Women Of Excellence April 2025

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TABLE OF CONTENT

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EDITORS NOTE

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REFLECTION OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR

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AUTISM AWARENESS

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GARDENING 101 A FRESH START THIS SPRING

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BROWN BEAUTY OF THE MONTH

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GET READY FOR PROM

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A NEW SEASON A NEW LEGACY

Deborah Risper

Pastor LeAundre D.Hill

Deborah Risper Simone Sinclair

Chelsea Marie r

Jessica Williams Christina Atkins

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Editors NOTE

Deborah Risper Spring is here and with it comes fresh blooms, renewed energy, and a chance to grow in new ways.

This April, we celebrate the season of rebirth while honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a reminder that planting seeds of justice, equality, and love will always bear fruit. We also dig into the beauty of Gardening 101, because just like our dreams, gardens flourish with patience, care, and intention.

In this edition, we shine a light on Autism Awareness, amplifying the voices, stories, and strength of families and individuals living boldly and brilliantly on the spectrum.

Here’s to new growth, powerful stories, and a season that reminds us everything beautiful begins with planting a seed.

With love and purpose, Deborah S. Risper Editor-in-Chief Women of Excellence Magazine

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REFLECTION OF

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR Pastor LeAundre D.Hill “Where Do We Go from Here? Chaos or Community” for Today

By Pastor LeAundre D.Hill, MDiv .

We are living in a time where our nation feels more divided than ever. Racial tension, political hostility, and social injustice dominate our headlines and haunt our communities. Fear has replaced faith. Division has replaced dialogue. From the White House to our house, we are witnessing a dangerous unraveling of the very fabric that should bind us together. So we must ask again: Where do we go from here?

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. asked that very question in 1967 in his prophetic book, Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community? Over 50 years later, his words still echo in our current crisis. Dr. King warned, “People fail to get along because they fear each other; they fear each other because they don’t know each other.” That fear builds walls—of racism, classism, sexism, and religious division.But Ephesians 2:14 declares, “For He Himself is our peace… and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.” If Jesus came to tear down walls, then we must stop rebuilding them.

Dr. King also said, “The time is always right to do what is right.” That time is now. The church must lead with love, preach truth, and practice justice. We must refuse to settle for silence or personal comfort. We must become the bridge of love, not the barrier of burdens.

Let us collectively choose community over chaos today!

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AUTISM AWARENESS Deborah Risper Autism Awareness: Leading with Kindness, Patience & Understanding

By Women of Excellence Magazine Staff April is Autism Awareness Month—a time to educate, advocate, and embrace the beauty of neurodiversity.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects how people communicate, interact, learn, and experience the world. It manifests uniquely in each individual. Some may be nonverbal, others highly expressive. Some thrive on routine, while others find joy in unpredictability. What matters most is recognizing that autism is not a deficit—it’s a different way of being.

This month, we challenge ourselves and our communities to lead with kindness and patience. That means offering a smile instead of a stare, giving grace instead of judgment, and choosing empathy over assumptions. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, friend, or someone simply standing in line at the store—small acts of understanding can have a lifelong impact.

Families navigating autism often face an uphill journey filled with questions, therapies, and sometimes isolation. But they also experience moments of joy, breakthrough, and profound connection. As a community, we have the power to support them, uplift their voices, and celebrate their wins—both big and small.

If you’re seeking support or want to learn how to become an ally, here are a few trusted resources: Autism Speaks – www.autismspeaks.org The Autism Society – www.autism-society.org National Autism Association – www.nationalautismassociation.org The Color of Autism Foundation – www.thecolorofautism.org Let’s move beyond awareness to true acceptance—and build a world where all minds are welcomed and valued.

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GARDENING 101

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A FRESH START THIS SPRING Simone Sinclair

Spring is the perfect time to dig into something new, literally. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just starting out, gardening is a powerful way to reconnect with nature, cultivate peace, and grow beauty right at home.

Gardening 101 starts with the basics: good soil, the right location, and understanding your climate. In most regions, spring is the time to prepare your garden beds by clearing out weeds, turning the soil, and adding compost or organic matter to enrich the earth. If you’re new to gardening, start small. A few pots on a sunny patio can be just as fulfilling as a backyard plot. unlight is key. Most vegetables and flowers need at least 6-8 hours of sun daily. Be sure to read the labels or seed packets—some plants prefer partial shade, especially in warmer climates.

Choose plants that suit your lifestyle. Busy? Try low-maintenance herbs like rosemary, mint, or chives. Looking for color? Marigolds, zinnias, and pansies are cheerful, easy growers. Want to eat what you grow? Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and leafy greens like kale and spinach thrive in spring.

Don’t forget to water and mulch. Water deeply but less frequently to encourage strong roots.

Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keeps your garden looking fresh.

