BROWN GIRLS DO BUSINESS H A P P Y
N E W
Y E A R
We Are Black History
LIFESTYLE
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
THE BUSINESS OF CHILDREN FOR SALE January marks National Human Trafficking Month. The National day of Awareness Day is January 11th. Human trafficking is an evil that affects millions across the globe; however it’s more prevalent in underserved communities. Statistically Black women and girls are among the highest rate of sex trafficking victims. Let that sink in because it is the indicator of systemic sexualization of Black women and girls. Research proves that this index around Black women and girls’ hypersexuality cannot be ignored when researching sex trafficking. Predators look for Intersecting factors like low socioeconomic status, existing child welfare cases, detachment from education, home and food insecurity, parents with open criminal cases, and history of physical/sexual abuse. These factors contribute to the increased vulnerability of sex trafficked victims. The omission of analysis regarding the tiered system of sex trafficking is evident of how deeply rooted this wickedness runs. According to the FBI, 57.5% of all juvenile prostitution victims are Black children. Through a two-year review of all suspected human trafficking incidents across the country, 40% of sex trafficking victims were identified as Black women. In an interview with the Urban Institute, traffickers admittedly believe that if caught trafficking Black women they would land less jail time than if trafficking White women. This sounds strikingly similar to justifying the sexual demoralizing of the enslaved Africans. The scouts in this evil system use the obvious flaws in our society by exploiting nonU.S. citizens because victims without legal status in the United States are easily manipulated. Immigration relief can help stabilize a victim without legal status. Federal public benefits are available through Health and Human Services (HHS) for victims of a severe form of trafficking who have received certification from HHS. Minor victims (under 18) are eligible for federal public benefits through HHS immediately once they are identified as a victim, and do not need HHS certification. 2023 introduces one of the best-rated independent movies based on a true story: Sound of Freedom. Sound of Freedom actor Jim Caviezel portrayed Tim Ballard, a controversial former CIA agent who embarks on a personal mission to rescue children from sex traffickers in Colombia. Both Tim and Jim discussed the opposition that they faced getting the movie into theaters. Facing threats from Hollywood and studios the producers led them to seek private financing. Human sex-trafficking is a Billion dollar industry and America is it’s greatest consumer. I want to leave you with a final thought from the Sound of Freedom movie;God’s children are not for sale. Quarterly magazine SHOWCASING Community Leaders|1
BGDB
Winter 2024
DEXTER SCOTT KING, WHO DEDICATED MUCH OF HIS LIFE TO SHEPHERDING THE CIVIL RIGHTS LEGACY OF HIS PARENTS, THE REV. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. AND CORETTA SCOTT KING, DIED JUST A FEW SHORT DAYS OF HIS FATHER’S NATIONAL HOLIDAY FEATURE PAGES 4 & 5
Meet Fashion Week Designer and celebrity collaborator Lisa Walton FEATURED ARTICLE PAGE 1: OUR CHILDREN ARE NOT FOR SALE Our esteemed columnist Page 6: Editorial Hues let’s paint our industries black by Stylist Asha Farley Page 8: The Foodie Report by Chef Francina Best Page 9: Our Dollars and Sense by Coach Carmen Bernard Page 12: At the kings Table: Letters to my Brothers with king Eric Crow Draven Quarterly magazine SHOWCASING Community Leaders | 2
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Editor’s Note Blessings,
Lady Farley-Draven
Editor-in-Chief
My name is Lady Abiké-Mineuittie Farley-Draven. Welcome to The Brown Girls Do(ing) Business Publication. I am excited to share with you a World of entrepreneurship: owned, birthed, and managed by extraordinary African-American Small Business Owners I pray that 2024 is proving to be the Year that you and your families recover! The Editorial team at Brown Girls Doing Business; the magazine for and about Black Women, will continue to bring you regular updates and announcements of everything happening in our Communities including events 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, Abiké Mineuittie
UNORTHODOX
MEET DESIGNER
Lisa Walton
FAS HIO N B R O W N
G I R L
INSPIRATION
ELEGANCE
Who Is Lisa Walton? Owner of Unorthodox Clothing, Lisa Walton is a professionally trained Fashion Designer with over 15 years of experience. She has worked with supermodels all over the world. Showed collections with celebrity designers such as Michael Costello, during New York fashion week, and also taught design classes for Rowan College in New Jersey. Born into design, her paternal grandfather and Uncle were professionally trained tailors, and her mother also a seamstress. She was introduced to fashion at a very young age; designing and sketching collections at the age of 6. She knew from a young age that she wanted to explore fashion. Lisa graduated from The Art Institute of Philadelphia in 2008 at the top of her class with a Bachelor of Science in Fashion Design.
