SUMMER / FALL ISSUE
YOU ARE VALUABLE TO GOD DEVOTIONAL BY CHAE COLE, PH.D
DIVINE LIGHT FOR SUCCESS DR. CAMEKA SMITH
JACOB
LATIMORE SALTED TO SAVOR MINDBLOWING MAGAZINE | 1
ED I TO R I A L EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Stacy Sorrell-Moore
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Denise Griffin
CREATIVE DIRECTOR & PHOTOGRAPHER Robin V. | www.robinvphotography.com
EDITORIAL STYLIST Joyce Sheffield | www.onandofftherunwayboutique.com
ART DESIGN & DIRECTION Blake Newton | www.blakenewton.com
EDITOR Jennifer Williams
COLUMNIST Tari Cox, MA | www.taricox.com
CONTRIBUTORS Candace Michelle Ebony Wilson Ty Harper Joyce Sheffield Quianna Eason Haniyyah Thomas Miyoshi Greene
LEAD WRITER Toni Emehel | www.toniemehel.com
MEDIA Ryan K. Marsh | www.callanavemedia.com 6 | MINDBLOWING MAGAZINE
TONI EMEHEL
HANIYYAH THOMAS
QUIANNA EASON
EBONY WILSON
TY HARPER
JOYCE SHEFFIELD
@toni.emehel Cover Feature
@haniyyahjala Reflection
@billiesimonesong Beauty
CANDACE MICHELLE @candace.michelle.beauty Beauty
@ty_artlover DIY Design & ReFashion
CHAE COLE, PH.D. @chaecole Devotional
MYOSHI GREENE @lavish_impressions Design
@qui2health Body
@joycesheffield_ Fashion
TARI COX
@xarcito Manna for the Mind
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S T O RY
In every issue our contributors desire to share their knowledge and or experiences through their authentic faith to remind you that you are not alone or to help you get back to your amazing self. Either way, expect to get poured into so you may soar and be all that God created you to be.
T H E
CO NTRI BUTO RS
B E H I N D
MEET OUR
E D I T O R T H E F RO M L E T T E R
Dear Readers, We are excited to present our Summer/Fall issue. Each publication is a true miracle, and we do not take it for granted. It is a profound blessing to share the beautiful testimonies of our features and contributors with our readers. We are deeply grateful to God for allowing us to create a safe space where stories of faith, resilience, and inspiration can be shared. God has endowed each of us with unique talents and gifts, designed for greatness and divine purpose, all to glorify Him. With that in mind, I am honored to introduce our cover star, the incredibly gifted and talented singer and actor, Jacob Latimore. Jacob Latimore's journey is a profound testament to God's grace and faithfulness. A huge thank you to Jacob for his transparency and humility in our conversation. His story is not just about his success in the entertainment industry but about his unwavering commitment to living out his God-given purpose. Jacob's journey reveals the depth of his character and his steadfast faith. We eagerly anticipate witnessing God's continued favor in his life as he fulfills
32 his divine calling, inspiring countless others along the way. Our "Let Your Light Shine" feature this issue is Dr. Cameka Smith. Her story deeply moved and inspired me. Cameka has achieved remarkable accomplishments, yet what stood out most was her humility and her consistent praise of God. Despite all her accolades and successes, she remains grounded in her faith, giving God all the glory. In our devotional segment, Chae Cole, Ph.D., offers an encouraging message to our readers about their inherent value in God's eyes. His devotional prayer is filled with love and inspiration, reminding us all that we are wonderfully made and deeply loved by God. Dr. Cole's words are a soothing balm for the soul, encouraging us to embrace our identity in Christ and to live out our purpose with confidence and grace. As we reflect on the stories and testimonies shared in this issue, we are reminded of the importance of community and the transformative power of faith. Each story is a testament to God's love, grace, and the incredible ways He works in our lives. We are honored to share these stories with you and hope they inspire and uplift you. A heartfelt thank you to all our features and contributors for sharing your unique gifts. Your willingness to share your journeys and your faith with our readers is a true blessing. I am profoundly grateful for each of you. May God bless you abundantly as you continue to shine your light for His glory. Thank you for joining us in this celebration of faith, talent, and purpose. We pray that this issue brings you joy, inspiration, and a renewed sense of God's presence in your life. Continued blessings!
Stacy Sorrell-Moore Stacy Sorrell-Moore, Editor in Chief
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the
Lord's Prayer Our Father, which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, As it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, As we forgive them that trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, The power, and the glory, For ever and ever. Amen.
