Dream. Build. Lead: The blueprint of entrepreneurship where ideas become impact.
ORDINARY PEOPLE, EXTRAORDINARY PERSEVERANCE.
STORIES OF COURAGE, CREATIVITY, AND CALLING.
THE VISION, THE GRIND, THE BREAKTHROUGH.
CELEBRATING THOSE WHO BUILD WHERE NONE EXISTED BEFORE.
Entrepreneurship has always been something I’ve been passionate about and still am to this day. I know firsthand that the journey is not easy, but working closely alongside Pamela has given me the opportunity to see both the ups and downs of business, from the inside out. That experience has inspired me in ways I can’t fully put into words
Each feature in this edition of Leader’s Magazine has deeply encouraged me. Hearing the raw, honest stories of entrepreneurs who keep showing up despite challenges reminds me of my own calling. I aspire to be a full-time entrepreneur, and I’m holding myself accountable to that vision I truly believe this is my season of learning, stretching, and growing before I take my full leap.
God has called me to this path, and I’m grateful for every example of resilience, faith, and leadership that I get to witness through the voices in this issue My prayer is that you, too, find the same motivation and courage to keep pressing forward in your own journey.
Here are a few standout covers from previous editions of the Leadership Magazine, each capturing a moment in our ongoing journey of spotlighting community, purpose, and leadership.
Nyomi Knighton-Peake | A Letter from the Editor
Sederick Jackson
Photographed by: Neville Simpson
AbouttheFounder:ThePowerof Perserverence
THE ISSUE
TheVisionBehindtheCamera:Neville Simpson
21-22
A B O U T T H E
FOUNDER
M I N I S T R Y
Pamela leads with purpose, using her faith as the foundation to inspire and serve others beyond the traditional walls of ministry.
M A R R I A G E
She views marriage and motherhood as sacred assignments that ground her leadership, proving that strong families build lasting legacies.
Pamela sees the marketplace as an extension of her ministry, where faith, excellence, and service come together to create lasting impact.
Pamela Jackson Bass Publisher & Visionary | Leadership Magazine
Sharon Gray
Cutes and Cakes is passionate about baking eye catching products that taste great and make every eating experience more satisfying. We will never compromise our quality or values, and we will work each day to exceed customer expectations one order at a time.
Cutes & Cakes | HSV Bakery
“BAKING HAPPINESS ONE CAKE AT A TIME”
MORE THAN A BAKERY
A Story of Faith, Legacy, and Resilience
Sharon Gray
Q: What inspired you to start your business, and what keeps you going when it gets hard?
A: I’m a very goal-oriented person, and I’m at my best when I’m working toward something that brings me closer to the legacy I want to leave for my family For years, I dreamed about opening a bakery, but it never seemed like the right time or place. Eventually, I realized maybe it wasn’t the timing that needed to line up it was my mindset. Once I shifted my focus to purpose and legacy, everything started to fall into place When the opportunity came, I asked myself, “Does this align with the life and legacy I’m building?” The answer was yes and that’s what keeps me going, even on the hard days.
Q: Share one challenge that almost made you quit and how you overcame it.
A: This has by far been one of the most challenging endeavors I’ve ever faced. From the start, I committed to a five-year mindset because real growth takes time. There have been moments that brought me to tears, but I made a promise to myself: quitting isn’t an option
When challenges come, I pause, take the emotion out of it, and figure it out one step at a time. Each obstacle has taught me something valuable about resilience, faith, and trusting the process. I remind myself that every hard season is shaping the story I’ll one day tell to inspire someone else not to give up
Q: How has entrepreneurship changed you personally and professionally?
A: Personally, entrepreneurship has deepened my faith in God in ways I can’t fully put into words I’ve always been confident, but now my faith in both God and myself is unshakable I know that I’m rare, I’m her Not arrogant, not perfect, just grounded and confident in who I’m becoming. Professionally, entrepreneurship has transformed the way I think. There was a time when I would dwell on problems; now, I focus on solutions It’s taught me to see every challenge as an opportunity to grow, to lead with intention, and to keep moving forward no matter what
Q: What impact do you want your business to have on your community, industry, or future generations?
