Affirmative action is gone! Welcome to the new norm; a world where diversity and inclusivity are no longer celebrated. This is a call to action for organizations and institutions to proactively promote diversity and foster a culture of belonging through academia. Not teaching African-American history In the United States, overturns the 2003 Supreme Court case Grutter v. Bollinger, until 2023 when this was overturned in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard. The idea that parents must consent to their children to learn about Black History in schools has sparked controversy, particularly in Florida. A notable incident involved a permission slip from a Miami school for a Black History Month activity, which was widely shared on social media and led to significant public outcry. Florida Education Commissioner Manny Diaz, Jr., clarified that Florida does not require a permission slip to teach African American history or to celebrate Black History Month, stating any school doing so is "completely in the wrong. Parents were indeed asked to sign permission slips for their children to participate in Black History Month events, which was linked to the state's Parental Rights in Education law. This law, signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2022 and expanded in 2023, has been criticized for its potential implications on educational content.
By not teaching Black history, schools provide an incomplete picture of history that omits critical perspectives and events. This can perpetuate a biased view of history and fails to recognize the complex, multifaceted nature of societies.we create gaps in history and missed Opportunities for Empathy and Growth: Learning about the histories and experiences of diverse groups can foster empathy, understanding, and respect among students from different backgrounds. It can help combat stereotypes and racism. we neglect the Societal Impact as Education shapes future citizens, leaders, and policymakers. A lack of comprehensive education on Black history can perpetuate systemic injustices and hinder the progress toward a more equitable society.
There’s a growing movement to make education more inclusive by incorporating Black history, along with the histories of other marginalized groups, into the curriculum throughout the year, not just during designated months. This approach is seen as essential for creating a more equitable and informed society.
FEATURED ARTICLE: BANNING BLACK HISTORY PAGE 2
The world will rather teach a lie about itself than teach our children the truth
THE WAR ON BLACK CONTENT CREATORS with Stylist and Columnist Asha S Farley
A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR PAGE 4
SHE PREVAILED FLOWERS FOR WOMEN WHO OVERCAME! PAGES 7-12
BGDB COLUMNISTS
The Foodie by Chef Francina Best Page 19
Dollars and Sense by Carmen Bernard Pages 20 & 21
The King’s Table by Eric CROW
Draven Page 14
Health News
Nurse Practitioner Wendy Walker-Pinnock Page 24
SPIRITUAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Trusting the Destiny page 23
Blessings, My name is Lady Abiké-Mineuittie Farley-Draven.
Welcome to The Brown Girls Do(ing) Business Publication.
Editor-in-Chief
I am excited to share with you a World of entrepreneurship: owned, birthed, and managed by extraordinary AfricanAmerican Small Business Öwners. I hope you enjoy our Women’s History Month special edition; full of women who have. I pray that 2024 is your year! We are already in our second season! Whew, that’s gone by quickly!
The Editorial team at Brown Girls Doing Business, will continue to bring you regular updates and announcements and insights across the ever changing scope of entrepreneurship.
As a Black Owned Publication our goal is to disseminate relevant and pertinent information to our communities. Our publication reflects our values, passions, and our Voices. Our culture is more than the passing of time for entertainment purposes; it's how we celebrate each other's wins and speak power to our truths. I am honored to present this publication that features us in ways that you're guaranteed to be proud of without costing us dignity or respect of Faith.