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MIR ACLES still happen with BELLA GRACE
B
ella Grace is a beacon of hope and resilience, embodying the transformative power of faith and determination. Through unimaginable trials, she has emerged not only as a survivor but as a guiding light for many. Her life's mission is to inspire, uplift, and serve, turning her pain into a purpose that reaches far beyond her personal story. Her journey, marked by profound adversity and miraculous recovery, stands as a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit and the grace of God. Her testimony is a story of profound pain and remarkable transformation. Though graphic and challenging to share, it stands as a testament to resilience and faith. The depth of her experience cannot be fully captured in words,
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but here is a glimpse into her journey. She endured significant physical trauma that left her with no sensation on her entire left side, spinal and nerve damage, and collapsed lungs requiring a chest tube. Her face and body bore the scars of this brutal attack. Years later, she faced a different kind of torment—emotional abuse in a marriage that, while not physically violent, was deeply damaging. She also suffered the heartbreak of a stillborn child and the isolation of a divorce, all without the support of family or friends. These trials brought her to her knees, surrendering completely to God. Yet, even in her surrender, more challenges arose. Her eldest son struggled with drug addiction, falsely accused her, leading to her arrest, and caused her mother's eviction.
Despite these hardships, she persevered, determined to build her life and mission. Miracles do happen, and her life is proof of this truth. At 22, her ex-boyfriend brutally attacked her, stabbing her 15 times in front of her children. What could have been the end marked the beginning of a miraculous journey that has shaped her purpose and passion. She met her ex-boyfriend at 19 during a college Spring Break. Despite early reservations, they quickly entered a relationship. Initially, he seemed loving, but soon became possessive and controlling. Even as his behavior grew increasingly alarming, she stayed, especially after conceiving her first child. By the time she gave birth, they had separated, only to reunite out of fear and necessity.
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Divine light for
SUCCESS with DR . C A MEK A SMI T H
I
n a recent conversation with Dr. Cameka Smith, Mind Blowing Magazine had the honor of exploring the journey of a trailblazing speaker, investor, and award-winning entrepreneur deeply rooted in her Christian faith. Born and raised in Chicago, Cameka emphasizes the importance of balance in her life. She approaches her business endeavors with seriousness and focus yet cherishes moments of joy and relaxation in her personal life. This balance is crucial in her walk with God, allowing her to exhibit vulnerability and authenticity.
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LET YOUR LIGHT SHI NE
With a background enriched by academic program development and a PhD, Cameka launched The BOSS Network in 2009, shaping it into a vibrant sanctuary for career-driven women and a steadfast advocate for Black women entrepreneurs. The BOSS Network has earned prestigious accolades, including recognition in Forbes as one of the top 10 websites for career and entrepreneurial women to being named a Top 50 Website for Entrepreneurs by Inc. Magazine. Guided by her unwavering faith and profound love for God, Cameka’s mission stands as a heartfelt testament to her devotion. Celebrated as the visionary Founder of The BOSS Network, Cameka Smith has devoted her life to empowering professional women through dynamic online engagement and transformative networking events. She is also the insightful author of "7 Steps to Grow Your Professional Network" and passionately supports youth through BOSS On Campus. As a national organizational leader, Cameka’s exceptional leadership and dedication were acknowledged by JPMorgan Chase for her inspiring efforts to uplift the Black community. Cameka’s relationship with God serves as the cornerstone of her life, influencing her journey profoundly. Her ordination as a pastor marked a significant milestone, signifying a deeper commitment in her spiritual path. "My love for God is central to everything I do," she emphasizes. "Initially, I spoke about Him stoically. However, God has encouraged me to share more deeply, illustrating how I
handle victories and challenges with grace and favor. His presence is always with us, even in our toughest times." The establishment of The BOSS Network has been pivotal in Cameka's exploration and cultivation of her leadership potential. Despite initial hesitations, she embraced her role as a leader, realizing that pursuing excellence does not necessitate perfection. "God presented The BOSS Network to unveil my leadership capabilities," Cameka reflects, "demonstrating that I can lead with authenticity and transparency. Despite my efforts to strive for perfection– and falling short at times–He reminded me that it's not about being perfect but being purposeful was the goal. While I strive for excellence, only one person walked this earth perfectly, and it wasn't me." Cameka’s journey has not been without its challenges. The loss of her mother and other loved ones, along with personal struggles, has tested her faith.