www.unorthodoxclothing.net
WHO IS LISA?
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AGELESS LIVING
Studies prove that falling in love after 50 is more satisfying than at any other stage in life, and scientifically proven to produce health benefits. The need to be appreciated and to experience affection and love increases when people are experiencing difficulties with their biological, physical, and mental functions. A recent study examined older adults' experiences of falling in love. This research provides evidence that falling in love occurs among older adults and senior citizens despite them not expecting the possibility. The study found that older adults who fall in love experience various positive emotions, such as happiness, joy, and excitement. These emotions then lead to improved mental and physical health. Falling in love can also increase social interaction and provide a sense of companionship, which is especially important for older adults who may be living alone or experiencing loss. Additionally, the study found that older adults are more likely to prioritize emotional connection over physical intimacy. This indicates that love after 50 is less about sexual attraction and more about emotional intimacy. Overall, the study suggests that falling in love later in life can bring immense joy and fulfillment, and it is never too late to experience the joys of love and companionship. “As a 60-Year-Old Widower, falling in love gave me a second chance at life. I never imagined that Lorraine would step into a life already set up (by my first wife). I thought that we would be ‘too set in our ways’ to build a life together” Says John who remarried at 60 years old to Lorraine a 62-year-old divorcee. Don’t be afraid to love; no matter your age. Love is a beautiful gift from God to be enjoyed among the living. "Where there is love there is life." –Mahatma Gandhi
WINTER 2024 EDITORIAL HUES
Black in Fashion STARTING OUT 2024 LIKE A WINNER! ALL BLACK ALL WOMEN RUN ENTREPRENEUR MAGAZINE WHAT AN HONOR AS A STYLE ARCHITECT TO BE BLESSED WITH THE SPRING EDITION EDITORIAL SECTION AND I WANT TO SHARE THAT BLESSING WITH ALL OF MY WONDERFUL CREATIVES, SO REACH OUT TO ME IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE FEATURED IN THE SPRING EDITORIAL ISSUE OF BGDB THE MAGAZINE! FOLLOW ME THE STYLE ARCHITECT FOR DETAILS ON INSTAGRAM @FASH_UNFAMOUS In honor of Black History Month, I want to address the infuriating fact of seeing non-Black, often white, people stealing Black products or ideas, and profiting off of it. People will sell Black creations as new to their own. Whenever we voice rage over Black inventions and creations being stolen, we are forced to become voiceless and faceless “wanna-be”! Fast fashion companies have been called out for stealing from Black designers. Recently, Pretty Little Thing stole a Black designer’s creation and completely claimed it as their own.
TIME TO SIT AT OUR OWN TABLES IN OUR OWN ROOMS ASHA FARLEY
EDITORIAL MODEL & STYLIST: ASHA FARLEY
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The Foodie Report
Comfort Food Season Traditionally Winter marks the season of comfort food. Nothing like a warm bowl of homemade soup to help relax the soul. Today I will share a family favorite that has provoked family cook-off challenges, a proven game night favorite with an unlimited option of toppers; We are making chili!
