Soar Couture [Dec, 2022]

“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” KJV Isaiah 40:31

Lift Me Up!

CONTENT FOUNDER Angela Shaw (1972-2013)

CEO

PRESIDENT

PHOTOGRAPHER

Jori A Lacy

Valerie Shaw

Jori A Lacy Sandra Nelson, Page 16-17

EDITORIAL EDITOR

BACK COVER

MAILING ADDRESS

Prince Nabin

Soar Couture Magz

Shirley Shaw Crum

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Mykel Robinson

Ian Mark Subramaniam

Valerie Shaw

(BlackArts Creatives)

DIGITAL MAGAZINE DESIGN Ian Mark Subramaniam

Asif Hossain Babla Arif Hussain

C/O Royal Rainn Corporation Po Box 192 Chicago, Il 60690 Phone: (708) 794-6551 Email:corporatesales@royalrainn.com

(BlackArts Creatives)

Dara Khola Chinedu Blessing (Blessing_artz)

FRONT COVER

Prince Nabin

TO SUBSCRIBE

Dara Khola

PHOTO EDITOR

www.soarcouture.shop/collections/magazine

Habibur Rahman

SOAR COUTURE Soar Couture is a magazine with real-life lessons about women’s inspirational journey, adversity, challenges, revelations, and success stories soaring to new heights. The magazine introduces inspirational art, faith affirmations, and gift products to elevate women’s beauty and strength.

4

Policy & Conditions: The publisher makes every effort to ensure the magazine's contents are correct but cannot guarantee the accuracy of any information published herein. Or cannot be held accountable for any errors, omissions, or claims for damages. Royal Rainn Corporation cannot accept responsibility for advertisers' claims, goods or services, or the copyright of materials used.

Royal Rainn Corporation is an independent publication for Soar Couture Magazine.

No part of this magazine, including texts, photographs, illustrations, maps, or any other graphics, may be reproduced in any form without the prior written consent of Publications Royal Rainn Corporation or its rightful owners.

Soar Couture 2022

The authenticity of stories is beyond inspiring, elevating, and uplifting.

The Challenge of Diversity

34

The Challenge of Diversity

44

Inspire by Tyler

40 6

Tressa Thomas

26

Black Woman Empowerment

12

Candy Valentino Soar Couture 2022

24 The Honorable Jesse White

54 Communications Social Media Social Networks

09 President’s Message

28 Affirmation

58 Inspire & Motivate

14 The Currency of Relationship

30 Shirley Shaw Crum

16 It is Not a Man’s Job

32 Mildred Williams

64 The Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey Sr.

18 Kristina M. Wynne

39 Black Social Media

22 24 Years of Leadership and Results

48 Founder’s 50th Birthday

68 Rhon’sWay Adds Jigsaw Puzzles and Note Cards to Adult Coloring Book Collection

08 Editor’s Pick

Who’s Who?: Jori A Lacy, CEO

Firefighter Turned Actress

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White Accomplishments

Illinois Secretary of State

Lord Speak to Me

Featured Educator

My journey in retracing the footsteps of my ancestors

Angela Shaw

62 Who is God?

70 Power of Gratitude

52 The National Black Agenda Review

Soar Couture 2022

IN THIS ISSUE

7

Editor’s Pick Who’s Who? Jori A Lacy, CEO Jori Lacy, CEO of Soar Couture, is the only child of Angela Shaw, the founder. Soar Couture is distinctly and divinely designed to offer fashion, faith, and art in perfect harmony. Soar Couture is committed to the commission to spread the Gospel of our Lord and King, Jesus Christ, through our dynamic gift collections and accessories. Having been taught by her mom, Jori realized her faith at an early age to look to Christ for salvation. She is a member of New Faith Baptist Church International in Matteson, IL. Jori’s mother started the Soar Couture business, and Jori acclaimed she would do her best to keep the company in the light. At the age of six, Jori also planned to start a business. While Jori’s mother explained her company to her granny and auntie, Jori interrupted, saying, “Hey, I have a business too.”

Her mom immediately disregarded her outburst, but her aunt said, “Hold on! I think she’s on to something here.” Jori explained her business idea of selling batteries. She would purchase them from the dollar store for $1 and resell them for a higher price. Her aunt asked, “Why batteries?” She replied, “because little kids need batteries for their toys.”

Her aunt, interested in the plan, asked, “Who is going to work for you, though?” She replied, “my mommy will have a baby, and when my little sister grows up, she will work for me.” Her mom replied, smiling, “that’s my baby and I am so proud of you.” Jori had it all figured out, but her mom passed from Leukemia in 2013 when she was ten. It was difficult for Jori, but she persevered through the storm.

Jori Lacy, CEO Soar Couture mom’s dream a reality. She expressed that she loves her mom and misses her dearly, and she is her role model.

In memory of Angela Shaw’s 50th birthday, November 17th, let us show kindness through words of affirmation or giftgiving to loved ones. Congratulations to Jori A Lacy, leadership nomination from Clark Atlanta University to the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS), Fall Semester 2022. Jori is a sophomore at Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia, and she lives with her grandmother in Illinois.

KJV Proverbs 3:5-6

In early childhood, Jori envisioned becoming a lawyer and writer. She graduated top 10% of her high-school class. Now Jori wants to carry on with her mom’s dream. By faith, Jori’s mom inspired many people.

Angela’s passion for art inspired Jori to pursue her aspiration to become a fashion designer. Jori stated she would do her best to make her

8

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths”.

Soar Couture 2022

President’s Message Greetings, Thank you for your continued support of Soar Couture magazine. We have now come to the year-end, a celebration for our leaders, writers, and readers. It’s impossible to end this year without expressing our gratitude for the time, moments, and stories you have shared. We pray all have been inspired and nurtured with positive affirmation, scripture, and kindness.

Although words are certainly not enough to express our appreciation for you, we bring you gift time to say you’re a light and enough. It has been a journey of joy and happiness, yet we have persevered through the storm, enriching our lives. Significantly the obstacles have strengthened us over the past few years, and we could not have done it without unity. As a leader, I have gleaned immensely from your ways of shaping the community for the better!

We gather here to celebrate in loving memory of our founder, Angela Shaw, 50th Birthday. Her personality, spirit, and love for God were larger than life. There is joy in remembering her presence; we know she’s a light in heaven, unflinching and unreserved with her love for God and humans alike! Angela’s authentic spirit shined and elevated through creativity, energy, grace, and the way God wants us to pour love into people and attract all the good things in life! We celebrate our founder, Angela Shaw’s Birthday on November 17th to express our immense gratitude for her work of action.

Valerie Shaw, President Soar Couture

Fruit of the Spirit

Valerie Shaw, President @valerie-shaw

Galatians 5:22, “And the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,” and a lifetime of happiness and laughter.

Artwork designed by Angela Shaw

Soar Couture 2022

9

FRONT COVER

Candy Valentino

“A Poor Mentality Will Give you a Broke Reality”

Excerpted with permission from the publisher, Wiley, from Wealth Habits: Six Ordinary Steps to Achieve Extraordinary Financial Freedom by Candy Valentino. Copyright © 2023 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All rights reserved. This book is available wherever books and eBooks are sold.

Part of growing your bank account requires you to grow your mindset, change your beliefs, and develop new habits. I've worked with thousands of people, spent thousands of hours reading and researching, and it is undeniable the science and psychology of how your finances and the money that you have is directly related to your thoughts and emotions around them. What you think about money, how you think about people with money, and the emotions you have tied to money will be a subconscious driver either toward or away from what you desire.

It is worth spending some time to become aware of the thoughts and the emotions directly tied to money for you because without self-awareness, your subconscious wiring will override your conscious desires and rational thinking and those old thoughts

12

and beliefs (which aren't serving you) will end up driving your actions, behaviors, and habits.

And here's the deal, there's no shame here. You're not alone. This is a huge piece for a lot of people. Some of the common fears around money are not having enough, looking stupid, appearing greedy, being exposed, having guilt, or even shame. You might feel guilty because you have more than your friends or guilty that you desire more. You could feel shame realizing you avoid your finances, you spend too much, you buy stuff when you're unhappy, or that you simply don't have enough. Negative emotions around money are something that needs to be addressed and changed because it creates a vicious, unconscious cycle that no matter how many of these

wealth habits you practice, if you don't fix the negatives, you'll keep coming back to those emotions, thoughts, and feelings around money and it will sabotage your efforts.

Here's how it unfolds. Let's say you're sitting down and taking a hard look at your financial situation, and you're starting to create an investment plan. Just thinking about this increases your anxiety because you're afraid you're not going to face the reality, or you have nowhere near enough saved, or you're spending far too much.

That anxiety then leads you to avoidance.

You postpone it, you delay, you distract yourself with some shiny object in the moment, and then, because you've distracted and postponed the task, your anxiety drops, which then gives you a positive reinforcement for the avoidance of the behavior. And then you repeat this cycle over and over instead of doing what you need to do. The only way to break the pattern is to confront the dreaded task. You are stronger than the whims of your brain— know that. The way to break through is to continue to face the facts and move forward with the task. Your anxiety will temporarily increase. However, if you stay with it, it will steadily decline. You have to tolerate the short-term pain to achieve long-term gain.

Soar Couture 2022

No matter the family you grew up in, every family has its own psychology of money.