Be Blessed Always, Abikè Mineuittie
B e i n g a b l a c k c o n t e n t c r e a t o r c a n b e a p o w e r f u l a n d e m p o w e r i n g e x p e r i e n c e . Y o u r u n i q u e p e r s p e c t i v e , c u l t u r e , a n d v o i c e c a n s h i n e t h r o u g h i n y o u r c r e a t i o n s , a l l o w i n g y o u t o c o n n e c t w i t h a d i v e r s e a u d i e n c e o n a d e e p e r l e v e l B y s h a r i n g y o u r s t o r i e s , t a l e n t s , a n d c r e a t i v i t y , y o u h a v e t h e o p p o r t u n i t y t o i n s p i r e o t h e r s , c h a l l e n g e s t e r e o t y p e s , a n d p r o m o t e d i v e r s i t y i n t h e m e d i a l a n d s c a p e . E m b r a c i n g y o u r i d e n t i t y a s a b l a c k c o n t e n t c r e a t o r a l s o c o m e s w i t h c h a l l e n g e s , a s y o u m a y f a c e d i s c r i m i n a t i o n , l a c k o f r e p r e s e n t a t i o n , a n d b a r r i e r s t o s u c c e s s . H o w e v e r , b y s t a y i n g t r u e t o y o u r s e l f , p e r s e v e r i n g t h r o u g h o b s t a c l e s , a n d s u p p o r t i n g o t h e r c r e a t o r s i n y o u r c o m m u n i t y , y o u c a n b r e a k d o w n b a r r i e r s a n d p a v e t h e w a y f o r f u t u r e g e n e r a t i o n s . R e m e m b e r , y o u r v o i c e i s i m p o r t a n t a n d d e s e r v e s t o b e h e a r d . K e e p c r e a t i n g , k e e p s h a r i n g , a n d k e e p s t r i v i n g f o r e x c e l l e n c e . Y o u r c o n t r i b u t i o n s m a k e a d i f f e r e n c e a n d h e l p c r e a t e a m o r e i n c l u s i v e a n d d i v e r s e w o r l d f o r u s a l l .
BE GENTLE WITH YOURSELF.
YOU WERE FASHIONED BY A GOD WHO ADORES YOU ASHA
THE IMPACT OF BLACK WOMEN DURING OUR CELEBRATION OF WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH: RECEIVE YOUR FLOWERS QUEEN!
Pastor Nadine McArthur is the founder of the Loveseed foundation Inc, Judah Sauces & Catering Co., the author of Catering HerStory and Making Room for You Mentorship Program I nominate Nadine because she is a beautiful person inside and out. She continues to inspire, uplift and encourage women to reach their highest potential and to walk their God given purpose.
Dr Sonia Archer is a Certified Christian Marriage Counselor. She is affectionately known to many as Mother. She is a true mother in Zion. I nominate her because she is always there to offer support, prayer, and inspiration to all the women in her life
Brenda Praff Nema, known as the "ENTREPRENEURSHIP POWERHOUSE," is a force to be reckoned with in her community As a co-founder of the League of Young Professionals Uganda, she holds the role of Director for Communications, leveraging her skills to impact the community with socioeconomic and entrepreneurial initiatives Brenda's passion for personal growth and development shines through as she empowers young people and women to reach their full potential
Despite facing challenges, Brenda remains undeterred Her biggest obstacle lies in changing the community mindset towards development and creating spaces for females to excel in various fields. Through continuous trainings and practical learning sessions, she addresses structural, social, and economic challenges head-on, paving the way for positive change and empowerment.
Brenda's commitment to her community and her relentless pursuit of progress make her a true trailblazer, leaving a lasting impact for generations to come.
Marion Mbabazi is an accomplished Social Policy Development Expert with a wealth of experience in policy engagement, analysis, and advocacy. With over 13 years of dedicated work, Marion has been a staunch advocate for human rights, gender equality, and social justice on various platforms, from local to international levels. Her passion lies in amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, including children, youth, women, people with disabilities, and girls, striving to make a tangible difference in their lives.
Marion's expertise extends to policy analysis in areas such as poverty research, monitoring, and evaluation, where she has successfully developed initiatives aimed at ensuring development processes prioritize people's needs. One of her notable achievements includes overcoming significant challenges to work in hard-to-reach areas, such as island cities, to document critical health issues affecting women Despite facing obstacles, such as the lack of emergency transportation for women in remote areas, Marion remains committed to bridging gaps in women ' s health education, including HIV/AIDS and cancer awareness, while also empowering women to achieve economic independence
Marion's unwavering dedication to her work and her ability to overcome challenges make her a true champion for social change and a valuable asset in efforts to promote inclusivity and equality in society.
Tikia Aludria Joella is a renowned blogger, podcast host, aspiring author, and the Founder of Decided, an empowering initiative focused on women ' s self-discovery and intentional living through storytelling and creative resources to foster growth and development. She co-founded Labayo Media, serves as the Uganda Chapter Coordinator for Afrobloggers, and works as the communications manager at Agandy Studios.
Passionate about storytelling, women ' s advocacy, purposedriven living, effective communication, and brand identity design, Tikia has achieved notable milestones, including:
• Blogger of the Year 2022 and recipient of the Expressive Blog Award 2022 by Afrobloggers
• Hosted the Film and Culture Market 2023.
• Facilitated the Blogger wellness module for the Afrobloggers 1st blogger fellowship 2023.
