Today's Black Executive February Issue

1

2

[Harriet Tubman, full-length portrait, seated in chair, facing front, probably at her home in Auburn, New York] (Library of Congress)

The Library of Congress, National Archives and Records Administration, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum join in paying tribute to the generations of African Americans who struggled with adversity to achieve full citizenship in American society.

As a Harvard-trained historian, Carter G. Woodson, like W. E. B. Du Bois before him, believed that truth could not be denied and that reason would prevail over prejudice. His hopes to raise awareness of African American’s contributions to civilization was realized when he and the organization he founded, the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH), conceived and announced Negro History Week in 1925. The event was first celebrated during a week in February 1926 that encompassed the birthdays of both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. The response was overwhelming: Black history clubs sprang up; teachers demanded materials to instruct their pupils; and progressive whites, not simply white scholars and philanthropists, stepped forward to endorse the effort.

3

ABOUT AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH By the time of Woodson’s death in 1950, Negro History Week had become a central part of African American life and substantial progress had been made in bringing more Americans to appreciate the celebration. At mid–century, mayors of cities nationwide issued proclamations noting Negro History Week. The Black Awakening of the 1960s dramatically expanded the consciousness of African Americans about the importance of black history, and the Civil Rights movement focused Americans of all color on the subject of the contributions of African Americans to our history and culture.

The celebration was expanded to a month in 1976, the nation’s bicentennial.

President Gerald R. Ford urged Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” That year, fifty years after the first celebration, the association held the first African American History Month. By this time, the entire nation had come to recognize the importance of Black history in the drama of the American story. Since then each American president has issued African American History Month proclamations. And the association—now the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH)— continues to promote the study of Black history all year.

4

About Year of Return, Ghana 2019

Share the word, this year 2019, Ghana opens it’s arms even wider to welcome home their brothers and sisters in what will become a birthright journey home for the global African family.

In the Year of Return announcement,The President Akufo-Addo reiterated the role played by the late Otanka Obetsebi-Lamptey, who, as Tourism Minister in the Kufuor administration, launched the ‘Joseph Project’, symbolizing an arm of brotherhood inviting back home, descendants of Africans who were enslaved and, therefore, find themselves in North, Central and South America.

After the Washington, DC universal launch, Ghana is now empowered to proceed with its intention to undertake activities throughout the year, 2019, to commemorate the event.

Today’s Black Executive is honored to partner with Her Excellency Princess Asie Ocansey, The Ms. Africa Foundation (Ellen Dunbar) and the Ghana Government to help celebrate The Ghana 2019 Year of Return.

5

Enjoy a once in a lifetime 10 day tour of Ghana from a repatriates perspective. Bring in the New Year with us as we explore and reconnect with the land of our natural ancestral inheritance after 400 years in exile.

As we travel to exciting tour destinations in Accra, Cape Coast, and Kumasi, this is your opportunity to relax, research, and recover the culture that was lost in captivity. TOUR OF GHANA

COSTS & PRICING Tour Cost: $2,300 PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE AIRFARE ($700 – $2,000 depending on where you are flying from) Single occupancy lodging available at an additional cost.

Itinerary subject to change for the best interest of the traveler at anytime.

You will be notified of any changes by email.

Nonrefundable $200 deposit is due May 1, 2019.

There will be a $100 late fee if the remaining balance is not Completed by December 1, 2019.

GHANARESEARCHTOUR.COM

6

Her Royal Highness Rev. Dr. Ocansey‌ is a Princess of the Ocansey Royal Family of Ada, Ghana. She is a world renowned and award winning Peace, legal migration and decent jobs for Security Advocate, Philanthropist, Professional Engineer, Evangelist, Author, Lecturer, a Businesswoman, a Songwriter, a Mother for the motherless, a Migration Expert, Radio Show Hostess, and former USA QVC-TV show Hostess of Destination Africa.

Photo credit/Facebook Photo

8

Photo credit/Facebook Photo

HER ROYAL HIGHNESS REV. DR. ASIE OCANSEY continued…

HR Rev. Dr. Ocansey co-founded the rural Nekotech Center of Excellence in her hometown-Ada, Ghana, with the late USA mega entertainer, Mr. Isaac Hayes and co-founded the White House and Buckingham Palace recognized ‘Save a Million Lives from HIV/AIDS’ Project with the African American National Medical Association and USA Student National Medical Association. She cofounded the Channels of Blessings’ – Angels of Hope HIV/AIDS Orphan Support Program with US mega actor Steven Seagal where they supported over 850 orphans – both poor/needy as well as those infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. Her work in HIV/AIDS touched many youth, saving millions of young lives through a strong, vivid and sustained music video campaign in partnership with Hollywood and Ghanaian music stars- to save babies from AIDS by stopping mother to child transmission, and with a food security project introducing a major zucchini farm to feed poor families in partnership with Love in Action of Utah.

