Growth Women's Business Networks Magazine March 2022 Spring Edition

March 2022 Spring Edition

Growing Business Leaders 2022 Calendar Features

Kingdom Strategist Blueprint Builder Spiritual Midwife Wealth Generator Best Selling Book Publisher

Contributing Writers Financial Literacy

Women Motivated By Purpose International Best Selling Authors

WOMEN SPOTLIGHT

News. Networking. Inspiration.

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Mission: Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine mission is to empower and support women towards growth in their businesses within various industries. We believe in supporting one another and networking to assist you in reaching your overall mission of building a larger customer or client base.

Purpose: Our primary purpose is to be supportive of women in our local communities, in different states across the United States, and even countries Internationally. Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine is here to support women authors, business owners, entrepreneurs, educators, health & wellness coaches, ministry leaders, nonprofit organizations, and podcasts/radio/television hosts.

Vision: Our vision is to reach people by sharing the gifts and talents from women in various industries who want to advertise and market their books, products, and services. The online digital magazine is available in printed copies and eventually will be sold in stores in the United States and worldwide.

Photo provided by Mark Olsen from Unsplash

From The Founder...

Special Thank You From The Founder: Thank you to all of Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine contributors, followers, and all the women/men who have been featured in our magazine.

Thank you to all of our readers who support GWBN Magazine’s mission, purpose, and vision in an effort to help us build up our networks.

God Bless You, Jennifer Diaby Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine

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Contributors FOUNDER/CEO, Jennifer Diaby PUBLISHER, Danyelle Timmons CONTRIBUTING WRITERS, Tafadazwa Mazibuko Victoria Henry Chyrel J. Jackson Rolanda Pyle Kadenia Javis Lisa Bradley Verna Mayers-Fakunle Elizabeth Crawford Tamara Brown

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Photo provided by studio Dekorasyon from Unsplash

March content...

Cover Feature

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Women of Excellence

Dr. Derashay Zorn

Women Serving with Excellence

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God Amid the Pandemic

God being constant during the hard times from Covid

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Growing Business Leaders Calendar Features

12 Entrepreneurs leading in their businesses

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20

Women Wellness

A therapist for Anyone

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Women Motivated

By Purpose

Amazon Best Selling Authors

Who We Are? The Wright Village is an ecosystem consisting of entrepreneurs in underserved communities. We are a business incubator and coworking space that fosters culture, connects like-minded entrepreneurs, and helps entrepreneurs with purposing their success. Entrepreneurs can collaborate, be advised by industry experts, learn strategies to drive success and avoid failure, have access to workshops and networking events, and low-cost office solutions to achieve success.

Why do we do what we do? Entrepreneurs in underserved communities have limited access to highlevel business support and difficulty locating reputable resources. Many entrepreneurs start out alone and face challenges. In our village, members support each other, collaborate on ideas, and grow their businesses through relevant programs all while building a strong network.

How do we do what we do? In addition to a safe space, The Wright Village provides members access to a full suite of services which include information, consultation, equipment, and other essentials. These resources, which are typically unavailable to overlooked populations, are the foundation of their evolution. Villagers begin to help one another with unique business challenges and in turn begin to flourish. As a result, many frustrations will begin to subside, productivity will grow and members will be able to mentor others.

315 Hubert Street Suite 2 Raleigh, NC 27603

919-822-1937 info@thewrightvillage.com

KEEP DREAMING THE RACE ISN’T OVER YET

By Contributing Writer, Tafadwza Mazibuko I was running terribly late to submit a business proposal to a potential client by the deadline. When I finally arrived, I saw many cars parked by the entrance and quite some commotion as masses frantically ran with white envelopes in their hands to submit their proposals to the same client. I had to act fast and join the race to give our company a chance to achieve something glorious. I was grateful that I had not worn high heels that day otherwise I would not have made it in the race. When we got to the entrance, one male competitor with discouragement written all over his face remarked, ”Why did we waste our time. There are so many other proposals”

The year 2020 was extraordinarily challenging, with many people losing their jobs due to unforeseen and numerous company closures. Most businesses that could not adapt to the new normal were forced to abruptly close. Some wished they could press the pause or reset button of life so that they could find themselves. Unfortunately, others lost loved ones and bread winners due to the pandemic. As the year ends, many people could be feeling like the man whom I ran against for the submission of the business proposal. They have run the race of life and feel hopeless because of the overwhelming challenges.

Years ago, I read an inspiring article about the two sisters, Serena and Venus Williams. Apparently, Venus struggled with a debilitating auto-immune disease called Sjogren’s syndrome which threatened her career. Instead of being overwhelmed by that challenge, she changed her diet and persisted. At the age of 37, she is still competing near the top of women tennis. Serena won her last grand slam while she was pregnant. These 2 women have overcome insurmountable obstacles to reach the top. Maybe 2020 was not a productive and fulfilling year for you because of the pandemic and many other overwhelming challenges. Maybe your income levels were significantly affected. The 2 sisters who have succeeded despite challenges did not overlook or underestimate their challenges.

Instead they faced them like head on and stayed the course with courage, discipline and adaptability.