• Conducted Personal Branding sessions at the Enakaziba Film Makeup Exhibition 2023.
• Hosted the Lady's Coffee Chat 2024.
My biggest Obstacle has been self-doubt As a creative, operating within such a subjective ecosystem, it's often tempting to remain silent in the face of the incredible work others produce Overcoming self-doubt and sharing my story, owning it, is the biggest obstacle I've had to overcome There's a pressing need to establish safe spaces where women can freely express themselves and share their stories Empowering them with the skills to speak out is crucial. Every story deserves to be heard.
Additionally, securing resources to fund various creative projects and supporting the team pose challenges. Since much of my work is creativity-driven, I often lack the necessary equipment to fully realize my vision, limiting my reach to a wider audience.
First Lady Esther L Wyatt is a professional in the Wayne County Community District. First Lady at Spirit of Praise Church of God in Christ located in Ecorse, MI Under Pastor Samuel Wyatt Our (Lady Farley is an honorary daughter) mom is a shining star She's a loving wife, mother, Dona (affectionately called by her grand children) and a humble servant. She is an educator inside and outside of the classroom To know her is to love her. She had never met a stranger. LaWanda, LaDawn, and Jason
TinaMarie Rodriguez CEO of Ms TinaMarieSpeaks Leadership Speaker, Spiritual Coach and Author. TinaMarieRodriguez because of her love and compassion for others, despite going through the toughest times of her life, she offers herself up to women who are in need of guidance, as a friend or a listening ear. She is business minded and courageous in adversity and uplift others despite her own struggles. In 2023 TinaMarie overcame breast and lung cancer as well as homelessness.
Rev Coach Xenia Barnes, M Ed, CHRC
Author of “The Recondition & Grieving to Heal | Speaker | CEO of Gold Mind Thoughts Leadership Development & Coaching Services.
Learn to “Command The Room” with Coach Barnes
“There are plenty of chairs in the room. Bring a stage!”
~Gold Mind Thoughts
As you embark on your journey with Rev Coach Xenia Barnes, M Ed, CHRC, you are stepping into a realm of transformation and growth. Through her insightful book, "The Recondition & Grieving to Heal," Coach Barnes invites you to delve deep into your inner self and discover the power of healing.
Camille Murray founder of Cammie’s Cupcakes.
Camille is a phenomenal woman breaking barriers in the business world. The success of her business is based on quality, taste, creativity, and also word of mouth Added to her skills, is that she's a great event planner. Her decorative skills, imagination and creativity allow her to transform any barren environment into a fantasy world chosen by you, the patron She is a professional whose ultimate satisfaction is to please her customers. If you are just "toying" with the thought for any event, contact Cammie's Cupcakes, and enjoy the journey as she makes it a Brooklyn's Beacon of Hope, Michelle Barnes Anderson nonprofit Co-founder, author, and community advocate for survivors of gun violence.
Michelle Barnes-Anderson was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York She earned her Bachelor's in Forensic Psychology, Master's of Public Administration-Inspector General, and Master's of Criminal Justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. She was a single mother to her only child Melquain Jatelle Anderson, whose life was cut short by an act of senseless gun violence. In her grief, she established the Melquain Jatelle Anderson Foundation (MJAF): Fighting
My biggest accomplishment was being able to open my afterschool program for last seven years and see the beautiful smiles on my children faces. To watch them flourish in their daily lives is such a reward! To see alumni student and employees is a true blessing for the Bestee’s Wisdom corner afterschool program Being able to feed over 500+ families during Covid time was an extraordinary accomplishment which truly launched my catering company to a new levels never imagine! After that Bestee’s Catering Inc. has never been the same!!
Dr Joa Macnalie, EdD is CEO of Joa's Ark LLC and works professionally as a behavioral therapist and educational consultant. My greatest accomplishment up-to-date is becoming the first Doctor on both sides of my family My greater legacy will be to make sure I'm not the last.