How to Make Chili Ingredients 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 onions, medium, finely chopped 1 red bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped ¼ cup chili powder 1 tablespoon ground cumin ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon 1 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon onion powder 1/2 tablespoon sugar 6 garlic cloves, minced 2 pounds of ground beef 30 oz can dark red kidney beans 28 oz can diced tomatoes 28 oz can tomato puree Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until it is shimmering. Cook vegetables and spices: Add the onions, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, cayenne, onion powder, garlic powder, chicken bouillon powder, sugar, black pepper, and spices alt. Cook until the vegetables have softened, about 7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Cook the beef: Add the beef and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook, breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink, about 10 minutes. Add remaining ingredients: Stir in beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato puree, and the remaining ½ teaspoon salt. Simmer: Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat so it maintains a slow simmer, cover and cook for 45 minutes. Uncover and cook: Remove the lid and continue to simmer for an additional 45 minutes. This is for thickness! If you like loose keep the lid on for the remainder of the time. Season Check Time: check your chili for favor, and adjust your seasoning before serving!
Executive Chef Francina Best
Our Dollars and Sense
LEGACY BUILDING WHILE LIVING Carmen K. Bernard Wealth Strategist & Independent Insurance Broker
I’m 10 Financial Moves for Every Adult in 2024 It’s a new year and with the new year, everyone does the cliche New Year’s resolutions, and by the end of January, they are all but forgotten. So instead of resolutions, let’s look at some moves we all should make this year. While individual financial situations can vary, here's a general list of 10 financial moves that adults may consider making in 2024: 1. Create a Budget: Develop a realistic budget that outlines your monthly income, expenses, and savings goals. This will help you track where your money is going and identify areas for potential savings. 2. Emergency Fund: Ensure you have an emergency fund equivalent to at least three to six months' worth of living expenses. This fund acts as a financial safety net in case of unexpected expenses or a loss of income. 3. Review and Adjust Investments: Periodically review your investment portfolio to ensure it aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Consider rebalancing if necessary, and stay informed about market trends. 4. Retirement Planning: Contribute regularly to your retirement accounts such as 401(k)s or IRAs. If your employer offers a matching contribution, try to contribute enough to take full advantage of the match. 5. Debt Management: Develop a strategy to manage and pay down high-interest debts. Prioritize paying off credit cards or loans with high-interest rates to save on interest payments in the long run. 6. Insurance Checkup: Review your insurance coverage, including health, life, and property insurance. Ensure that your coverage is adequate and that you're not paying for unnecessary or duplicative policies. 7. Tax Planning: Stay informed about changes in tax laws and regulations. Maximize opportunities for tax savings, such as contributing to tax-advantaged accounts and taking advantage of available tax credits. 8. Continuous Learning: Invest in your financial education. Stay informed about personal finance trends, investment strategies, and economic developments. Attend workshops, read books, or follow reputable financial blogs to enhance your knowledge. 9. Estate Planning: Ensure that you have a will in place and review it periodically. Consider other elements of estate planning, such as setting up a living will, establishing a power of attorney, and designating beneficiaries for your accounts and even setting up a trust. 10. Negotiate and Save: Periodically review your recurring expenses, such as insurance premiums, subscription services, and utility bills. Negotiate with service providers to secure better rates or consider switching to more cost-effective options. Remember, personal finance is not one-size-fits-all, so it's essential to tailor these recommendations to your specific circumstances and financial goals. Consider consulting with a financial professional for personalized advice based on your unique situation. If you would like a free budget template, be sure to contact me at carmen10k.com BGDB Quarterly magazine SHOWCASING Community Leaders| 11
Norbert Rillieux
Garrett Morgan
David Crosthwait
Marie Van Brittan Brown
George Speck
George Washington Carver
Lloyd Hall
Frederick McKinley Jones
Charles B. Brooks
Lewis Howard Latimer
Ben Montgomery
Alexander Miles
George Edward Alcorn Jr.