In my book, “The dream”, I state that to “perceive your dream, Know where you are, to determine where you want to go. Know who you are, to determine who you want to be. Know who you are not, to determine what you should do to be who you should be.”

Maya Angelou once said “You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from and how you can still come out of it.”

1 Corinthians 9:24 “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives a prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.” In 2021, keep dreaming, the race isn’t over yet!

Website: www.tafadzwamazibukospeaks.co.za Facebook: The-dream-that-was-worth-fighting-for-218787128459623/ Amazon: www.amazon.com/author/tafadzwamazibuko LinkedIn: tafadzwa-mazibuko-8377112

Dr. Derashay Zorn Interviewed by Jennifer Diaby

Kingdom Strategist | Blueprint Builder | Spiritual Midwife Dr. Derashay Zorn is an international business & ministry coach and expert in the art of unleashing purpose, developing dreams, and expanding untapped potentials within individuals, corporations, and ministries. Her passion for information technology has led her to obtain a Master of Science in Information System Management, which equipped her to specialize in analyzing, developing, and managing systems to birth or expand individuals and entities into the next dimension of kingdom implementation. Derashay equips mankind globally as the Founder of the Kingdom Influencers Network, In The Church™ TV & Radio Broadcast, Divine Order Restoration Ministries (D.O.R.M) International, Kingdom Strategist Solutions, D.ORM Publishing, Woman of Influence Magazine and many other entrepreneurship endeavors that equip mankind globally.

Through Kingdom Strategies University®, she teaches others how to maximize their potential and monetize their gifts and talents as a critical vehicle for fulfilling their purpose, making a significant impact and branding influence that can instantly and beautifully change the world. Dr. Zorn is helping women break through barriers that have held them from operating in their purpose, proclaiming their God-given promise, and living a prosperous life through the global platform I AM H.E.R International. This is a community where women of faith connect and collaborate in personal, professional, and spiritual endeavors. Derashay created this movement for the purpose of accountability, collaborative partnerships, support, training and development, and financial freedom so that every woman can reach their highest potential.

Dr. Zorn host I AM H.E.R International Conference around the world and annually she honors women and their contribution to the world with the I AM H.E.R. International Awards. In addition to producing collaborative anthology learning manual for women by women to develop a wraparound approach to each one teach one. various other initiatives to honor women Her books and workbook titled “Abortions In the Church: Divine Strategies to Spiritual Deliverance” Meant for My Good: Being Developed In The Midst of the Disaster & 31 Ways of Influence, is helping others overcome and give birth to their purpose, visions, and dreams. Mrs. Zorn is on a mission to expand the market reach and income potential over the next 12 months for 1000 authors through her global brand School of

Authorpreneur®. Which is an intense training and development program for authors that is an extension to her soon to be released book Write Like an Author, Think Like an Entrepreneur and Get Paid like an Authorpreneur: Developing A Multiple Stream Of Income Mindset And Playbook For Authors. In addition to building, birthing, and expanding individuals, ministries, and businesses for the Kingdom of God, she is a wife, mother, entrepreneur, consultant, empowerment speaker, mentor, and friend. Her philosophy is “A critical tool for self-development is learning how to cultivate, build and release others into their destinies.

Please introduce and the readers a little about yourself? Dr. Derashay Zorn is a woman who is chasing God's heart and has decided that I am going to walk in everything God has commanded of me. I am a native of Atlanta, Ga, who God has blessed with three amazing sons. I am a Christian serial entrepreneur who focuses on helping individuals unlock the fullness of their potential so they can increase their influence, impact, and income.

Dr. Derashay Zorn, you are known as the Kingdom Strategist, Blueprint Builder, and Spiritual Midwife. Can you tell the readers about how you received all those powerful titles? These are different functionalities that are a part of my

calling as an Apostle and Ministry and Marketplace Business Coach. As a Kingdom Strategist, I provide individuals with practical biblical solutions to solve their personal, business, or spiritual needs so they can birth or expand their visions and goals. In the role of the Blueprint Builder, I get the opportunity to help individual's concepts become a reality as I provide the how to instruction, organize the team, and the plays to help others build out their dreams. The Spiritual Midwife position allows me to help individuals give birth and nurture their God-given ideas to make sure they don't have a miscarriage, abortion, or stillbirth with God's word for their lives.

You are the Founder and C.E.O. of the Divine Order Restoration Ministries International. Please tell us about Divine Order Restoration Ministries International and the services you offer? I have the honor of being the Apostle of D.O.R.M International and our purpose is to restore the order of God, One life, One body, One Nation at a time. We get the opportunity to do this through global Christian training and development programs under our bible college Kingdom Strategist University. This is the major umbrella that covers all of my brands. Therefore, we provide Christian TV, Radio, and Podcasting, Christian Book Publishing, Employment Agency and so much more.

Tell us about your organization, "I AM H.E.R International. What type of services your organization offer women? I AM H.E.R. International is a supportive and friendly community where women of faith connect, collaborate in personal, professional, and spiritual endeavors. We provide international online and offline personal, professional, and spiritual training, share tips, offer feedback, foster collaborations, etc. We provide resources and platforms for Christian women to fulfill their purpose. Dr. Derashay Zorn created this movement for accountability, collaborative partnerships, support, training and development, and financial freedom so that every woman can reach her highest potential. Therefore, we focus on the complete woman to unlock the Proverbs 31 Woman principles to maximize each woman's potential mentally, emotionally, financially, spiritually, and physically.