What is talked about, what shouldn't be talked about, who is in control of the money, and what responsibilities are assigned to whom? How important money is, what thoughts and beliefs they have about money, or people who have money. The subject of money is where your family and childhood influences never end until you end them.

Money stories are always a part of a family's identity, whether conscious or unconscious.

Perhaps your father had a bad business deal and almost lost everything. Perhaps your mother was a brilliant businesswoman, and her ideas were stolen, which then caused her to be cheated out of her financial freedom. Their beliefs and habits already exist, and they've been passed down to you.

The goal is to identify the beliefs you have, and see if they're giving you the financial future you want. If they aren't, we're going to change them.

cell in our entire body, is new every six months, which means you can change your beliefs, your thoughts, or your body based off of your habits and develop an entirely different structure. Your brain can rewire itself. Neuroplasticity, or the brain's ability to recognize and change itself throughout a person's lifetime, is a truly remarkable thing.

Research published in the journal Nature Neuroscience suggests a person's brain activity is as unique as his own fingerprints.

To reach their conclusion, scientists used

functional magnetic resonance imaging (FMRI) to create connectivity profiles, which allowed researchers to identify the brain activity of more than a hundred individuals (Finn et al., 2015). Learning about individual brain connections offered scientists incredible insights.

There is science, real data, that proves: regardless of what you’ve been told, regardless of the amount of debt you have or the income you currently make—you too can change your financial future.

Pre-Order Available Now: www.wealthhabitsbook.com

Regardless of what negative associations you’ve learned about money (and yes, they have all been learned), here’s the truth: Money simply magnifies a person's virtues and flaws. So if you are a greedy, immoral person, obtaining wealth will magnify those bad traits. But if you’re a good person, an honest, caring, and giving person— money will magnify those traits and give you the ability to help and bless more people.

“Money is simply something you exchange. Money is replaceable and replenishable.”

Here is a scientific fact about money: You can rewire your brain and choose a different script about how you think of money. Not figuratively, literally. While most of the neurons in our brain have been with us since birth, and age does take a toll, our brains still make new neurons. This process is known as neurogenesis.

As reported in Scientific American, a 2019 study published by the journal Nature Medicine looked at the brain tissue of 58 recently deceased people and found that the adult brain can indeed generate new neurons (Weintraub, 2019). Your cells in your body are also constantly replaced and made new. In fact, our entire body, every

Soar Couture 2022

13

The Currency of Relationship KJV Genesis 1:26 "And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth."

Our God is self-existing, yet he had to tap into a relationship with himself in other to create man. "And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness . . . " KJV, Genesis 1:26 The use of the word "LET US" indicates a relationship. The reason why so many people are stagnated is that they think they can do it all alone.

14

Joseph would have died in prison if he had had no relationship. A relationship is a bridge you need to connect to your next level.

No man succeeds alone. Every man needs the contributions of others to succeed in life. A relationship is a significant currency that will help you to purchase what looks impossible.

The journey becomes quicker and faster when you have a good network of relationships. Some people are heavily loaded but lack the connection to recommend them where their service is needed.

Whether you become rich or poor all depends on your relationship. A man with no physical cash but good relationships is not a poor man.

Stop treating the people that come your way badly because you do not know who God will use for you. A man's network is his net worth.

I decree that the Lord will connect you with those that matter to your destiny in Jesus' name.

Apostle Kingsley Izebu, Nigeria, Africa

Soar Couture 2022

Am i?

I'M NOT CURSED OR

The book is about Generational Curses and how to overcome them.

Chantrice Marshall is a woman of God, a mother, a nurse, and the author of the book, Determined to Succeed No Matter and I'm Not Cursed, Or Am I?

Available on www.queenchantrice.com

IT IS NOT A

MAN’S

JOB! Firefighter Turned Actress

Being a Single Mother is the most demanding job in the world. As a single mother, sometimes you have to decide based on money and only money. You have to work to give your children what they need.

Now, I don’t mean to put money before your children, but that is the support you must provide them. You must be everything to your children, including the basics such as a roof over their heads, clothes, food, healthcare, education, and love.

ask them. People love to talk about their careers.

In my opinion and research, here are lists of men’s careers that pay high salaries: Policeman, Firefighter, Plumber, Engineer, Train Conductor, Pipefitters, Construction workers, Dump Truck Driver, Brick Layer, Cable workers, Truck Driver, Welder, Mechanic, Heating and Air Conditioner on the list. These careers can pay anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000. There are plenty of women working these careers and getting paid very well. To be direct, these guys don’t want you around because they feel it is their world and you are not welcome. Well, who cares? You are there to make that money for your family. You have to have a second tough skin to work in these careers. The money is there for them; get that money for you and your children. In today’s world, companies must hire minorities and women.

After my divorce, I had to start all over and move back home to live with my dad.

I had two young sons. I was on welfare and started looking for a job. In 1994, the minimum wage was $3.50 per hour. I was making more on welfare assistance, but I didn’t want to stay on welfare. One day, I was in the car with my father and saw an Ambulance pass by. I told my dad I wanted to learn how to drive an ambulance. So, I started looking for classes and found one nearby. So, I signed up for Emergency

Your decision to take care of your children is on you and only you. Don’t sit there on welfare or unemployment! Go out and find that man’s job. Here are some ways in which you can find out information.

First, talk to your male friends, family, uncle, and strangers working in that career. Check out some of the training at schools and colleges. Look on the internet and network with men. If you see them in the store,

16

Photo shown: Sandra Nelson

Soar Couture 2022

or some emergency. It is all about rescue and saving lives. You are constantly going to classes and training in the field. You will continue your medical career as an EMT or Paramedic. In this career field, you can get an Associate’s degree to a Master’s degree in Public Service. Every month, there are training days with crews working together. It prepares you for when a real emergency happens. The best part is driving the fire engine with lights and sirens. Yes, you get to go over 10 miles per hour during an emergency. You will have to live at the firehouse. Usually, you will work 24 hours on and 48 hours off, so in a month, you will only have to work 8 or 9 days.

Photo shown: Sandra Nelson

Medical Technician classes at my local community college. I knew that I could do that job because I have some experience working in the medical field.

One day, I needed fire gear to extricate patients from cars for outside training. So, my dad asked around and found a childhood friend working in a fire department. So, he got me the gear, and I eventually passed the class. The class was only six months, and now I am an EMT. When I graduated, my childhood friend contacted my father and said the fire department was hiring. When I heard about it, I said they would not hire me because I am a woman. He told me that there are five women in the fire department and if they can do it, so can you. It was tough because my last job was as a Cocktail Waitress. So, I took the written exam, the agility exam- which was very hard and the oral interview. I was informed that I was 6th on the fire exam list to be hired in about a month. The following year they called me in, and I was hired as a full-time firefighter.

I knew it would be hard, but I didn’t realize it was such a dangerous job until my first

Soar Couture 2022

house fire. So, I prayed that I could stay safe to provide for my children. Then, I realized that it is a rewarding career with healthcare benefits, and I will be saving lives and property. It is a physical and mental career. You are putting your life in danger to help people hurt or dying, trapped in a car,

It was hard for the first six years. In my Seventh year, the Fire Department hired a Black Fire Chief, and it was a blessing to me because he was someone that would listen to me. My experience as a Black Female Firefighter was that I had to work 110% harder than the men and had to prove myself over and over. Last ten years, it came down to another black female firefighter and me. We always supported each other and took fire classes together to stay knowledgeable about the job. So the guys can’t say we don’t know what we are doing.

Finally, I moved up the ranks of Engineer.

A Fire Engineer doesn’t have to go in the fire. They drive the fire engine and put it in a pump for the water so the firefighters can put out the fire.

In 2017, I got my BA in Fire Administration, and then I retired. I retired after 22 years on the job and am glad I went through all the tears, being scared, praying, and blessed to be alive for my children.

Final thought: Sometimes, you have to make a decision and step out of the box. I did. I am glad I could work in the same town where I was raised. When people saw me, they were shocked that I was a firefighter.

People are still shocked today that I am a retired firefighter. If I can do it, you can, too, onward to the next chapter of my life.

Author: Sandra Nelson

Sandra Nelson 1996 (middle), two sons (left, right)

17

KRISTINA M. WYNNE

OWNER | CEO - THE WYNNERS CLUB 18

Soar Couture 2022

Kristina M. Wynne is the Owner/Founder of The Wynners Club LLC. This business development consulting company offers business coaching, access to business funding, and business education. Her devotion to working with small businesses began almost 20 years ago when she worked for her family's company, 200 Pharmacy Inc., at 16 as a licensed pharmacy technician. Her love for her family's business and science led her to achieve a Bachelor of Bio-Physics from Chicago State University and a Master of Public Health from St. Benedictine University.

Ultimately, as an adult, Kristina worked for her family's business for eight years. Later, she resigned from the business as Director of Business Development in 2017 to embark on an opportunity with Goldman Sachs. 10,000 Small Businesses program (10KSB), where her true passion was revealed, helping small businesses grow.

In December 2020, Kristina became a business advisor with the IL Small Business Development Center Network. In September 2021, she became the business consultant for the Chicago Minority Supplier Development Council. Kristina is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. She sits on the boards of two STEM-focused nonprofits. Of all that she has accomplished so far, her most outstanding achievement is raising her amazing 11-year-old daughter Kyleigh in the Chicago-land area.