She is Co-chair of the ‘We Support Peace With Justice’ banner campaign for Middle East Peace, through the US General, HE Ban KI-moon. She was the featured personality of the recent World based Middle East Peace Working Group, which gained the support of the UN Secretary Bank Documentary: ‘Voices of a New Ghana’.

With her strong work in Global AIDs warfare, when Ebola hit West Africa, she was called upon to Chair the US-Africa Ebola Working Group of Washington D.C., to rally support and awareness globally, and was instrumental in mobilizing Canada’s support through the University of Alberta’s Symposium on Ebola with a highly impactful video campaign-pointing out that the peace and security of non-Ebola nations would be affected if they did not stop Ebola in its tracks.

9

HER ROYAL HIGHNESS REV. DR. ASIE OCANSEY continued…

Having been educated at the prestigious Wesley Girls High School in Ghana and Rutgers University’s College of Engineering in the USA, HR Rev. Dr. Ocansey gained valuable working experience in the USA, working in Professional Engineering and Consulting positions with Fortune 500 USA companies, such as Pepsico, Avon Products and Johnson & Johnson, while working on UNDP, UNEP/ICT Consulting international assignments, and serving the Ghana Government in consulting roles at the Ghana Investment Promotion Center, and the Ghana Ministry of Mines and the Ghana Ministry for Employment and Social Welfare.

She is the founder and co-chairperson of the transformational Global Future Leaders: US-Africa Peace and Integrity Academy. The maiden academy was launched at the UN in August 2015 -giving diaspora youth exposure to peacebuilding at the UN level. It seeks to instill into the youth, virtues of peace and integrity. The Academy is now working in partnership with the Kofi Annan Peace Keeping Center to roll out a national peace training project for local chiefs, youth and women for the 2016 election year in Ghana. She is the founder of the ‘I Spread Peace’ campaign, using chocolate spreads and fortune cookies ‘to bring the subject of peace to every family dining table’.

She is passionate about peace and security through legal migration: giving the ‘have nots’ a ‘hand up with excellence’ verses a ‘hand out’. Her philosophy is that when we teach people how to fish with excellence, instead of giving them fish, we build a more peaceful and secure world, while giving them the dignity of a decent job which raises their self-esteem. Her Ejumapa (meaning decent jobs) – decent jobs through legal migration for security programs – has given leapfrogging ‘hand ups’ to thousands of young Ghanaian men and women whose lives have been transformed and are now working legally in Dubai, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Canada, USA and Australia. Her recent – Ejumapa Estates- provides one of the most affordable housing projects in Ghana to give the poor a chance to own small homes at home while working overseas. She believes in ‘doing everything in love’ 1 Cor 16 v 14. Her work has won many awards globally.

10

Treasures of Eden

Photo credit/Facebook Photo

WWW.SOSJOBS4WOMEN.ORG

Today’s Black Executive would like to thank The Miss Africa Foundation Chairperson – Princess Asie Ocansey (Ghana) Ms. Ellen Dunbar and The Miss Africa Foundation Board For appointing Bishop Rev. Dr. Tonya Merriweather Gipson to the Miss Africa Board

brandpointcontent

3 TECHNOLOGY CHALLENGES FOR ENTREPRENEURS AND HOW TO HANDLE THEM (BPT) - As a small business owner, you face many challenges. From stiff competition for customers to getting your name out there in a crowded marketplace and of course, balancing your budget, there's always something new that needs your attention.

Investing in technology can help alleviate many of the concerns your small business faces, but if not approached properly, a tech investment can open your company up to an entirely new set of problems. With that in mind, this article takes a strategic look at some of the most common technology problems small business owners face and provides you with tips to tackle them, and get back to running and growing your business to be everything you imagined.

15

3 TECHNOLOGY CHALLENGES FOR ENTREPRENEURS AND HOW TO HANDLE THEM continued‌ Challenge 1: Finding the right technology The technology offerings available in today's market have grown exponentially.