In celebration of "Women's International History Month," your organization "I AM H.E.R International" will have a virtual women's conference which will also consist of an award show. Tell the readers about the I AM H.E.R International Hybrid Conference & Award Show. The purpose of the I AM H.E.R. International Awards is to honor the contribution of women to the seven mountains of influence around the world. With this in mind, our goal is to celebrate women who are making a difference and encourage other women to come forth and own their sphere of influence unapologetically. In addition, to bringing forth an untied front of sisterhood. We focus on encouraging, empowering, educating, and employing women globally into their purpose so they can utilize their gifts to influence and impact their sphere of influence. Therefore, we combined the award show and conference to lead us in accomplishing our mission.

This month in March, you spoke the Annual Summit "Women's RISE (Real Inspiration & Sustaining Empowerment) Conference" in Paris, France. Please give us more details about the "Women's RISE Conference? I had the fantastic opportunity to be one of the international keynote speakers at the "Women's RISE Conference, which is a conference that brings discussion, thought leadership, and sharing of best practices across Health & Wellness, Financial Literacy, Women in Leadership, Women in Entrepreneurship and Mentorship & paying it forward. It is dedicated to the goal of connecting women across various ages, professions, and diverse backgrounds to bring the discussion around eliminating gender, pay, and socioeconomic gaps.

Please tell the readers about your book "31 Ways Of Influence," which is a #1 Amazon International Bestseller. 31 Ways of Influence V1 & V2 are books that focus and teach on the principles of the Proverbs 31 Woman through personal experience or expertise of women from various backgrounds. Each woman has provided tools for success utilizing the Proverbs 31 woman attribute that they would make the most impact in others' life. They are equipping women on how to show up authentically on purpose and how to utilize what God has placed inside of them to be impactful and influential. It offers 31 tools of success in the areas of entrepreneurship, self-development, spirituality, finances, relationship, intercession, purpose, etc. The goal of these books is to supply individuals around the world with strategies, tips, tools, strength, hope, and encouragement to emerge the Proverbs 31 woman within. Each chapter is fully loaded with devotion, supplication, affirmation, and application to equip the women of God in His word of truth.

Recently, you released your new book, "Influence 365 (Volume 1)" which is also a #1 Amazon Bestseller. Tell the readers about your latest book and the reason you compiled this anthology book.

The Influence 365 Book Collaboration Project serves as a tool to encourage, equip, educate, employ others to live a life that positively impacts and change themselves, others, and their environment so that God can be gloried. It is composed of words of affirmations, motivational devotions, prayers, poems and action steps to help individuals become influencers. This project is based on Matthew 5:14-16 What advice would you give to a person who wants to become an author and publish books? My advice to someone who wants to become an author and publish a book is to “Don't limit your message just to be placed within a book. Allow the book to open up multiple income streams for your message to reach the masses. To become a published author, do your research, develop your team, understand the business side, schedule time to write, don't omit the editing process, and consider everything you produce or do as a branding activity for your personal or professional brand.”

What is one of your great accomplishments? One of my most significant accomplishments is within a year, we reached 193 countries and a network of 800 million listeners with the Kingdom Influencers Broadcast radio station. We are delivering a Kingdom Sound to the four corners of the earth through preaching, teaching, podcasting, music, poetry, and talk shows.

Do you have any upcoming conferences, events, or workshops? We have several upcoming workshops and conferences that we are coming up, such as Developing A Profitable Social Media Strategy 7 Day Challenge, How to develop a profitable anthology, and the Profitable Webinar Creation Course, to name a few. As we have the Kingdom Strategist University, classes and workshops are ongoing to help businesses, ministries, and authors reach their influence, impact, and income. But to stay up to date with our latest offers, follow us on social media or visit https://hy.page/ksu Give us some words to educate, inspire, and encourage women and all of our readers of Growth Women's Business Networks Magazine. Did you know that the talents that God has given unto you are the key to unlocking everything you have ever dreamed or wanted? They are the solutions to problems within the world and people are waiting to encounter you and how you beautifully show up in the world. Proverbs 31:1819 says “She perceives that her merchandise is good". Therefore, she put them into the marketplace. This perception gave her the faith to step out in her God-given talents to serve humanity while making profits to benefit her family and community. She tapped into her talents and understood she had the ability to generate wealth. This takes believing and investing within yourself. Investing your time, talents, and treasures are 3 Key components to unleashing your dreams and unlocking wealth so you can reap the harvest of your prayers, dreams, and heart desires.

