team has a coach. Success comes from trust, clarity, and knowing your role. The same applies in business and life.”

On legacy, he takes a humble stance. “I prefer the world decide my legacy. I just want my body of work to speak for itself.”

Today, Dr. Knowles continues to write, teach, and speak worldwide, focusing on health, entrepreneurship, leadership, and wellness. Married to his wife Gena for over 13 years, he calls their laughter and companionship one of life’s greatest joys.

Fame has never been the goal. “I don’t want fame,” he explains. “I want to be known for my work. Legacy is about impact, not applause.”

As VBD Magazine’s October 2025 issue celebrates influential men in business and leadership while shining a light on Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Knowles’ journey reminds us that early detection saves lives, integrity outlasts fame, and true wealth is measured not by applause but by impact.

AVICTORIOUS BY DESIGN LITERARY Den

A.L. Ember

SERVING, WRITING, AND INSPIRING WITH PURPOSE

by Kerry-Ann McPherson

A.L. Ember has always been drawn to stories—those spoken, written and lived. With roots spanning Nigerian, Jamaican, and Antiguan heritage, her love for culture, music, and food has shaped both her worldview and her writing. From childhood competitions to her current book series, her voice has matured into one that celebrates faith, resilience, vulnerability and love. Her storytelling is a mosaic of personal reflection, cultural preservation and spiritual encouragement. Whether she’s writing about strong friends, Caribbean islands or inner healing, her words are crafted to serve and inspire.

AN EARLY COMMITMENT TO SERVING OTHERS

Driven by purpose and compassion, a heart of service beat through her educational and professional life. She earned a Bachelor of Science in International Relations with a minor in Management Studies from the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus. Though she initially considered a language for her minor, due to her love for culture, business ultimately won. For her, it turned out to be a great fit! Following her graduation from university, she spent nine years in the customer service field up until May 2025. She was drawn to helping people and finding ways to make their day a little easier. She eventually gravitated toward mentoring others, improving customer experience and creating processes that made a real difference. It was incredibly rewarding to turn a love of helping people into a career that not only allowed her to serve others but also challenged and grew her personally.

Her love of culture drew her to International Relations, while her postgraduate studies: a Postgraduate Certificate in Public Administration from the University of Birmingham, allowed her to combine that global perspective with a practical focus on serving others through government and public initiatives. It’s no wonder that her passion for service lives on in her storytelling.

AUTHOR JOURNEY

She’s always loved stories. Even in high school, she remembers reading all the literature books before the school year

started. Her parents like to remind her she was talking before she had teeth, so she’s always had a voice and a fascination with those who put theirs to paper through poems, novels and song lyrics. Around Grade 8, she realized she loved bringing stories to life and her mind constantly raced with ideas just begging to be told. She even entered short story competitions with local newspapers, so a debut book has been a long time coming.

Her writing is deeply rooted in her faith. God has guided this journey, and she writes what she knows, how her faith shapes her life and anchors her daily. For example, her book series, The Obedience Series explores the quiet courage it takes to say yes to God. From the trembling first leap to the ache of waiting and the weight of landing, these books walk with readers through surrender, uncertainty, and spiritual stretching—one obedient step at a time. Her hope is that even one reader might be touched, encouraged or inspired by her words. Of course, a bestseller would be nice too, but ultimately, it’s about the message reaching hearts.

She acknowledges that each author’s journey is unique, and this shows in her writing process. Her process genuinely depends on when inspiration strikes. For example, an inspiration for one of her books came to her on a Sunday morning drive to church. She was listening to a song she had heard countless times before, and one lyric suddenly echoed a little louder, sparking ten chapters in her mind. Additionally, when she’s writing personal reflections, she balances how much of

her private life she shares with poetic storytelling. Novels, on the other hand, involve research: character development, locations, and small details that make the world feel real. Bringing a fictional character to life is magical, like building a human from scratch, reminiscent of those Build-A-Bear workshops, only with words.

She wants aspiring authors to know that their voices are uniquely theirs and deserve to be heard. It doesn’t matter how many others write in their genre; their ideas are special. For somewhere, a reader is waiting for their words to become their comfort read. In essence, she encourages with these words: “Your story could already be someone’s number one bestseller.”

INSPIRATION FOR LATEST BOOK

Her book, Dear Strong Friend: A Guide to Grace and Breathing, was inspired by a conversation with God. He had given her the task of being an encourager, and she asked, “What will happen when I need to be poured into?” He answered, “Then you return to Me, your source.” She realized that so many strong friends never get to lay down the burdens they carry for themselves and others. As soon as He told her to return to her gift of writing, the vision for the book became clear, guided by 2 Corinthians 1:4 (GW): “He encourages us when we are in trouble, so that we can encourage others in every trouble with the encouragement we have received from God.” Writing it was as much a gift to her as she hopes it is to readers. Her hope is that strong friends find freedom, realize that setting boundaries is healthy and holy and that those who lean

on them remember that strong friends are human too. She extends the message of the book through a thoughtfully crafted guided journal. The Dear Strong Friend Journal is a gentle space for the ones who hold it all together. With reflective prompts, scripture anchors and space to exhale, this journal invites readers to be honest, be soft, and be held—even as they keep showing up strong.

WRITING THROUGH CULTURAL LENS

Her writing intertwines with her other passions, all still rooted in a desire to serve others. She’s always loved experiencing different cultures, which makes travel, food, and music some of her favorite interests. Growing up with a blend of Nigerian, Jamaican, and Antiguan roots really sparked that curiosity in her. Each place has its own rhythm: from the flavors of the food to the beats of the music and the stories people carry. Traveling lets her see that richness up close, and food is such a fun way to experience a culture in a tangible, joyful way. That love of culture and connection has naturally woven itself into her writing. For example, in her upcoming Island Light Series, each book highlights the beauty and complexity of a different Caribbean island. In this way, she gets to serve others by preserving and celebrating pieces of culture through storytelling—helping readers feel seen and giving them a glimpse into worlds they may not have experienced before.

OVERCOMING INNER STRUGGLES THROUGH FAITH

Her journey has been marked by moments of doubt, but also by deep faith and quiet courage. One of the things she notes is that she’s always been her own biggest critic, so her greatest obstacle has often been herself. Her sister reminded her that publishing should have happened years ago, and she was right—she has older, slightly juvenile manuscripts that may never see the light of day. But this journey has reminded her to trust that her voice is unique and that her message needs to be heard.

Music often inspires her, and John Legend’s If You’re Out There perfectly captures this feeling: that change starts with us, that we don’t have to wait for

destiny to act, and that our voices can make a difference. So, when she faces her challenges, she always goes back to her Source. Her relationship with God is the anchor of her life; without Him, she truly is nothing. Being able to do life with Him is a blessing, and having the opportunity to use her voice for His glory is all she could ask for. To thrive during challenging times, she leans on a strong prayer life, praise and worship, staying in the Word, and being honest with Him about the struggles she’s facing.

ON THE HORIZON

She continues to walk in faith, writing what she’s been given and waiting on God for what’s next. Ever since God told her to leave the bank, she’s been wondering ‘what’s next’ but she doesn’t have all the answers. Sometimes it feels like she’s singing Ain’t Got Nothing Figured Out

on repeat, but she trusts that He knows the plan. When the timing is right, the rest of the path will unfold.

Marvis “Dukes” Cox Jr.

YOUNG, BRAVE, AND UNSTOPPABLE

by Icylin Morgan

When most nine-yearolds are busy playing video games, Marvis Cox Jr., affectionately known as Dukes, is writing books that inspire children to embrace their uniqueness. A fourth grader with a vivid imagination and a big heart, Dukes is already making waves as a young author. “Hi! My name is Dukes. I’m 9 years old, and I’m in 4th grade,” he introduces himself. “When I’m not writing, I like going on walks, playing at the park, and playing my Nintendo Switch. I also love playing Roblox with my big brother and sister. On Sundays and Wednesdays, we stream church as a family, and that’s something I really look forward to.”

WRITING SUPERHEROES THAT LOOK LIKE HIM

Dukes’ latest book, My SuperPowers in My BROWN Skin, was born out of a simple but powerful idea: representation. “I wanted kids like me to see themselves as superheroes,” he explains. “A lot of times in books, the heroes don’t look like me, so I thought—why not create my own? I also love Bible stories like David and Goliath, where even a kid can do something big. That made me want to write something powerful too.”

In Dukes’ stories, bravery, faith, and individuality shine as the real superpowers. His characters remind readers that courage isn’t reserved for adults, it’s something children can carry and cultivate, too.

THE POWER OF BEING DIFFERENT

For Dukes, storytelling is a way to encourage his peers to embrace who

I HOPE THEY FEEL PROUD OF THEMSELVES. I WANT THEM TO SEE THAT BEING DIFFERENT DOESN’T MAKE YOU LESS—IT MAKES YOU AWESOME. I ALSO HOPE THEY FEEL STRONG, LIKE THEY CAN FACE ANYTHING, JUST LIKE DAVID DID WITH GOLIATH.

they are. “Because being different is what makes you special,” he says. “God made us all unique. If everybody was the same, life would be boring. I want kids to know their skin, their voice, their hair—everything about them—is something to be proud of.”

This message of pride and positivity runs through every page of his writing. By weaving in both his faith and his creativity, Dukes delivers stories that empower children to see themselves as capable and strong, no matter their background.

While his books showcase a variety of powers, Dukes knows exactly which one defines him best. “I’d say my superpower is being brave,” he says. “Even when I’m nervous, I try things anyway—kind of like Daniel in the lions’ den. Bravery helps me in school, with writing, and even when I’m trying to beat a hard level on my Switch.”

That bravery shows up not just in the classroom or on the page, but in how he carries himself as a young leader.

So what does Dukes want kids to take away from his books? His answer is simple and heartfelt: “I hope they feel proud of themselves. I want them to see that being different doesn’t make you less—it makes you awesome. I also hope they feel strong, like they can face anything, just like David did with Goliath.”

By grounding his message in faith, Dukes ensures his stories resonate with courage and hope, universal themes that uplift kids from all walks of life.

THE WRITING JOURNEY

Writing a book at any age is an achievement, but for a nine-year-old, it’s especially impressive. Dukes admits it wasn’t always easy. “The hardest part was finishing. Sometimes, I just wanted to go play Roblox instead of writing,” he says with honesty. “The most fun part was seeing my ideas turn into real pages and knowing other kids would get to read them.”

His perseverance paid off, with his work already celebrated and awarded. Among his accolades is the prestigious Presidential Volunteer Service Award, an honor that made him realize the true weight of his impact. “It felt really cool! I didn’t expect it, and it made me feel like the things I do matter, even as a kid. It made me want to keep going and do even more.”

FAITH, FUN, AND FAMILY

When it comes to reading, Dukes pulls from a wide range of influences. “I like reading the Bible because the stories are exciting—like David fighting Goliath or Daniel in the lions’ den,” he shares. “I also like funny books like Dog Man, and I read a lot of comics and game stories too.”

This mix of faith-based narratives and playful, creative stories fuels his imagination and helps him see storytelling as both meaningful and fun.

Behind every young dreamer is a support system, and Dukes credits his parents with keeping him motivated. “They cheer me on and remind me to keep going even when it gets hard,” he says. “They also help me stay on track—like making time for church, school, and writing. And they always tell me they’re proud of me, which makes me want to keep doing my best.”

That encouragement has been vital in keeping him disciplined and inspired, balancing the fun of childhood with the responsibilities of being a published author.

ADVICE FOR OTHER YOUNG WRITERS

Despite his age, Dukes already has wisdom to share with other children who dream of writing. “I’d say don’t be scared, just start writing,” he advises. “Even if it’s messy, you can always fix it later. Remember, you don’t have to be perfect, you just have to try.”

His words serve as a reminder that creativity belongs to everyone, no matter how young. And he’s just getting started. “I’m working on another My SuperPowers book, and I have some new ideas I want to try,” he reveals. “I want to keep writing stories that make kids feel strong, proud, and like they have superpowers too.”

With his bold imagination, his faith, and his determination, Marvis “Dukes” Cox Jr. is proving that age is no barrier to making an impact.

At an age when most teens are juggling school, sports, and social media, Jayden Smith-Cox is also writing books that give voice to the struggles of his generation. He is an award-winning, bestselling author, the CEO of his own youth leadership organization, and a community servant whose work has earned him national recognition. Behind the accolades, Jayden is a ninth grader balancing homework, gaming, and hanging out with friends.

“My name is Jayden Smith-Cox. I’m a freshman in high school, and I’ve been writing since elementary school,” he shares. “I’m the oldest sibling, so I try to set an example for my little brother.”

A WRITER FROM THE START Jayden’s writing journey began earlier than most. In the fifth grade, he published his first book, The Honorable Bee , a story that captured hearts and climbed the Young Adult charts. “I started writing because I had all these ideas in my head, and books were a way to get them out,” he recalls. “ The Honorable Bee came from me wanting to show that even a kid could make a difference. Writing became my way to express myself, and I realized pretty early that my words could help other people.”

Now, with his latest release, The Unbreakables, Jayden is tackling the kinds of struggles that often stay hidden in the lives of teenagers—anxiety, grief, depression, toxic relationships, and identity. “Because that’s real life for a lot of teens right now, including people I know,” he explains. “Social media, school, friendships, and family stuff, it can all get heavy. I wanted

EVERYONE HAS BATTLES, EVEN IF THEY DON’T TALK ABOUT THEM. I WANT READERS TO KNOW IT’S OKAY TO REACH OUT FOR HELP, TO TRUST PEOPLE WHO CARE ABOUT YOU, AND TO BELIEVE THAT THINGS CAN GET BETTER.

Jayden Smith-Cox

GIVING TEENS A VOICE

THROUGH STORY AND SERVICE

by Beverlyn Johnson

to write a story that showed kids they aren’t alone, and that even in their hardest moments, they can find strength.”

CHARACTERS THAT FEEL REAL

The Unbreakables centers on five teens who each carry unseen battles: Emmit, Jake, Sasha, Liam, and Mia. Jayden admits that the characters carry fragments of real-life observations and emotions.

“A lot of it came from what I see around me—friends, classmates, even things I’ve gone through myself. I think when you’re a teenager, you notice more than adults think you do. The characters aren’t exactly me or anyone I know, but they carry pieces of real experiences and feelings I’ve seen or lived.”

When asked which character he connects with most, his answer comes quickly: Liam. “I connect with Liam the most. He deals with depression, and while I don’t go through everything he does, I understand what it feels like to carry heavy emotions and still try to keep going. Writing him helped me put some of those feelings into words.”

Jayden’s hope is that readers who see themselves in Liam—or any of the characters—walk away feeling less alone. “That you are not weak for struggling, and you’re not alone,” he says firmly. “Everyone has battles, even if they don’t talk about them. I want readers to know it’s okay to reach out for help, to trust people who care about you, and to believe that things can get better.”

LEADERSHIP IN ACTION

Jayden’s passion for helping others doesn’t stop on the page. As the founder and CEO of YoungSavedLeaders, he has built a platform dedicated to empowering his peers. “YoungSavedLeaders is about empowering young people to use their voices, serve their communities, and lead with faith,” he explains. “I started it because I wanted kids my age to know they could make a difference right now, not ‘someday.’ We do community service, events, and outreach that show youth they already matter.”

That mission has already caught national attention. Jayden has received numerous

honors, including the Presidential Volunteer Service Award, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) Service Above Self Award (three times), recognition as one of the best Black businesses in Aurora, and the City of Aurora’s Mayor’s Award of Excellence.