Kristina M. Wynne - Owner/CEO The Wynners Club - Illinois BEP WMBE Certified Call/Text (312) 523-8540

LINKEDIN Facebook Instagram

"History is made by the Wynners!"

Soar Couture 2022

19

Congratulations on your retirement Honorable

Jesse White

20

Soar Couture 2022

Soar Couture 2022

21

24 LEADERSHIP YEARS of

AND RESULTS ILLINOIS SECRETARY OF STATE JESSE WHITE ACCOMPLISHMENTS

22

Soar Couture 2022

Under Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White's 24 years of leadership, roads are safer, customer service has improved and integrity has been restored to an office once plagued by corruption.

Keeping Teens Safe Secretary of State Jesse White initiated landmark teen driver safety legislation giving Illinois one of the best graduated driver licensing (GDL) programs in the country. Teen driving deaths have dropped significantly since the GDL program was launched. A recent national survey by WalletHub ranked Illinois among the top states in teen driver safety due in large part to Secretary White’s GDL program.

Due to his commitment to keeping teens safe, Secretary White was inducted into the Illinois High School & College Driver Education Association Hall of Fame.

Combating Drunk Driving Secretary White was awarded the prestigious Legislative Champion Award by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for his efforts to fight DUI and make the roads of Illinois the safest ever. Secretary White was awarded with the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award from the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists (AAIM).

Secretary White’s innovative breath alcohol ignition interlock Device (BAIID) program has helped position Illinois as a national leader in the fight against drunk driving.

Keeping Roads Safe Secretary White has initiated laws that cracked down on texting while driving, chronic DUI offenders and excessive

Soar Couture 2022

speeders, which has helped cement Illinois’ position has a top traffic safety state in the nation. In fact, a June 2018 national survey by WalletHub ranked Illinois first in the nation when it comes to DUI, distracted driving and textingwhile-driving laws. Secretary White was awarded with the Martha Irwin Award for Lifetime Achievement in Highway Safety by the American Association Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA).

Improving Customer Service Secretary White has improved customer services through streamlining operations, using innovative technology, and expanding online transactions. White has implemented an online and phone appointment system at 30 of the largest Driver Services facilities throughout the state. In addition, he has expanded online renewal options, so more people qualify to renew their driver’s license from the comfort of home and avoid visiting a Driver Services facility.

Restoring Integrity Secretary White inherited an office that was plagued by corruption. He restored integrity and eliminated all forms of institutionalized corruption and wrongdoing. To accomplish this goal, Secretary White has: established a code of conduct for employees; set strict fundraising policies that prohibit employee contributions to his political campaign;

hired Jim Burns as Secretary of State’s Inspector General. Secretary White worked with Burns, a former U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, to strengthen the Inspector General’s office. In addition, Secretary White initiated legislation to make the position of Inspector General permanent with broad powers to root out corruption.

These sweeping and permanent changes help to ensure the office does not revert to a climate of institutionalized corruption and wrongdoing.

Protecting Residents from Fraud and Identity Theft Secretary White upgraded the issuance process and security features to the Illinois driver’s license and ID card design to better protect people from fraud and identity theft.

With implementation of these upgrades, Illinois achieved full REAL ID compliance and began issuing REAL ID driver’s licenses and ID cards statewide in spring 2019. The REAL ID Act is a federal mandate of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

The federal deadline is May 3, 2023.

Promoting Organ and Tissue Donation and Saving Lives Secretary White initiated legislation creating the First-Person Consent Organ and Tissue Donor Registry, which makes a person’s decision to donate legally binding. White also championed legislation allowing 16- and 17-year-olds to register when they receive their DL/ID. Through these efforts, Illinois now has more than 7.4 million registered donors and approximately 260,000 teens registered.

23

THE HONORABLE JESSE WHITE ILLINOIS SECRETARY OF STATE Jesse White is Illinois’ 37th Secretary of State. White was first elected to the office in 1998 and won landslide victories in 2002, in which he won all 102 counties, and again in 2006, 2010 and 2014. On Nov. 6, 2018, White was re-elected to a recordbreaking sixth term, winning another landslide victory in which he earned over 3.1 million votes statewide – the most ever by a statewide candidate in a midterm election. White became Illinois’ longest serving Secretary of State on May 30, 2014.

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office is the largest and most diverse office of its kind in the nation, providing more direct services to the people of Illinois than any other public agency. White’s office issues state ID cards, vehicle license plates and titles; registers corporations; enforces the Illinois Securities Act; administers the Organ/Tissue Donor Program; licenses drivers; and maintains driver records. As State Librarian, Secretary White oversees the State Library and literacy programs, and as State Archivist, he maintains records of legal or historic value.

Under White’s leadership, the use of new technology along with modernizing and streamlining operations has significantly improved customer service. Illinois has become a national leader in road safety as White strengthened DUI laws, reformed the truck driver licensing program and overhauled teen driving guidelines. As a result of White’s initiatives, traffic fatalities have decreased. In 2014, White was inducted into the Illinois High School & College Driver Education Association Hall of Fame.

In 1959, White founded the internationally known Jesse White Tumbling Team to serve as a positive alternative for at-risk children residing in public housing in and around the Chicago area. Since its inception, more than 18,500 young men and women have performed with the team. White has spent 63 years working as a volunteer with the team to help kids stay away from gangs, drugs, alcohol and smoking, and to help set at-risk youth on the path to success.

The program has received international praise. This year the team will make more than 1,500 performances using eight units, consisting of 225 young men and women.

Currently, there are 51 members enrolled in college. In 2014, the Chicago Park District opened the Jesse White Community Center and Field House in honor of White’s lifelong contributions to the community. In addition, a school in Hazel Crest, Illinois, was recently named the Jesse C. White Learning Academy, and Division Street in Chicago was designated Jesse White Way in honor of White.

a .291 lifetime batting average, was elected to two All-Star games, led the league and team multiple times in stolen bases, had the highest team batting average multiple seasons and was twice voted most popular player for the AAA Salt Lake City Bees. In August 2021, in honor of his professional baseball career and lifetime of public service, the Chicago Cubs signed White to an honorary Major League Baseball contract.

After he hung up his spikes, White enjoyed a 33-year career with the Chicago Public Schools as a teacher and administrator.

Jesse White earned his Bachelor of Science from Alabama State College (now Alabama State University) in 1957, where he was a two-sport athlete earning all-conference honors in baseball and basketball. In May 1995, White was inducted into the Southwestern Athletic Conference Hall of Fame. He was an all-city baseball and basketball player at Chicago’s Waller High School (now Lincoln Park High School) and was inducted into the Chicago Public League Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in June 1995. In 1999, he was inducted into the Alabama State University Sports Hall of Fame. Born in Alton, Illinois, he now lives on Chicago’s Near North Side.

White has one son, Mark, two daughters, Lorraine and Glenna, and two grandchildren, Jesse and Susan.

White served our country as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division and as a member of the Illinois National Guard and Reserve.

He played professional baseball for seven seasons with the Chicago Cubs organization, where he had

Prior to his election as Secretary of State, White served as Cook County Recorder of Deeds – a job to which he was first elected in 1992 and re-elected in 1996. Before that, he served 16 years in the Illinois General Assembly, representing the most culturally, economically and racially diverse district in Illinois.

24

Soar Couture 2022

Thank you for your authentic leadership

BLACK

WOMEN

EMPOWERMENT 26

Soar Couture 2022

Imagine not having the same equal rights as men, going through many challenges in life, and remaining resilient. How would you feel? Black women continue to be the glue that binds fragmented families together.

When you educate a woman, you educate a nation. They are left with the task of caring for, leading, and navigating herself and her family while she is in survival mode in a very hostile system. Black women struggle a lot, from not being given enough pain medication during birth to others talking/ making fun of their bodies.

Black women constantly fight to support systems that help take care of our children.

Flexible work hours would allow us to care for sick children/other dependents. Women are doing men’s jobs, and the lack of a good pool of candidates to become our life partners take a toll as a woman, etcetera.

I feel they are overlooked because people think we don’t have what it takes to be a leader, represent our communities, and have a voice. Black women could not vote, and it took a while until they could.

Black women also experience domestic violence and physical and sexual abuse.

The impact of domestic violence is not just from those we choose but from white men who disrespected our bodies and treated us like property. Their marginalized status places them at an increased risk for various traumatic experiences. Black survivors who experience traumatic situations sometimes go through depression, anxiety, stress, and somatic complaints.

Black women are also challenged with deciding if they want to have an abortion or not. The reason being is that some mothers may feel like they’re not ready to have a child. I don’t believe in killing a baby, but if someone doesn’t want to have a baby, they can have an abortion or give it up for adoption. I say that because it’s the person’s body, so it’s their choice. It might be better if the baby gets adopted because of circumstances the mother might be going through. Maybe later in life, the mother and child can meet/have visitations.

need this to discuss some Black women’s problems and how to get through them.

The mentoring group is good because it will teach others about becoming a young lady and maturing into womanhood. Another thing we can do to move the Black Agenda and Black people forward is to have more organizations, such as the YWCA. And including advocates for women and girls who have been assaulted in some way.

This will help a lot because it will allow victims to talk to someone so that they can help them in the best way possible.