Facebook: kingdombusinessstrategist Iamherinternational Twitter: @iamherintl

Instagram: iamherinternational Tiktok: iamherinternational LinkedIn: Derashay

Website: http://iamherinternational.com/ Phone: (678) 740-3676 | Email: social@iamherinternational.com

Author’s Spotlight

WOMEN

of Excellence

SONJA KEEVE

Sonja Keeve is an international Amazon Best Selling author, speaker, podcaster, and consultant. As a wife, mother, mentor and leader in her community, her passions lie in helping emerging career professional women to turn their passion projects into a thriving business to generate secondary income for their households. Sonja is the CEO of Sista’s with a Voice Podcast Network, where she helps Women Entrepreneurs get unstuck from thinking about a Podcast, to Building, Launching & Monetizing a Podcast in 30 days! As the Executive Director and Host of 2 Podcast Shows, Begin Again and Inspiring Nations, an international podcast show heard in over 164+ countries, she interviews Women from across the globe that have stories of how they inspire others every day!

If you are interested in learning more about her Podcast courses or to be a guest on her show, you can reach Sonja Keeve at skempowers@gmail.com You can listen to Executive Director and Podcast Host Sonja Keeve on Inspiring Nations Wednesdays @7pm and Begin Again - Mondays @7pm Hindsight Media Radio

Follow Sonja on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sonjakeeve Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonjakeeve https://www.facebook.com/swvpodcast

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/keevesonja

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WOMEN

of Excellence

DR. CHRISTIE BLACK-MURRELL Dr. Christie Black-Murrell was born and raised in Columbus, GA just 100 miles south of the big city of Atlanta, GA. She is an author, counselor, and speaker who has learned the power of words. All her life she has used writing as an avenue to express her feelings and creative imagination. She has several publications of poetry beginning in 2008 and has also written other genres to include adult and children's fiction. Her last five releases since (2020) were all social-emotional learning books speaking to children about self-awareness and social awareness specifically. Christie loves the written and spoken word which she uses as an avenue to "Speak Life and Promote Love" to all that she engages. She believes that writing is a part of her purpose in life and gives her all in everything that does.

Lastly, Dr. Christie is a devoted wife and mother of two inquisitive little girls who believe in finding the positive in all things.

Follow Christie on social media: www.facebook.com/authorchristiemurrell www.instagram.com/authorchristie_blackmurrell www.twitter.com/authorchristie If you would like to order a copy of Dr. Christie Black-Murrell's books, visit her website at www.cblackexpressions.com

WOMEN

of Excellence

DR. TAMECCA ROGERS Dr. Tamecca Rogers is a Tulsa native author, publisher, and CEO of a non-profit organization. Through her work, she empowers women and helps teachers and parents approach complex topics and issues with children in a non-threatening manner, such as race, inclusion, identity, and self-love.

Dr. Rogers holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, a Master's in Business Administration, and a Doctoral degree in Educational Leadership. After serving five years as a hospital corpsman in the United States Navy and a combined six years as a high school instructor and college enrollment counselor, Dr. Rogers held adjunct professor positions at multiple postsecondary institutions before working at Tulsa Technology Center. She currently holds the role of the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

The mother of three children, Dr. Rogers enjoys writing children's books with her youngest son, Keith Ross.

To date, she has published several successful parenting and educational articles, as well as best-selling books on Amazon. Her work has been featured on CBS News during an interview with Tanya Rivero and KJRH News during an interview with Julie Chin. To inspire women to act upon their true potential, she co-authored Women Motivated by Purpose, plans to release Aspire to Inspire: Fix Her Crown and founded Mominate (Mom + Dominate = Mominate), a non-profit organization aimed to help financially challenged mothers and their children.

In addition to boosting children's self-confidence and motivating women to live up to their highest potential, Dr. Rogers plans to use the profits from her books to assist recovering mothers in Tulsa and help build an elementary school in Mombasa, Kenya.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/motherandsonpublishing/ https://www.facebook.com/momsaspiretoinspire

Instagram: @drtameccarogers

If you would like to order a copy of Dr. Tamecca Rogers books visit her website www.inspirepublishingllc.com or if you would want to learn more about her organization Mominate visit website at https://www.mominate.org

WOMEN

of Excellence

DR. LOUGENIA RUCKER Trailblazing paths of transformation for women of faith for 20+ years in The marketplace, Dr. Lougenia J. Trailblazer Rucker, empowers and equips with unstoppable faith and a purpose-driven global game-changing mission. She supports women to get unstuck, breakthrough and unlock their full brilliant kingdom potential so they live a more abundant life.

As Founder of Divine Diamonds Ministries, Apostle Rucker is committed to pioneering and building people and ministries as a pioneering leader. She is called to the Marketplace to equip, train and empower faith leaders with leading-edge masterclasses, webinars, life and business coaching and kingdom mentorship.

Her passion as a Kingdom Trailblazer, is to support others to shine in their brilliance while creating multiple streams of income and generational legacies. She is an award-winning entrepreneur and author of best-selling books, including Amazon’s 2021 Best Seller, “Digging Diamonds.”

She is known as an International Game-Changer to many as she teaches, coach and lead other GameChangers to own their voice and brand their stories. With corporate marketing, communications, community relations and ministerial insights, she trains and guides 5-fold ministry leaders how to build marketplace businesses and brand strategies which connects them to their Next-Level and teach them how to profit on purpose.