Each recognition means something different, but one stands out to him above the rest. “The MLK Service Above Self Award meant a lot because Dr. King is someone I look up to. To receive something with his name on it reminded me that leadership is about serving others, not just being in the spotlight. It pushed me to keep going.”

Despite his many achievements, Jayden remains grounded. “It feels humbling,” he says of being honored by his city. “I don’t do what I do for awards, but when your community recognizes you, it makes you realize people are paying attention. It’s proof that young people can be leaders too, and it motivates me to keep working hard.”

He also has a message for teens who doubt their own influence. “I’d say your voice matters more than you think,” Jayden says. “Don’t let anyone tell you you’re too young or that your story doesn’t count. Someone is waiting to hear exactly what you have to say. Speak up, write it down, share it—just don’t stay silent.”

GROUNDED IN FAITH

At the core of his writing and service is his faith. “Faith is the foundation of everything I do,” Jayden says. “It helps me know I’m not doing this by myself, and it reminds me to use my gifts to help others. When I write, I pray that my words will reach who they’re supposed to. And when I serve, I want people to see God’s love through my actions.” That faith-driven commitment fuels both his pen and his leadership. It also shapes his future plans. “As an author, I’m already working on new ideas—I want to keep writing books that inspire teens. As a leader, I’m planning to grow YoungSavedLeaders with more community projects and mentorship. I want to keep showing that young people can’t just survive tough times—we can lead through them.”

In Jayden’s story, what shines brightest is not just his talent for words but his determination to use them for good. He exemplifies the message of his latest book, as he so aptly puts it, “Your voice matters more than you think.”

How many of us have walked into boardrooms, cubicles, ministry assignments, or staff meetings with our creativity and perspective tucked neatly in our back pockets because corporate culture told us to “stick to the script”?

How many of us have felt muzzled— knowing we had more to say, more to give, and more to pour out—yet the environment silenced our voice? Like the effects of physical laryngitis, your ability to speak freely is stripped away.

The same thing can happen as a new author or writer. You may feel stuck, unsure of how or where to begin, leaving your voice silent until you discover how best to release it through writing. That, my friends, is what my sister Dr. Velma Bagby calls corporate laryngitis. And in her brand-new release, Finding Your Voice After Corporate Laryngitis: Exclusive Edition, she offers the remedy, the roadmap, and the release.

THE BLURB

Break free from the constraints of corporate communication and unleash your creativity as you discover the power of your writing voice. Transform your corporate laryngitis into a powerful tool for self-expression. Discover the root causes of your corporate laryngitis and learn how to overcome it as you gain confidence in your writing. You will unleash your creativity, imagination, and personal voice with these essential tips for discovering your writing voice as you unlock your true potential as a writer.

AN EXCERPT

We’ve all heard of a condition known as laryngitis, but what is it? If diagnosed with this physical ailment, you are the person who determines its presence. Your voice changes, with hoarseness in your throat, sometimes a loss of your ability to speak, and your throat can feel sore, dry, and even painful. You may also experience a fever, nasal congestion, and other symptoms. The condition impedes or blocks your ability to speak. Doesn’t this sound familiar?

Dr. Velma Bagby

FINDING YOUR VOICE AFTER CORPORATE LARYNGITIS

by Dr. Jacquiline Cox

We can all agree that while working in corporate, we could not add our opinion or express our personal voice about anything in an official capacity, either written or verbal. This is clearly a form of laryngitis where your speech or writing is blocked.

FREEDOM ON PAPER

Dr. Velma doesn’t just write from theory. She put in 38 years in government service where every word had to be filtered through policy, procedure, and politics. That meant no room for her personal voice, creativity, or individuality. Sound familiar? But God!

When she retired, she had to relearn her own voice—and that journey birthed a writing career that has produced over 26 titles and 20 bestsellers.

In this exclusive edition, she lays out what it looks like to shake off that silence and step boldly into your authentic writing and speaking voice. From breaking away from one-size-fits-all writing methods, to mastering the “show don’t tell” rule, how to make sure your fiction book has dialogue, how to appropriately write dialogue avoiding the word “said”, to weaving in the five senses to ensure

your book engages your readers and draws them into the story, scene, place, experience, and more. This book is equal parts toolbox, testimony, and triumph.

THE POWER OF COLLABORATION

What makes this project even sweeter is the collaboration. I had the honor of designing the book cover and offering ARC feedback, and I’m humbled that Dr. Velma trusted Listen Linda Publishing with her Best Seller campaign. To top it off, I was blessed to co-write the foreword with the ever-talented Cyrus Webb—a true giant in media and literature. This is Kingdom collaboration at its finest!

WHY YOU NEED THIS BOOK

This isn’t just for writers who worked in a corporate environment. But this is also for anyone who is stepping into the writing world without a clue as to what is required or who lacks an understanding of the rules you need to follow to ensure your project meets the writing norms.

It’s for the corporate professionals ready to rediscover their passion. It’s for the ministry leader who is ready to put their knowledge in written form. It’s for the creative who knows there’s more inside but is unsure of which method to use, what genre to consider, the requirement or criteria involved in all of these, to get their first project done.

A REVIEW

“Dr. Velma hit the nail on the head with each chapter in this book. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first book or your 100th book, there is something for you on these pages. I’m waiting for my paperback version so I can write my notes in it!!” Amazon Customer

In Finding Your Voice After Corporate Laryngitis: Exclusive Edition, Dr. Velma reminds us, “Your voice matters. It’s time to write it, share it, and live it. The world is waiting for you.”

Get it right now! The eBook is available for $0.99 on Amazon.

SAVE THE DATE

Mark your calendars! On November 1,

2025, Dr. Velma Bagby will host a powerful virtual conference under the theme, “How Do You Know You’re Ready?” This timely event speaks directly to Christian singles, especially women, who are praying and believing for marriage but may not have received the necessary preparation for the role of a wife. Dr. Bagby highlights a critical gap: while many desire God to send their mate now, few pause to ask whether they are truly ready for what God requires. This conference is designed to provide biblical wisdom, practical insight, and honest conversation to help women prepare their hearts, minds, and spirits for marriage. Save the date—because readiness is more than desire, it’s preparation.

ABOUT DR. VELMA BAGBY

Dr. Velma is a media personality, podcast host, ordained minister (ThD), award-winning author of 26 books— including 20 bestsellers—and CEO of Adoni Publishing, LLC. A Christian dating and relationship coach, speaker, and trainer, she is passionate about helping women embrace their God-ordained worth, prepare for marriage, and adopt a “date-to-marry” strategy.

Her popular CATCH Series uses fish analogies to expose dating mistakes, with the first novel, The CATCH No One Wants, winning multiple awards and sparking a five-book series. She has also authored nonfiction works such as The CATCH Book of Fools and The 30Day WOW Journal (Women of Worth), alongside several inspirational eBooks.

Through her podcasts—Dr. Velma TALKS, Finding Your Voice, and Words I Choose to Live By (co-hosted with Cyrus Webb and Tina Siemons)—she continues to share wisdom on faith, dating, and relationships. After 38 years as a Deputy Administrator with the California state government, Dr. Velma transitioned into full-time ministry and publishing, even celebrating the milestone of publishing her granddaughter’s award-winning books.

Married for more than fifty years, Dr. Velma credits her faith and family as the foundation of her life and message, empowering women everywhere to find their voice and embrace God’s design for love and marriage.

10

VVICTORIOUS BY DESIGN STAR Power List

INFLUENTIAL MEN IN BUSINESS & LEADERSHIP

BD Magazine presents 10 Influential Men in Business and Leadership. These dynamic trailblazers are redefining what it means to lead with vision, integrity, and purpose. From building thriving businesses to empowering communities, their journeys reflect resilience, innovation, and impact. Their stories will inspire you to lead boldly, influence positively, and pursue your calling with determination.

Marcus A. Wright

TRANSFORMING LIVES WITH EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND SERVANT LEADERSHIP

by Ann Marie Bryan

Marcus A. Wright carries a rare blend of strength and humility—the kind that commands attention without ever demanding it. His demeanor is steady and disarming, making you lean in before he even says a word. And when he does speak, there’s no performance, no polished script. His power lies in authenticity. Every lesson he teaches has been lived, every insight carved from pain, perseverance, and purpose.

Titles sketch the outline of his story— coach, motivational speaker, trainer, CEO of WrightMentality—but they don’t capture the man. Marcus is the son who learned resilience through loss, the leader who rebuilt his life brick by brick, the visionary whose mission is to transform how we see leadership. Not as dominance, but as service. Not as control, but as influence.

“The most important thing about leadership, in my opinion, is servant leadership,” Marcus emphasizes. “As a leader, you’re there to serve your team. You’re not there to control your team. You’re there to be an empathetic ear if your team members need it.”

It’s a philosophy born from experience—and one that has made Marcus a sought-after voice in boardrooms, classrooms, and conference stages across the nation. His focus on emotional intelligence, servant leadership, and adaptability intelligence—three non-negotiables he believes every leader must master—offers not just strategies, but survival skills for a world that refuses to stand still.

EARLY LESSONS IN GRIT

Marcus’ story begins in Maywood, Illinois, before his family later moved to the South Side of Chicago. Life there came with challenges, but also opportunities to discover resilience, community, and passion.

From an early age, Marcus found joy on the football field. “I grew up playing football. I loved watching it, studying the game,” he recalls. “And I played it from the time I was in 4th grade all the way through high school.” The discipline of

practice, the strategy of the game, and the camaraderie of teammates shaped the way he viewed leadership and perseverance.

Education strengthened that foundation. Marcus began at Roosevelt Elementary School in Broadview, Illinois, then spent two years at St. Joseph High School before graduating from Proviso East High School. Each step gave him new mentors and fresh perspectives on what it meant to work hard and stay focused.

Family anchored it all. Marcus spent much of his youth with his grandparents, soaking up their wisdom and learning dependability through their example. “I was very close to all of my grandparents, and I stayed at their house quite a bit,” he shares. His grandmother even gave him a name that stuck: “She would say I was the dependable one.” Dependability became not just a trait, but a defining value—showing up for others even when life got tough.

But life also delivered blow after blow. Marcus lost his father, his brother Jason, his grandparents, and other loved ones over the years. Each loss left a scar, but also a lesson. Jason, in particular, left him with words Marcus still carries today: “Jason would always tell me, life is not that serious… learn how to laugh.” Without that statement and the support of his wife Sinora he would have struggled.

Through grief, Marcus found grit. Through pain, he discovered purpose. And through loss, he unearthed leadership rooted not in titles, but in humanity.

THE BIRTH OF WRIGHTMENTALITY

Before stepping into coaching and public speaking, Marcus spent three decades in project management. The roles demanded discipline and precision, but what

I GREW UP PLAYING FOOTBALL. I LOVED WATCHING IT, STUDYING THE GAME. AND I PLAYED IT FROM THE TIME I WAS IN 4TH GRADE ALL THE WAY THROUGH HIGH SCHOOL.

stood out most wasn’t the projects he delivered—it was the way he connected with people.

“You have a lot of strengths,” one of his mentors told him. “Your ability to build relationships with people so quickly… imagine if you took that shortcoming— frustration—and changed that, and added it to your relationship building. Imagine how good you would be as a leader.”

Those words became a mirror, pushing Marcus to refine his emotional intelligence, temper his frustration, and grow into a leader who could influence with both authority and empathy. The lessons he carried from boardrooms and job sites became the foundation for Wright Mentality.

“My wife, Sinora, actually came up with the name WrightMentality,” Marcus shares. “It started with our last name, but it’s more than that—it’s a mindset. It’s about how you think, how you lead, and how you show up in every part of your life.”

For Marcus, WrightMentality is both a brand and a movement—designed to help leaders transform through emotional intelligence and adaptability intelligence. He believes the best leaders aren’t the ones who know everything, but the ones who can adapt, adjust, and respond with empathy.

“Leadership is about influence,” he says firmly. “If you don’t know how to influence your team, you’re not leading.”

Through workshops, coaching programs, and keynote speeches, Marcus equips leaders to lead with self-awareness, regulate emotions, build trust, and create environments where people thrive. His frameworks aren’t theory—they’re hardwon wisdom, tested in the trenches of life, forged from scars that became strategies.

THE POWER OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE

One of Marcus’ greatest passions is teaching emotional intelligence (EI). For him, EI is the difference between leaders who succeed and leaders who sink.

“Emotional intelligence is everything,” he explains. “It’s about self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. If you can’t manage yourself, how are you going to manage others?”

He pairs EI with adaptability intelligence (AQ), teaching leaders how to pivot in uncertain times, remain flexible under pressure, and guide teams through change. Together, these two skills form the backbone of Wright Mentality training.

This passion for self-awareness and growth doesn’t stay in theory—it fuels the way Marcus designs and delivers leadership training, equipping people to turn insight into impact.

LEADERSHIP TRAINING & KEYNOTE SPEAKING

Marcus knows the weight leaders carry—and the difference the right mindset can make. Drawing from John Maxwell’s proven leadership principles, his training helps leaders unlock potential, build

stronger teams, and lead with humility and influence.

“My approach is people-centered,” Marcus explains. “Leadership isn’t about control—it’s about service. The right attitude and positive influence can propel your team forward.”

Through workshops, seminars, and coaching, Marcus equips leaders to set clear goals, rediscover purpose, and maximize both personal and organizational growth. His sessions are engaging, practical, and transformative—far from typical PowerPoint slides.

Key focus areas include:

l Effective communication and collaboration

l Harnessing potential and purpose

l Vision, values, and guiding principles

l Building growth systems for longterm success

l Strategies for self-investment and investing in others

Whether delivering a keynote, leading a seminar, or guiding a corporate retreat, Marcus blends inspiration with real-world strategies—leaving audiences motivated, equipped, and ready to lead.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Marcus’ ability to connect with people shines brightest when he steps in front of an audience. Whether addressing executives, entrepreneurs, or students, he makes every room feel seen, heard, and inspired.

At the Leadership Experience Tour, he delivered one of his most unforgettable talks, weaving personal tragedy with professional triumph. He spoke candidly about losing his grandmother and how her lessons shaped his leadership style. The audience leaned in—not out of pity, but because they recognized they were hearing truth, raw and unfiltered.

“It’s about influence,” Marcus reminded them. “You have to lead by example. You can’t just tell people what to do—you have to show them through your work ethic, your integrity, your respect for others.”

AUTHORING A NEW VISION

Marcus is not stopping at coaching and speaking. He is also stepping into the literary world with his upcoming book: The WrightMentality Strategies: How to Lead with Emotional Intelligence and Adaptability Intelligence.

The book distills his frameworks into actionable steps, blending storytelling with strategy. It’s designed for leaders at every level—from seasoned executives to emerging managers—who want to sharpen their leadership without losing their humanity.

“It’s about teaching leaders to adapt,” Marcus says. “To understand that leadership is not static. The world is changing, people change, and leaders have to change with them.”

FAITH AT THE CENTER

For Marcus, faith is his foundation. Every decision, every risk, every new step is filtered through his relationship with God.

“I wouldn’t be here without God,” Marcus says plainly. “Every time I’ve stumbled, He picked me up. Every time I’ve been confused, He’s given me clarity.”

This faith steadies him when challenges come and keeps him humble when opportunities arise. It is also what fuels his commitment to serve others. “At the end of the day, leadership is not about titles,” Marcus reflects. “It’s about how you make people feel, how you inspire them to be better.”

LOOKING AHEAD

Marcus A. Wright’s vision for the future is nothing short of transformative. His goal is to make WrightMentality a global hub for leadership development—a place where thousands of leaders are equipped to lead with heart, wisdom, and adaptability. He desires to take his events international, building certification programs for coaches and trainers, and partnering with organizations to shift corporate cultures from the inside out.