Granville Woods
Walter Lincoln Hawkins
Mark Dean
Emmett Chappelle
Madam C. J. Walker
Henry Cecil McBay
Henry Blair
Valerie Thomas
Patricia Bath
Philip B. Downing
Sarah Boone
Alice H. Parker
Percy Lavon Julian
Miriam Benjamin
Lonnie Johnson
Lewis Temple
Andrew Jackson Beard
Janet Emerson Bashen
Otis Boykin
Leonard C. Bailey
Benjamin Banneker
Richard Spikes
Elijah McCoy
Jerry Lawson
Bessie Blount Griffin
Thomas Mensah
Thomas L. Jennings
John Lee Love Alexander P. Ashbourne
Benjamin Bradley
William Chester Ruth Thomas J. Martin Jesse Russell
WE ARE BLACK HISTORY
Across America, states are removing Black history from schools. The history of who we are, and our voices can be stripped from the history books, but it cannot be stripped from your homes and the DNA of the legacies that you are raising now! I challenge you to quiz your children and see if they know who the people on this list are. Make it a family friendly competition!
Pictured left to right; Lewis Latimer-Carbon-filament light bulbLewis Latimer Granville T. Woods-Telephone Transmitter Frederick M. Jones-Portable cooling unit for cars John Standard-improved refrigerator design BGDB Quarterly magazine SHOWCASING Community Leaders| 12
I, too, sing America.
I am the darker brother. They send me to eat in the kitchen When company comes, But I laugh, And eat well, And grow strong. Tomorrow, I'll be at the table When company comes. Nobody'll dare Say to me "Eat in the kitchen," Then. Besides, They'll see how beautiful I am And be ashamed,— I, too, am America LANGSTON HUGHES
AT THE KING’S TABLE VALUED
May you live a life worthy of the sacred breath in your body. Do you remember everything you've survived to get here? Jeremiah 15:20 states."I will make you a wall to this people, a fortified wall of bronze; they will fight against you but will not overcome you, for I am with you to rescue and save you,” declares the LORD.". If you remember all that you survived, then tell me why do you drown yourself. Why do you abuse yourself? Why do you disfigure your beauty? Your tongue has the power to speak greatness into your life. You can talk your dreams into becoming your reality, if you believe. You have the power to pull yourself up. You have the power to increase your comprehension and your capacity. Not by power, not by strength but by the spirit of GOD. Do you remember everything you survived to get here? You are not your mistakes.. You are beautiful and wonderfully made. You are being perfected, shaped by the experiences that bring out the best of you. Rejoice in your strength, rejoice in your restraint, and rejoice in the maturity that binds poor habits. Those habits have robbed you of the life you deserve. Stop forging, reviving and wielding weapons and using them against yourself. The things that GOD has for you require patience, they require faith, and they require discipline. Do you remember everything you survived to get here? Then it is time that you believe. Whether you are knee-deep in the rain and dirt planting the seeds and during the harvest. Psalms 106 4-5 Remember me, O LORD, when you show favor to your people; help me when you save them, that I may look upon the prosperity of your chosen ones, that I may rejoice in the gladness of your nation, that I may glory with your inheritance. - Eric Crow Draven
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City and State Notification NEW YORK CITY/NEW JERSEY For reservations and rates please email: BGDBTHEMAG@GMAIL.COM Notice of Formation of Chef B Cuisine & Catering, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Department of State of NY SSNY on November 3rd, 2023. Office location Albany, New York County SSNY has been designated as the agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Post Office address to which the SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served on him/her is Registered Agent Farley 653 Beach 67th Street Arverne, NY 11692 The principal business address of the ULC is: 15907 Hillside Ave Jamaica, NY 11432 apt 1R 10023 Purpose: any lawful act or activity.