Whether on-line or off-line, Dr. Rucker flows in her anointed creative genius zone developing and building Marketplace Leaders to accelerate their ministry and business growth through clarification, visualization, collaboration, transformation and ultimately kingdom manifestation.

Divine Diamond Ministries A Christian virtual community empowering & equipping people to get clear about their vision, live on purpose with prosperity and fulfillment www.divinediamondsministries.ning.com Trailblazing Transformations "Life/Business Coaching & Kingdom Mentorship" Through Coaching and Mentorship expect to change the game and to be changed in return www.trailblazingtransformations.com

Stay Connected: Facebook Group: Power-UP | Prosper-NOW https://www.facebook.com/groups/poweruprospernow www.facebook.com/divinediamonds YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/DivineDiamondsIntl www.facebook.com/Lougenia Trailblazer Rucker Instagram: @ divine_diamonds_ministries

www.twitter.com/DDMIntl

www.twitter.com/uncommonmentor

2022 Game-Changer Life Coaching Program Click link for more information @ http://bit.ly/3zWu84M

Diamond Heart Prophetic Mentorship Program Click link for more information @ http://www.trailblazingtransformations.com/gamechangerteir2

WOMEN

of Excellence

M.Ed, GCDF, CWDP

ELIZABETH CRAWFORD

Certified Career and Personal Development Coach and Tax and Financial Strategist, Author, Entrepreneur and CEO, Wisdom & Insights LLC "Wisdom is the principle thing; therefore, get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding" Proverbs 4:7

Elizabeth Crawford also known as Coach Liz defined her niche as a Certified Career and Personal Development Coach. With a passion to assist women in developing their career brand, meeting and exceeding career goals and establishing a frame of balance. Wisdom & Insights is also a Tax and Financial firm assisting clients in state and federal tax preparation, budgeting, setting money goals and financial strategy. We take pride in assisting our clients build legacy and generational wealth. Coach Liz infuses unique skills and talents in assisting her clients. She believes in a holistic approach, catering to the mind, body and spirit. Her belief is that the family unit can function successfully when all members are healthy, whole and working together. During the pandemic, Coach Liz partnered with the Academy of Creative Coaching providing services to those affected and facing challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The initiative, “Coaching during Covid” donated three sessions per client need. Coach Liz has also received extensive training while working as a government contractor. She has also worked as an Interventionist and Parent Educator for a Behavioral Care private practice. This credible training and experience is what uniquely sets her part. Coach was raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and became a resident of the State of South Carolina in 2005. Spiritually she believes God has provided everything we need pertaining to life and godliness! 2 Peter 1:3.

WHAT’S HOLDING YOU BACK?: Taking the Limits Off Chapter Abstract What is it that could be holding you back from your greatness? Could it be you? What may be keeping you in a place of stagnant growth and development may include the following: limiting beliefs (lack of confidence, self-esteem and an overall negative belief system), support (or lack of support particularly in relationships with persons who may not have your best interest at heart), lack of knowledge (formal education and lack of resources) and fear (this is the biggest and most simplistic factor).

Your belief system and how you view yourself as a person who brings “value” influences the way you view your success as well as failure! You will hold yourself hostage from your potential growth, development, promotion and life’s journey, if you cannot control not only negative outside forces but those problematic internal thoughts.

Wisdom & Insights LLC www.wisdomforlife101.com | Wisdomforlife101@gmail.com | @selfinvest101 Follow on social media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/selfinvest101 Instagram: www.Instagram.com/selfinvest101

WOMEN

of Excellence

Denae Ball is a multi-talented native of Spartanburg, SC. While in high school she knew that she wanted to be in the health and wellness field. She attended Daniel Morgan Vocational School for Health Occupations in 1992. She then graduated from Spartanburg High School, Class of '93. She attended Claflin University in '93-"94 to pursue a Physical Therapy degree, but she was not as focused. She then transferred (next door) to South Carolina State University '94-'95. She left school after becoming pregnant with her first child and moved to Indianapolis, Indiana. She attended Indiana Wesleyan University for Business Administration 2002, Medtech College 2003 and Indiana Therapeutic Massage School 2017 for massage therapy studies.

Denae has an extensive background in entertainment, health and wellness fields. She has professional experience in acting; specifically in theater, commercials, infomercials, reality tv, talk shows, educational videos, and short films. Denae's dancing experience includes modern, jazz, hip-hop, African, liturgical (praise) and cheer.

She's a former Indianapolis Colts Cheerleader, a former Indianapolis Syrens Dancer for the Indianapolis Tornados (a semi-pro football team) and a Champagne Dancer at HBCUs; The South Carolina State University Marching 101 Band. She danced with Margaret Bell Dance Studios, Inc and Mahogany Dancers under the direction of Delores Anderson; both in Spartanburg, SC. Denae's professional modeling experiences include the areas of print, fashion and promotional. She received a national Presidential Physical Fitness Award from Ronald Reagan (1986). She was Crowned Miss Boys & Girls Clubs Of Metro Spartanburg, SC.(1992). She was Awarded State Runner-Up for the Youth of the

DENAE BALL Year (1992) from the State of South Carolina House of Representatives presented by Governor Carroll A. Campbell, Jr. She has earned Silver and Bronze medals for writing and oratory competitions from Toastmasters International.