Yet, she remains steadfast, finding strength in her calling to inspire and connect with others. Reflecting on a pivotal moment, she shared, "When my pastor approached me about becoming ordained, I accepted her invitation. I needed time to prepare mentally and spiritually, and four months later, in April, I was ordained. The support I received was overwhelming." In honor of her mother, Cameka founded Elizabeth’s Hope Ministry, a service-oriented organization dedicated to aiding the homeless, elderly, foster children, and shelters. This ministry reflects her mother’s compassion and commitment to serving the underprivileged. "My mother was a remarkable chef who dedicated herself to food ministry at our church. She had a deep compassion for the homeless, foster children, and all children—she simply loved people. Thus, our ministry will mirror her values—it will be service-driven." Cameka has been a life-
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S A LT E D to
S AV IN CONVERSATION WITH JACOB LATIMORE RELFECTIONS BY TONI E. EMEHEL
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OR MINDBLOWING MAGAZINE | 33
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SALT PROTECTS. — JACOB L AT IMORE
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Spending Your Time Where It MATTERS
by HANIYYAH THOMAS
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REFLECTION
3
“
'You know that because of the wars waged against my father David from all sides, he could not build a temple for the Name of the Lord his God until the Lord put his enemies under his feet. 4 But now the Lord my God has given me rest on every side, and there is no adversary or disaster. 5 I intend, therefore, to build a temple for the Name of the Lord my God, as the Lord told my father David, when he said, ‘Your son whom I will put on the throne in your place will build the temple for my Name.’ (1 Kings 5) This scripture reveals a profound spiritual truth through its physical manifestation. Solomon could only build the Temple for the Name of the Lord because he was not preoccupied with defending Israel from enemies. This brings to mind Jesus' words to His disciples about fasting, contrasting their situation with the Pharisees: Jesus answered, 'How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while he is with them? The time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast. No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch will pull away from the garment, making the tear worse. Neither do people pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst; the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved.' The disciples were eager to worship the Lord in a way they had seen others do, but Jesus taught them that true worship
is about understanding the right time and manner. This eagerness, if misdirected, can lead us away from authentic worship. For instance, I often find myself highly motivated to change my lifestyle, like going to the gym. I buy new workout clothes, plan a rigorous schedule, only to give up after a day or two. This physical cycle mirrors my spiritual life. There are times I’m eager to dive into extensive Bible study and prayer, yet other times I struggle to even open my Bible. This inconsistency often leads to a cycle of guilt and repentance, questioning my salvation. But God reminded me that we are always making space to be filled by something. If we do not make room for Him, how can we expect to live a life pleasing to Him? It is through His power, Spirit, and sacrifice that we are freed from sin. What we prioritize becomes our god. This is why the Israelites were instructed to tear down altars and statues to other gods. These idols, though powerless, take up space in our lives. Romans 12 calls us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—our true and proper worship. So, we must ask ourselves, what is preventing us from giving the Lord the time and space He deserves? In Deuteronomy 16:21, Moses instructs the Israelites not to set up any wooden Asherah pole beside the altar of the Lord. God does not want to share space with anything or anyone else. What is your Asherah? Is it your job that causes you to compromise your values? An addiction? A person leading you away from Christ? These things
take up space in our lives, just like clutter in our homes. There comes a point where we must get fed up and clear out the clutter. Some things in our lives become so familiar that we no longer notice them. But like Achan in the book of Joshua, holding onto these things can lead to destruction, not just for us but for those around us. Solomon, in a time of peace, built a temple for the Lord, a physical representation of our spiritual calling. Jesus has won the battle, released us from bondage, and made us temples of the Holy Spirit. You are a temple of the Holy Spirit. Solomon used the best materials and craftsmen to build the temple, understanding the significance of what he was creating. Likewise, we must recognize who we are building our lives for. When we truly understand the God we serve, our worship, our lives, will reflect His glory. Jesus said in John 4:24 that God is spirit, and His worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth. This requires us to know the truth about God and ourselves. Our worship is not just the songs we sing at church but how we live our lives daily, responding to God’s presence. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and everything else will fall into place. When we focus on God, everything else pales in comparison. His love, His power, and His presence fill our lives, leaving no room for anything else. Let us dwell in His presence, offering our lives as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to Him.'"
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I am the one who made the earth and created people to live on it. My hands stretched out the heavens. All the stars are at my command.
Psalm 33:6 62 | MINDBLOWING MAGAZINE
BEAUT Y
WAKE UP &
makeUP! with CANDACE MICHELLE
I am Candace Michelle, I.A.T.S.E. Makeup Artisan and owner of Candace Michelle Beauty LLC. Most importantly, I am living proof that your gifts will make room for you. Can you believe my dream of being a makeup artist saved my life? God used my gift to bring me out of an abusive relationship, depression, and anxiety. Before my profes-
sional career took off, I would do my own makeup, creating fantastical looks that liberated me from trauma. This became a regular occurrence at odd hours. With faith and courage, my "makeup therapy" turned into an inspirational vlog series, "Wake Up and Makeup." It was divine how this platform freed me, ultimately changing the trajectory of my life. Along my 15-year makeup journey, I’ve endured and emerged with priceless gems that I can’t wait to share. For starters, let’s dive into the ‘Mind Blowing’ five-step makeup routine I’ve curated. With practice, you will gain confidence in creating a fresh face in minutes. Wake up and makeup with me, please.
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