The second to last way to move the Black Agenda and Black people forward is to have a peaceful protest saying that we want the same equitable rights as men. We can also have petitions and do fundraisers. The last way to move the Black Agenda and Black people is to pass quite a few laws. The laws would be that Black women have the same right as white women to have the same amount of pain medication when giving birth. Black women can have the same amount of job opportunities, hours, and pay. Being a prostitute is illegal, and if you become one, there’s a dire consequence.

Every girl, age ten and up, must take a class about what to look out for if anyone tries to harm or touch them until they are 21. Make childcare and healthcare reasonable and payable every two months, birth control and feminine products are free, and housing and homeownership are available for Black women. We can do many other things to help the Black Agenda.

As a result, Black women go through a lot in life. Although Black women go through many challenges, they are strong and can bounce back quickly, no matter what. Others want to be like us so bad; that’s why they talk about us and do these different things.

Black women must show everyone that they are better than others’ opinions. If everyone comes together to support and help out, things will start looking better in the long run. There is a rainbow and sunshine after the thunderstorm!

Kayla Worley ABJ Youth Tribe Member, 19 yrs old

To help the Black Agenda even more, we need to support Black women-owned businesses by going to it. We should have more mentoring groups for girls, teens, and women because we need this to lift each other and support one another. We also

Soar Couture 2022

27

Affirmation Lord, Speak To Me

Lord, you spoke to the wind and sea. The wind ceased, and the tumultuous sea became calm. Hallelujah, you spoke, and the earth came into existence. You spoke, and all creatures, animals, and man were created.

Lord, you are all-powerful. You are the ruler of the universe (Psalms 24 KJV). You gave man dominion over the earth and all living creatures, but you are the powerful force behind everything (Hebrews 11:3 KJV). Lord, let your Holy Spirit dwell within me this year.

Let me serve and worship you in spirit and truth. Let me tell your people that you are the way, the truth, and the light of the world (John 14: 6 KJV). Let me praise you for who you are, the savior of the world.

Reveal to me your plan and purpose for my life. Let me do the work that you set for me.

Lord, give me strength and power to be a disciple for you. You speak to me with your words through scripture that is sweet as honey to me. The Holy Spirit illuminates my understanding (Ezekiel 2: 1-7; 3:1-3 KJV).

Let the fruits of my labor be worthy in thy name. Let your spirit fill the souls of lost persons (Romans 1:21; 25 3:23 KJV) who once had no direction in life (Psalms 25: 15-22 KJV) Lord, you sent your Son, Jesus, to redeem mankind from death by shedding his blood on the cross. You are a salvation for me and the world. (Romans 5:9; 5:19 KJV). I pray and worship you to fill my heart with your Holy Spirit. Speak to me. Guide and protect me in my daily tasks. Help me to keep thy statutes and not yield to temptation. Keep my mind and thoughts focused on thee.

(Colossians 2:18; 3:1-17 KJV). Let your Holy Spirit satiate my soul to praise, worship, and do thy will forever until you return (Psalms 27:1-14; 31:3 KJV).

28

Lord, we live in perilous times of pestilences, floods, fires, tornadoes, and injustices. Hold back your fury against us this year. Let my discipleship of sharing your word change the hearts and minds of people. Give mankind wisdom in dealing with the atrocities of this world. I know you have all power and authority over whatever occurs on earth. Help us with the Covid-19 pandemic. Help mankind see that you have control. Let them know that sin and injustice are why we are in this situation.

Lord, I know scripture II Chronicles 7:14 reads as follows: “If my people, which are called by my name shall humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” Lord, we need healing in this land. Hear our prayer. Let your people who are called by thy name go out and evangelize the world to understand you have all power. Let us look up to thee for strength (Romans 13:1; Deuteronomy 32: 3-4; Psalms 18:2 KJV).

Matthew 28: 19 KJV says: Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Let me be a workman in your vineyard to spread the gospel. Let me be a light in the darkness to reveal to people your power and how they live their lives.

Let me remind them that you loved us so much that you sent your Son to die on the cross for our sins (John 3:16 KJV). You did not want mankind to reap everlasting death.

It is through your grace and mercy that we are saved. Man only has to repent of his sin and seek thy face. When Jesus died on the cross, he left the Holy Spirit to manifest itself in the hearts of man. It will lead and guide him only if he invites the Spirit

(Galatians 5:25 KJV).

Have mercy on us, dear Lord, as we seek thy face. Help me and others see that there is a need for repentance. Bless those who labor in thy vineyard to grow and harvest fruit in thy name. Lord, we are weak, but thou art strong (Galatians 6:6 KJV). We lean on thee for strength each day. There is no help to whom we may turn as all other support is on sinking ground. You are the rock on which we stand. You are the rock on which we stand.

We are standing before thee seeking thy grace and mercy for this year of 2022.

Hold back the storm, and let us come through this year. Let each of us see the role you intended for our lives. Through your deliverance, we can have joy and peace.

Lord, speak to your people. Let us hear and abide by your words. We pray in Jesus’ name, Amen!

Written by: Shirley Shaw Crum Reading the scripture will give power to this affirmation. God’s words speak to us through scripture. God inspired the Holy men who wrote the Bible to leave a record of God’s dealings with mankind ages past, which serves as a pattern of living for us today. These words and stories teach us about God’s wisdom and man’s fallacies.

Soar Couture 2022

PREMIUM PILLOWS

™

From

www.soarcouture.shop

SHIRLEY SHAW CRUM

Selma, Alabama

FEATURED EDUCATOR

Tell us about your education career and how long you’ve been in this role.

Ms. Shirley Shaw Crum worked as an English instructor at Selma University for over 20 years. She was department chairman for several years and worked on the accreditation committee. Education: B.S. Education, Knoxville College, Knoxville, TN; Master of Education, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL; Master of Art in Bible and Christian Education, Selma University, Selma, AL.

Briefly describe your passion for education and your faith.

Her educational goal is to help students acquire knowledge and utilize their skills in logical thinking. The students can do this by developing a passion through reading and reflection. She has published numerous articles in The Selma University Chronicle. She is also a life-long member

30

of Ebenezer Baptist Church, Selma, AL, of the late Pastor Dr. Reverend Federick D. Reese and the present Pastor Reverend James Perkins Jr.

What aspects of life is your focus?

She aspired to work in a religious university setting. Her primary focus is evangelizing. During the global pandemic, she began teaching in a women’s weekly bible study (M-F, 8:30am-9am CST), which is now part of her daily spiritual journey. This ministry of women from various churches and areas is coordinated by Evangelist Chelette Henderson and Pastor Valtoria Jackson, Montgomery, AL. Nominate an outstanding educator in your community or colleague today!

Submit article, Magazine Submission – SoarCouture www.soarcouture.shop/products/submission

Soar Couture 2022

COLLECTION "Often times I’ve fallen; and just when others thought I’d never get up... I stood up, opened my wings and soared...”

Shop at: www.soarcouture.shop

| |

GRIQUA NAMA

DAMARA

GERMAN MALAY DUTCH Photo shown: Mildred J. Williams

32

Soar Couture 2022

MY

MILDRED WILLIAMS

JOURNEY

MY JOURNEY IN RETRACING THE FOOTSTEPS OF MY ANCESTORS I was in Cape Town, South Africa, when God spoke to me through three different prophets – they all shared the same message: “You need to go back to your family.” The one prophet, Dr. Lydia Moeng, who has become one of my mentors, continued her prophesy. She constantly told me to write a book about my family, specifically about my great-greatgrandfather’s parents, and sort out my family’s inheritance! I was still confused about what to do next when I got bugs biting me the whole time. They were everywhere in my clothes, in my blankets.

Everywhere! I could not sleep. No one could see the bugs except me. It turned out that they were spiritual attacks because as soon as I returned to Namibia, they disappeared, and God showed me what He wanted me to do. He had to work with me as He did with Moses and Jonah. He wanted me to return to where my ancestors came from, the Northern Cape Province of South Africa. I returned to South Africa in October 2019, which was very confusing. I was there in South Africa in the area from where they came, but He was still preparing me for what He wanted me to see. I did not understand what God was trying to tell or show me.

When you find your ancestors, you find yourself! By looking for my ancestors, Hester and Johannes, I found answers to hidden questions that were, in fact, under

JAMAICAN Soar Couture 2022

my nose. Sometimes the answers are hidden to protect us. Whatever is destined for you, you will not miss. I had to go back to where they lived, meet my distant relatives, visit the church where they got married, and the grave of my great-greatgrandmother, Hester! What a journey, what an experience! When God chooses you for a purpose, God leads you and paves the way by providing everything you might need for your journey.