A: I’m an African American woman who was raised on the “wrong side of the tracks.” I’ve been a divorced single mother who once lived paycheck to paycheck, and I didn’t have the traditional college experience. I even changed careers after 30
My impact on the community, the industry, and future generations began long before Cutes and Cakes ever opened its doors. I want people especially women, to see that your background doesn’t define your future. There’s often a belief that when you have a spouse and children, you have to let go of your dreams I want to challenge that
I hope to inspire others to dream big, start where they are, and trust that their journey no matter how imperfect can still lead to something beautiful If someone sees my story and realizes they can do it too, then I’ve already made the impact I hoped for.
Q: What’s one truth about entrepreneurship you wish someone told you before you started?
A: This journey gets lonely. There will be people who start the race with you but can’t go the distance and that’s okay. Everyone isn’t meant to. Surround yourself with likeminded entrepreneurs who truly understand the grind, and network like it’s a full-time job
And find a therapist early. Not just any therapist, a good fit for you. For me, that’s a Christian-based therapist who can help me stay grounded and keep my perspective aligned when things get heavy Because trust me, there will be moments when you’ll need that anchor
Q: If you could give one piece of advice to someone who feels “called” to entrepreneurship, what would it be?
A: It takes faith, discipline, and consistency There will be moments when your mind and body tell you that you’re tired, that you can’t do it, that it’s too hard. Challenges will come, and people will make you question your calling. But when you’re truly grounded in your purpose, you’ll find the strength to keep going even when it doesn’t make sense to anyone else
Tish Henderson
TISH HENDERSON
Founder/CEO of Tish Hardric & Associates, LLC.
What inspired you to start your business, and what keeps you going when it gets hard?
I was inspired to start my business by the desire to create something meaningful that would not only provide for my family but also make an impact in the lives of others. I wanted to use my skills and experiences to help people turn their ideas into something real That vision gave me the courage to step out on faith and build my own path
What keeps me going when it gets hard is remembering my “why ” I think about the clients who depend on me, the lives being changed through my work, and the legacy I’m building for my family. Challenges will always come, but I see them as stepping stones. My faith, resilience, and passion for serving others give me the strength to keep pushing forward.
Share one challenge that almost made you quit and how you overcame it.
I can’t say I’ve faced a challenge that made me want to quit, but there were times early on when I questioned if I had moved too fast with my startup Those doubts crept in when resources were limited and things didn’t go as planned
What helped me push through was reminding myself that growth requires discomfort. Every obstacle was part of the learning process Instead of letting doubt stop me, I used it as motivation to pause, reassess, and make wiser decisions Looking back, those moments weren’t setbacks, they were lessons that strengthened my vision and strategy
How has entrepreneurship changed you personally and professionally?
Entrepreneurship has changed me in ways I never imagined. Personally, it’s taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of protecting my peace while chasing purpose I’ve learned how to balance faith, family, and business, which has stretched me to grow every day
Professionally, it’s made me a stronger leader and visionary I’ve sharpened my skills, embraced continuous learning, and walked into rooms I once only dreamed of Entrepreneurship has shown me that success isn’t just about what you build it’s about who you become in the process.
What impact do you want your business to have on your community, industry, or future generations?
I want my business to be a resource that empowers small businesses, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs to believe in what’s possible and to have the tools to succeed In my industry, I hope to set a standard of excellence and integrity showing that business consulting is about people, relationships, and creating opportunity.
For future generations, I want my story to be proof that you can start from scratch, push past obstacles, and still build a legacy I hope my journey inspires others to dream bigger, work harder, and stay consistent
What’s one truth about entrepreneurship you wish someone told you before you started?
True success takes longer than you think. It’s not an overnight process, it requires patience, consistency, and a lot of unseen work behind the scenes In the beginning, I thought hard work alone would bring quick results, but I’ve learned that building something real and lasting takes time There are seasons of planting long before the harvest
If you could give one piece of advice to someone who feels “called” to entrepreneurship, what would it be?
Start before you feel ready. Don’t wait for perfection or the “right moment.” The journey will challenge and shape you in ways you can’t anticipate but the growth and impact are worth every risk Trust yourself, keep learning, and take the leap
Candice Hayes
CANDICE HAYES
Founder/CEO of Candys Candles
What inspired you to start your business, and what keeps you going when it gets hard?