But for Marcus, the mission is never about scale for its own sake. It’s about impact.

“I don’t want to just create followers,” he says. “I want to create leaders who create more leaders.”

That commitment is already taking shape. Marcus is preparing to launch his virtual event, Lead by Influence: The Power of Emotional Intelligence , featuring powerhouse voices like Dr. Billy Alsbrooks. The event promises to cement Wright Mentality as a global platform for authentic, people-centered leadership.

At a time when the world is desperate for leaders who lead with both head and heart, Marcus A. Wright is not just answering the call—he’s redefining it.

From film sets to boardrooms, Atlanta’s creative heartbeat finds one of its strongest rhythms in Forrest Tuff. Raised on the belief that faith and family anchor every pursuit, he has built a career that bridges film, business, and personal growth. As the Founder and CEO of One Vision Productions, an acclaimed multimedia and branding agency recognized as Best of Georgia, he has carved a reputation for turning bold ideas into stories that inspire and connect.

But Forrest’s influence extends far beyond the screen. He is the architect of the Filmpreneur® movement, inducted into the FilmmakerLife Hall of Fame in 2025, and honored among the Top 100 Transformational Leaders by the John Maxwell Team. A Master Life Coach and one of only 95 Accredited Speakers worldwide by Toastmasters International, he has become a sought-after voice on leadership and personal growth, inspiring audiences globally through keynotes and workshops.

Forrest is also an author, podcaster, FBI Citizens Academy graduate, and philanthropist whose Pay It Forward initiative and community service have earned national recognition. At his core, he is a storyteller, one who has learned that true power lies not in titles, but in using his gifts to empower others.

EARLY DREAMS AND SHIFTING PATHS

Forrest Tuff SUCCESS, SETBACKS,

AND

THE POWER OF RESILIENCE

by Ann Marie Bryan

Born in Atlanta and raised in Decatur, Georgia, Forrest attended Fernbank Elementary before moving on to Druid Hills High School. From his earliest days, he dreamed of being an artist. At just eight years old, he won his first dance contest, igniting a spark he believed would shape his future. But when his father accepted his call to ministry and forbade dancing, young Forrest was forced to pivot. “Dad, you’re messing with my future,” he recalls saying, only half in jest.

What could have been a crushing moment instead became a defining one. Denied the stage, Forrest turned to sports. At Druid Hills, he poured his energy into

basketball. Though not the tallest or the fastest, he became relentless in his practice, eventually earning a split academic and athletic scholarship to Gordon State College, where he led the state of Georgia in three-pointers. He later transferred to Western Carolina University on a fullride athletic scholarship to play Division I basketball, before an injury ended his hopes of going professional. Thankfully, his outstanding performance at Gordon earned him induction into their Hall of Fame, cementing his sports legacy.

“The inspiration to achieve greatness helped me really focus my energy,” he reflects. “It built my work ethic and my foundation.”

CAPTURING LIFE AND CREATING LEGACY

The seeds of his future in film were planted at home. With five siblings in a pastor’s household, everyone had a role. His father preached, his mother led worship, and Forrest—armed with a camcorder—captured it all. “That’s where my proficiency came from,” he recalls. “Our church started in our home, and my job was to record.”

From church services to school events, Forrest became the cameraman, documenting life with a growing sense of purpose. This passion evolved into One Vision Productions, launched in 2004. The name reflected his philosophy: collaboration. “Instead of me telling clients what they want, we work together to create one vision,” he explains.

In its early years, the company focused on entertainment—music videos, weddings, and cultural events. But Forrest soon

FILM IS THE INDUSTRY. PRENEUR RELATES TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP. EVERYONE WORKING INDEPENDENTLY IN FILM IS AN ENTREPRENEUR. I MARRIED THOSE TWO WORDS TO STAND OUT AND CREATE A BRAND.

recognized the opportunity to expand into corporate and government contracts, a move that reshaped his business and built long-term sustainability. Today, One Vision Productions thrives as a trusted partner for corporations, non-profits, and government agencies.

The company is a creative partner committed to turning bold ideas into compelling visual stories. For nearly two decades, its award-winning team has guided clients from concept to reality, crafting polished products that captivate audiences and elevate brands.

Capabilities include:

l Advertising – From commercials to web videos and social media campaigns, the team manages every stage from concept through delivery.

l Sales & Marketing – Expertise in producing product videos, demos, and brand films that engage audiences and boost visibility for companies of all sizes.

l Training & Education – Development of corporate, film, and government training videos, including the creation of effective learning systems tailored to organizational needs.

Each project reflects One Vision Productions’ hallmark blend of creativity, professionalism, and excellence—ensuring clients receive not just a video, but a powerful tool for connection and impact.

BALANCING CREATIVITY AND BUSINESS

In a field where trends shift quickly, Forrest was determined to chart his own course. So he trademarked a word that would define his approach: Filmpreneur®.

“Film is the industry. Preneur relates to entrepreneurship,” he explains. “Everyone working independently in film is an entrepreneur. I married those two words to stand out and create a brand. Being a Filmpreneur® means putting

your own resources into your projects, owning your creativity, and refusing to compromise your integrity for fleeting opportunities.”

By financing his own productions and later partnering with 20th Century Fox on a major motion picture, Forrest proved that integrity and innovation could coexist, building a reputation for excellence entirely on his own terms.

The challenge of leading a production company is balancing the art of storytelling with the demands of business. Forrest addresses this with a mindset of humility and collaboration.

“I tell my team, ‘We’re not married to it,’” he says. “Creatives are sensitive about their work, but when you listen—really listen—to the client’s goals, they’ll be more open when it’s time for you to push for your vision.”

And at the core of Filmpreneur®—and of every role Forrest has embraced—is storytelling. Whether filming for clients, speaking on stage, coaching entrepreneurs, or mentoring students, he is always telling stories—his own, his clients’, his community’s.

I TELL MY TEAM, ‘WE’RE NOT MARRIED TO IT.’ CREATIVES ARE SENSITIVE ABOUT THEIR WORK, BUT WHEN YOU LISTEN—REALLY LISTEN—TO THE CLIENT’S GOALS, THEY’LL BE MORE OPEN WHEN IT’S TIME FOR YOU TO PUSH FOR YOUR VISION.

“All of it is storytelling,” he says. “That’s where I’m comfortable. And that’s my advice: find what you’re good at, find what resonates with you, and just go for it. Life is for the living. Once it’s over, no one’s writing your article. So live the best you can, while you can.”

This balance of empathy and innovation has made One Vision Productions a trusted partner. Clients know that with Forrest, they’re engaging a leader who understands that purpose-driven stories don’t just capture attention, they create lasting impact.

PURPOSE AND LEADERSHIP

At his core, Forrest is a servant leader. Inspired by parents who have been

married for over 55 years and have led their church for more than four decades, he learned early that leadership is about sacrifice, integrity, and purpose.

“I always look at people from the standpoint of wanting to help,” he says. “Integrity is huge. Ethics are huge. Everything I do is purpose-filled.”

This conviction guided him into mentorship. For eight years, Forrest served as a pro bono mentor with SCORE, helping aspiring entrepreneurs grow their businesses. That work inspired him to earn certifications as a Master Life Coach and to launch his own coaching business in 2020. Today, he mentors leaders, entrepreneurs, and creatives, blending practical business wisdom with spiritual grounding.

One of Forrest’s most impactful projects came through the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Department of Justice. Tasked with creating a video on prison reform, he captured the stories of individuals seeking to reenter society. “That’s a forgotten population,” he says. “Not every crime has the same face. Some people just need a second chance.”

The project received national distribution, screening across Georgia and shared with every U.S. Attorney’s Office in the country. With support from Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank, the project became a model for how media can inspire empathy and systemic change.

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE

Over the course of his career, Forrest has been recognized nationally and internationally for his excellence in film, business, and community impact. His company, One Vision Productions, has been consistently honored as one of Atlanta’s Best & Brightest Companies to Work For by the National Association for Business Resources and has earned multiple Best of Georgia Businesses awards from the Georgia Business Journal. His creative work has been celebrated with Platinum, Gold, and Silver honors from the Hermes Creative Awards, Telly Awards, Aurora Awards, Viddy Awards, and the DotComm Awards, highlighting projects that range from commercials and documentaries to corporate campaigns and public service announcements.

He is also a celebrated children’s author. Inspired by his daughters, his self-pub-

lished book Things I Like 3-D was widely used in DeKalb County schools for its artful illustrations and focus on early childhood learning. The book’s success earned him a nomination for the Georgia Author of the Year Award.

Forrest’s storytelling has also made waves on the festival circuit, earning top documentary and short film awards at events including the Longleaf Film Festival, Global Film Festival Awards, and Top Indie Film Awards. Beyond his creative excellence, Forrest has been recognized for his dedication to service and leadership with the Communitas Awards for Community Service, the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, and honors from both the NAACP and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

“The Martin Luther King Jr. Community Service Award and the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award resonated most,” he shares. “I grew up seeing Dr. King as someone who fought for reformation and

FIND WHAT YOU’RE GOOD AT, FIND WHAT RESONATES WITH YOU, AND JUST GO FOR IT.

change—not just for us, but for people in general. To receive something bearing his name meant so much.”

Taken together, these accolades reflect the dual legacy Forrest continues to build as a Filmpreneur® whose creative vision sets new industry standards, and as a leader whose work is deeply anchored in service, integrity, and community impact.

FAITH, FAMILY, AND PHILANTHROPIC ENDEAVORS

Behind the titles and accolades, Forrest is a husband and father first. Married for 15 years to his childhood friend and sweetheart, with whom he shares three daughters, his family is both his anchor and motivation. “Having a wife and three daughters will prioritize things quickly,” he jokes.

His home life keeps him grounded, his daughters hold him accountable, his wife remains his confidante, and his faith directs his steps. “My faith is the catalyst for what I do,” he says. “It has to align with my spirit. And when I’m unsure, I still call my mom and dad for wisdom. That’s something I never take for granted.”

Over the years, One Vision Productions has built a reputation not only for creative excellence but also for meaningful community impact. Rooted in the belief that success is measured by service, the company’s outreach has included volunteerism, business and youth mentoring, and its signature Pay It Forward program, which equips and uplifts local communities.

LOOKING AHEAD

Forrest shows no signs of slowing down.

He is working on a new book—Mentally Tuff ™: The Power of You—as well as a documentary and feature film about his life. From Division I basketball to

WHEN

PEOPLE TALK ABOUT ME,

I WANT

THEM TO SAY HE WAS A MAN WHO STOOD FOR SOMETHING… SOMEONE WHO CARED ABOUT PEOPLE, LOVED HIS FAMILY, AND GOT BACK UP EVERY TIME HE FELL.

ministry life, near-death experiences to entrepreneurial triumphs, his journey has been a relentless drive.

“When people talk about me,” he says, “I want them to say he was a man who stood for something. A man of high ethics. Someone who cared about people, loved his family, and got back up every time he fell.”

Dr. Hamlet Nation ON MEDICINE,

LEADERSHIP, AND LEGACY

by Ann Marie Bryan

“Patients may not remember the diagnosis, but they always remember how you made them feel.” For Hamlet Nation MD, MPH, MBA, that truth is both a guiding principle and the heartbeat of his journey—one that began in the hills of Jamaica. As a boy in Mocho, Clarendon, Hamlet often enjoyed racing barefoot along dusty roads, unaware that those early lessons in resilience and community would one day shape his path as a global health leader. Today, as CEO of Parkview Services for Seniors in Canada and a trusted Public Health Consultant, he carries that same spirit of service into boardrooms and communities worldwide, always guided by one principle: leaving every place better than he found it.

ROOTS OF RESILIENCE

Dr. Nation experienced a childhood rich in community values. Life was simple but deeply formative: meals were shared, neighbors felt like family, and opportunities were created from scarcity.

“Community wasn’t just where we lived— it was who we were,” he reflects. “Everyone had a role, and every role mattered.”

From Mocho Primary School, where dedicated teachers nurtured his love for learning, to Clarendon College, Dr. Nation’s academic path was lit by encouragement from family and mentors. His dream of becoming a doctor began early, inspired by his great-grandmother’s respect for her physician and his own fascination with the stethoscope and white coat.

Those early days instilled in him both resilience and compassion—qualities that would later shape his professional mission to build health systems that prioritize people as much as outcomes.

WE CAN’T JUST SAY, ‘THEY’RE OLD, LEAVE THEM.’ ONE IN FOUR PEOPLE WILL SOON BE SENIORS. WE NEED SYSTEMS THAT ALLOW PERSONS TO AGE WITH DIGNITY.

TAKING THE LEAP

At just eighteen, Dr. Nation boarded a plane to Cuba on a scholarship to study medicine. He arrived with little Spanish but abundant determination. “Cuba was wonderful,” he recalls. “I felt secure, supported, and free to explore the world as a young man.”

Beyond the rigors of medical training, Cuba gave him a second family, lifelong friendships across continents, and fluency in Spanish—an asset that continues to open doors. More importantly, it instilled in him a profound understanding of community-centered healthcare.

FROM PATIENTS TO POLICY

After completing his studies, Dr. Nation returned to Jamaica with a singular goal: to serve. His internship at May Pen Hospital allowed him to reconnect deeply with his homeland. He practiced at Lionel Town, Spaldings, Frankfield, and even

MY LEGACY IS NOT ABOUT TITLES OR REVENUE TARGETS. IT’S ABOUT LEAVING STRUCTURES THAT STAND, SYSTEMS THAT SERVE, AND PEOPLE WHO FEEL EMPOWERED.

Mocho Health Centre. For many patients, he wasn’t “Dr. Nation”—he was simply “Doc” or even “Dr. Munchie,” a childhood nickname that reflected familiarity and trust.

But while treating patients brought him joy, he also saw the cracks in the system. Too many families had to choose between paying for food and paying for medicine. “That tugged at my heart,” he recalls. “I realized the problem wasn’t just individual care—it was the system itself.”

That realization sparked a transition from clinical medicine to healthcare leadership. Over the years, he served as CEO of the National Health Insurance Board in Turks and Caicos, Medical Director, interim CEO of the Health Professions Authority, and now, CEO of Parkview Services for Seniors in Ontario.

Leadership, he insists, is about empowerment. “Everywhere I’ve served, I’ve tried to leave the system better and the people stronger. Leadership is not about you—it’s about ensuring the staff and community thrive long after you’ve moved on.”

CHAMPIONING SENIORS

Dr. Nation’s passion centers on aging populations. With parents in Jamaica and peers navigating what he calls “parenting our parents,” he is intimately aware of the gaps. From limited homecare support to cultural stigmas around nursing homes, Caribbean societies face pressing challenges as birth rates decline and lifespans lengthen.

“We can’t just say, ‘They’re old, leave them.’ One in four people will be seniors soon. We need systems that allow persons to age with dignity,” he emphasizes. He advocates for adult day programs, accessible transportation, caregiver support, and financial literacy for seniors facing the digital banking era.

At Parkview, he is applying lessons learned globally to enhance services for older adults, while consulting with Caribbean nations to design national health insurance and senior care systems. His vision is

long-term: structures that endure beyond his tenure, impacting generations.

THE HUMAN SIDE OF MEDICINE

Despite his executive roles, Dr. Nation has never lost the human touch. He recalls one patient who, though overweight, asked for medication to gain more weight. Her reason? She didn’t want neighbors to think her ill husband was neglecting her.