The President of South Africa, Hendrik Verwoerd, had at one stage even sent a telegram to my great-grandfather to discuss certain aspects of the Griqua Tribe. The Clan was without a leader, a Chief. But still, my great-grandfather refused as he and his children had grown accustomed to South West Africa at that stage. Now known as Namibia and had even bought a farm. He did not feel it was necessary to start over again as he and his sisters were married, had children, and settled. They had lost their land in South Africa as the British came with Cecil John Rhodes and the Diamond Rush. Thus, people were chased off their land violently, and Apartheid was still very visible in South Africa. Do you remember the story in the Bible of Lot and his family who left Sodom and Gomora, but when the wife looked back, she had turned into a salt pillar? Another Bible story that came to mind during my journey was about Moses leading his people to Canaan. Did no one

AFRICAN-AMERICAN

return to Egypt, or did they all leave not to return? I had to be the one that had to return. The Scripture Word that God gave me fourteen years ago in Isaiah 54 and 55 was now coming to fulfillment. I think that my ancestors were too afraid to return to their Motherland because they wanted to forget what they had left behind, the fights, the struggles, and the Apartheid. There were things left behind, unsaid, but the atrocities done to them needed to be dealt with and sorted. My ancestors, including my late grandmother, are one of the families who had to move because they were forced to do so. Thus land needs to be reclaimed and taken from them. Justice needs to be served, and the Griquas are still without a leader that the Government recognizes.

I am a mixture of a few tribes, Griqua, Nama, Damara, German, Dutch, Malay, and African American. I am still exploring my Native American tribes. My journey has honed my skills in genealogy research. Thus I have started to reunite people who have roots in SWA/Namibia and South Africa with their families while finding my relatives. And I thoroughly enjoy my calling. It is time for the prodigal sons and daughters to return to their homes and families!

Quoting from the movie, “Life Itself, “: At any moment, life will surprise me, I am my father, and I am my father’s father, I am my mother, and I am my mother’s mother . . . If we go far enough, there’s love . . .

Author: Mildred J. Williams E-mail: mildredjwilliams@gmail.com Whatsapp nr: +264814004413

33

"The Challenge of Diversity: The Witness of Paul and the Gospel," written by author David

Rhoads, is a remarkable exploration of diversity in scripture expressed through New Testament

writers. The article's main point, as Rhoads believes, is that Christians cannot truly "gain renewal" in the Body of Christ. Until we embrace the diversity Rhoads believes is warranted in the various New Testament writers. Rhoads cites that the authors differ in “their views of the human condition" and introduce "an explosion of fresh expressions of religious insight and social configuration."

The Challenge

Spiritual Review: Soar Couture’s Founder, Angela Shaw While I agree with Rhoads in that all New Testament writers "have distinctive Christian perspectives." They were undoubtedly "shaped by race, ethnicity, nationality, social class, economic level, political position, religious background, urban or rural origin,

34

gender and education." I cannot entirely agree with the pertinent elements of this article. These differences I will explore causes me to differ from the article's focus.

Therefore, I disagree with his main thesis that "focusing on the differences" between New Testament authors will bring unity in the Body of Christ. Let's explore!

First, I disagree with Rhoads's point that "we have no evidence to suggest" that these New Testament writers "were aware that their work would one day be treated as Scripture and read broadly. "I believe even prophets as far back as Moses had an awareness of the Bible and their role in it. For, in Exodus 32:33 NIV, we witness a dynamic conversation between Moses and

Soar Couture 2022

of Diversity

God that not only introduced the Bible; but also its true author --- GOD!

replied to Moses, "Whoever has sinned against me I will blot out of my book."

It reads, "So Moses went back to the LORD and said, "Oh, what a great sin these people have committed! They have made themselves gods of gold. But now, please forgive their sin—if not, then blot me out of the book you have written. The LORD

Furthermore, Paul continuously reminded Bible readers of his awareness of the "unfolded mystery" that had been entreated unto him and the great wealth and magnitude foretold by all the Major Prophets.

Soar Couture 2022

For Paul says, “how that by revelation He made known unto me the mystery . . . which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto His Holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit” (Ephesians 3:3,5KJV) Romans 16:25-26 (KJV), “Now to him who is able to establish you in accordance with

35

my gospel, the message I proclaim about Jesus Christ, in keeping with the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past” but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God so that all the Gentiles might come to the obedience that comes from[a] faithEphesians 6:18-20, “And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.”

More significantly, in Revelation 1, John not only knows that what he is relying on is profound -- but, critically, that “blessings” were ascribed to those who read it, hear

36

it, and keep it. Likewise, “curses” were ascribed to those who would dare alter scripture in any fashion in John's time and forevermore!

John boldly writes, “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.” (Revelation 1:2-3 KJV) Secondly, I also differ from David Rhoads inference that "most scholars consider it

unlikely that any of the New Testament writers were themselves eyewitnesses of Jesus." For we know, without even quoting scripture, that Peter, John, Mark, Luke, and Matthew were not only followers of Jesus but also "eyewitnesses" of our Lord and King. And, coming after the first apostles, Paul was knocked to his knees in his "Damascus Road" encounter with the risen Christ.

Therefore, I not only differ with Rhoads as a whole, but I also believe that there were two major unifying elements introduced in the New Testament that should be our focus to bring unity in the body of Christ. These two introductions were so profound and critical to uniting Christians everywhere and the overall time that they . . . and only they . . . should be our primary focus to settle

Soar Couture 2022

I surmise that focusing on the differences in the writers and finding consolation in their differences negates the importance of knowing that God did two other things so tremendously. Uniting that would transcend all “race, ethnicity, nationality, social class, economic level, political position, religious background, urban or rural origin, gender and education” and time. differences and to command unity in the Body of Christ.

First, the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is the ultimate force that made all different---one.

Ephesians 1:18, we read, "For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit."

And, "For He is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us . . . for to make in Himself of 'twain one new man."(Ephesians 2:14.15) "Now, therefore, ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together growth unto a holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for a habitation of God through the Spirit. (Ephesians 2:19-22) Secondly, whatever scattering and separation created by the tower of Babel, where God first scattered us by language, now, in the New Testament, had ultimately

Soar Couture 2022

been reunited by one language: the "Holy Ghost."

The introduction of this supernaturally unparallel and universal language profoundly erased all differences between Christians, ---not only between Jews and Gentiles, but also between all nations that would follow forevermore.

Summarily, the death and resurrection of our Lord and King, Jesus Christ, and the introduction of the "Holy Ghost" were such profound introductions that they should remain the focus to eradicating all differences in believers.

I surmise that focusing on the differences in the writers and finding consolation in their differences negates the importance of knowing that God did two other things so tremendously. Uniting that would transcend all “race, ethnicity, nationality, social class, economic level, political position, religious background, urban or rural origin, gender and education" and time.

In addition, the fact that our God was able to take men of such vast differences and produce the four Gospels with such earthshattering similarities would be remiss to ignore. And although I will not go as far as to accuse author David Rhoads of suggesting that we ignore these similarities.

However, I believe that his suggestion that we will not "gain renewal" in Christendom until we embrace "differences"--- a shift in the focus of the New Testament that we cannot afford.

Finally, the differences between the New Testament writers would not cause readers of nations, tongues, and creeds to find a universal language. However, it is solely the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the introduction of His precious "Holy Ghost"

that destroyed all differences and made us of "one mind" and "one man." For this reason, believers everywhere can: • Have another believer tell something about us that has never met us.

• Have visions, dreams, and interactions with God that parallel someone we have never met- even that may live across the globe.

• Encounter another Christian's story that uniquely and profoundly mimics our very own experience.

• Receive a spiritual email that relates precisely to what we are going through.

• Enter church on Sunday and have the sermon be what God dealt with us regarding behind closed doors.

Surely, our Savior, Jesus Christ, is "the same yesterday, today, and forevermore."

Similarly, this is why we can have our own modern-day “burning bush," “ram in the bush," “heavenly manna," or “feeding of the ravens” and appreciate that we serve the God of Moses, Abraham, the Israelites, Elijah, and every other prophet before and in between.

I agree with David Rhoads that taking into account the "ethnicity, identity, religious background, cultural experiences, economic situation, geographical location, local interests, rural or urban ethos and so on" is very important. However, I am not convinced that focusing on these areas will allow the Body of Christ to achieve unity and "find life and hope in the Christian faith."

Nevertheless, I believe that the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the dispensation of the Holy Ghost are the most profound and unifying elements of the New Testament.

These, without a doubt, should always be our focus!

37

TRESSA Thomas OWNER, BOSS CHICK HAIR & BEAUTY

BLACK SOCIAL MEDIA Our Black Truth is an example of social media for us Black people, but to only do positive things, nothing negative. Social media is why we act the way we do, have a negative focus, and are mean to one another. What we can do as a community is support each other, encourage each other to keep going forward on the right path, and ensure we stay on the right track. And don't let people hold us back from our purposeful journey.

My message to Black youth and the Black community is that we must embrace and support each other.

Also, prove people wrong and let them know we're united and together, so strong and fearless.

Atiya Muhammad ABJ Youth Tribe Member

Soar Couture 2022

39

From Center Stage

T to behind the scenes with

ressa

40

homas

Soar Couture 2022

The Five Heartbeats Tressa's artistic career began to blossom at age seven, with more than fifty live performances across the country to her credit. After landing several cameo film roles, Tressa secured a starring role in Robert Townsend's The Five Heartbeats.

She quickly became a household name, with many film critics from Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, The New York Times, and The Los Angeles Times referencing her particular scene as the most memorable performance. The role also enabled Tressa to record with R&B legends Patti LaBelle & Billy Valentine on the film's soundtrack (Virgin Records).

Tressa's other film and television credits include Flatliners (Columbia Pictures), Message In A Bottle (Warner Brothers), Townsend Television (FOX), Angel Street (CBS), The Little Richard Story (NBC), Love Hurts (ABC), Sweet Home Chicago (The CW Pilot), and numerous commercials, concert appearances, and syndicated television placements. She has been featured live on British, Polish, Swedish, German, Austrian, and Bulgarian television. She has performed on stages throughout Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean Islands.