As a new mom outside of my son, my biggest accomplishment has definitely been my Board Certification as a Health & Wellness Coach. Mainly because I did it through the biggest obstacle I've had in my life repeatedly, GRIEF I lost my father right before my last semester of college. And I was at the cancer center with my grandmother when I got the email that I passed my exam. She passed 2 months later Even when I first became an Integrative Nutrition health coach, my graduation Day was the same day my grandfather passed away AND we found out my grandmother had cancer. I’m strong because I need me; and so does my son
Valencia Clay and the Ladies Inspired To Empower have improved the lives of others with generosity and constant acts of selfless actions. Her non profit organization helps women and children in need. This non profit organization improves the recipients lives by the donation of her time, knowledge, clothes and gifts. Ms. Clay improves the lives of others by being an inspiration to women and children and showing them that you can accomplish greatness regardless of where you came from
My biggest challenge was graduating college and raising my three beautiful college educated children along with my husband of 37 years My biggest obstacle that I had to overcome was understanding that sexual abuse was not my fault
Tiffany D. Kelly
The Self-care Strategist & Culinarian Coach | Educator | Author | Speaker | Culinarian
Reflecting on my pivotal achievements, shedding over 80 pounds naturally and reclaiming my health stands paramount. This journey ignited my passion, leading to the birth of Tiffany Inspires dedicated to empowering women in self-care and FITTeach, advocating for educator wellness in school districts Together, they form my health and wellness empire, a testament to living healthy, happy, and FREE.
My biggest accomplishment is being obedient, and following GODs DIRECTION. It has led me to wonderful things, like setting up Ausomefamilies
Motto: Sisterhood will save the world!
Nurse Practioner Wendy Walker-Pinnock
Business Wendy’s Self Preservation Inc
Greatest challenge that I’ve had to overcome so far is graduating from college, with honors, as a young single mother. 1. Our mission statement is to raise awareness of health and wellness through educational and recreational activities while providing a safe space for healing Wendy’s Self Preservation Inc takes a holistic approach to self care. We believe in taking care of the not only the body, but also the mind and spirit.
Alysia Gonzalez
Fiber artist and Jewelry designer at Alydianna
The biggest obstacle I had to overcome is self-doubt. The way I create crochet work and jewelry is my expression, and all create differently
My biggest accomplishment and obstacle has been pursuing my career and being a single mother since 16 years old. I’m active duty military, business owner, a multi-faceted creative and performer and operate in ministry
Raquel Richardson-Davis: A name that embodies strength, resilience, and determination. Known as an overcomer and champion in every sense of the word, Raquel's story is one of perseverance and triumph in the face of adversity. With unwavering courage, she has faced challenges head-on, turning obstacles into stepping stones towards success. Through her inspiring journey, Raquel has become a beacon of hope for many, showing that with dedication and belief in oneself, anything is possible. As an advocate for empowerment and self-belief, Raquel continues to inspire others.
“WhenIintroducedBrownGirlsDoingBusiness Magazine,Iknewthatitwouldhighlightwomen whowouldbeunsung,womenwhowould probablynevergettheirflowersinpublicfor oddreasons;possiblythecoloroftheirskin, possiblytheirage,possiblytheircommunities, possiblytheirstatusinlife,possiblytheirtax bracket…whichmadehonoringthemthatmuch moreimportant tome”.
WehonortheWomanwhohasspentherlife givingflowerstothewomenwhoweredoing thework!Wetakethistimeandhonorher;the visionaryofsuchaprofoundBlackwomen’s movement!
LadyFarley'svisionisabeaconoflightina worldoftenoverlookingtheachievementsof womenofcolor.Herdedicationtohighlighting thestoriesoftheseunsungheroeswasnotjust admirable,butabsolutelynecessary.Through TheBrownGirlsDoingBusinessMagazine,she hascreatedaplatformwherewomenfromall walksoflifecouldbecelebratedfortheirhard work,resilience,anddetermination.
Asthemagazinecontinuedtogrowin popularity,itbecameasymbolof empowermentforwomeneverywhere.Lady Farley'slegacyasavisionaryintheBlack women 'smovementwillforeverbe rememberedforherunwaveringcommitment toshiningaspotlightonthosewhotruly deservedrecognition Wepraythatyou continuetosupportus;astheproceedsgo towards continuingoureffortsinsupporting BlackBusinessOwnersandEntrepreneurs.
BROWN GIRLS DOING BUSINESS HONOR AND ACKNOWLEDGE THE IMPACT OF BLACK WOMEN DURING OUR CELEBRATION OF WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH: RECEIVE YOUR FLOWERS QUEENS!