“That’s when you realize medicine isn’t just about prescriptions,” he says. “It’s about understanding the social context. People’s lives are shaped by more than their diagnoses.”

This perspective has defined his leadership: caring for the person, not just the patient. For him, success is not measured solely in financial outcomes but in how people feel about their work, their health, and their dignity.

LESSONS IN LEADERSHIP

Dr. Nation’s leadership philosophy was forged through both medicine and business. With dual MBAs from the University of Manchester and Fundação Getulio Vargas in Brazil, he bridges clinical care and corporate strategy.

Early in his leadership journey, finance intimidated him. “The CFO would bring me cash flow statements, and I had no idea what he meant. I had to fix that.” Today, he navigates financials with confidence, proving that physicians can be savvy business leaders too.

His advice to aspiring leaders is simple: keep solutions simple, involve those closest to the work, and lead with integrity. “Simplicity is genius,” he says. “Often, staff already know the answers, leaders just need to listen.”

PATIENTS MAY NOT REMEMBER THE DIAGNOSIS, BUT THEY ALWAYS REMEMBER HOW YOU MADE THEM FEEL.

With experience spanning Jamaica, Cuba, the Caribbean, and Canada, Dr. Nation is no stranger to cultural differences. He acknowledges cultural differences—Caribbean frankness versus Canadian caution. For him, leadership means adapting to context while ensuring equity and inclusion remain non-negotiable. “All voices matter,” he stresses. “Don’t assume representation. Make a deliberate effort to include the quiet voices too.”

FAITH, BALANCE, AND SELF-CARE

Carrying the weight of healthcare leadership requires balance. For Dr. Nation, faith and intentional living provide that balance. Saturdays are reserved for rest, reflection, and renewal—whether attending church, camping, or spending time with family.

“Work is important,” he says, “but it’s not life. You must cultivate the spiritual, social, and personal dimensions too. Otherwise, you risk burning out before your purpose is fulfilled.”

His blog, Age Well Stories, reflects this holistic perspective, drawing on the stories and insights of seniors to offer practical wisdom for healthier, more meaningful living.

EYES ON THE FUTURE

Beyond expanding Parkview’s capacity, Dr. Nation is collaborating with Caribbean governments to implement national health insurance schemes and senior-care initiatives. His ultimate goal is systemic transformation that outlives him.

“My legacy,” he says, “is not about titles or revenue targets. It’s about leaving structures that stand, systems that serve, and people who feel empowered. If I can achieve that, I’ve done my part.”

Om V. Chowritmootoo

SERVANT

LEADERSHIP

IN ACTION

by Paula Hamilton

Some leaders are forged by ambition, others by circumstance. For Om V. Chowritmootoo, leadership has been a calling shaped by early influences, diverse industries, and a deep conviction to care for people not just as clients or colleagues, but as human beings. His journey, spanning from the bustling markets of Guyana to boardrooms, homes, and hospice bedsides in the United States, is a testament to the idea that leadership is less about position and more about people.

THE EARLY SEEDS OF LEADERSHIP

Born and raised in Georgetown, Guyana, Om is the youngest of three children to Joshua and Shirley Chowritmootoo. At the age of eight, he found himself fascinated by the world of business through the example of his entrepreneurial uncle. Om vividly remembers watching his uncle negotiate with wholesalers and engage customers in his store. “I was mesmerized by how he handled people and structured deals,” Om recalls. Those moments planted the seeds of curiosity and discipline that would later define his leadership style.

At 16, Om migrated to the United States, carrying those early lessons with him. Just two years later, he was entrusted with an assistant manager position, a rare opportunity for someone so young. That role soon led to his first general manager position in food and beverage. Over the next two decades, Om’s leadership would stretch across industries; food and beverage, retail, hospitality, and healthcare. Each chapter adding layers to his leadership philosophy.

A LEAP INTO REAL ESTATE AND CHAPLAINCY

While working for a billion-dollar national healthcare company in a strategic business development role, Om thrived in opening new offices in remote areas, recruiting staff, and building operations from the ground up. It was during this period that his interest in commercial real estate was sparked. “I realized that expanding healthcare into new territories wasn’t just about staffing and operations, it was also about location and property strategy,” Om says.

Around the same time, Om was interviewing hundreds of hospice chaplains to join his teams. Those conversations opened a new

door in his heart. Their stories, compassion, and ability to minister to people in their most vulnerable moments inspired him to step into chaplaincy himself. He soon discovered that both real estate and hospice work shared a common thread: the need to connect deeply with people, earn trust, and guide them through life-changing decisions.

LESSONS FROM BOTH WORLDS

In real estate, Om’s mentor Phil taught him that success wasn’t about transactions, it was about relationships. In chaplaincy, his defining moment came when a fellow chaplain on his hospice team was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. “We had to care for her not only as a patient but as a beloved team member,” Om says. That experience solidified his leadership motto: “Take care of the people who take care of the people.”

This philosophy bridges both fields. Whether helping a family find their dream home or guiding them through the final days of a loved one’s life, Om believes that genuine care builds trust and trust leads to impact. Even when clients or patients choose someone else, Om still makes himself available as a resource. “It’s not about securing the deal every time, it’s about walking with them through their decisions,” he shares.

LEADING WITH EMPATHY AND STRATEGY

Leadership isn’t without its challenges. One of the toughest parts, Om admits, is making personnel decisions that affect the entire team. “Sometimes you have a high performer who just doesn’t work well with others,” he explains. “Letting that person go, even when they deliver results, is hard. But the culture of the team matters more than any one individual’s output.” For Om, those moments define true leadership, choosing long-term health over short-term gains.

As a leader, Om rejects a one-size-fits-all approach. He tailors his coaching to each team member’s strengths, weaknesses, and motivations. “Every person is driven differently,” he says. “When you customize your feedback and encouragement, you get better results. You also build loyalty, because people feel seen and valued.” This mix of authority and empathy, holding people accountable while understanding their unique drivers has been key to his

success in both sales and ministry.

Om’s story challenges the conventional view of leadership as a climb to the top. Instead, it’s about walking alongside others sometimes in the celebratory moment of handing over house keys, other times in the quiet, sacred space of saying goodbye.

His journey reminds us that leadership is not about being in charge; it’s about being responsible for those in your care. It’s about knowing when to drive results and when to sit in silence. It’s about making hard decisions for the sake of the team and recognizing that every relationship, whether in business or ministry, has the potential to shape lives, including your own.

LOOKING AHEAD

For Om, legacy is measured in relationships, not accolades. He hopes to be remembered for the lives he has touched and changed though he is quick to note that those same lives have changed him. “The wisdom I’ve gained from these experiences has made me a better man, professionally, spiritually, and as a leader,” he says.

In real estate, his seasoned perspective allows him to coach others through uncharted territory, especially when setbacks arise. In chaplaincy, his role extends beyond offering spiritual support; he often bridges the gap between families and clinical teams, sharing insights into a patient’s emotional and spiritual needs that may not be visible in their medical chart.

Looking ahead, Om sees a future that blends his skills and passions. He aspires to develop a grief and healing ministry that can serve not just one church, but a network of congregations. This ministry would offer prayer, bereavement counseling, and grief therapy, supported by a comprehensive curriculum and specialized programs. His goal is to equip churches to walk alongside people in their darkest hours with compassion and hope.

Om Chowritmootoo’s journey calls us back to the timeless truth: take care of the people who take care of the people, and everything else will follow.

David Jones

LEADING WITH FAITH, CLARITY, AND STEWARDSHIP

by Bindu A. Chowritmootoo

In the heart of Detroit, Michigan, a legacy of faith, resilience, and leadership began to take shape long before David Jones stepped into adulthood. Born as the third of five brothers, David grew up in a home where faith and family weren’t just priorities—they were the very pillars of God’s first foundation for life and leadership.”

That foundation was cemented by a pivotal moment in his family’s history. On November 1, 1979, his father was laid off from his job at Chrysler—a cycle that had repeated every six months for years. The next day, November 2, David was born. That moment became a turning point for his father, who chose not to seek another job, but to follow a divine calling to become a pastor and build a church.

From that day forward, the Jones household became more than a home—it was a place where the Word of God was both read and lived out daily.” David recalls his father’s commitment to Proverbs 22:6—“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” This scripture became a compass that continues to guide David’s own leadership journey.

A FAITH LEGACY FORGED THROUGH SERVICE

Faith in the Jones family was never passive; it was faith in action. As a child, David remembers moments when his family opened their home to those in need, even when it meant sharing a single twin bed with two brothers while another family lived in their room. They lived by the belief that acts of service, no matter how small or inconvenient, could transform lives.

Yet, this generosity often came at a cost— people they helped sometimes betrayed that trust. But instead of growing bitter, David’s family learned to separate the act

EDUCATION IS TO DRAW OUT. IT’S ABOUT BRINGING FORTH THE GIFTS GOD HAS ALREADY PLACED WITHIN US.

This same resilience was evident in the ministry. When their church purchased a property to build a thousand-seat sanctuary, dishonest contractors tried to derail the vision by overcharging, stealing funds, and obstructing progress. But the family pressed forward, anchored by their confidence, confession, and consistent action. That unwavering vision remains alive 45 years later, as the church continues to reconcile people back to God and glorify Him through transformed lives.

EDUCATION MEETS CALLING

David’s educational journey reflects the marriage of discipline and divine purpose. Earning an honors degree in finance and economics gave him valuable knowledge, but he came to see true education differently.

“Education is to draw out,” David explains. “It’s about bringing forth the

His calling was not defined by the degree itself, but by the spiritual mandate found in Habakkuk 2:2—to write the vision, make it plain, and run with clarity. That clarity became a cornerstone of his mentoring approach. David doesn’t push people toward his own goals or organizational agendas; instead, he helps them discover and cultivate the God-given potential within themselves.

CLARITY AS THE ROOT OF INFLUENCE

One of the most important lessons David has learned as a leader came during seasons of personal stagnation. In those moments, indecision made leading others difficult. “You cannot lead people if you don’t know where you’re going,” he reflects.

Faith transformed this challenge into a guiding principle: when you are clear

from the person, recognizing the deeper spiritual battle at play.

gifts God has already placed within us.”

LEADERSHIP IS ABOUT GALVANIZING A TEAM TO MOVE FORWARD AS ONE. IT MAY LOOK LIKE ONE PERSON IS OUT IN FRONT, BUT IT’S REALLY ABOUT DRAWING PEOPLE TOGETHER FOR A GREATER VISION.

about where God is calling you, the path becomes easier to walk—and easier for others to follow.

Today, David focuses on helping others gain that same clarity, while developing the rhythms and disciplines necessary to sustain it. For him, faith is more than belief—it is clarity and discipline in motion. These qualities enable leaders to stay the course, overcome resistance, and inspire lasting change.

A STEWARDSHIP-CENTERED LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY

David defines faith-driven leadership as stewardship. God plants the seed of potential and vision inside each person, and leadership is the process of cultivating that seed through transformation. This transformation bears the fruit of love, patience, goodness, humility, and self-control— qualities essential to servant leadership.

“Leadership is about galvanizing a team to move forward as one,” David says. “It may look like one person is out in front, but it’s really about drawing people together for a greater vision.”

He is guided by the words of 1 Peter 4:10—“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as

faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

BRIDGING THE GAP WITH HIS BOOK

David’s passion for clarity in faith and leadership inspired his book, Christian Fundamentals. The idea was born out of his lifelong experience in the church, where he noticed a gap: people were hearing biblical truths yet often struggling to see those truths produce results in their daily lives.

The book lays out a process of transformation by organizing biblical principles into a practical framework that readers can live out in every area of life—whether in business, ministry, or personal growth. At its core, Christian Fundamentals reinforces the truth that “the real estate of God is our mind and our body,” and everything we build flows from how we allow God’s Word to shape us.

David’s hope is that readers will see themselves as part of God’s Kingdom, with Christ as the ultimate source of wisdom and strength. When we align our actions with His principles, we not only grow personally but also create a contagious energy that inspires others.

A LEGACY IN MOTION

David Jones’s leadership journey is a living testament to the power of faith in action. From sharing a crowded bedroom as a child to navigating the challenges of ministry expansion, from earning academic honors to building businesses and ministries, from guiding leaders and clients toward clarity in their vision to authoring Christian Fundamentals—his path reflects resilience, clarity, and unwavering stewardship.

In a world often fixated on quick wins and personal gain, David’s story offers a different vision: one where leadership is less about titles and more about transformation, less about self-promotion, and more about equipping others to build— where God’s glory is revealed as vision becomes reality. His work in business, ministry, and coaching reflects a consistent theme—helping people tap into their God-given potential, execute with clarity, and create something lasting.

For David, the seeds of faith planted in Detroit decades ago continue to bear fruit— not just in his own life, but in the lives of those he is called to serve.

Hrishi Baskaran

A SERVANT LEADER

by Bindu A. Chowritmootoo

When you meet Hrishi Baskaran, Principal Consultant at The Table Group, you do not encounter a man trying to command attention. Instead, you meet someone who has mastered the art of elevating others and of creating the space for leaders to rise into their potential. His philosophy is simple: leadership is not about being in the spotlight; it’s about holding the light so others can shine. But this perspective was not where Hrishi began his journey. It was shaped over decades of personal trials, cultural transitions, corporate successes, and one defining realization that changed the way he saw himself forever.

EARLY ROOTS IN HUMBLE SURROUNDINGS

Hrishi’s story begins in Sri Lanka, but his formative years unfolded in obscure South-Central Africa, far from anything significant. “We lived in areas with not much influence,” he recalls. “I was the kid who was often forgotten and ignored.”

From a young age, he learned that opportunity wasn’t always handed to you, and you had to spot it and seize it. One of his earliest lessons came from a humble newspaper route. “My Dad pointed out that I didn’t get taxed for delivering newspapers,” he says with a chuckle. “So, I started collecting all the local newspaper routes I could. I guess, even early in life, I started to seek unconventional opportunities to somehow get ahead. But, for the wrong reasons.”

That entrepreneurial spark was fueled by necessity. A three-time immigrant, Hrishi admits that his early motivation for leadership wasn’t rooted in service rather it was about survival and advancement. “Initially I wanted to be in leadership for the wrong reasons,” he says candidly. “I thought leadership was about recognition, about finally getting my turn because I had put in the time. I didn’t yet understand that leadership is really about influence and servanthood, the kind that lifts others up.”

THE PIVOTAL REALIZATION

The turning point came during a con -

sulting engagement years later. Hrishi was advising a senior leader on how to structure an upcoming company meeting. He suggested re-centering the meeting around a clear vision with practical application. The leader took his advice, ran a very successful meeting, and never mentioned Hrishi’s contribution.

“I sat in the back and watched as he delivered the meeting using ideas I had shared. My name never came up,” Hrishi remembers. “I left for my flight feeling invisible again.”

The next morning, during prayer, something shifted. “The thought came to me: I am not the guy, I am the guy behind the guy. And at that moment, I laughed, because I finally understood. My whole life, I had been chasing the role of being the guy. But the real calling on my life was to serve leaders, to make them look good, to help them succeed.”

That mindset change was liberating, and difficult. No longer in competition with CEOs or trying to prove himself,

Hrishi became a trusted ally to those in top positions. “Once I embraced that I was there to serve, not to outshine, the opportunities poured in. Referrals grew. Leaders trusted me because they knew I wasn’t a threat. But, if I am being honest, every now and then, I still struggle with not being recognized or appreciated for my efforts. At least now I know that those moments are a result of my insecurity, when I am not focused on what I am called to do.”