Over her 20+ year career, she has provided background and lead vocals for Stevie Wonder, COMMON, Earth, Wind & Fire, Barbara Streisand, Brandy, Eddie Griffin, The Wayans Brothers, Dionne Warwick, and Gladys Knight.

Soar Couture 2022

Tressa’s featured film debut was the Robert Townsend film, “The Five Heartbeats”, 1991.

“On only one occasion -- when Duck and his little sister (Tressa Thomas) compose a song together -does the music get inside us and give us a lift. …. the 12-year-old Thomas has killer pipes…”

“…. Tressa Thomas sings with the electrifying purity of the prepubescent Michael Jackson, and she carries you right along.”

“The power voice in this ensemble belongs to Tressa Thomas, who envelops the stage and the audience with her diva takes on “You’ll Never Get To Heaven,”, and a full-throated gospel pairing of “Let Me Be Lonely”.

41

PRE-ORDER BOOK NOW EMAIL: MILDREDJWILLIAMS@GMAIL.COM

Inspire by Tyler From analyst to artist, Tyler Clark (she/her) began her career at United Airlines after completing her dual Bachelor education in Mathematical and Mechanical Engineering from Spelman College and Georgia Institute of Technology. However, in 2020, Tyler traded in her friendly skies around the globe for a paint brush. Yet, still managed to achieve global recognition as a full-time artist!

Tyler empowers individuals to redefine what beauty looks like; and that’s the power of being a 3-dimensional artist.

Born and raised in the Illinois suburbs of Chicago, Tyler is a Christian visual artist that creates faith-based artwork that offers representation for Black women of all ages.

As a change agent, Tyler enjoys embodying real people as her muse to create her art collections. Tyler upholds a fundamental belief that in order to transform the culture and shift the atmosphere, you must start from within the community.

From analyst to artist

TYLER CLARK 44

Soar Couture 2022

Tyler’s ouvre encompasses self-love and women’s empowerment. Her supporters find comfort in relating to Tyler in the matter of persevering through day-to-day trials and tribulations that Black women encounter. Tyler’s goal is to employ her art to purposefully stimulate and uplift others through her own personal and spiritual journey, in hopes that women of all ages be encouraged to never give up on hope and stay inspired.

Tyler specializes in creating mixed media paintings, which include fabric, jewelry and hair to enhance the connection to her pieces. The multi-dimensional elements have caused multiple pieces to be virally shared around the world and has made Tyler an internationally known artist, InspireByTyler.

Tyler’s accomplishments include, but not limited to, having two art pieces auctioned for charity, in the annual Wearable Art Gala presented by Tina Knowles and featured

Soar Couture 2022

on WACO’s Wearable Art Gala on the OWN network. Tyler’s artwork has also been featured among the top artists in the country, during the 2019 Art Basel in Miami, Florida. Tyler was also interviewed on a live segment on ABC’s Windy City Live during Black History Month of 2020, featuring some of her premier pieces. Tyler has also gained recognition for creating custom pieces for celebrities, including an eight-foot painting of recording artist Quavo and a beautiful painting of recording artist Chance The Rapper and his wife. Tyler’s art is also decorated along the walls in a new Chicago school, created by hip-hop artist Common, called Art in Motion. Among her other 2020 accomplishments, Tyler’s art has been featured in ABC’s hit show, Black-ish, was a season 2 contestant on YouTube’s Original Instant Influencer and created a 23-piece collection for the Master Card Strivers Initiative Event at the Apollo 2021.

Most recently, Tyler graced the stage as the keynote speaker for the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Tyler strives to have statement paintings in Black homes that are memorable to the African American community. Tyler wants her art admirers to know that all things are possible with God at the center of their heart; “for we walk by faith, not by sight!”

2 Corinthians 5:7 Photo shown: Tyler Clark

Visit website www.inspirebytyler.com to view my artwork

45

Our

Thankful and

Joyous Moments! for the Holiday

THE WYNNERS CLUB LLC Small Business Expert llinois BEP WMBE Certified

Our specialties include: • Pitch Deck Creation • Business Plan Creation • Grant/RFP Acquisition • Accounting & Financial Management • MBE/WBE Certification • Marketing Strategy & Social Media • Small Business Strategy

At The Wynners Club we help small businesses grow!

Our business coaches adhere to incremental, high-impact, and sustainable growth strategies when working with clients.

• Human Resources Strategy • Small Business Development • Project Management • Business Education • Operations Productivity Improvement • Organizational Improvement

KRISTINA M. WYNNE, OWNER Phone: (312) 523-8540 Website: www.thewynnersclub.org Email: kristina@thewynnersclub.org

GIFT TIME Soar Couture, the company inspired by ART, AFFIRMATION, and the ALMIGHTY, brings you Gift time. The ALMIGHTY revealed to Founder Angela Shaw in the midst of her storm, "Nothing in life is more important than family, friends, and an unshakable relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ and his will for your life." During those dark and isolated times in our lives, we all yearn for the sincerity of human kindness. Once the ALMIGHTY restores peace of mind, it's time to show appreciation and help others through the eye of the storm. It is about giving and sharing kindness to help others in need or revive a special person's spirit.

NKJV Luke 6:38 "Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you."

“THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN HAS SUFFERED VIOLENCE, AND THE VIOLENT... TAKE IT BY FORCE.” MATTHEW 11:12

Shop at: www.soarcouture.shop | |

REVIEW

THE NATIONAL BLACK AGENDA PUBLIC SAFETY AND JUSTICE

In the book specifically, there was a lot to take in. Some things mentioned were the incarceration rate in black communities, police brutality, racial profiling, the psychological state of officers, including the preschool-to-prison pipeline, and something that stuck out to me, the definition of justice. The section began with the meaning of justice: "Justice is defined as the principle or ideal of moral rightness; equity; the upholding of what is right and lawful." What I find so interesting about this definition is that the constitution, or more specifically, the preamble and the pledge of allegiance, mentions this term quite a bit. These documents were written by old, racist white men who did not believe that Black people or even women should have equal rights.

The issue on their part is that the definition of justice does not mention color or creed; it specifically states that it is the principal or ideal of moral rightness. Therefore, the government breaks the law whenever our people must fight and protest because of injustice. When will they be incarcerated?

When will they be denied their rights?

A section also mentions juvenile justice reform, and I agree with what it has to say.

The book states, "abolish the preschool-toprison pipeline, eliminate juvenile prisons, provide meaningful educational and vocational training within institutions and

52

eliminate the zero-tolerance policy. Also to address all barriers to success in schools and an educational system that targets young Black boys for prison." I often find the infrastructure and specific rules in schools quite disturbing. Why do the windows in some school buildings look like prison windows? The hallways look as if you're walking the green mile. Teachers always yell, "walk in a straight line," and "every other square." You must walk in a straight line to go to lunch or the bathroom. All these things, believe it or not, are putting children in the mindset to depend on some authority figure. Unfortunately, that figure is a correctional officer. Why is it that we must take a complex standardized test created for us to fail, and those tests determine if we graduate or not or if we go to college? Everyone knows that children showcase their best work in the classroom, and half the time, the questions on the test have nothing to do with what we learned in class. So, yes, I agree that all of these issues must change.

health. We need to ensure that they are not forced to take tests rigged for them to fail. And to my peers, stay encouraged, stay focused, and don't only learn from this corrupted system but educate yourselves.

Asia Boler ABJ Youth Tribe Member, 18 yrs old

In addition, as a community, we need to ensure that the environment in which our children are learning promotes their mental

Soar Couture 2022

THE NATIONAL BLACK AGENDA NOW AVAILABLE HARDCOVER BOOK $25.00 SOFTCOVER BOOK $15.00

Board of Directors • Dr. Gale Frazier, Chair • Mr. Craig Wimberly, Vice Chair • Mr. James Hill, Secretary/Treasurer, and Co-Founder

Members • Mr. Revin Fellows--Co-Founder • Ms. Yaa Simpson • Dr. Robert Starks • Fmr. State Sen. William “Bill” Owens--Emeritus • Mr. Olumenji

VISIT: WWW.GORMANHOUSEPUBLISHING.COM

COMMUNICATIONS SOCIAL MEDIA SOCIAL NETWORKS that uplift the community and give people “the right” news. It will provide kids with knowledge about different cultures and not throw it in their faces with constant violence.

From my perspective, Photo shown: Dr. Gale Frazier (right) we can create media outlets to spread the news The dialogue in the Black Agenda about throughout our community.

We can start how “communication media shape public by posting flyers about the place to find our opinion, and ultimately help decide what news network and encouraging everyone policy solutions are adopted.” In our world, we know to bring more people to listen where media and social networks have and see “our” news. My message to the grown substantially, we must improve Black community is to search for factual the number of communication vehicles information continually. Because of the bad controlled by Blacks. I agree with needing news, we are force-fed and tainted by nonmore media controlled by Blacks because melanin people who don’t know our culture, media nowadays are used to convey stories group, or community. like “Black people are ghetto” or “gangs killing kids.” The more Black people control Khiari Everett the media, the more we can get stories

“

Every girl aged ten and up has to take a class about what to look out for if anyone tries to harm or touch them until they are 21 yrs old. Childcare and healthcare are expensive for mothers to maintain without the necessary support.