She is a member of The Indianapolis Colts Cheerleader Alumni Group, the NFL Alumni Association and National Football Cheerleaders Alumni Association. She started a group on Facebook called Angels In Action where she encourages others to love, give back, help and assist our fellow neighbors. She is also a member of the Start-Up Ladies Foundation, and Broad Ripple Village Association in Indianapolis. She was spotlighted for Black History Month 2022 for the Broad Ripple Village Association for her business. She is also a descendant of President George Washington's mother, Mary Ball Washington.

Denae has had to battle and overcome many isolated challenges in life. Those include multiple domestic abusive marriages and relationships, a missing child, suffering severely with mental health issues, addiction to crack, cocaine, marijuana, opiate pain pills, crystal meth and heroin, cigarettes, alcohol and misaligned oppressive connections. She tried hard to get rid of the pain from rejection and abandonment from those whom she thought was close to her.

She tried three times to get admitted into Rehab on her own, but was turned away each time. She had come to a point in her life when she had to go to the source of her healing, which was God! She cried, pleaded and labored unto the Lord for

healing and HE heard her cry and healed her.

Although she suffered more setbacks and more abuse, she still knew she had work to do. She had to be a light unto someone else's life through her gifted hands, loving heart and life experiences. She has now been set free from the bondages that the enemy has trapped for her through personal deliverance. She also has gone through the deliverance process and received a certificate of completion in Spiritual Warfare I in the ministry of Healing and Deliverance at Augusta Christian Church/Powerhouse International Christian University. Because of her determination and perseverance to be set free and healed, God saw it fit for her to be nominated and be the first recipient of two prestigious awards. She won The Freedom Award 2021 and also received an Honorable mention award as The Woman On The Rise 2021 from I Am Her International.

Denae has been practicing massage therapy since 1998 and is the Sole Proprietor, Healer and Spa Owner of Angel Touch Therapy & Consulting, LLC. in Indianapolis since 2013. Her company is a unique and extraordinary faith-based holistic health & wellness company focused on hands-on healing techniques using muscle work, stretch sessions, sports massage, ear candling, sauna sessions, athletic and injury taping, spa parties, guided meditation, prophesy, deliverance and spiritual warfare prayer for healing and the edification of God's children.

She has had the pleasure of working with well known actors, musicians, community leaders and professional athletes across the board such as NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL. In addition to her healing sessions, she is also a wellness shopping consultant

for her clients and customers to enrich their lives. She is currently on her first book, “Been There..Done That, But There’s Got to Be More!” an autobiography. She also started Denae Ball Coaching (incorporated into her Spa and wellness business) where she motivates and encourages others to navigate their healing and reach their healthy lifestyle goals. You can find her on most social media platforms including, LinkedIn, FB, IG, Twitter, Yelp, and Google.

She is a mother of two sons, Amari Ball (26) Senior at South Carolina State University, Orangeburg, SC (English Literature Major) who is also a coach (boxing and dating) music producer, poet, musician and Mylon Kelley (19) Graduate of Riverside High School, Indianapolis, IN who is employed at a local race track. Her sons are her greatest achievements, whom she loves so much and why God has her to keep pushing, breaking barriers and reaching beyond limitations.

Websites: www.angeltouchtlc.com www.melaleuca.com/denaeball Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/angeltouchtlc https://www.instagram.com/angeltouchtlc/ www.linkedin.com/in/denae-ball-599a3445/

https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/angel-touch-therapy-and-consulting-indianapolis?start=90

WOMEN

of Excellence

PASTOR KIMBERLY STRATTON My name is Kimberly Stratton and I am the CEO and Founder of a faith-based 501c3 feeding ministry called International H.O.P.E. Inc. and a publishing company called The Crown And Cross Consulting And Publishing Co LLC. Of the many hats I wear, which are too lengthy to mention them all, being a servant is the one that fits best.

International H.O.P.E. Inc. brings the food to the people. We service individuals, families, Veterans, the elderly, the homeless, less fortunate, the “forgotten ones” and everyone in between. We partner with various local restaurants, grocery stores, organizations, food banks, food pantries, soup kitchens and fast -food locations to provide hot and cold meals/beverages and desserts to our target population mentioned above. However, we are MORE than a feeding program. Throughout the year we collect aluminum tabs to assist the Ronald McDonald Houses in PA and FL so that the tabs can be cleansed and melted down for weight to provide free dialysis for children who need cancer treatment. We fundraise at various times of the year to host special events for our target population as well as provide essential personal care items and clothing. Other than providing basic needs to impoverished and deprived communities, we help bridge the gap of the resources and services that individuals and families have versus what they need.

Our goal is to make the world a better place for all – one stomach and one household at a time. Check out our website to donate (tax write off), volunteer, give a word of encouragement or all the above.

The Crown And Cross Consulting And Publishing Co LLC offers a plethora of services ranging from assistance with resume writing, support/accountability with time management, creating and implementing vision boards, completing 501c3’s in Pennsylvania, reorganizing personal and church ministries, various consultation services, helping authors write and complete the vision that God has assigned, publishing services and everything in between. Read the amazing testimonials on our website and see what services we can support you with. Everyone has a dream – no matter how long you delayed it. Let us help bring your dream to reality.