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IN HEALTH NEWS By:Adult Nurse Practitioner Wendy Walker-Pinnock RNP
January is being observed as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. As per The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cancer is a disease in which cells in the body grow out of control. Cancers are always named after the part of the body where it began, even if it spreads to other parts of the body later. When cancer starts in the cervix, it is called cervical cancer. The cervix connects the vagina (birth canal) to the upper part of the uterus. The uterus or womb is where a fetus grows during pregnancy. Certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV) are the main cause of cervical cancer. HPV is a common virus that is transmitted via sexual intercourse. At least half of all sexually active people will contract HPV at some point during their lives, but only a few women will get cervical cancer. There are many types of HPV. Some types can cause changes in the cervix that can lead to cervical cancer over time, while others cause genital or skin warts. HPV usually causes no symptoms so you can’tnecessarily tell that you have it and for most people, HPV will go away on its own. It’s possible that cervical cancer has no symptoms at all. Therefore, screening tests such as a pap test can help with early detection of cervical cancer. A pap test is done to screen for precancerous cells. HPV tests screen for the presence HPV that can cause changes in the cervix. The HPV vaccine is critical in the prevention of cervical cancer. When cervical cancer is detected early, it is highly treatable and linked to a long survival and high quality of life. Advanced cervical cancer may cause abnormal bleeding or discharge from the vagina, such as bleeding after sex or bleeding between periods. If you have any of these signs, see your doctor immediately. QUARTERLY MAGAZINE SHOWCASING COMMUNITY LEADERS | 16
Market Place Wisdom 2024
Welcome to the world of entrepreneurship! I fully believe that entrepreneurship is a calling that is not just tangible in nature, but inherently a Spiritual calling. The reason we are faced with many natural and spiritual opposition and challenges is because of the VERY spiritual nature of entrepreneurship.
Too often we as Christians choose to focus only on our church lives, where we do our so-called ministry all while we just cruise control and our secular lives, where we earn our living. We therefore experience an imbalance of peace on the weekends and utter depression Monday through Friday. If we feel called to what we consider to be full-time ministry, the immediate assumption is that we should neglect our work life; isn’t there a natural separation of church and state? Financial security is just that a security that we naturally do not want to be without! We have therefore rejected our complete calling to be present in the marketplace and by doing this, some have found themselves outside of the will of God. Ministry is bigger than the local church; ministry involves every aspect of our society including our professions and the Birthright of Dominion. While some of Jesus’ ministry was completed in the local temples, it was often in the streets surrounding the central marketplace. Jesus was the original Street Minster. And not only that, he did his best work in the marketplace. We must not forget that we are Called according to God’s perfect plan for our lives. Andrew, Peter, James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, worked as fishermen. Matthew 4:18-22 relates that Andrew and Peter were fishing, plying their trade when called, and James and John were mending nets with their father. The Bible states that these two men weren’t just fishermen, but business owners, along with their father, for they employed others in the business. Why do we as Believers think otherwise concerning our lives? We only have ourselves to blame for the unjust business in the marketplace; we are afraid to step out and let God establish us. Proverbs 20:23 Divers weights are an abomination unto the LORD; and a false balance is not good. As Christians, it is important to remember that our work is not just a means of earning a living, but also an opportunity to serve God and establish His kingdom on earth. We should not be afraid to step out in faith and allow God to establish us in the marketplace. Our actions should always be guided by God's word and principles. We should strive to conduct our business with integrity, fairness, and justice, and avoid any form of dishonesty or corruption. As the Bible says in Proverbs 20:23, "Divers weights are an abomination unto the Lord; and a false balance is not good." Let us always seek to honor God in our business dealings, and trust Him to bless and prosper us as we do so. Furthermore, we must also remember that our work in the marketplace is not just limited to our businesses. As followers of Christ, we are called to be a light in the world and to share the love and message of Jesus with everyone we encounter. This includes our colleagues, clients, and customers. Our work provides us with a unique opportunity to minister to those around us and to be ambassadors for Christ in every situation. Therefore, let us approach our work with joy and enthusiasm, knowing that we have been called to a higher purpose. Let us seek God's wisdom and guidance in all our business decisions, and trust Him to lead us in the right direction. As we do so, we can be confident that our work in the marketplace will not only provide for our needs, but also bring glory to God and advance His kingdom on earth.
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