I started my business because I was literally tired of getting headaches every time I lit a candle. Changing the scent didn’t help, so I began researching and discovered it was the chemicals inside the candles that were the problem. Making my own candles became therapy for me it was calming and healing and now I want to share that same peace with others What keeps me going is knowing I’m helping people create a healthier, more relaxing environment in their homes
Share one challenge that almost made you quit and how you overcame it
There were moments when sales were slow, and I questioned if people really valued handmade, non-toxic candles. It was discouraging to see bigger companies win people over with flashy packaging What helped me push through was remembering why I started: to create safe products that truly matter I also leaned into my faith, reminding myself that growth takes time and consistency
How has entrepreneurship changed you personally and professionally?
Having more than one business has definitely stretched me in ways I didn’t expect. It’s taught me determination and how to pivot quickly when things don’t go as planned I’ve had to become a quicker thinker and a stronger problem-solver Personally, it’s deepened my faith, I’ve learned to prayerfully lean and fully depend on God with each decision, because I can’t carry it all on my own
What impact do you want your business to have on your community, industry, or future generations?
I want my business to encourage people to slow down and make time for themselves. Different scents have a way of shifting your mood for example, citrus can uplift and energize you, while lavender can calm and relax you. Something as simple as lighting a candle can help you pause, breathe, and care for your mental health If I can inspire others to prioritize self-care and mindfulness, I’ll feel like my business has left a positive mark
What’s one truth about entrepreneurship you wish someone told you before you started?
I wish someone told me that even when you make highquality, non-toxic products with great packaging, people may still choose to buy from bigger companies simply because they’re more well-known. In the product industry, especially when you’re making items by hand, some people may not fully understand or value the labor behind your work You have to learn to be okay with that and not take it personal, just stay focused on the people who do appreciate the care and quality you put in
If you could give one piece of advice to someone who feels “called” to entrepreneurship, what would it be?
Stay the course, and never leave God out of the equation Entrepreneurship is full of highs and lows, but faith and perseverance will keep you grounded and moving forward
Nikia Lightfoot
NIKIA LIGHTFOOT
Founder/CEO of Vujee Vegan
What inspired you to start your business, and what keeps you going when it gets hard?
From a young age, I knew I wanted to do something extraordinary. Helping my mother and grandmother in the kitchen sparked my love for cooking, and by age 12, I dreamed of owning a restaurant. That dream became purpose years later when, at 34, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Research showed that changing my diet could improve my chances of survival, so I adopted a plant-based lifestyle. When I later reintroduced animal products, my body rejected them—confirming that plant-based living was the right path for me.
What began as a personal health journey turned into a mission to show others, especially cancer survivors, that plant-based food can be both healing and delicious. That passion birthed Vujee Vegan on September 16, 2020, during the pandemic. Vujee Vegan isn’t just a restaurant, it’s an assignment. When times get tough, I remind myself of my purpose and keep going, knowing hard times don’t last forever.
Share one challenge that almost made you quit—and how you overcame it.
One of my biggest challenges was scaling Vujee Vegan from a food delivery service to a brick-and-mortar location. Our journey has been a progression of faith and perseverance: starting at farmers markets (2020), renting a food trailer (2021), operating from a ghost kitchen (2022), purchasing our own trailer (2023), and finally moving into our first brick-and-mortar (2025). Finding and retaining the right team members to meet the growing demand has been another challenge. As we continue to expand, we remain hopeful that our culture, values, and commitment to excellence will attract top talent aligned with our mission.
How has entrepreneurship changed you personally and professionally?
Entrepreneurship has strengthened me in ways I never imagined. It’s taught me grit, humility, compassion, and the importance of resilience. I didn’t anticipate all the obstacles I would face, but the support of my community and loyal customers has made the journey deeply rewarding. It has also
forced me into uncomfortable yet necessary growth—financial decisions, leadership adjustments, and moments of deep reflection. Still, it’s brought immense joy, gratitude, and lasting relationships. Personally, I’ve learned to embrace challenges as opportunities. Professionally, I’ve evolved into a more strategic, purpose-driven leader.
What impact do you want your business to have on your community, industry, or future generations?