My passion and drive in life is to help others in any capacity God has anointed my hands to do. I am a Jill-A-preneur and world changer. Many people talk about doing something to change the world in which we live, but I no longer want to talk about it - I am going to change the world in which we live. My belief is that change always starts with ordinary people doing extraordinary things for the greater good.

Email Addresses: For International H.O.P.E. Inc. helpingovercomepoverty@outlook.com For the publishing company thecrownandcrosspublishingco@outlook.com Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalHOPEInc www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-stratton-9baa65126 Instagram: international_hope_inc Website: www.internationalhopeinc.com www.kimberlystrattontheauthor.com

God Amid the Pandemic

By Contributing Writer Lisa Bradley For the last couple of years, covid has become what seems like a permanent fixture in our lives. Everywhere we turn, there it is. Just staring us in the face with no hope, it seems, to ever go away. Just lurking around every corner on every street in every town of every state in every country. Not knowing where it’s going to hit next or how hard it’s going to strike. People losing their lives and getting deathly ill with a long road to recovery and recouping and seeing no end in sight. Churches and businesses closing, people losing their jobs, shortages of supplies and essentials. Causing debates and division on where the virus originated, shutting everything down, wearing masks, working remotely, virtual schooling, travel bans, needing government assistance, running out of hospital equipment and supplies, relief for the front-line workers, mental health concerns, testing and vaccinations. Everything you could think of has been impacted by this deadly virus that has wreaked havoc in this world. But as scary and difficult and sad as it has been, there is one very important person that has remained constant, consistent and forever present in this entire chaos, and that is God. God never changed or wavered throughout this entire pandemic. He continued to be God and do what he said he would and did what he promised. Now there may be some that have wondered where God has been during all this turmoil. My response to that is he’s been right here the entire time. Watching over us. Keeping and protecting us. Loving and forgiving us.

Extending his mercy and offering us his grace. Gifting us with his favor.

God is still blessing us in the midst of all of this. He is retiring people from their jobs. He is promoting and giving increases to those still on their jobs. God is opening the door to owning businesses and creating multiple streams of income. Becoming debt free. Going back to school. Purchasing homes and buying cars. God is still performing miracles. He is still healing and delivering and setting people free. He is still allowing his chosen ones to continue to share and spread his word and love to his people. He is still leading and guiding us. He is still defending and comforting us. He is still providing for us. He still understands and cares for us.

God is still allowing things to be built, constructed, created, produced, remodeled, renovated, and revived. Life is still moving forward, and things are still getting done. None of this has changed. This is how it was prior to covid, and it remains to be so as we’re still dealing with this virus and its many variants. Which proves that God never left us. He is still omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent.

Rest in peace to all of those who lost their lives to this awful virus and to the family members they left behind, know that the memory of them will live on forever. And for those of us that are still here, God is giving us another chance to get it right.

http://www.lisa-bradley.com/

A Therapist for Anyone: Breaking the Stigma People still hide the fact that they go to therapy. No one wants to feel the judgement that they would be considered “crazy” if they seek out mental health care. For many people, it’s a last resort to resolving a major life crisis. When in actuality, therapy is a place to re-tool and gather skills to reduce the likelihood of there being major life issues. Therapy is proactive and not reactive.

People from all different walks of life are optimal partakers of a “safe space.” A therapist office is a non-judgmental and unique environment designed to promote healing and personal growth.

For example, many people are familiar with the term “mid-life crisis” which is very cliché and code for a person whose “lost their way.” But mid-life is often the time when people look back over their life and resolve that they have either reached their goals or they have not fully realized their potential. This is not a bad place to be in! This time in life is an opportunity to rediscover points of creativity and intention that may have been lost along the way. Purpose and identify can be redefined! A therapist is trained to provide cognitive behavioral tools for self-discovery, validation, and to foster confidence. Therapy is not only for people who needs support making plans or goals for the future, but it can allow a person to foster happiness through tools of gratitude and appreciate their life and family dynamics. Many people struggle with taking note of just how amazing their lives are because they are unable to stay in touch with their core emotions or exercise empathy and compassion. Anyone can benefit from a sounding board and someone clinically trained to ask the right questions and to provide positive coping tools. Breaking the stigma around mental health care can be as simple as being willing to schedule that first therapy appointment in the same manner one would schedule a yearly physical. The world becomes less daunting when there is a healing zone to retreat to in the office of a capable and trained mental health clinician.

www.livelightcounsel.com Facebook: @livelightcounseling Instagram: @livelightcounseling Twitter: @livelightcounseling Victoria Henry, Contributing Writer

Look at Woman!

Look at woman, watch her sway!

For she knows this is her day.

Standing tall in all her glory You can bet she has a story, Of a life filled with love, sacrifice and care That causes her as she ages to be aware Of others trying to figure out her secret weapon That through hard times has kept her steppin’ Could it be the beauty from inside that seeps out?

Mixed with her strength and experience which seem to shout Look at me, watch me sway!