Make birth control and feminine products accessible and free. To have housing and homeownership that are available for Black women.

Black women can have the same equal rights for job opportunities, hours, and pay. There are so many other things we can do to help the Black Agenda. Although Black women go through many challenges, they are solid and bounce back quickly no matter what. I think others want to be like us so bad and probably the reason they speak negatively about our black heritage. Black women have to show everyone that they are better than the negative narrative of them. If everyone comes together to support and help out, then things will start looking better in the long run. There is a rainbow and sunshine after the thunderstorm!!

ABJ Youth Tribe Member, Age 19 yrs. old

THE MORE BLACK PEOPLE CONTROL THE MEDIA, THE MORE WE CAN GET STORIES THAT UPLIFT THE COMMUNITY AND GIVE PEOPLE “THE RIGHT” NEWS.

“

54

Soar Couture 2022

These ladies are doing things! In designer outfits.

Stilettos. Slinky sandals. And killer boots. Feeling down?

Need a pick-me-up? Jump into these divas’ shoes - dig in your heels. And enjoy the journey to inspiration and empowerment. You’ll get where you want to go in life looking good all the way!

Shop at: www.soarcouture.shop

facebook | instagram | twitter

WHAT IS YOUR LOVE LANGUAGE?

Affirmation Physical Affection Gifts

Acts of Service Quality Time

Amen

It means “I believe it will be” That, “it is so.” It always comes at the end of God’s promises.

So, today, I believe that every promise of God, for me, shall come to pass.

So, I say “Amen” And, again I say: Amen!

That’s it. Destiny fulfilled.

- By Angela Shaw

Soar Couture 2022

57

Inspire & Motivate

By Shastina Pack-Hunt When I started my business and graduate school, I saw many people I had not seen in years. And some that do not know me but learned a brief part of how I became an entrepreneur and all that I am doing at one time said how proud they are of me and how I should be proud of myself. I have had so many people support me on this journey that I would have never guessed. I am forever grateful. When I first started this journey, I admit I was not proud. However, I felt nothing but determination. All I could think about was how I had to achieve these goals that I had set in my mind. Let me take you guys back to a couple of years ago. I have battled depression for over a decade, but I was down when I hit that 30-year mark of my life, and I felt incomplete at this point in my career. I felt like I didn't do anything that stood out, putting me in a more down place. When I was younger, I never fully knew what I wanted to be when I grew up. I just learned things I liked to do and always saw myself as a businesswoman.

Fast forward, and the only thing I felt like I accomplished in my 20s was that I had three handsome, intelligent, and happy children. All I thought I was suitable for was giving birth, which made me even more depressed. Then not to mention, all of the life lessons that I had encountered with

58

so-called friends and even family made me even more depressed.

I began to learn how to do my make-up just as a hobby. I always like to challenge myself, and I was up for this challenge. I asked people I thought were my friends who often wore make-up on tips but only got an attitude. So, I figured that I would teach myself. I started with the basics and worked my way up until I felt comfortable. I kept hearing how good I did make-up even though I didn't think so; a few people even paid me to do theirs. At that moment, I figured out why not be a make-up artist. I need a little extra cash. However, people kept asking me to do their make-up.

Someone even wanted to book me to do their make-up and bridal party make-up for their wedding, so I added make-up services to my website in 2021. My coworker always complimented me on how cute my lipstick was and asked what color I was wearing.

I used to tell her how I combined different lipsticks to get the color I liked. She begins to tell me how I should start my lipstick line.

I decided that was what I would do but had no clue what to do.

I reached out to a couple of my closest friends I knew would be interested in something like this. Yet, I was told " No," with responses that they had their own business to work on or did not want to do

business with friends. I saw that I was on my own and began researching how to get started and develop my products. Still, I quickly realized it would be too much work and money. My next option was to find a credible vendor to invest in my business.

But how when I am broke! That did not stop me. I began to research and work on my business name, etcetera. I then realized that just selling lip gloss and lipstick is not big enough, and everyone is doing that, and I want this to be a big business one day.

Instead of just selling lip products, I decided to make it a collection. The business Queen's Galore Beauty Collection was created by me. I contacted one of my husband's friends to help design my logo.

At the same time, I was doing all of this, I applied to Graduate school and was accepted. I was scheduled to start in the Fall of 2019. It was something that I kept putting off because I kept having babies and something always kept coming up.

After finally getting a vendor that I felt I could trust, was reliable, and reasonably priced, I began to order samples. I got everything in place to launch my business.

I applied for my EIN and had my products designed and ready to launch. Remind you, I was broke and could only launch a couple of products. I knew of all the products I wanted in my collection and

Soar Couture 2022

Photos shown below: Shastina Pack- Hunt

had so many ideas but could not afford them at the time. So, I did what I could.

When I finally launched, I was so happy and excited and thought that the people closest to me would be just as happy and excited as I was. Boy, was I wrong! I kept trying to get my closest friends to share my products, etcetera. I even had to beg them to purchase things. I hate that I ever had to do this as I look back. This was something that friends do. I had begun to lose the little bit of accomplishment I had gained.

I was getting so much black lash on my feelings on how I thought my friends were not supportive. I had even received a 4.0 GPA for my first semester in grad school, but I did not believe it was that big deal. I was back feeling unaccomplished and down due to the lack of support. My husband brought me back and made me understand that everything I have done so far is a huge accomplishment.

I should not worry about what others think or who's not in my corner and be very proud of myself. In the first couple of months of being in business, I made quite a few sales, reinvested in myself, and ordered different products to add to my collection.

I also created my website, registered my business, and got my LLC. I wanted to do more, so I began to look for t-shirt vendors to market my business more. I went through several vendors and eventually just gave up on selling t-shirts altogether and just focused on the ones I had already made.

Whenever I thought I found someone I could trust and who was reasonable, they screwed me over. I learned that becoming an entrepreneur is about trial and error. You will spend more than you make in profit in your first couple of years of business. You

Soar Couture 2022

are lucky if you break even. I also hired an attorney to help me with my trademarks (yes, more than one) and registered my business to charge tax on my website. Of all of these things from research, website, and LLC, I did it without much support. I reached out to a few people who already had a business to see how they went about things, and I am grateful for their help. There were a couple of others whom I reached out to, and they did not want to help me. I have only been in business for over three years and am still learning. I have many more products that I want to launch and many ideas to put into action, but I am so proud of how far I have come and all that I have endured. I started with only a few products, and now I have more, from make-up to several skincare products, candles, soaps, beard products for men, and much more.

These are all handmade by me except for the make-up products. This process was not an overnight success. In 2018, I started researching to start my business. Eventually, I graduated with a 3.9 GPA while raising three children, working full-time, being a wife, and being an entrepreneur.

Remember that things take time. Do your research. Make sure you are passionate about what you are doing, and do not let anyone discourage you. I have often heard that I was stupid or crazy for going to grad school and starting a business simultaneously, but that did not stop me. I want people to know that it is never too late to follow your dreams. Set goals and stick to them. Tomorrow is not promised, so ensure you live it like it is your last. To mothers out there, do not be discouraged and think your life is over just because you had children.

Often, we have babies and forget about ourselves and what makes us happy. Do not do that!

Set that example for your children. Do things for yourself and them. I talk to my children all the time about my business. I showed them what I was working on, and my oldest even came to me and said how cool it was for me to have my own business and that he wanted to have his own as well. So, I am slowly putting something together for him and his brothers. My husband is also working on something for himself. It is going to be a family of entrepreneurs. Remember, sometimes the people you may want to be in your corner and support might not do so, and it is okay. Do not let that stop you.

Tune them out and show them better than you can tell them. Shine and let them see how successful you are despite their lack of support. I am grateful to have my husband still support me no matter what. If you do not have anyone, that is okay because you have yourself. Please do it for yourself because you deserve it!

I do hope that i inspired and motivated someone. I hope you are encouraged to follow your dreams, inspire, motivate someone, and the cycle continues.

For all women, remember to adjust your crown & embrace your beauty constantly! You are a queen!

Follow us on social media: facebook shastina25 instagram queensgalorebeautycollection Shop or book a make-up appointment today on: www.queensgalorebeautycollection. com Contact me via email: queensgalorebeauty@gmail.com

Ph: (773)-808-0379

59

WHO IS

GOD?

Christians that seek to unravel the “mystery of God”

or the “Who is God? What is God like?” and the “How

does God relate to us?” must first seek to embrace the “scriptural witness to God’s history with the people of Israel and God’s new covenant with all humanity in Jesus Christ” that has been revealed in the Word of God (Migliore, 64).

The Bible tells us that “faith” is our supreme source of discovering the “Who? What? Where? How?” of an unfathomable God. Hebrews 11:6 says, “But without faith, it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. When we come to God, believing that "He is," the supreme reward that He promises in His Word is the revelation of who He is and, then, a revelation of who we are in Him.

62

Furthermore, I believe that although “critics of religious beliefs” have a plausible argument regarding why a Holy and merciful God allowed “events of overwhelming evil” (Migliore, 65), I do not believe this negates the goodness and grace of our loving King, Jesus Christ. Racism and the holocaust, however evil, do not nullify the gospel—yet, they enhance it. Honestly, we know that God has never promised a perfect world to us outside of two places; first, the Garden of Eden; and second, in the New Heaven and New Earth that is yet to come.