I want Vujee Vegan to remain a staple in the community— known for inclusivity, authenticity, and creating a space where people feel “at home.” I hope my journey inspires others to chase their dreams, no matter how long it takes. I was 12 when I declared I would own a restaurant, and it came true 31 years later. Dreams are possible if you believe, persevere, and never give up.
What’s one truth about entrepreneurship you wish someone told you before you started?
As an entrepreneur, you will face many obstacles, challenges, and uncertainties. Entrepreneurship is not a straight road. It’s hard work. You will have to pivot and adapt to change. It takes a lot of time and money to build a sustaining business. It’s an emotional roller coaster. Therefore, your purpose and your “why” needs to be deeply rooted or you will get discouraged and possibly give up.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone who feels “called” to entrepreneurship, what would it be?
1. Find your niche and research the market – what solution are you bringing? What makes you stand out?
2. Write a business plan and understand your “why”?
3. Follow your heart. Don’t let anyone intimidate you because you are doing the same thing or something similar. There is enough room for everybody.
4. Don’t tell everybody your dreams and visions. Everybody doesn’t have good intentions or advice. Always remember, the vision/dream was given to you!!
5. You will make a lot of mistakes. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Find a mentor in the industry that has a successful track record.
6. Give yourself grace.
7. Network + Build a strong and supportive team.
8. Enjoy the journey!
Entrepreneurship begins with a dream but it’s the courage to act, the resilience to rise, and the faith to keep going that transforms that dream into impact. Every entrepreneur’s story is a blueprint: a living example of what it means to build something greater than yourself.
In this issue, we celebrate the innovators and visionaries who are shaping our communities with creativity, courage, and heart Their businesses are more than brands they are reflections of purpose, perseverance, and possibility.
May their stories remind us that building something meaningful takes time, belief, and a willingness to keep going, even when it’s hard. Because when we dream, build, and lead we change the world, one bold idea at a time.
S.E.D. MEDIA
SED’S POV:
When I graduated from Sparkman High School, I thought I had it all figured out My passion for photography was clear, but the path forward wasn’t I enrolled in a commercial photography school in Tennessee, then tried to make it work at Nossi in Atlanta I even thought about GSU Each time, something fell through. It felt like no matter how much I wanted it, doors just wouldn’t open
But here’s what I’ve learned: sometimes what feels like a detour is really God preparing you for the right door
My opportunity came when I started working with SWAC That experience stretched me, sharpened my skills, and gave me a platform I never expected. It was the very opportunity that opened the door for me to now serve as the Videographer Coordinator for Grambling State University a position I never imagined, but one I’m truly grateful for
To the Sparkman High School photography students, youth entrepreneurs, and young leaders: don’t stop when things don’t align in your timing. Keep showing up. Keep learning. Keep creating.
Failure isn’t the end it’s just part of the process The moments that feel like setbacks may actually be set-ups for your breakthrough I’m living proof that even when the plan shifts, the dream is still alive
So don’t give up Strive Every Day Your time is coming.
By Sederick “Sed” Jackson, Videographer Coordinator, Grambling State University
Trust the Process
KEE’S KEE’S
PLAYBOOK
“Basketball teaches me discipline, but life teaches me wisdom”
“Not everyone can go where i’m going”
“Its not just about wins, its about the work”
“BASKETBALL TEACHES ME DISCIPLINE, BUT LIFE TEACHES ME WISDOM.”
Sophomore year is here and with it comes early mornings, late practices, and a love for basketball that keeps me going even when I’m tired The grind is real but I know it’s shaping me not just as a player, but as a person.
This year has been about more than the game It’s been about finding my voice, figuring out who my real friends are, and learning that not everyone can go where I’m going Basketball teaches me discipline, but life teaches me wisdom
Big milestones are happening off the court too I just got my permit, and in less than 30 days I’ll be 16. That may not seem like much, but for me, it’s a reminder that growing up comes with more freedom and more responsibility
For anyone chasing a dream whether it’s on the court or in life remember: it’s not just about the wins, it’s about the work Show up early Stay late. And keep pushing, because one day the work will show
L E S S O N S F R O M T H E C O U R T & B E Y O N D
BY KEEMARION BASS SPARKMAN HIGH BASKETBALL PLAYER
FAITH, FASHION & FRESHMAN YEAR
By Kennidi Dior
HHigh school has been a season of finding my voice and learning what it means to stand strong in who I am. Freshman year has already brought ups and downs, fallouts with friends, tough lessons in trust, and even the end of a relationship that I thought would last. After a summer apart, we are learning how to rebuild, even as we’re now in different schools
Through it all, I’ve learned that identity can’t rest on people’s opinions. Mine is rooted in Christ. I’ll blast my praise and worship music anywhere, because that’s who I am. Praise dance at church has kept me grounded, and stepping into my role as Sparkman High’s cheer team manager
has taught me responsibility and leadership in new ways.