For I know this is my day. © Rolanda Pyle - All Rights Reserved

www.rorosrainbowcommunications.com

Rolanda T. Pyle Contributing Writer

Growing Business Leaders Networks

2022 Wall Calendar

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

Omar Diaby

Makunda Ewing

Kimberly Stratton

MAY

Bert Gives Jr

JUNE

Shequita Lee

JULY

APRIL Aneika Turnbull

AUGUST

Jennifer Diaby

Tammie Polk

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

Yolanda Pyle

Shanelle Fields

Camecia Clark

Tamecca Rogers

GROWING BUSINESS LEADERS NETWORKS 2022 CALENDAR

JANUARY

OMAR DIABY, Owner Nakankou Alterations and Tailoring

www.nakankoualteration.wixsite.com/nakankoualteration/

GROWING BUSINESS LEADERS NETWORKS 2022 CALENDAR

FEBRUARY

MAKUNDA EWING, CEO Far Above Rubies Academy

Author, Empowerment Speaker www.awakeningdestiny.org www.girlyouareamazing.com www.perfectarrivalerrandservice.com

https://www.faraboverubiesacademy.com

GROWING BUSINESS LEADERS NETWORKS 2022 CALENDAR

MARCH

KIMBERLY STRATTON, Founder International H.O.P.E. Inc (nonprofit feeding program) The Crown and Cross Consulting & Publishing Co. LLC www.internationalhopeinc.com www.kimberlystrattontheauthor.com

GROWING BUSINESS LEADERS NETWORKS 2022 CALENDAR

APRIL

ANEIKA TURNBULL, Author

www.facebook.com/aneika.turnbull

GROWING BUSINESS LEADERS NETWORKS 2022 CALENDAR

MAY

BERT GIVES JR., Owner Gives on the Go Notary & Realty Services

www.ggnotary.com

GROWING BUSINESS LEADERS NETWORKS 2022 CALENDAR

JUNE

SHEQUITA LEE, Owner SL Media Consulting

www.slmediaconsulting.com

GROWING BUSINESS LEADERS NETWORKS 2022 CALENDAR

JULY

JENNIFER DIABY, CEO/Founder Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine Growing Business Leaders Network Women Motivated By Purpose Anthology growthwomensbusinessnetworksmagazine.com

GROWING BUSINESS LEADERS NETWORKS 2022 CALENDAR

AUGUST

TAMMIE POLK, Owner Professionally Sassy, LLC Lifted Authors Radio Network The Virtuous Woman Motivational Broadcast www.professionallysassy.me

GROWING BUSINESS LEADERS NETWORKS 2022 CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER

ROLANDA PYLE, Author www.rorosrainbowcommunications.com

GROWING BUSINESS LEADERS NETWORKS 2022 CALENDAR

OCTOBER

DR. SHANELLE FIELDS, Owner

Taking the First Step Counseling & Educational Services

Author

www.thehealinggrp.com

GROWING BUSINESS LEADERS NETWORKS 2022 CALENDAR

NOVEMBER

CAMECIA CLARK, Counselor Serenity Counseling Services Instagram: serenity_counseling_services/

GROWING BUSINESS LEADERS NETWORKS 2022 CALENDAR

DECEMBER

DR. TAMECCA ROGERS, Director Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Author https://www.amazon.com/Dr.-Tamecca-Rogers

excelpublishings@gmail.com

Toss This. Not That.

financial literacy

Your guide to post tax-filing record retention

Before you close this year's tax file there is still some work to do. If the IRS or state revenue department selects your return for review, you will need to be prepared. Here is what you need to do now:

1. Keep a copy of your Form 1040 indefinitely. Do not toss or destroy any of your 1040s. You may need them to correct historic Social Security earnings statements or to prove that you filed a tax return.

2. Supporting documents need to be retained for three years. Records to support your tax return (i.e., W-2s, 1099s, K-1s, receipts, canceled checks, bank statements and mileage logs) should be kept for a minimum of three years from the later of the tax filing due date, the date you filed your taxes, or the date you paid your tax in full. This approach ensures that your records are available for a potential IRS audit.

3. Property and investment records need to be held longer. To prove your cost/basis and taxable gain or loss, all records relating to property that you own (your home, rental properties, stocks bonds and other investments) need to be kept for at least three years after it's sold or disposed.

4. Be mindful of other record retention requirements. The three-year period is the federal guidance for standard returns. There are other factors that should be considered, including: • State record retention requirements (often six months to one year longer) • Requirements for insurance, banking or estate management • Additional federal requirements for tax returns including unreported income (six years), worthless securities (seven years) or bad debt (seven years) • No audit time limit for fraudulent returns 5. A specific filing system is not required, but organization is key. The ability to easily find your documents in the event of an audit will make the process much simpler. Here are some tips: • File records by year rather than income or deduction type.

• Within the file, order your records to match the flow of the Form 1040.

• Consider scanning your files to create a digital file as a backup.

• Create 2022 files now to save documents for current year.

• Shred old documents; don't just throw them away.

If you are unsure whether to retain or shred something, keep it unless you know the document can be replaced.

Kadenia Javis, MBA, RTRP

AVAILABLE in DIGITAL and PRINT!