Specifically, as an African-American with ancestors that were brutalized and heinously killed— having a dad, even, that marched on Bloody Sunday in Selma, Alabama—I still believe “that all things work together for good to them that love God” (Romans 8:28).

Considering modern-day Africa, a poverty and disease-stricken nation, I infer that God, in His Omniscience and mercy, plucked us out and raised us to be a "Joseph-people" that can now usher in the providence, provision, and proclamation of the gospel

Soar Couture 2022

to a nation that is bleeding. Indeed, in my surmising, Genesis 50:20 resonates, “But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive."

Considering God's triune nature, I believe in the immanent trinity, the hypostases of God—who is the "creator and ruler of the universe" (Westminster). I see God as three persons in one that serves the different functions of God.

In essence, a man can be, amongst other things, a husband to a wife, a brother to a sibling; and an uncle to a relative— each having different names and functions in the same person. The person does not change.

He only relates differently as his functions dictate. Just the same, a woman can be a wife, mother, sister, and friend and remain the same. This is my best explanation of how I relate to the Trinity and how God operates in God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

Nevertheless, we must remain as children as we approach a God of such magnitude.

As we embark on this study of God and who He is if our focus continues on the "one called 'Father'"; who in His "sacrificial love of the one called 'Son'"; along with the “vital” presence of the “one called ‘Spirit’” (Migliore, 68) . . . we will be sure to enter His magnanimous “covenant of grace” and His sovereign “kingdom of God” (Westminster). May God's grace keep us all.

Written by Angela Shaw

Soar Couture 2022

63

THE HONORABLE MARCUS MOSIAH GARVEY

Marcus Mosiah Garvey was born in St. Ann’s Bay, Jamaica, on August 17, 1887, to Marcus Sr., a brick mason, and Sarah Garvey, an entrepreneur. He became a master printer, journalist, orator, lecturer, and organizer. By 1914, after traveling through Central America and throughout half of Europe studying the conditions of

his race, the name of an organization came to him in a vision while aboard a ship returning from Europe, ‘Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League’ (UNIA). It was a name he felt could encompass the aspiration of 400 million African people of the world. He founded it on July 20, 1914,

with its motto of “One God One Aim One Destiny.”

Garvey arrived in the US in 1916 and then traveled through 38 states studying the people and their leadership. A year later, from its Harlem, New York, headquarters, the UNIA began organizing the masses. The UNIA and ACL were two different

was the confraternity arm, and the second, the ACL, was the business arm. The UNIA’s ‘Objects and Aims’ found in its Constitution and ‘By-Laws’ were to unite the 400 million African people of the world into its confraternity; to Promote the spirit of pride and love; to reclaim the fallen, to administer to and assist the needy; to promote spiritual worship; to establish schools for the racial education of our children; to promote international trade between Africans worldwide, and to establish Commissionaires of Agencies for the protection of Africans regardless of nationality.

The second, the ACL, the business arm, had the following goals: to establish a chain of grocery stores and restaurants; to establish cleaners and laundries; the publication of books, magazines, and newspapers; to buy and sell real estate and land, and to import, export, distribute and deal. The UNIA in 1919 organized the Black Star Line Steamship Corporation. Stocks in the company were sold for $5 a share, and quickly 35,000 members of the UNIA became stockholders. Within one year, three ships were purchased, an accomplishment that increased UNIA membership.

He organized the Universal African Legions, a para-military group that trained all the men in the trades. He organized the Universal African Motor Corps, where female members were trained in auto mechanics, repair, and chauffeuring. He organized the Universal Black Cross Nurses that famine, and natural disasters.

The UNIA called an International convention in 1920 with delegates from over 40 countries assembled for the whole month of August. A ‘Declaration of Rights Of The Negro Peoples of the World’ was adopted with 12 complaints and 54 demands. Included among those demands

Administrator and Provisional President of Africa.

He edited the UNIA newspaper the ‘Negro World, with a Spanish and French section. The UNIA held weekly mass meetings, where thousands of members were attending worldwide. There were programs for the youth like scouting that included wearing uniforms.

Marcus Garvey sent teams to negotiate with the Liberian government and a team of experts such as mechanical and electrical engineers, contractors, carpenters, and surveyors, to layout a community for housing the UNIA headquarters.

Marcus Garvey’s African programs drew the combined attacks from European powers and attacks by jealous rivals, rival newspapers, and political parties. He had over 1500 divisions of the UNIA scattered throughout Africa and in North, South, and Central America. He was shot and survived an assassin’s bullets. He was second, who bore his two children. The UNIA up to frame him, try him in the unjust US courts, convict him, imprison him, and deport him to Jamaica. To his credit, Marcus Garvey laid the foundation for Jamaica’s independence and is two independent African nations on the continent of Africa when he was alive, but today there are his UNIA headquarters in London, England, the Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey died from stroke complications on June 10, 1940. His life and works will always be appreciated among his people.

----------By Shaka Barak, President of The Marcus Garvey Institute

Rhon’sWay Adds Jigsaw Puzzles and Note Cards to Adult Coloring Book Collection Relationships, Selfcare, Health and Goals. Each coloring book features dynamic, fun and engaging illustrations depicting black women in powerful scenarios.

The new jigsaw puzzle and note card collection continues the company’s mission of empowering black women through inspiring mindful and messages.

CHICAGO, IL (February 28, 2022) Transformational Health/Wellness Coach, Author Speaker and owner of RhonsWay online shop, Rhonda Thomas, has announced the addition of a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle and note card collection to her adult coloring book range.

Thomas launched an Adult Coloring Book collection in 2020, featuring seven themed coloring books on topics such as

68

The new jigsaw puzzle collection features 4 themed categories of 500-piece jigsaw puzzles on selfcare, relationship, cussing and positive affirmations.

The puzzles are beautifully designed, boasting vivid illustrations of black women in all tones and inspiring captions that promote mindfulness. The 5-3/4” x 4-3/8 note cards are blank inside but beautifully designed and available in the same themes.

But in addition to the increased demand for jigsaw puzzles, Thomas has another reason for launching this collection of jigsaw puzzles and cards. She said: “I know that different things may appeal to different people. Someone might not like coloring but they love puzzles, or someone may like sending cards with pictures that represent us. I have never seen a puzzle that shows us in all our beautiful skin tones. I was committed to represent us all (from the lightest tones #1 to a darker tone Sistar #10).”

The jigsaw puzzles and note cards are now available for purchase. For further details or to browse the collection, visit: https://rhonsway.com/shop.

Media contact: Rhonda Thomas Email: rhonda@rhonsway.com Tel: (773) 789-7366

Studies have shown that jigsaw puzzles can improve visual spatial reasoning and cognition. Research has also shown that keeping the mind active with jigsaw puzzles can increase life expectancy and reduce anxiety. At the height of the pandemic, jigsaw puzzles offered a welcomed means of escape and engagement for many individuals subjected to stay-at-home instructions. US puzzle sales soared by 370% in 2020 as people clamoured to purchase these games to engage their minds.

Soar Couture 2022

RHONDA THOMAS, M.A. Chicago-based Rhonda Thomas created her organization, Rhon’sWay, in 2002 in response to the many health challenges some of her family members and the African America Community at large were experiencing.

Rhonda began her journey as a Motivational Health Strategist. She became a Licensed Health Coach in 2012 after realizing that "Health Affects Everything, and Everything Affects Health." Rhonda holds an M.A. Degree in Inner City Studies from Northeastern Illinois University, Chicago, IL. Having served the wellness community for over a decade, Rhonda passionately brings awareness to what it takes to live healthier. She strives to connect her community to new ways of thinking and living.

She is the author of "Soul Combining for a Slimmer Healthier You." In her book, Rhonda documents her 20-year journey with weight loss until she recognized the power to overcome her struggles was within her already.

Rhonda Thomas is a Transformational Speaker, Educator, and Wellness Consultant. She dedicates her life to Enlightening and Empowering the Mature Woman to achieve a greater quality of life by getting to her Happy!

Rhonda's energetic, positive, thought-provoking, and engaging style, whether it's one-on-one coaching, small group intensives, or keynote speaking, can leave her audiences with a more balanced and improved lifestyle while wanting more.

If you want more about Rhonda Thomas, Founder/ CEO of, Rhon’sWay, contact her at: (773) 789-7366 or rhonda@rhonsway.com.

Photo shown: Rhonda Thomas

Soar Couture 2022

69

POWER OF GRATITUDE Word of Wisdom by Angela Shaw, Founder

"God has blessed me to learn valuable information for my religious pursuits through a plethora of great teachers of the Word of God. Additionally, the ability to meet, worship, share a meal, and hear the stories and beliefs of members of all ethnicities and social and religious backgrounds have been a rare treasure. I hope that God will give you the realizations and blessings of the wide implications of your magnanimous contribution. May God continue to bless you and prosper your way."

Photo shown: Jori Lacy, CEO

70

Soar Couture 2022

Wishes for

Merry Holidays!

SOAR COUTURE Magazine

SOAR

AND

2023

BEYOND Visit us www.soarcouture.shop | PO Box 192, Chicago, IL 60690 | Royal Rainn Corporation