Balancing grades, faith, and friendships isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. Fashion is still one of my favorite outlets, a way to express myself without saying a word And as the youngest and only girl with two older brothers, I’ve had no choice but to be tough, resilient, and unapologetically me
To anyone else navigating high school, relationships, or friendships: it’s okay to not have it all figured out yet. Keep your faith strong, keep showing up, and know that even in the hardest moments, you’re still becoming who you’re meant to be.
EVERY LEGACY HAS A BEGINNING, AND OURS CONTINUES THROUGH THE NEXT GENERATION.
Sederick Jackson
My camera is my voice—telling stories that outlive moments.”
Videographer Coordinator at Grambling State From Sparkman classrooms to college sidelines, Sed shows that perseverance and vision open doors.
Keemarion Bass
“Discipline makes the difference between talent and greatness.”
Sophomore · JV Basketball · New Driver With early mornings, late nights, and mentorship from his uncle, Kee is shaping both his game and his character.
Kennidi Bass
“Faith and fashion are how I shine—with God first, always.”
High School Freshman · Cheer Manager · Praise Dance
Balancing grades, style, and worship, Kennidi brings strength, expression, and resilience as the youngest and only girl.
LEGACY LINEAGE
Family Focus Youth Perspective Purpose-Driven Passion
By Sed Jackson, Kennidi Bass, Kee Bass
Sed has stepped boldly into his calling as a videographer and creative, now serving as Grambling State’s Videographer Coordinator. From Sparkman’s classrooms to the sidelines of college sports, he’s proof that perseverance and vision open doors.
Kee is finding his rhythm on and off the court, balancing basketball, school, and the journey into manhood. With early mornings, late nights, and the mentorship of his uncle, he’s building not just a game, but a mindset of discipline and growth.
Kennidi is navigating high school with grace, style, and faith. Between cheer management, praise dance, and her love for fashion, she shines as the youngest; fearless, expressive, and determined to write her own story.
Together, they represent the heart of what this magazine is about: youth with vision, resilience, and purpose building a legacy that will outlive us all.
A simple prayer and a camera became the beginning of a lifelong ministry.
Neville Simpson
“Photography isn’t just about taking pictures — it’s about capturing purpose, passion, and people.”
Neville Simpson
BRIDGING TECHNOLOGY & SECURITY
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“When
the Calls Stop”
By Pamela Bass, Publisher
There are moments in life that words can’t hold; moments where the heart breaks in ways only Heaven can understand. Our beloved sister in Christ, Misty Anderson, experienced a loss that shook our entire community. Her husband, Mark, and their two precious daughters, Lainey and Ellie, were tragically taken in a plane crash. What followed was an outpouring of love, faith, and unity that reflected just how deeply the Anderson family has touched our city.
Misty has always been a woman of grace and quiet strength. The kind of friend who calls back, who checks in, who makes time even in her busiest moments Her love for her family was radiant, a love that mirrored God’s And while her home may now feel a little quieter, we know that Jesus is still there, sitting in the silence with her, holding her heart in His hands
When the calls stop, and the visits fade, God will still be there He will be there in the stillness, in the memories, in the midnight tears, and in the morning light that peeks through the curtains reminding her that love remains.
Our prayer is that Misty will feel surrounded not just by community, but by the comforting presence of the One who promised never to leave nor forsake her.
To Misty: as you walk this journey of unimaginable loss, know that you are not walking it alone. Your family’s legacy of love will forever echo in this earth, and we will continue to lift you up in prayer, in strength, and in love.
With deepest love and continued prayers,
Pamela
Bass
Pamela Bass Publisher, Leadership Magazine
I N L O V I N G H O N O R O F T H E A N D E R S O N F A M I L Y