That's good news for your business but it can also make finding the right solution for your needs more challenging.

To solve this problem, focus on tried-and-true methods. Read reviews, pay attention to professional reports and listen to what experts are saying on social media. You can also speak to current and former colleagues to learn more about what types of systems they utilize.

And if you need comprehensive support beyond those options, you can also partner with a technology advisor to outfit your business with the appropriate solutions. The right partner prioritizes and determines the necessary solutions that build a foundation for current growth and future innovation. Dell Small Business advisors, for example, are available to answer your questions and offer you advice, no matter the size of your company. Engage the team in a live chat on Dell's Small Business website to find the right solution for your needs.

Challenge 2: Solving the money issue The financial implication of every decision is always a focal point for any small business, but this is especially true when it comes to your technology spend.

After all, as technology improves, businesses need to know they are purchasing tech that will support their needs for as long as possible, helping them to remain relevant. In fact, a recent study from SMB Group found 72 percent of respondents felt that using new technology effectively is key to the company's survival and growth.

Partnering with an established small business advisor - as discussed above can deliver on this need, but you can also ensure you're using the latest tech by opting to utilize leasing solutions. Instead of buying in particular cases, leasing allows you to maintain the competitive advantage cutting-edge technology provides you at a fraction of the cost. And, when your lease ends, it's easy to move on to the next solution.

16

3 TECHNOLOGY CHALLENGES FOR ENTREPRENEURS AND HOW TO HANDLE THEM – continued‌

brandpointcontent

Challenge 3: Integrating a new solution with your existing systems When you add a new employee to your staff there's always a certain gelling period. The same is true with new technology. It isn't always a given that a new solution will integrate with your older existing systems.

Therefore, this digital transformation challenge is one many small businesses face. According to the same SMB Group study, only 21 percent of small businesses strongly agree that they have a well-defined strategy for digital transformation. To help simplify transformation in your company, Dell business laptops, such as Latitude and Vostro, include a variety of connection ports, enabling them to work with more of your existing systems and streamline your company's integration needs as much as possible.

Finding solutions to your small business's technology needs today In today's highly competitive market, your small business can't afford to ignore any potential advantage. While many of these are tied to technology, you don't have to let concern over making the wrong decision bar you from exploring your options. Apply the tips above and don't be afraid to seek professional advice.

Your business and its tech will be better for it.

17

brandpointcontent

5 WAYS TO GET FINANCIALLY FIT THIS NEW YEAR (BPT) - In 2019, many Americans are planning for a “better me” in the year ahead.

Gym memberships and diets are at the top of many lists, but what about financial health? Losing debt can be just as important as losing pounds, and financial fitness just as important as physical fitness.

According to a new survey from Marcus by Goldman Sachs(R), 74 percent of Americans think their financial well-being has an impact on their overall health and 64 percent feel they are not in the best financial shape they could be. On top of that, half of those surveyed (50 percent) think it’s easier to get into better physical shape than financial shape and 59 percent consider tracking expenses and budgeting to be more stressful than trying a new workout.

Although New Year’s resolutions to improve financial fitness may seem daunting, they are achievable, and their effects can be significant. While it is important to pump iron and feel great physically, it is equally beneficial to pump up your savings and take steps to secure your financial future. Here are five simple ways to help achieve better financial fitness in 2019: 22

5 WAYS TO GET FINANCIALLY FIT THIS NEW YEAR – continued…

brandpointcontent

1. Trim down debt: Eliminating debt is a worthy goal shared by many — 78 percent of those surveyed would rather get rid of their debt than lose weight. Consider instead a debt consolidation personal loan such as those provided by Marcus by Goldman Sachs(R), which offers fixed-rate, no-fee personal loans that could help save on interest when compared to high-interest variable rate credit cards.

2. Set a realistic budget: Every financial fitness plan should start by establishing a budget that is both effective and achievable. The first step in creating one is to identify your essentials like mortgage or rent, car payments, tuition loans — and determine how much each of these expenses cost you per month. Next, average your spending in key categories that occur on an ongoing basis, such as food, gas, clothing, commuting costs and your gym membership. Combine those two figures to determine what your actual expenses and monthly budget are, and any money left over can be considered discretionary. Part of each month’s discretionary budget should be dedicated in advance to savings. Financial fitness introduces a level of discipline to help people make a proactive commitment to saving each month.