FROM CORPORATE HUSTLE TO ORGANIZATIONAL HEALTH

Before becoming a consultant, Hrishi spent 15 years in IT leadership. “The

LEADERSHIP IS A LIFESTYLE, YOU CAN’T TURN IT OFF. IT’S ABOUT MAKING OTHERS’ LIVES BETTER, WHETHER YOU’RE IN A BOARDROOM, AT A MEETING, OR JUST CATCHING UP OVER A COFFEE.

early 2000s in tech were all about the hustle,” he recalls. “I started in inside sales, climbed to senior management, and learned how to take risks that paid off.”

He wasn’t just an employee, he was an entrepreneur at heart. While still in high school, Hrishi launched his first business in the pager industry, later moving into cell phones. “I realized I could exploit my relationships for profit,” he says.

“It was a grind, but those experiences taught me that success without purpose eventually feels empty.”

That insight became his bridge into consulting around organizational health, which focuses not just on business performance, but on building strong, cohesive leadership teams who ensure their people are engaged and committed to their mission.

WHAT ORGANIZATIONAL HEALTH REALLY MEANS

For Hrishi, organizational health isn’t a buzzword, it’s the foundation of effective leadership. “At its highest level, it’s about

clarity, cohesion, and communication,” he explains. “A healthy leadership team knows how to work together, and the organization benefits because of their unity.”

When advising CEOs, he offers three practical steps to elevate their leadership team:

1. Clarify Your Why – Define your core purpose, “why you exist,” so that team members have meaning in their work.

2. Remove Politics – Create a safe environment where vulnerability can be expressed, and truth can be spoken without fear of repercussion.

3. Align Your Team – It’s not pursuing consensus or agreement, it’s about ensuring clarity and commitment.

LEGACY BEYOND THE BOARDROOM

After collaborating with leaders for almost 30 years, Hrishi’s long-term vision is clear: “I want leaders to discover their true reason to lead. Too many are in leadership for the wrong reasons. Leadership is a calling, and the greatest leaders are the greatest servants.”

One story stands out in his memory. While coaching a leadership team, a team member resigned. Instead of focusing on the loss, the leader reflected on his responsibility to create a meaningful work experience, even if people leave.

It was then that Hrishi realized this was the kind of lasting, transformational impact he wanted to inspire in other leaders.

Hrishi warns against the trap of leading for recognition. “Most of the time, no one will thank you for the impact you made. Serving is serving without expectation. The moment you start craving acknowledgement, you’ve missed the point.”

THE HEART OF THE MATTER

Today, Hrishi’s influence extends far beyond corporate clients. He serves as a board trustee for a university, mentors community leaders, and has served the leaders in his community church. “Leadership is a lifestyle, you can’t turn it off,”

he says. “It’s about making others’ lives better, whether you’re in a boardroom, at a meeting, or just catching up over a coffee.”

Faith is the cornerstone of his leadership philosophy. “In the past, leadership was about advancing myself. Now, I look to the greatest leader in history, Jesus who served others and literally gave His life for all. That’s my inspiration. It’s really hard, and really worth it. The highest honor of being a leader, is to serve.”

At the core of Hrishi’s journey is a profound truth: leadership isn’t about titles, stages, or applause. It’s about influence, service, and the willingness to be “the guy behind the guy.” By embracing that role, Hrishi has found not only greater opportunities but also deeper fulfillment. “When you serve without expectation, that’s when you truly lead,” he says. And that’s a legacy worth building.

For more than three decades, Vaughn Leon McCall has demonstrated that caring for hair is both a skill and a ministry of beauty, confidence, and renewal. “I grew up in Eatonville, Florida, the first Black chartered town in the United States,” Vaughn begins. “I am the youngest of five children. I love to laugh, but I was a little shy until middle school.” That small-town beginning—rich with laughter, legacy, and lessons in resilience—shaped the visionary behind Hair Hero Elite, LLC.

INSPIRED BY LEGACY

“I was closest to my oldest sister, Tina,” Vaughn recalls. “She was breaking records and making history before me in the sport of professional tennis. Tina was the first Black female to receive a full athletic scholarship at Indiana University. In the late 1970s, due to the prevailing racial climate of the time, many people were unaware of her accomplishments and the barriers she had broken.

“But I knew, and my sister’s achievements inspired me to strive for greatness. Tina gifted me a pair of hair clippers for my 16th birthday. Eager to try out my new gift, I called my best friend and gave him a haircut. He was pleased with my handiwork. And as the saying goes, the rest is history. I have been cutting hair ever since. So, without a doubt, I credit my sister, Tina, with my becoming a hairstylist.”

From that first haircut, purpose took root. “After graduating high school, I earned my license from Orlando Vocational Technical School in cosmetology,” he says. “I fell in love with helping and pleasing people, and that’s what kept me going strong.”

Thirty-four years later, that same passion still fuels his mission to restore confidence—one client, one class, and one hair strand at a time.

ESTABLISHING HAIR HERO ELITE

As the CEO of Hair Hero Elite, LLC, Vaughn has developed a brand that combines science, art, and excellent service.

LeonVaughnMcCall

RESTORING CONFIDENCE, ONE STRAND AT A TIME THROUGH FAITH, FOCUS, AND FORMULATION IN HAIR CARE

by Dr. Ruby Evans

“Because I have been an educator since 1993, the vision for Hair Hero Elite was built around helping professionals and consumers through a merger of education and services,” he explains. “The hair care products came later.”

Education became the core of the brand. When Vaughn saw that more clients were experiencing hair loss, he didn’t just sympathize; he conducted in-depth research to find ways to address the problem.

“I was inspired to help my clients who were losing hair,” he says, “so I started studying, researching, and taking classes on hair loss, where the field of study is known as trichology.”

His research led to The Breakage Book: How to Not Lose Your Hair—a resource that combines compassion with science. “I want my readers and clients to understand that they may be able to restore their hair loss,” he says. “However, this restoration may often be hidden in methods and techniques of which the average person may be unaware.”

CHANGING THE INDUSTRY

When asked about the current state of the haircare industry, Vaughn’s passion is unmistakable.

“That question excites me,” he says. “Particularly when it comes to natural hair, I have seen a resurgence of pride

among Black women in their hair care –wearing natural hair, wigs, weaves, and extensions. However, I am disappointed by what seems to be a significant decline in Black hair professionals.”

McCall doesn’t hold back. “Many seem to have minimized the art of caring for the hair and scalp and maintaining both in good health, while also providing a great look. A good stylist doesn’t choose one over the other; they aim to achieve all these at once.

Vaughn’s mission is to bring health and pride back to the industry. “I wrote my book to help people suffering from alopecia and hair issues. My book informs readers about practices that can damage their healthy hair and scalp.”

ANSWERED PRAYER IN A BOTTLE

Innovation met faith when Vaughn developed his signature product, Aqua Scalp —a plant-derived, water-based solution for alopecia, eczema, and dry scalp. He shares, “I advise readers to beware of certain ingredients in products that increase or cause alopecia.

“I didn’t realize how many products actually had harmful ingredients that negatively affect the scalp,” Vaughn says. “My first mentor in the hair care industry suggested that I make a hair care product myself. His advice resonated with me, and he said that I would be the best person to create a viable product for

my clients because I work with hair. He taught me how to formulate products, and it took me nine months to develop my formula with my daughter’s help. My second mentor, Bobby J Hunt, taught me to master color and the importance of ingredients when formulating haircare products. Having had that mentorship, I am now able to teach classes on those same concepts.

“We developed a water-based, plant-derived product that helps grow your hair. It has also shown promising results in reducing eczema, a dry, itchy scalp, and other disorders associated with alopecia. But I did pray that God would guide me and help me develop it, and now it does more than I initially intended.

KNOW YOUR HAIR. KNOW YOUR PRODUCT.

As a national educator, Vaughn has collaborated with some of the most respected brands in the haircare industry, including Straight Request and Itely Hairfashion. Vaughn has also been part of the Southeast Bronner Brothers Dream Team, an exclusive regional group of stylists and educators created to lead platform artistry, classes, and product education at major beauty events and salon training sessions.

“I learned not to get caught up in the hype, and to remember the main focus is to help people, remain professional, and stay educated,” he says. “Seeing that Hair Hero Elite is about educating people, I’m always educating myself. That’s why I’m working on completing my national board-certified Trichology certification with the P2P Certification and Training Institute under Dr. Suzette Robinson.” The P2P curriculum covers hair growth cycles, causes and treatments of hair loss, scalp disorders, and related topics.

When it comes to common mistakes stylists make, Vaughn’s answer is clear: “Many hairstylists suffer from the disease of lack of education,” he says. “My daily mantra is, ‘Know your hair. Know your product.’ The problem is that the stylist often thinks they already know what to do for each situation, client, and hair

type. However, things change in every industry. That you knew five years ago does not mean it’s the same now. It’s like your cell phone—if you had a cell phone 10 years ago, it can’t do the same thing as a cell phone purchased today.

“The products keep getting better, but not every stylist is necessarily investing in their education to improve their knowledge of haircare,” he warns. “My methods teach knowing the past and the present to ensure the best haircare future for the client.”

INNOVATION WITH PURPOSE

At Hair Hero Elite, our main innovation is in ongoing education—especially when it comes to understanding all hair types and recognizing the individual needs of clients,” he says. “While we offer great products, they’re only as effective as the knowledge behind them.

“That’s why we focus on teaching how these products interact with different hair textures and conditions. This education is especially important for mixed and multicultural families. I’ve worked with families whose children have a mix of hair types, and it’s essential to approach hair care with cultural awareness and technical understanding.”

Through Hair Hero Elite, Vaughn is maintaining the integrity of the whole profession. “By focusing on training the next generation of stylists through a multicultural perspective—teaching them to ‘Know the Hair and Know the Product’—we enable them to deliver better hair care so they can build trust with their clients,” he says. “In doing so, we help preserve and uplift the role of the stylist as a true expert in hair and scalp health. And to lead this movement, I must keep learning myself—always studying, always evolving.”

BUILDING SKILL AND LEGACY

His advice to emerging stylists is honest and practical. “Some people may take offense to my answer—and that’s okay,” he says. “I encourage them to take multiple Hair Hero Elite courses to become more well-rounded in their

approach. We’re building a platform of online courses designed to educate and empower the next generation of multicultural, talented stylists.”

Beyond the classroom and salon, Vaughn also stresses the importance of work-life balance. “I had to deprogram myself to only focus on work during work hours,” he admits. “When I’m done, it’s time for family and relaxation. I try to spend the first part of the day focusing on my faith and my body,” he adds. “I have true ME time, before I share myself. My faith is everything. I pray over the products I create while I’m developing them, and I pray about what to do today and in the future. I ask God to show me how to glorify Him in my current and next moves.”

WHAT’S NEXT

Even after 34 years, Vaughn’s vision continues to grow. “We are working on becoming a global organization concerning education and product distribution,” he says. “We are preparing to launch a new product line called the Petty line. We are Petty with a purpose because we want you to know the truth.” What started with a birthday gift—a simple pair of clippers—has developed into a legacy of restoration.

Through his company, Hair Hero Elite, LLC, and his book, The Breakage Book: How to Not Lose Your Hair, along with an unwavering commitment to excellence, Vaughn Leon McCall keeps redefining what it means to be a hairstylist. He encourages his peers to remember that ongoing education and professional growth, infused with faith, focus, and product formulation, can rebuild clients’ confidence, one strand at a time.

A.GareyDuncan

DESIGNING COMMUNITIES & SHAPING FUTURES

by Ann Marie Bryan

When Garey A. Duncan talks about engineering, he does so with the precision of a seasoned professional and the conviction of a man on a mission. Every word carries the weight of technical mastery and an unwavering sense of purpose. For him, the work is never just about calculations and construction; it is a calling anchored in faith and service. “Engineering was always more than a profession to me,” he says. “It’s a calling. I want to make life better for people through the projects I design.”

A registered civil engineer with the Professional Engineers Registration Board in Jamaica, Duncan has built a career that bridges both the private and public sectors. His expertise spans engineering design, surveying, and the demanding realm of construction project and contract management. As Project Engineer, he has shouldered responsibility for contract administration and the successful delivery of landmark developments, while also serving as a design consultant who prepares critical infrastructure drawings and reports for private developers seeking subdivision approval.

From the redevelopment of Port Royal Street to the construction of Montego Bay Fire Station, his fingerprints are etched into Jamaica’s infrastructure. Knowledgeable, disciplined, and purpose-driven, Duncan is not only shaping roads and buildings—he is strengthening communities, determined to leave every place better than he found it.

EARLY YEARS

Duncan grew up in Greater Portmore, Jamaica, in a community called Six West. Life there was marked by the vibrancy and challenges of urban Jamaica. His earliest education was close to home at Belmont Park Primary School. “It was easy on my mom to pick me up from school and easy for me to walk from school as well,” he recalls. Those formative years nurtured both discipline and curiosity, laying the groundwork for what was to come.

By the early 2000s, Duncan sat the Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT) and

passed for Ardenne High School, one of Jamaica’s top secondary schools. It was at Ardenne that his love for science and design began to take root. “At Ardenne, I really started liking subjects like physics and technical drawing,” he says.

His family’s support anchored his dreams. “I’d say I’m close with my family—my mom, my father, my brother,” he shares. His parents, married for decades, instilled resilience and integrity, and his younger brother, now a mechanical engineer, reflects the same drive for excellence that runs through the family. “They’ve always been supportive, and I’m grateful for that.”

With that foundation, Duncan stepped confidently into the next chapter of his journey.

CHOOSING CIVIL ENGINEERING

A graduate of the University of Technology (UTech), Jamaica, Duncan distinguished himself early on. He was awarded

EACH PROJECT BROUGHT NEW CHALLENGES AND NEW OPPORTUNITIES. ENGINEERING ISN’T JUST THEORY. IT’S ABOUT MANAGING PEOPLE, MANAGING RESOURCES, AND FINDING SOLUTIONS UNDER PRESSURE.

the prestigious Desmond Young Award as the top civil engineering graduate of the Class of 2015 and earned a place on the faculty’s Dean’s List for his outstanding academic performance.

His decision to pursue civil engineering at UTech was a natural extension of the passions sparked in high school. Technical drawing and science had stirred something in him, but civil engineering offered the chance to translate those interests into tangible solutions. “It wasn’t just about getting a degree,” he explains. “I wanted to use what I learned to improve the lives of people. I wanted to serve Jamaica.”

At UTech, he honed not only technical skills but also a deeper understanding of the infrastructure needs of a developing nation. He came to see that engineering was never only about structures—it was about communities, safety, and the long-term sustainability of the country he loved. His academic journey laid the foundation for a career defined as much by service as by science.

ENGINEERING GROWTH AND GRIT

Fresh out of university, Duncan entered the workforce ready to apply his knowledge. His career path reflects steady growth and increasing responsibility across Jamaica’s engineering landscape. He began as a Project Engineer with Civil, Environmental and Coastal (CEAC) Engineering Solutions Ltd. in Kingston, where he honed his skills on complex infrastructure assignments. From there, he joined the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) in 2018, serving as Project Engineer for more than four years, managing community development and

national projects that directly impacted lives. In 2023, he advanced to his current role as Engineer at the Housing Agency of Jamaica Limited, where he continues to bring vision and precision to projects that shape the nation’s future.

“It was a learning process,” he admits. “Each project brought new challenges and new opportunities. There are things you can only learn on the ground. Engineering isn’t just theory. It’s about managing people, managing resources, and finding solutions under pressure.”

Those lessons would prove invaluable as he took on increasingly complex assignments, each one building his reputation as a reliable, innovative, and service-driven engineer.