JH
BB
Danielle Floyd and I am the owner and creator of Lraines LLC I would have to say my biggest obstacle is to remain creatively ahead of the latest trend. In the world of fashion you never want to be outdated. Creating timeless pieces takes research, practice, and ingenuity
Biggest obstacle is getting the clients to build up my service for the upcoming school year. Now I'm established starting the school year without hustling flyers I am Blessed
Lynn Artesona FPI NETWORK LEGACY GENERATION AMBASSADOR
My biggest accomplishment was going back to college and getting my Masters in Education degree and being able to utilize my knowledge to teach grades 1 to 12 in an afterschool program I later went on to writing and providing the curriculum for these classes. My biggest obstacle during this time was not believing in myself. Thank goodness others did, it’s why I believe in supporting women
Joyce Glenn is a caring person who loves the Lord and enjoys doing the work of The Lord. I honor Joyce, because after losing her mother, she had to start all over and move from her small hometown to bustling city; New York where she is thriving. As a member of the Clean Hands Pure Heart Ministry located in South Carolina Miss Glenn contributes and runs the food bank as well as teaches the senior citizens CPR.
Attorney Stephanie Montgomery
Stephanie is the founder and CEO of SESTRANOW. SESTRANOW sisterhood a network of women promoting, and supporting women Shes committed to empowering women everywhere
I named my passion brand, Je Mérite, translated from French, as “I Deserve,” as an affirmation. An affirmation for women and femmes to own our deserving journeys, and to no longer feel shame or guilt in creating sanctuary in our lives.
Je Mérite, the home of the self-care wardrobe you deserve, is medicine for burnout. With a curated collection of luxury silk loungewear and aromatherapy to start.
My goal is to encourage women and femmes to take more stock in what matters. I want my brand, Je Mérite to be an essential part of truly embracing the necessity of rest and refuge.
Contact Info:
Website: https://www.jemerite.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopjemerite/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopjemerite/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/72729490/admin/ Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/shopjemerite
WHEN I WAS A LITTLE GIRL MY FAMILY SHARED LOVE THROUGH COMFORT FOOD! COMFORTER FOOD IS WHERE YOU FEEL WARM INSIDE WHEN EATING THE MEAL!! IT MAKES YOU SO COZY, HAPPY, AND RELAXED. SHEPARD’S PIE IS ONE OF OUR FAMILY’S FAVORITE!! HERE IS MY RECIPE FOR COMFORT FOOD FOR DINNER TONIGHT!! INGREDIENTS
25G/1OZ VEGETABLE OIL OR BEEF DRIPPING
2 LBS GROUND BEEF, CHICKEN OR LAMB
1 LARGE ONION FINELY CHOPPED
2 TBSP OLIVE OIL
1 TBSP PLAIN FLOUR
2 WHOLE BAY LEAVES
2 FRESH THYME SPRIGS
2 TBSP GARLIC POWDER
2 NAP ONION POWDER
HALF CUP CHOPPED TOMATOES
450ML/16FL OZ CHICKEN, BEEF OR LAMB STOCK
2 TSP WORCESTERSHIRE SAUCE
1 TSP SALT TO TASTE
16 OZ BAG OF CHEDDAR CHEESE
1 TSP FRESHLY GROUND BLACK PEPPER TO TASTE
PACK OF FROZEN PEAS AND CARROTS FOR THE MASH POTATOES
1 LB POTATOES, PEELED AND CUT INTO HALVES OR QUARTERS
55ML/2FL OZ MILK
85G/3OZ BUTTER
SALT AND FRESHLY GROUND BLACK PEPPER IN A LARGE SAUCEPAN, HEAT THE VEGETABLE OIL. ADD THE ONION AND COOK 5 MINUTES.
1. MEANWHILE, IN A LARGE FRYING PAN, HEAT THE OLIVE OIL AND FISSURE THE MEAT OF YOUR CHOICE STIRRING, UNTIL BROWNED ALL OVER. WHILE THE MEAT IS SAUTÉING, BREAK UP ANY LUMPS WITH THE BACK OF THE SPOON.
2. STIR THE ONIONS, THEN ADD THE FLOUR AND STIR, ADD THYME, ONION POWDER, GARLIC POWDER, AND STIR. ADD THE CHOPPED TOMATOES, STOCK (KEEP A LITTLE ASIDE, FOR PUTTING INTO THE MINCE PAN TO DE-GLAZE THE PAN) AND WORCESTERSHIRE SAUCE.