Gardening is more than a hobby—it’s a form of self-care. It teaches patience, offers daily rewards, and allows us to witness transformation right before our eyes. Plus, studies show gardening reduces stress, improves mood, and boosts physical health.

This spring, we invite you to grow something new. Whether it’s flowers, food, or simply the feeling of accomplishment—let your garden be a reminder that growth always begins with planting a seed.

Beginner-Friendly Spring Planting Guide

👉 Herbs: Basil, Mint, Chives, Parsley, Rosemary 👉 Vegetables: Tomatoes, Lettuce, Spinach, Cucumbers, Bell Peppers 👉 Flowers: Marigolds, Zinnias, Pansies, Petunias, Snapdragons 👉 Root Crops (cooler zones): Carrots, Radishes, Beets 👉 Pro Tip: Start with seedlings if you’re new—they’re easier and give you a head start!

Happy planting!

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BROWN BEAUTY OF THE MONTH

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Chelsea Marie Chelsea Marie is a Houston-based beauty entrepreneur, hairstylist, and makeup artist making waves in the beauty and entertainment industry. As the founder of both Beauty Marcc, a brand rooted in enhancing natural beauty, and Lavish Hair & Co., a premium hair extensions company, she brings a unique and transformative touch to every client she works with.

Specializing in hair extensions, wig installs, and soft glam makeup, her artistry has graced the faces of celebrities and appeared in music videos, high-fashion photo shoots, and independent film productions. Her work has earned her recognition across the industry — with an award on the way for Outstanding Hairstylist in Film.

With a growing social media presence and a sharp business mindset, she’s built a loyal clientele while expanding her influence as a beauty professional and creative visionary.

“I believe beauty is personal — it’s about enhancing what’s already there, not covering it up,” she says. “My goal is always to make people feel seen, confident, and elevated.”

Balancing creativity, ambition, and authenticity, she represents the modern beauty boss — passionate, polished, and purpose-driven. Whether she’s behind the chair, behind the scenes, or in front of the camera, she brings excellence, confidence, and undeniable flair.

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GET READY FOR PROM

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Jessica Williams Prom should be one of the most memorable events of a teen’s life! The key is to plan ahead and keep it stress-free! Here are my top five steps to ensure you’re all set for your big day!

1. Commit to going: Purchase your ticket as soon as possible. Whether going solo, with a date, or with friends, make sure to secure your ticket! You never know how fast the tickets will sell out!

2. Choose Your Outfit: Whether it’s a stunning dress, tailored suit, or something unique, make sure it fits well and makes you feel confident. Don’t forget accessories, shoes, and any alterations needed. Most importantly, choose a color and style that suits you best! Be yourself and shine all night!

3. Plan Your Beauty Routine: Schedule hair, nail, and makeup appointments ASAP 4. Coordinate Logistics: Arrange transportation, whether it’s a rental, carpooling with friends, or driving yourself. Be sure it’s reliable and safe!

5. Have fun! This is the most important step! Prom usually only happen once, so why not make the best of it? Invite friends and family to see you off! Once at prom, laugh and dance the night away! Don’t forget to take pictures and make memories that will last a lifetime!

For more event planning/decorating tips and services, be sure to follow us on all social media platforms at Make it Mine by Sweet Divas. “Let Make it Mine, Make it Yours!” ~Jessica Williams Owner/Lead Planner Make it Mine by Sweet Divas

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A NEW SEASON A NEW LEGACY

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Christina Atkins Christina’s Corner: A New Season, A New Legacy April is here—and with it, the sweet scent of new beginnings. It’s the season when the earth softens, flowers bloom, and life reminds us that renewal is not only possible, it’s inevitable.

This year, the promise of April holds an even deeper meaning for me and my family. On April 22nd, we welcomed a beautiful baby boy into the world—my first grandson, Dream.

His name alone carries weight, purpose, and legacy. “Dream” isn’t just a word—it’s a declaration. A reminder that everything we pray for, fight for, and believe in can take shape in the form of something so pure and perfect. He represents the dreams of our ancestors, the answered prayers of generations, and the beginning of a new chapter in our family’s story.

As women, we often carry the weight of legacy on our shoulders. We nurture, we guide, we sacrifice—and sometimes, we forget the beauty in simply watching new life unfold.

This April, I invite you to pause. Breathe in the fresh air of the season. Reflect on the seeds you’ve planted. Whether you’re mothering children, dreams, or communities, your legacy is growing too.

So yes, you can call me Granny now. And proudly so. Because through Dream, our family’s legacy continues—with love, resilience, and the quiet power of a name that says it all.

Until next time, Christina

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thank you april writers Jessica Williams LeAundre Hill Christina Atkins Chelsea Marie

Thank You Advertisers TA Media Deborah Risper Inc

Thank You Designers Cover Photo-Perfect Capture Photography Cover- TA Media Hair-Arrogant Dame (Mz.CeCe) _

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