LEAVING A MARK

Over time, Duncan’s portfolio grew to include some of Jamaica’s most impactful infrastructure projects. Among them: the Port Royal Street Coastal Revetment Project that won the Jamaica Institute of Engineers Project of the Year award in 2022. “That project was special,” he explains. “It wasn’t just about upgrading a roadway. It was about safety, about resilience, about creating something that could stand up to the realities of climate change.”

Another defining achievement was the Montego Bay Fire Station, now a regional headquarters. “That was close to my heart,” Duncan says. “We built a four-story fire station.” He also contributed to the Yallahs and Port Maria Fire Stations, ensuring communities had modern facilities built for resilience.

For Duncan, these projects are more than career highlights, they are expressions of service. “It’s about protecting people and property. You realize that your work isn’t about drawings on a page—it’s the difference between preparedness and tragedy. Every project I’ve been part of, I think about how it impacts the people who will use it. That’s what matters most.”

LEADING BY EXAMPLE

“Leadership is about authority and influ-

ence, but it is also about responsibility. You have to lead by example,” Duncan emphasizes. “You can’t just tell people what to do. You have to show them— through your work ethic, your integrity, and your respect for others.”

Though his field is dominated by technical detail, Duncan insists that engineering is deeply human. “You’re not just building roads or buildings—you’re building opportunities, you’re building safety, you’re building futures,” he says.

His approach blends precision with empathy. “I always ask: will this project make life easier, safer, better for people? Because at the end of the day, if it doesn’t improve people’s lives, then we’ve missed the mark.”

Faith, too, undergirds his leadership style. “My faith keeps me grounded,” he shares. “It reminds me that I’m here to serve, not just to succeed.” This perspective helps him balance the demands of his career with the values he holds dear: service, humility, and excellence.

Balance, he admits, is not always easy. Engineering projects often demand long hours and intense focus. Still, Duncan makes time for the people who matter most. “At the end of the day, your family is your foundation,” he reflects. “If you lose sight of that, then what’s the point of all the work?”

VISION FOR THE FUTURE

The road ahead is as carefully charted as the blueprints Duncan designs. His immediate focus is completing his master’s degree—a milestone he views both as an academic pursuit and the foundation for the next chapter of his career. “I want to finish the masters, and I’m aiming to do very well in it,” he says, confident that advanced study will sharpen his expertise and position him for greater opportunities.

I ALWAYS ASK: WILL THIS PROJECT MAKE LIFE EASIER, SAFER, BETTER FOR PEOPLE?

BECAUSE AT THE END OF THE DAY, IF IT DOESN’T IMPROVE PEOPLE’S LIVES, THEN WE’VE MISSED THE MARK.

Looking further down the road, he envisions rising to more senior roles within the industry before launching a firm of his own. “By the time I reach maybe 45 or 50, I can actually start my firm with sound knowledge and experience,” he explains. Until then, he is steadily building his network, leveraging consulting work, and strengthening his professional reputation. “The most important thing is getting my name out there,” he emphasizes, “I want people to have confidence in the name Garey Duncan as an engineer.”

For Garey Duncan, engineering is more than structures of steel and stone; it is the quiet architecture of service, faith, and purpose. Each project is a chance to protect, to uplift, and to prepare Jamaica for the future. His legacy will not only be measured in buildings that stand the test of time, but in the lives made safer, the communities made stronger, and the nation shaped by his vision and integrity.

Aqua Umoren

RUNNING LIFE’S RACE WITH PURPOSE, PASSION, AND SERVICE

by Bindu A. Chowritmootoo

Some leaders are born into opportunity; others build it through determination, sacrifice, and an unrelenting drive to make a difference. Aqua Umoren is firmly in the latter category, a man whose journey from the track-and-field lanes of Louisiana to the helm of three thriving healthcare companies is powered by faith, family, and a deep sense of responsibility to serve others.

Born in Los Angeles, California, and later raised in Seattle, Washington, Aqua grew up as the only child of a devoted single mother who worked in airline management for Alaska Airlines. His father, an OB-GYN, was not present during his formative years, but Aqua’s mother filled the gap with unwavering dedication. “I saw a lot of sacrifices my mom made to raise me,” Aqua shares. “It motivated me every single day. I’ve always wanted to make her proud.”

That drive became the internal gas pedal he never lets up on. In a gesture of gratitude, Aqua later purchased his mother a house and a car, symbols of the love and respect he carries for her.

In 2018, Aqua’s life story expanded in a way he never expected. He discovered he was not, in fact, an only child but the second oldest of four. “It reshaped my understanding of family,” he says, “and reinforced my commitment to lead and connect with those I care about.”

FAITH, FAMILY, AND THE DALLAS CHAPTER

In 2005, Aqua moved to Dallas with his then-girlfriend, now wife of nearly 20 years for a better quality of life and career opportunities. Together, they built a family, and today his role as husband and father is inseparable from his leadership philosophy.

“My family is the core of my being,” Aqua says. “Marriage has taught me compromise, sacrifice, and to put my wife first in my decisions. God is at the center of our life, guiding how I lead both at home and in business.”

With faith as his blueprint, Aqua navigates the demands of running Holding Hands Hospice, Magnolia Estates Assisted Living, and A Plus Medical Transportation. These companies are not just businesses; they are platforms for community impact. Holding Hands Hospice provides compassionate endof-life care, Magnolia Estates offers dignified assisted living for seniors, and A Plus Medical Transportation ensures patients can access the care they need safely and comfortably.

BALANCING

AMBITION AND SERVICE

Aqua’s leadership style blends discipline with accessibility. His day begins at 7:45 a.m., maximizing his productive hours, and he prioritizes task lists to keep three companies running smoothly.

“I employ team members who are like-minded,” Aqua explains. “I strip down the hierarchy no one is above the work. I lead by example, staying handson in every area so my team is inspired to hustle alongside me.”

It’s a philosophy rooted in humility. As a former collegiate track-and-field athlete and scholarship recipient at Xavier University of Louisiana, Aqua learned early that success requires consistent effort. He was the first individual in his school’s track-and-field program to score points at a state-level competition, a milestone that cemented his competitive drive.

“I work to be the best I can be and let that carry over into my professional career,” Aqua says. “Sports taught me discipline, resilience, and the power of showing up every day.”

I EMPLOY TEAM MEMBERS WHO ARE LIKE-MINDED. I STRIP DOWN THE HIERARCHY NO ONE IS ABOVE THE WORK. I LEAD BY EXAMPLE, STAYING HANDSON IN EVERY AREA SO MY TEAM IS INSPIRED TO HUSTLE ALONGSIDE ME.

LEADING WITH HEART IN HEALTHCARE

While Aqua’s business acumen is undeniable—backed by a bachelor’s degree in business management and an MBA in Healthcare Administration what sets him apart is his personal connection to the people he serves.

From the earliest days of Holding Hands Hospice, Aqua made it a point to meet every patient and their family in person. “I treat my patients and families the way I would want to be treated,” he says. “It’s emotional work, but it’s also deeply rewarding.”

This personal involvement is rare among business owners in the healthcare sector, yet it’s a hallmark of Aqua’s servant-leadership approach. Whether coordinating transportation for a dialysis patient through A Plus Medical Transport or ensuring a resident at Magnolia Estates feels at home, Aqua’s presence is felt at every level.

ADAPTABILITY AND SERVANT LEADERSHIP

One of Aqua’s guiding principles is adaptability meeting people where they are, rather than where he is. This ability to relate to individuals across different backgrounds has helped him build trust with patients, families, employees, and community partners alike.

“Leadership is not something you wake up and do,” Aqua emphasizes. “It’s built over years of experience. You can’t lead if you don’t have people following you, and people follow those who lead by example.”

His leadership is not about personal recognition but about creating meaningful impact. He measures success not by titles or accolades, but by the well-being of those in his care and the satisfaction of knowing he gave his all.

A LEGACY FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

For Aqua, legacy begins at home. He wants his children to understand the value of hard work and to have a blueprint for success. That means not only providing education and opportunities but modeling the character traits discipline, integrity, perseverance that make achievement sustainable.

“I want my kids to put in the work at all times,” Aqua says. “And I want professionals to remember me as someone who gave his all to patients and families, as a leader who cared more about service than status.”

RUNNING LIFE’S RACE WITH PURPOSE

From the track to the boardroom, Aqua Umoren’s life has been about more than winning; it’s been about running with purpose. Whether he’s managing the delicate moments of hospice care, providing dignified living spaces for seniors, or ensuring medical transportation is safe and reliable, Aqua leads with the heart of a servant and the mind of a strategist.

In an industry that can often feel transactional, Aqua’s approach is deeply relational. He meets people at their most vulnerable and offers them dignity, compassion, and hope. His story is a reminder that true leadership is not measured by the size of your portfolio, but by the size of your heart.

Dr. Anthony D. Shannon Sr.

WALKING BOLDLY IN DIVINE PURPOSE

by Ann Marie Bryan

Long before Dr. Anthony D. Shannon Sr. became a prophetic voice to nations, he was the child they said would never speak. Born lifeless and revived by the breath of God, his very first moments on earth hinted at a destiny that would rise above every limitation placed on him. A severe speech impediment, a learning disability, and predictions of academic failure could not silence the divine call over his life. Today, Pastor Shannon is an award-winning international keynote speaker, leadership expert, and the Founder and Senior Pastor of The Victory Church International, in Westland, Michigan. Above all, his life is living proof that God’s purpose overrides every obstacle man can predict.

His interview with VBD Magazine was nothing short of remarkable—equal parts wisdom, testimony, and practical insight. Every response carried the weight of lived experience, the kind that leaves you both inspired and challenged to rise higher. Pastor Shannon shared his story and imparted vision, showing that true leadership is rooted in faith, service, and the courage to walk boldly in purpose.

THE CALL TO LEAD

Growing up in Detroit, Michigan, Pastor Shannon’s early years were marked by challenges that could have defined his life but didn’t. Doctors told his mother he wouldn’t live a normal life, nor would he ever speak. He didn’t utter his first full sentence until the fourth grade, and it wasn’t until the seventh grade, under the care of a speech therapist, that his journey toward confident communication began.

Pastor Shannon’s academic path is a demonstration of resilience and faith. He graduated from Detroit Persian High School and earned a scholarship to attend Eastern Kentucky University, where he completed his undergraduate studies. His passion for learning and ministry later led him to Southern Christian University, where he pursued both his master’s and doctoral degrees, as well as receiving an honorary doctorate. Never one to stop growing, Pastor Shannon is currently

working toward his second master’s degree at Virginia Union University.

“Every person has the capacity to learn,” Pastor Shannon shared. “You just have to discover your learning style.”

The call to ministry wasn’t something Pastor Shannon initially welcomed. As a successful businessman and co-founder of the Christian Business Network, he was firmly rooted in the corporate world when the late Dr. Myles Munroe invited him to assist with international leadership conferences. It was during one such event—under the theme “The Methods Must Change, But the Message Remains”—that the Holy Spirit interrupted his plans.

“The Holy Spirit fell, and God told me I was going to be a pastor,” he recalls. “I said, ‘No, Lord—I’m a businessman.’ But when God calls, you respond.” With mentorship from Dr. Munroe and guidance from other spiritual leaders, Pastor Shannon eventually launched what would become The Victory Church International, a ministry rooted in leadership development and prophetic insight.

But his influence wouldn’t stop at the church doors. In response to the growing need for Christ-centered leaders in every sphere of society, Pastor Shannon launched the Leaders Live Generously Academy, a training ground for marketplace and ministry leaders. The platform

later expanded to include the Leaders Live Generously Summit, Prayer Breakfast of Champions, and a series of books, including his latest titles, Live Generously and Sacred Success: Unlocking God-Given Prosperity.

A PROPHET WITH MARKETPLACE PRECISION

Ordained to the prophetic office in 1989 during a powerful revival service in Indianapolis, Pastor Shannon has never shied away from the supernatural. His ability to flow between the pulpit and the boardroom has made him a sought-after voice for corporate executives, ministry leaders, and aspiring entrepreneurs alike. Before stepping into full-time ministry in 2008, he built a successful career in the HR and payroll industry—serving as a District Vice President and later Vice President at Ceridian Corporation, with additional leadership roles at ADP and Staff Plus. Those years in the marketplace sharpened his strategic thinking and leadership skills, which he now integrates into ministry.

I EMPLOY TEAM MEMBERS WHO ARE LIKE-MINDED. I STRIP DOWN THE HIERARCHY NO ONE IS ABOVE THE WORK. I LEAD BY EXAMPLE, STAYING HANDS-ON IN EVERY AREA SO MY TEAM IS INSPIRED TO HUSTLE ALONGSIDE ME.

“God taught me to extract principles from the Word,” he explains. “I don’t just preach sermons—I teach timeless truths. I’ll tell a corporate story and then reveal that it was actually a parable from Scripture. That’s how I merge faith and strategy without sounding ‘churchy.’”

Whether teaching about emotional intelligence, organizational leadership, or prophetic insight, Pastor Shannon’s message is that your purpose is not confined to a pulpit. “Leadership is about transformation, not titles,” he says. “And you can’t transform anyone until you’ve been transformed yourself.”

FAITH, FAMILY, AND FOUNDATION

Behind the man is a family steeped in faith and excellence. Pastor Shannon’s wife, Glynis, a gifted vocalist who once sang backup for Aretha Franklin, has been a cornerstone of both his life and ministry. Together, they raised three children who are thriving in both the ministry and the marketplace.

“I laid hands on each of them and prophesied over them,” he shares. “Now they all serve, they all lead, and they’re all walking in purpose.”

From Friday night Shabbat-style family devotionals to assigning each family member a role on vacations, Pastor Shannon has modeled intentional family leadership. “Clarity of vision,” he says, “starts at home.”

TRAINING THE NEXT GENERATION

One of Pastor Shannon’s greatest joys is mentoring young men through his Men of Destiny (M.O.D.) Squad initiative—a mentoring program designed for those society labeled as “slow learners” or “troubled youth.”

Rooted in the Word of God and built on the four pillars of Courage, Chivalry, Faithfulness, and Wisdom, M.O.D. exists to develop strong, Spirit-led men who lead in their homes, churches, and communities. Through biblical principles, practical coaching, and a strong dose of chivalry, these young men are transformed into leaders.

“They open doors, lead meetings, and own businesses,” he says with joy. “We teach them that chivalry is not dead, and that identity and character still matter.”

And he doesn’t stop at mentoring youth. His training programs emphasize the importance of succession. “If you don’t have a successor, you’re not successful,” he says. “Jesus trained twelve and changed the world. We must do the same.”

LEADING THROUGH CRISIS

When COVID-19 hit, many churches were paralyzed, but not The Victory Church International. Pastor Shannon immediately pivoted into technology—launching online systems, giving platforms, and leadership training modules. He even went back to school to study Artificial Intelligence (AI) and tech innovation, a decision that would later allow him to help other ministries survive the digital shift.

“We moved at warp speed,” he says. “We didn’t wait—we prepared. And now, we’re helping others do the same.”

UNLOCKING YOUR DIVINE INHERITANCE

In his book Sacred Success: Unlocking God-Given Prosperity, Pastor Shannon challenges readers to rethink everything they’ve been taught about prosperity. “What if what you’ve been taught about success is holding you back?” he asks. The book explores how sacred success

isn’t about chasing wealth but about fulfilling your divine assignment.

“Once you find your purpose, the provision will follow,” he says. “Sacred success is about unlocking your God-given inheritance.”