3. ADD THE COOKED MEAT AND THEN POUR THE STOCK MIXTURE WITH ONIONS INTO EMPTY PAN, SCRAPING OFF ANY BITS OF MINCE LEFT IN THE PAN. POUR THE REMAINING STOCK AND AND FROZEN PEAS AND CARROTS INTO THE PAN CONTAINING THE SAUCE MIXTURE BRING THE MIXTURE TO THE BOIL, ADDING A PINCH OF ALT AND PEPPER AND LET IT SIMMER FOR OUT 20 TO 25 MINUTES UNTIL UNCOVERED, STIRRING REGULARLY
4 PREHEAT THE OVEN TO 400 DEGREES OR THE MASH, BOIL THE POTATOES UNTIL NDER. DRAIN, ADD THE MILK, AND BUTTER, HEN MASH UNTIL SMOOTH. SEASON WITH SALT AND PEPPER
POUR THE MEAT AND VEGGIES INTO VENPROOF DISH, SPRINKLE THE CHEESE NLY OVER THE MEAT AND VEGGIE MIXTURE. OW SPREAD THE MASH ON TOP, SMOOTH VER AND MARK WITH A SPATULA PUT THE SH INTO THE OVEN AND COOK UNTIL THE RFACE IS GOLDEN BROWN. SPRINKLE WITH FRESH PARSLEY AND ENJOY!
In my last article, I addressed 10 financial moves for every adult in 2024. The first move was to create a budget. In this article, lets look at strategies for creating a classic budget or one using the 50-30-20 approach. Budgeting your money is the foundation of a sound financial plan, and seeing all of the numbers in black and white can give you valuable insight on where your money is going and where you could put it to better use. You can quickly identify an area where you are spending more than you realize and make adjustments that allows for an occasional indulgence as well as unexpected emergencies. Next quarter, we will talk about the dreaded emergencies. Let’s dive in a few easy steps:
1. Calculate Your After-Tax Income and gather all expenses: Get your bank statements for at least the last 3 months. (longer would be better) This should provide you with your monthly income after taxes and deductions and as well as all your expenses. Find receipts, paystubs, paper bills, electronic bills, all items that can help identify income and expenses.
2. Create a budget worksheet – using excel, google sheets or plain old paper and pencil. List all of your income after taxes—for example, employee and freelance income (side jobs), investment income, interest earned, rental income. Then list all expenses—for example, rent or mortgage payments, credit card payments, installment loan payments, grocery receipts, utility bills, insurance, transportation, and eating out.
3. Calculate Figures - Add all of the income, add all the expenses and subtract the expense total from the income total to get a general picture of where you are financially. If your income total is larger than your expense total—yeah, congratulations—you just found more money for saving, investing and paying down your debt. If your expense total is larger than your income total, it is not the end of the world, but you'll have to make some decisions about where you spend some of your money going forward if you want to balance your budget. Voila’ ~ You have created a classic budget.
4. Let’s go deeper in analyzing your budget by further categorizing your expenses into fixed, variable and discretionary expenses. Fixed expenses (such as your rent) remain the same from month to month and therefore constitutes the basis of your budget. Variable expenses, such as utility bills, can typically be lowered by making a few changes in your behavior like turning off the lights as you leave a room, and discretionary expenses consist of wants rather than needs and provide the most opportunities for saving.
–
• Identify Your Needs (50%) allocate 50% of your after-tax income to cover essential expenses such as rent or mortgage payments, utilities, groceries, transportation, insurance, and minimum debt payments. These are necessities that you must have to maintain your standard of living.
• Allocate for Wants (30%): Allocate 30% of your income to discretionary spending, including non-essential items and activities such as dining out, entertainment, hobbies, and vacations. These are things you desire but can live without if necessary.
• Prioritize Savings and Debt Repayment (20%): Dedicate 20% of your income to savings and debt repayment. This includes contributions to emergency funds, retirement accounts, investments, and paying off debt faster than the minimum required payments.