3. Shred unwanted subscriptions: With a budget in place, it’s all about tracking expenses and ensuring that your spending aligns with what your budget requires.

There are many free tools that can help do the work, such as the personal financial management app Clarity Money, which monitors recurring expenses and helps with eliminating unwanted subscriptions. Keeping a tighter rein on your spending makes it easier to trim costs and stick to your budget year-round.

23

5 WAYS TO GET FINANCIALLY FIT THIS NEW YEAR – continued…

4. Pump up your savings: Look for savings accounts with higher rates that can help your money make more money. A high-yield Online Savings Account from Marcus by Goldman Sachs can earn 4X the national average, with a 2.25 percent APY (annual percentage yield)[1]. There is no minimum deposit required, making it an easy way to begin growing your savings with the cash you already have.

5. Find a workout partner: Working out with a partner at the gym helps to establish shared goals, while encouraging accountability. The same is true for financial fitness. Your path to better financial health could accelerate if you can partner with a family member, friend or significant other who’s also interested in their financial well-being. Plan monthly check-ins, arrange mini-competitions for saving more and organize “no spend days” together. You’ll keep each other responsible and build positive mutual support along the way.

24

HOW TO LAUNCH A VIDEO CHANNEL AND CREATE A COMMUNITY

brandpointcontent

HOW TO LAUNCH A VIDEO CHANNEL AND CREATE A COMMUNITY (BPT) - Today's teens can easily connect with like-minded people by making videos and sharing them. For some 85 percent of U.S. teens, a smartphone is their tool of choice to watch, share and publish videos, according to Pew Research Center.

Video and social media platforms are great tools for teens to explore their interests, express themselves creatively and connect with communities around the world. Many creative teens have built personal brands and vibrant communities for people who like fashion, beauty products and video games.

26

HOW TO LAUNCH A VIDEO CHANNEL AND CREATE A COMMUNITY – continued…

Some teens even partner with companies like Star Stable — makers of the world’s most popular online, horse adventure game — to create video channels for a global audience. The company credits the popularity of their video channel, Star Stable News, to the energy and ideas of the young hosts and the vibrant community they have built around the world.

The Star Stable News hosts Ylva Potato heart and Matilda Opal pie are happy to share tips to create your own video channel. If you’re not sure where to start, this guide can help you plan, film and promote your video content. But first, online safety is of utmost importance, so before filming and posting, make sure you talk to your parents about your plans and get their permission.

1. Determine the theme of your video channel.

Ask yourself what makes you happy. You may know immediately or it may take some soul searching. If you’re unsure, grab a notepad and keep a list of things that catch your interest throughout the day. Ask yourself what kind of videos you like to watch? What would you love to discuss for hours on end? Talk about what matters to you, and your passion will show.

2. Pick your channel name with care.

Your video channel will be your trademark, so select a name that reflects the content you want to create. Some influencers use a nickname, some use their real name, some just pick a word, and some simply make up a name they like!

Just make sure your channel name is easy to recognize and relates to you and your content.

3. Determine what action you want people to take.

Ask yourself what you want your viewers to think, do or say after watching your videos. Can you help others? Or do you want to spark a discussion? Do you want to inspire them to make the world better? Do you want them to laugh and be happy?

27

brandpointcontent

HOW TO LAUNCH A VIDEO CHANNEL AND CREATE A COMMUNITY – continued…

4. Plan and record your topics and content.

Plan ahead and map out content for the first five or six videos. Create and follow a basic structure so your viewers can follow your story. Each video needs a welcome message, an overview of the video’s content, a deep-dive into the topic you’re discussing and a conclusion. If it’s easy for you to speak off the cuff with a simple list of subtopics, go for it! Otherwise, an organized outline can keep the video on track.

5. Publish and enjoy.

Once your video is complete and edited, it’s time to put it out into the world … and see how people respond! Share the video on your social channels, tag influencers and use hashtags to reach a wider audience. Don’t forget the importance of a well-written title. To help people find your video, take time to come up with the right key words and be sure they appear in the title.

6. Engage your community.

When people leave comments, respond as soon as you can — it’s a great way to build that community. Use your video and social channels to ask viewers for ideas for upcoming videos. Show your community that you care what they think and that you are listening to them.

It’s never too late to tackle a new adventure, especially if you are up for the creative and artistic challenge. If you have an idea of what you want to do, grab your equipment, go out and start creating!

28

30

31

32

33