His consulting firm, Anthony D Shannon Consulting Group, helps leaders build emotional intelligence, resilience, and servant leadership. Through assessments and strategic placement, he ensures that team members serve where they’re gifted and thrive where they’re called.

GROUNDED IN GRACE

Despite his accomplishments, Pastor Shannon remains deeply grounded. “My grandmother always told me, never forget where you came from,” he says. “No matter how many degrees or accolades you get, it doesn’t make you better than anyone, maybe just better off.”

He stays connected to God through hours of daily Word immersion, praying in the Spirit, and regular walks where he listens to the Scriptures or prophetic messages. His spiritual discipline is woven into every aspect of his life and leadership. “Discipline is enforced obedience,” he says. “Without it, you’ll never do the extra.”

LOOKING AHEAD

As 2025 comes to a close, Pastor Shannon is preparing for the next Leaders Live Generously Summit, scheduled for December 15-17, 2025. This virtual event to equip, encourage, and empower leaders worldwide. He’s also launching a new book, The Prophet, and working on a poetry collection titled Prophetic Poetry, to be released in 2026.

Whether preaching in the pulpit, speaking at corporate events, or pouring into his family and students, Pastor Shannon is on divine assignment. “Everyone is born for a purpose,” he says. “And if you don’t know your purpose, you’ll miss your life.”

Mariana McWilliams

A GOLDEN VISION FOR YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP

by W. Mason Dunn

Mariana McWilliams is not your average fourteenyear-old. A freshman in high school, she has already carved a niche as a young entrepreneur, creating magical experiences for children and families through her business, Mari’s Gold LLC.

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Mariana moved with her family to Arizona five years ago. The transition was daunting; outside of her grandparents, she knew very few people. Yet what could have been an isolating experience became the start of a remarkable journey. “Making friends helped me feel more comfortable, and with that comfort came confidence,” Mariana recalls. “That confidence encouraged me to start conversations with new people, and before long, I discovered how much I enjoy connecting with others.”

THE SPARK OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Her love of connecting with people ignited Mariana’s entrepreneurial spirit. Volunteering was her first step, giving her the chance to serve others and build meaningful relationships. “Volunteering showed me I could make a difference in people’s lives,” she says. “And that’s exactly what I wanted to do with my business.”

The founding vision for Mari’s Gold LLC was simple and creative: sensory treasure buckets filled with rocks, kinetic sand, and small toys, each priced at just five dollars. Children could dig for hidden treasures, uncovering multiple surprises along the way. The slogan, One Toy at a Time, captured the joy of discovery and the belief that small experiences can create lasting memories.

EXPANDING THE VISION

What began with toys soon grew into something bigger. Mariana expanded her business to include snow cones and gourmet popcorn, offering more than twenty flavors alongside buttery, customizable popcorn. From birthday parties and weddings to school fairs and corporate events, Mari’s Gold LLC became known for adding flavor, fun, and creativity to any celebration. “You’re not just getting a product—you’re getting an experience,” she says. Her events are designed to spark joy, creativity, and connection, ensuring that every child leaves with more than a treat—they leave with a story.

Mariana also extended her brand through storytelling. She wrote and published two children’s books—Mari’s Big Idea, which

chronicles the beginnings of her snow cone business, and Mari in the Safari, a playful tale of curiosity and adventure. These books are now available at major retailers including Walmart, Target, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble. Story-time sessions and live book signings allow her to connect directly with children, blending fun with inspiration.

LESSONS FROM CHALLENGES

Mariana’s journey has not been without challenges. “One of the biggest obstacles in starting Mari’s Gold LLC was convincing myself to keep going after a bad day,” she admits. “When something went wrong, I had to remind myself of what my dad always tells me: ‘We already won.’ That pep talk kept me from quitting when things felt too hard, and in those moments, I never gave up.”

Her perseverance underscores a truth every entrepreneur learns: success is not just about creativity or business models—it’s about resilience, determination, and the strength to keep moving forward when the path is uncertain.

FAITH AS A FOUNDATION

Faith is the cornerstone of Mariana’s journey as an entrepreneur. “For me, my relationship with God comes first over everything,” she affirms. Trusting His will and timing has shaped countless business decisions, giving her peace even in moments of uncertainty. She leans on the belief that setbacks are never the end of the story. “I’ve learned that for every loss, there are always two more wins waiting,” she says. That conviction keeps her focused, positive,

and determined to keep building Mari’s Gold LLC, confident that each step is part of a bigger plan.

MENTORSHIP AND COMMUNITY

Mariana is quick to credit her support system—her family, friends, and mentors. “Entrepreneurship is not a lonely journey when you have people who believe in you,” she explains. Their encouragement and accountability have been vital to her success. To other young dreamers, her advice is simple yet powerful: “Find something you truly love and turn it into a business. When you love what you do, it doesn’t feel like work.” She also stresses the importance of communication and customer service, skills she believes are every bit as critical as the product itself.

Her interests outside of business also enrich her entrepreneurial journey. A dedicated musician, she plays the flute in both her school’s symphonic and marching bands, even earning the firstchair position in middle school. Music, she says, provides balance and discipline that strengthen her focus as a business

owner. She also enjoys recording herself playing video games and sharing them online—another creative outlet that allows her to connect with her peers in fun, relatable ways.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Mariana is now preparing for her first Children’s Business Fair, in partnership with the Acton Children’s Business Fair, scheduled for October 25, 2025, in Gilbert, Arizona. The free, family-friendly event will feature a kid DJ, photographer, and more than 25 registered young entrepreneurs. Mariana has even arranged tents for participants without one, ensuring every child has the chance to showcase their ideas.

Mariana’s vision continues to grow. She hopes to expand Mari’s Gold LLC into a platform that inspires other young entrepreneurs. Future goals include developing business coaching programs for kids and adults, teaching entrepreneurship classes, and providing grants to help young people launch their own ventures. Through snow cones, popcorn, toys,

books, and mentorship, Mariana is cultivating a legacy of creativity, generosity, and empowerment. Her journey is still just beginning, but already she is proving that age does not limit success. With vision, faith, and determination, Mariana is transforming a backyard idea into a platform that touches lives, spreads joy, and paves the way for a new generation of young entrepreneurs.

VICTORIOUS BY

Tricia StewartSanon

ANCHORED IN FAITH AND LEADING WITH HEART

by Ann Marie Bryan

Some people walk into a room and change the atmosphere with titles or achievements. Tricia Stewart-Sanon changes it with her presence. Warm, grounded, and radiant with faith, she carries herself not as someone trying to impress but as someone intent on uplifting others. “God is in everything I do,” she says simply. That conviction has carried her through decades in New York’s financial world, to becoming a woman whose influence stretches far beyond finance.

Tricia’s story is not one of straight lines. In High School, she dreamed of being a fashion merchandiser, then later thought of becoming a computer scientist before realizing that finance—an industry she never planned to enter—was exactly where God intended her to be. Twenty-six years later, she is not only a respected financial professional but also a mentor, encourager, and connector. “I never thought I would be in finance,” she admits, “but I truly believe it was God-ordained.”

BUILDING ON STRONG FOUNDATIONS

Tricia’s journey began in Clarendon and Manchester, Jamaica, where she was raised in households filled with discipline, faith, and perseverance. Her parents instilled in her the importance of treating others with dignity, respecting every individual, and working hard with integrity.

At seven, Tricia migrated to the United States, but Jamaica always remained close to her heart. She returned every year to visit family, even as she settled into life in New York. Most of her schooling took place there, where she eventually earned her Bachelor’s degree at Baruch College and later a Master’s degree from the University of Phoenix Online. In addition to her academic achievements, Tricia holds securities

I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD BE IN FINANCE, BUT I TRULY BELIEVE IT WAS GOD-ORDAINED.

Photo Credit: Bill Huston Photography,

licenses that equip her to work in the financial services industry.

Her professional path has been just as diverse. In the early 1990s, she worked part-time at a Christian school while completing her studies. She later transitioned into a law firm before finding her place in the financial industry.

Those early lessons of dignity and integrity became the compass that guided her in New York’s demanding financial world.

A CALL TO FINANCE

Tricia did not plan to build a career in finance. In fact, as she tells it, she stumbled into the field. But what felt like chance revealed itself to be destiny. “I always say it was God’s plan,” she explains. “I didn’t choose finance—finance chose me.”

Her career began with an entry-level position, but her determination, quick learning, and people-first approach propelled her forward. Over more than two decades, she rose through the ranks, gaining expertise in client servicing. She advanced not just by mastering technical skills but by blending them with empathy, listening, and clear communication—qualities that set her apart in the financial industry.

“When you work in finance, you deal with people’s lives, their future, their security,” she says. “It’s about listening,

understanding their needs, and helping them.”

Tricia has earned that trust not only from clients but also from colleagues. Known for her integrity, she built a reputation for fairness, precision, and encouragement. “I try to see people, not just positions,” she notes. “Whether it’s the Custodian or the CEO, I treat everyone with the same respect.”

Today, as a Vice President at a major financial institution, Tricia collaborates with portfolio managers and team members to provide comprehensive client support—monitoring portfolios, addressing inquiries, and coordinating with accountants and attorneys to deliver a seamless, well-rounded client experience.

LEADERSHIP THROUGH MENTORSHIP

“When people ask me what I do, I say: I encourage. That’s my gift,” Tricia says with a smile.

Her leadership is rooted in empathy and empowerment. She believes in listening deeply, offering guidance with kindness, and holding others accountable in a way that builds rather than breaks. “It costs nothing to be kind,” she notes. “But the impact is priceless.”

That approach extends well beyond the office. Tricia runs a book club that doubles as a mentoring space, bringing people together to learn, share, and inspire each other. For her, leadership is less about titles and more about service. “If I can encourage someone to keep going, to believe in themselves, to trust God—that’s leadership.”

Mentorship, she insists, is not optional but essential. “I always encourage people to walk in their truth,” she explains. “Don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone’s journey is different.” She knows firsthand the challenges of balancing ambition, family, and faith, and her candid yet compassionate style makes her a trusted guide.

WHEN I LEAVE THIS WORLD, I WANT PEOPLE TO SAY, ‘SHE ENCOURAGED ME. SHE MADE ME FEEL SEEN. SHE POINTED ME TO GOD.’

When asked what advice she would give to young people hoping to break into the financial industry, Tricia advises, “I would definitely say get a good education. That’s the foundation. But education alone is not enough. Find someone—find a mentor.” Tricia speaks from experience. “I have a mentor. She has been my mentor for almost three years. I found her through work. And we talk. We mentor each other.”

Her encouragement also includes practical wisdom: be a lifelong learner, seek out resources, and cultivate authenticity. “Read books. I read a lot of self-help books. I read fiction and nonfiction. You never know what you can learn from a book. I read biographies—you name it,” she says. “At work, you can talk to the HR representative. You can ask them, ‘What can I do to advance to the next level?’ That’s what they’re there for.”

Above all, she insists, authenticity is non-negotiable. “Always be true to yourself. Don’t be pretentious—it will show. Be personable. Be approachable. Be yourself.”

WELLNESS AND BALANCE

Always drawn to learning and growth, she also pursued certification as a health coach. “I was really interested in helping people with their health,” she explains. Although she does not actively practice, the training reflects her passion for wellness and encouragement.

Tricia has cultivated a deep love for wellness and travel. She sees both as essential to a balanced life. “Self-care is not selfish,” she insists. Whether it is through exercise, rest, or simply enjoying a change of scenery, she prioritizes well-being as part of her spiritual stewardship. Also, she finds joy in traveling with her husband, exploring new cultures, and savoring life’s moments.

ALWAYS

BE TRUE TO YOURSELF. DON’T BE PRETENTIOUS—IT WILL SHOW. BE PERSONABLE. BE APPROACHABLE. BE YOURSELF.

For her well-being, Tricia surrounds herself with daily reminders of that truth. “I put inspiration all over,” she shares. “On my wall it says, With God, I am bold, I am confident, I am fearless, I am blessed. That’s what I have on the wall in my room. I have inspiration above my bathroom mirror. I have inspiration in my workspace. It’s everywhere—it’s positive reinforcement.”

One of Tricia’s most defining qualities is her willingness to step out of her comfort zone. “I don’t want to live in fear,” she says. “I want to try, even if I fail. Because failing means I tried.” This mindset has taken her to places she never imagined—whether tackling new challenges in her career, traveling the world, or starting new initiatives like her book club.

LOOKING AHEAD

When asked what’s next, Tricia doesn’t hesitate to laugh. “It’s up to God. I don’t know. When God tells me, I will tell you,” she says with a lighthearted confidence that reveals her complete trust in divine timing.

Her path forward, she explains, is not one of striving but of surrender. “It’s whatever direction He wants me to go—like I said, whatever He puts in me, I know I can’t fail. So even if I think it’s hard, I put Him in the mix and I say, ‘Okay, God, You’re leading me, You’re guiding me.’”

Legacy, for Tricia, is about impact. “When I leave this world, I want people to say, ‘She encouraged me. She made me feel seen. She pointed me to God.’ That’s the legacy I want. My goal is to flourish where I am. And that’s what I’m doing. I’m flourishing where I am.”

VICTORIOUS BY DESIGN HUMANITARIAN Feature

andEmpowerConnect

WHERE CREATIVITY MEETS IMPACT

by Yuvraj Parmar

Too often, student voices are underestimated and that’s why I started Empower and Connect, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. What began in Katy, Texas, as a small volunteer initiative has now grown into a global youth-led movement to advance equity in education, public health, and sustainability.

Empower and Connect’s mission is simple but bold: To empower underserved communities and future leaders through youth-driven innovation, education, and sustainable development. With over 75 active members and growing chapters in Kenya, India, Mexico, Pakistan, Canada, and Australia, the organization now operates across six countries and beyond, supporting programming aligned with 16 of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

At the heart of this global network is Empower and Connect’s founding chapter at Obra D. Tompkins High School in Katy. This original chapter remains the

WE’RE NOT THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW. WE’RE ALREADY LEADING TODAY—AND WE’RE BUILDING A MOVEMENT THAT’S JUST GETTING STARTED.

organization’s largest, most established hub—serving as the operations center for project development, curriculum design, publishing, and leadership training. Every initiative, whether executed locally or abroad, is rooted in the commitment, creativity, and coordination of student leaders at Tompkins.

INNOVATION IN ACTION

In 2025, Empower and Connect launched two ambitious, student-led global initiatives through our Tompkins High School Chapter:

1. Inventor Workshops (Team A)

This program bridges the digital literacy divide by teaching advanced 3D modeling to underserved students in Kenya. Volunteers from the Tompkins chapter first undergo intensive training in Autodesk Inventor and Tinkercad, then lead weekly technical sessions via Zoom. In partnership with COHECF Kenya, over 20 Kenyan students have already received hands-on design experience, learning to create simulations and engineering models that reflect real-world industry standards.

“This isn’t just about teaching software. It’s about building career pathways. These students are gaining skills that could shape their futures in engineering and technology.”

2. The Water Filter Project (Team B)

This project focuses on health equity through engineering. Student teams have designed low-cost water filters that eliminate bacteria, heavy metals, and chemical contaminants. Manufactured in China using BPA-free plastic, these filters are tested in Houston and distributed through government and nonprofit partners in both Kitale, Kenya and Mumbai, India. Fifty filters will be deployed this summer, with a focus on high-risk areas like Dharavi and Parel.

The project unites environmental sustainability, public health, and engineering— showcasing the cross-sector thinking that defines Empower and Connect’s impact model.