There is no testimony without being tested
I’ve studied, heavily graded, I gave to many F’s Wrote my own obituary just in case I passed Persistent, those yesterdays chase and attach to my character
I overreact in my lack, in my empty, in my pain
Pushed so I shoved, I compromised until I was tired of beingcompromised
Nobody paying attention to my polite but eager to charge me for me for my feed up
Put bible verses on my bruises, I am finally healing I walk by faith, not by site; magnified by 40 plus years of building while being beat
Every day is a mustard seed I’m planting to harvest; despite the fact they keep trying to bury me
I never tried to walk on water, I’ve been too busy trying not to drown in my miseducation
I recognize and respect every teacher, mentor and interpreter
Who saw fit to speak arms and armor into me
These days I exercise my voice, my thinking and my intentions
Because I show up compared to just taking up space I’ve questioned, I’ve cried, I’ve collapsed Embarrassed by the time I’ve wasted and my impatience
These days I commune, by his bones and blood I stand in relation to the Father and everywhere he sees purpose in placing me
Meek and ambitious, I heard him in my sleep telling me ” I can do it”
So now I live in his words and put it on everything
Being delayed doesn’t mean I have been denied
I am growing in places where eyes lack focus and insight
But I see, I feel, I want, I believe I’ve been checked and corrected, I am a child of consequences
Thankful for the consequences, afraid of who I would be without the consequences
I am better, no longer in my bitter
No longer mangled in the mismanagement of my thoughts and actions
GOD has been good to me despite me
He saw the best in me
I hurt, punished and betrayed myself, I forgive me
Many have trespassed, damaged and neglected my wealth, I forgive thee
I am worthy of the wisdom found in age and the grace of being saved
I slayed giants, I fear no goliath’s
I’ve parted seas, I’ve fed thousands with the scraps my mother made for my lunch
I’ve fasted to slow down, my words bind the enemy
I am the way the truth and the life, surely goodness and mercy will follow me
I’ve died and returned on the 7th day
For I am, I am, I am
There is no testimony without being tested
Throughout the years, I have been speaking on the value of entrepreneurship and small, black business ownership not just because of the legacy it creates for our children but because I believe it to be part of our inheritance as children of God. Entrepreneurship and small business ownership provide not only economic opportunities but also a platform for empowerment and representation. By taking control of our destiny we breaking stereotypes, and generations of bondage! We pave the way for a lucrative and liberating future. Embracing entrepreneurship as a person of faith and color is a revolutionary act that challenges systemic inequalities both in the spirit and natural sense . As we continue to build and grow our businesses, we inspire others to dream big, defy expectations, and create a more equitable society for generations to come. Embracing entrepreneurship as a person of color is a revolutionary act that challenges systemic inequalities and reshapes the narrative around race and success. As we continue to build and grow our businesses, we inspire others to dream big, defy expectations, and create a more equitable society for generations to come.As we continue to build and grow our businesses, we inspire others to dream big, defy expectations, and create a more equitable society for generations to come.
Most spiritual journeys, like all natural ones, begin with a plan to reach a destination It’s not enough to desire to reach a destination without having a plan and mode of travel; and you must expect that there will be some hiccups on the journey Just as a seed needs to be planted before it can grow into a towering tree, our aspirations need nurturing and guidance to blossom into reality. Setting intentions, visualizing our goals, and taking consistent steps towards our dreams are the seeds that will eventually bear the fruits of our spiritual evolution. Along the way, we encounter challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt, but it is through these trials that we discover our inner strength and resilience Trust in the process, have faith in your abilities, and remember that every step taken is a step closer to your destination Embrace the journey with an open heart and a clear mind, for it is not just about reaching the destination but also about the growth and transformation that occur along the way. As you navigate the twists and turns of your spiritual path, I suggest praying that God connect you to other like-minded men and women in business, who have learned to lean on the Lord.
Black Women face the highest rate of medical tragedies globally. It’s time to face the disparity in Healthcare.
Black women have long been disproportionately affected by medical challenges and disparities within the healthcare system. It is crucial to address these issues and work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive healthcare environment for all individuals. By raising awareness, advocating for change, and promoting access to quality care, we can help ensure that every person, regardless of their background, receives the support and treatment they deserve. Together, we can strive for a healthier and more just future for all.
It is essential to acknowledge the struggles and obstacles that Black women encounter in the medical field. By shedding light on these disparities, we can pave the way for significant changes in healthcare that benefit everyone. Through education, empowerment, and action, we can promote equality and fairness in medical treatment. To begin I always suggest finding a Healthcare provider with whom you feel comfortable, and if necessary search for a healthcare proxy. Let's join hands to build a healthcare system that uplifts and supports all individuals, ensuring that no one is left behind. Together, we can make a positive difference and create a brighter, healthier future for all.
"We Can Do It!"
is an American World War II wartime poster produced by J. Howard Miller in 1943 for Westinghouse Electric as an inspirational image to
boost
female worker moral.
Women’s rights and Womanism are two different issue, nevertheless