SCALABLE IMPACT

Every project launched by Empower and Connect is backed by strategy, research, and outcomes-based evaluation. Students from both teams are authoring capstone research papers analyzing the results of their work through interdisciplinary lenses: from sanitation and healthcare to governance and education equity.

In Summer 2025 alone, the organization hosted five active internship programs, published multiple research manuscripts, conducted two global distributions, and presented its work at an in-person capstone ceremony at Cinco

Group picture with the team at our annual award ceremony and banquet

Our Team A Inventor Team from 2024-25 receiving awards

Ranch Library—where students received awards for innovation, mentorship, and cross-cultural collaboration.

YOUTH LEADERSHIP AT THE CENTER

One of the most distinctive aspects of Empower and Connect is its entirely youthrun structure. From founding to execution, students lead everything—designing programs, coordinating partners, managing communications, and publishing research.

The Board of Directors includes Yuvraj (Yuvi) Parmar (President), Elvin Li (Secretary), Allen Nguyen (CFO), and Risha Sahay (Director of Organization), all students at Tompkins High School. Each project team operates under a leadership model that empowers younger members to take ownership and gain real-world experience in nonprofit management, public health, engineering, and education.

With the success of the founding Tompkins chapter, the organization has begun mentoring student leaders in establishing additional chapters. Regional teams are now operating in North Texas, Frisco, Vancouver, Dubai, Karachi, Nairobi, and Melbourne, and beyond—each replicating the model of student ownership and community impact.

ON THE HORIZON

As Empower and Connect enters its third year, the mission is to expand chapter development, deepen project sustainability, and inspire a new generation of globally-minded youth leaders.

From its roots in a single Texas high school to its growing international presence, Empower and Connect continues to prove that age is no barrier to meaningful change.

“We’re not the leaders of tomorrow. We’re already leading today—and we’re building a movement that’s just getting started.”

Yuvraj Parmar is the Founder and President of Empower and Connect.

Installation of our E&C Free Library at Mary Jo Peckham in 2024

Team B leads presenting our water filtration initiative at our Awards Ceremony.

Coding sessions with elementary students at local library in 2024.

VICTORIOUS BY DESIGN INSPIRATION Oasis

JeromeApostleBuie

A JOURNEY OF REDEMPTION, FORGIVENESS, AND FAITH

by Sardia J. Jennings

When Apostle Jerome Buie tells his story, it is not with self-pity or bravado. It is with a steady conviction that every trial, setback, and triumph has been part of a divine plan. “Help by help,” he says with quiet certainty. “You can’t use me, because God is using me. He beat you to the punch.”

That philosophy—born from pain and refined in purpose—has carried Apostle Buie from the unforgiving streets of Washington, D.C. to the pulpit of Could Be Me Ministries , a church and outreach movement that feeds the homeless, mentors the youth, and restores dignity to the forgotten. His journey is one of redemption, resilience, and relentless service, proving that no life is beyond God’s reach.

ROOTS IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

“I was born and raised in Washington, D.C.,” Apostle Buie recalls as he reflects on his early years. His childhood was marked by love, struggle, and heartbreak. His parents separated when he was just seven years old, leaving his mother to raise six children largely on her own in Barry Farm, one of D.C.’s toughest housing projects.

He recalls one searing childhood memory. His father had promised to take his two older brothers with him to California. “I remember my two brothers sitting on the porch with their suitcases, at about six in the morning,” Apostle Buie says. “By ten at night, he never showed up.” That moment marked the beginning of a 45-year disappearance. “We never saw my father again for like 45, 46 years.”

The absence left scars but also ignited a passion for those society forgets. Years later, when he learned his father had lived homeless and mentally unstable for decades, he realized why God had given him a burden for the homeless long before he understood the reason. “I never knew why I had a passion for the homeless, but God knew that my father was roaming the streets.”

REDEMPTION THROUGH FATHERHOOD AND FAITH

Apostle Buie was raised in a strong, values-driven family, but the lure of quick money pulled him into the drug trade. “I never used drugs, never smoked drugs,” he admits. “But I sold drugs. That was my thing.”

His choices led to arrests, and eventually he was staring down the unthinkable— life in prison for murder and weapons charges. Though he had not pulled the trigger, he was charged alongside the shooter. “They were telling me I was never coming home,” he remembers. “It was all over the news like I was never coming home.”

Then came a moment of grace. “The judge sentenced me, and he gave me six years, and nobody believed it. One thing the judge said that I knew God was on my side—he said, keep the faith.” Behind bars, Buie made a vow that would shape the rest of his life: “God, if you get me out of this, I’ll serve you till I die.” He meant it. Serving four years of his sentence, he emerged a transformed man, determined never to return to that life again.

The birth of his son cemented his resolve. “My son was about five years old,” he recalls. “And I said, Lord, if they give me the time they say, my son would be 47 years old by the time I get home. That really hit me hard.”

Choosing faith over destruction, Buie came home committed to change. He raised his son with love and discipline, determined to give him what his own father could not. “That changed my life to raise him as a single father,” he says.

THE WORK IN THE CHURCH IS NOT THE WORK OF THE CHURCH. THAT’S WHERE YOU GO TO GET FILLED UP SO YOU CAN GO OUTSIDE TO EMPTY YOURSELF OUT.

COULD BE ME MINISTRIES

Apostle Buie’s ministry began with an unexpected deposit from God. “In 1999, God gave me that name Could Be Me. I didn’t know what to do with it. I just wrote it down and put it in my desk drawer.”

In November 2006, it became the banner under which he and his wife, First Lady Regina Willette Buie, launched one of the most impactful homeless outreach efforts in D.C.

“We had the first homeless food truck in D.C., me and my wife,” he says proudly. “Providing breakfast, lunch, and dinner.” The truck, donated miraculously by a catering company, became a rolling sanctuary. “Look at God—the need was great, and God met us where we needed to be.”

For Apostle Buie, outreach is the essence of ministry. “The work in the church is not the work of the church,” he says. “That’s where you go to get filled up so you can go outside to empty yourself out.”

A LOVE STORY ANCHORED IN FAITH

After prison, opportunities were scarce. With a record, few places would hire him. So he volunteered at Howard University Hospital. “I just wanted to volunteer,” he says. There, he met Regina, the woman who would become his wife and ministry partner. “She had the same heart I had. Family values. I loved that about her.”

They married a year later and recently celebrated 32 years together. “She supports me 100% and more,” Apostle Buie says. Today, as she recovers from multiple strokes, he serves as her caregiver with the same devotion she has shown him through decades of ministry. “We are believing for total healing. She’s moving much better now… and we’ll embarrass the devil.”

A MINISTRY OF FORGIVENESS

Perhaps the most defining chapter of Apostle Buie’s story came when, after 45 years, his long-lost father reappeared— frail, mentally unstable, and dying of cancer. Apostle Buie welcomed him home without hesitation.

“We never blamed him,” he says. “Nobody ever said anything ill to him. We never asked him, where were you? We just loved him.” In his father’s last years, Apostle Buie cared for him, introduced him to his grandchildren, and even took him downtown to feed the homeless. “I asked him, how does it feel to feed the homeless when you were once homeless? And he said, ‘I’m blessed.’”

Apostle Buie later preached at his father’s funeral with a message titled What Love Has to Do with It. “We never blamed him,” he repeats. “We just had closure.”

THE WEIGHT OF LOSS AND THE POWER OF LEGACY

Tragedy struck again when his son—his pride and joy—died suddenly at just 27 in a motorcycle accident. Buie faced every parent’s nightmare: preaching his own son’s funeral.

“It was devastating,” he says, his voice heavy. “But so many souls came to the altar that day. I preached, How to Embarrass the Devil. Despite everything that just happened, we’re still going to give God praise.”

His son’s children, now thriving under Apostle Buie’s care, are living reminders of God’s faithfulness. “They are wonderful, blessed kids. God blessed them to be in our lives.”

OUTREACH ON PURPOSE

Apostle Buie’s heart beats strongly for young people. “You got to catch them while they’re young,” he insists. He mentors teens, takes them outside their neighborhoods, and shows them possibilities beyond drugs and poverty. “If you don’t see it, you don’t think you can have it.”

He often shares his mother’s example. Despite raising six children alone, she completed a program, secured a government job, and moved the family from welfare and food stamps into a four-bedroom home. “We saw it was possible,” he says. “That’s why I believe in home ownership. Because we saw it through her.”

Whether leading food distributions, praying outside jails during the pandemic, or organizing youth mentorship, Apostle Buie insists ministry must meet real needs. “We don’t do footage to show people we’re doing something. We do it to show people the need is great,” he explains.

When restaurants started donating pans of food to their truck, he saw it as divine confirmation. “We had an overload,” he laughs. “God met us where we needed to be.”

ANCHORED IN ACCOUNTABILITY AND CONNECTION

Apostle Buie is quick to note he doesn’t walk alone. He remains accountable to spiritual fathers like Pastor Leroy Washington—the same man who once arrested him before becoming his mentor. “Now he’s my covering,” Apostle Buie says. “Forty-seven years later,

I REMEMBER MY TWO BROTHERS SITTING ON THE PORCH WITH THEIR SUITCASES, AT ABOUT SIX IN THE MORNING. BY TEN AT NIGHT, HE NEVER SHOWED UP. WE NEVER SAW MY FATHER AGAIN FOR LIKE 45, 46 YEARS.

I still preach his church anniversary every year.”

Known as “the connector,” he takes pride in linking like-minded people. “I connect like-minded people with like-minded people,” he says. “They call me the godfather of apostles, the connector.”

LOOKING AHEAD

Even as he cares for his wife, Apostle Buie looks ahead with vision. He is developing a program for men coming out of incarceration, providing care

packages, stipends, job placements, and mentoring. “We want to meet them where they are,” he says. “When they get to the halfway house, we’ll have something ready for them. Clothes, money in their pocket, and somebody to pray with them.”

Through all the trials, Apostle Buie has never stopped serving. “I always look at people from the standpoint of wanting to help,” he says. “Integrity is huge. Ethics is huge. Everything I do is purpose-filled.”

Let’s Do Better

by Ramona Powell Dennis

We are the same, you and I

We are all God’s children

Given a right to love and be loved

It doesn’t matter where you’re from What you do, or how you look

We’re made in God’s image

Flesh and blood, dust and breath

We’re all due a hello

Smiles are contagious

Kindness should come naturally

Give freely

Love boldly

Show compassion

Forgive endlessly

Imagine what this world could be

If everyone practiced generosity

Do it because it’s the right thing to do

Say it because it’s the right thing to say

We all have a part to play

So, let’s make this world a better place!

Let’s do better!

Photo Credit: Greg Rosenke

A Man With God In His Plan

by Pastor Danyelle Scroggins

There’s something powerful about a man with a plan. But there’s something divine about a man who submits that plan to God. Of course, it’s easy for a woman to say what we feel, but based upon what God has shown us as His daughters who see… we are more than capable of recognizing a strong God-fearing man who is moving by divine directives.

Our greatest example… Peter was a businessman; a fisherman by trade. A man who understood tides, nets, and the frustration of empty effort. But all of that changed the day Jesus stepped onto his boat. His business became a launching pad for divine partnership.

“When He had finished speaking, He said to Simon, ‘Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.’” — Luke 5:4 (NIV)

Peter had already been out all night with nothing to show. Exhausted. Disappointed. Probably ready to pack it up and try again tomorrow. But Jesus gave him a strange instruction: “Cast your net on the other side.”

Now, let’s be real. That had to sound ridiculous. He was the fisherman. Jesus was the teacher. But Peter listened. And he obeyed.

Sounds familiar? (Give me a moment, and I’ll show you something you may or may not have seen before.)

That’s the first mark of a man with God in his plan— He listens and obeys even when it doesn’t make sense.

Because faith will always test your logic. “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.” — Luke 5:5 (NIV)

Peter listened. He obeyed. And his boat overflowed. But that wasn’t the real catch. The real miracle was Jesus calling Peter to partner with Him. He went from catching fish to catching souls. Jesus saw more in Peter than Peter ever saw in himself.

And just when you think the story’s over— the fish caught, the lesson taught—Jesus does something so intentional it’ll make you lean in.

Fast forward to John 21.

After the resurrection. After Peter’s denial. After it seemed like everything had gone wrong. Peter, still a fisherman at heart, goes back to what he knows. And there on the shore, Jesus appears again. Cooking fish over a charcoal fire — already has breakfast going.

Yet He says: “Bring some of the fish you have just caught.” — John 21:10 (NIV) Wait… what?

Jesus already had fish, yet He asked Peter to bring his.

That’s divine partnership. God doesn’t need what you have—but He wants it.

He wants to include you in His plan, not

because He’s lacking, but because He’s loving. He trusts a man who will obey Him in the boat and bring his catch to the shore.

Let this settle in your spirit: When a man partners with Christ, there’s nothing God won’t entrust him with.

That’s why a man with God in his plan becomes more than just a man with a business—he becomes a man with kingdom purpose.

Your talents, your job, your platform, your influence—it may all start as a means to make a living, but in God’s hands, it becomes a way to make a difference. So, to every man building something: a business, a brand, a legacy—the question isn’t, “Do you have a plan?” The question is, “Is God in your plan?”

When He is, no matter how many times you’ve come up empty, you’ll never leave lacking. Not when your net is cast at His word. Not when your hands are open. Not when your heart is willing. God is still stepping into boats. Still calling men to listen, obey, and partner with Him. He’s still performing miracles.

So let me run it back…

Remember earlier when I said I’d show you something you may or may not have seen before?

Let’s go to John 2…

There was a wedding going on in Cana of Galilee.

Mary, the mother of Jesus, was there. Jesus and His disciples had also been invited. Everything was going beautifully — until the wine ran out.

Now in that culture, running out of wine at a wedding wasn’t just a minor mistake — it was a major embarrassment. The kind of thing that could shame a family for years.

Mary noticed.

And like any mother who knows her child has power, she turned to Jesus and said, “They have no more wine.”

Jesus responded in a way that might sound sharp at first:

“Woman, why do you involve me? My hour has not yet come.” (John 2:4, NIV) Translation? “This isn’t my moment yet. It’s not time for me to step into the spotlight.”

But Mary, full of quiet confidence and unwavering faith, doesn’t argue. She doesn’t beg. She just turns to the servants and says:

“Whatever He tells you to do, do it.” (John 2:5, paraphrased.)

That right there is faith in motion. That…my brothers and sisters…is the way to keep God in your plan and to keep Him performing miracles concerning your plan.

Because get this…

Mary didn’t need to push Jesus—she knew who He was. She didn’t need to understand His timeline—she trusted His character. And she positioned the people around her to be ready for the miracle. Sure enough, Jesus told the servants to fill six large stone water jars—the kind used for ceremonial washing—with water. And when they obeyed, He turned that water into the best wine the host had ever tasted.

You want to see God move? Start with what Mary said: “Do whatever He tells you.”

Even when the timing feels off. Even when it doesn’t make sense. Obedience is what opens the door to the miraculous. Let Him in—and watch your ordinary become overflow. One more thing…

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and I want to take a sacred moment to honor every woman who has faced this battle with courage, grace, and unwavering faith.

To the survivors: You are living testimonies of God’s healing power. To those still fighting: You are wrapped in our prayers—may strength, peace, and hope be your portion daily.

To the families and caregivers: Thank you for standing in the gap, loving fiercely, and walking through the valley with your loved ones.

And to those we’ve lost: We remember you. We carry your light.

“She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.”— Proverbs 31:25 (NIV)

Let’s continue to stand together, support one another, and believe for breakthroughs— physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

You are not alone. You are deeply loved.