Huami Magazine Charlotte May/June 2018

CHARLOTTE

May/June 2018

®

Volume 2 Issue 6 FREE

+ Jai’Tique Designs

Tamika Chisholm Charlotte - May/June 2018

Barrington Riddick

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Charlotte - May/June 2018

4822 ALBEMARLE ROAD STE-205 CHARLOTTE, NC 28205 980-949-8811 Charlotte - May/June 2018

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Slow Down And Allow God To Catch Up There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

A Letter From The Editor

Nowadays, everything seems to move at a faster pace when A Letter from the Editor compared to years before. We eat faster, cars are sleeker and packed with zoom; even the least expensive ones. The internet has played a significant in accelerating way we process, What if tomorrowrole didn’t arrive? All ofthe your plans, hopes share, and obtain information amongst each other.

The and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What iftime required to construct new homes reduced to weeks. everything that you decided tohas put been off until tomorrow never Students are graduating from high school, without stepping happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy foot into day, a classroom, or even attending high are truly and you could spare someone theschool. troubleWe of making livingpromises. in a microwave What ifsociety. your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What would you do?

With all the hustle and bustle, and while we attempt to do more with don’t opportunity I’ve less, beenwe told that allow I oftenourselves seem likean I do too much. to accommodate this increase.

Our hustle is inefficient Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’mina many firm believer in knowing that our Godfeet wouldn’t put anything on me ways, meaning that though is moving, we are not thatanywhere.

I couldn’t handle.

I sometimes how lifeour would getting Even more we fail towonder acknowledge be if I chose sit idle and accept what it presented me. I regressions, bothtophysically and emotionally, and don’ttobecome have found that to be very boring.

In my opinion, opportunity aware of them until our systems fail. By then, for some of us it is is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge too late. to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen?

If Imust do nothing, and if I try don’t, but instead learn We learn toI fail, make time for Ithe simple things and something new about myself.

Relinquish your pride andlife. in move our lives into the proper lane on the expressway of return acquire life. isn’t gold and what works for others may Everything that glitters not always for you. My grandmother is 96 years young and she best advice given to methat happened when didn’t The make it here byever running a race she didn’t suitsomeone up for. told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only We must learn to slow do and allow God to catch up with us. hope provided. I have also learned the difference between I believe that He wants to bless us but if we are outrunning our what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with purpose, it will impossible to answer His calling upon our lives. as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and If what we do is not done in accordance with God’s timing, it is when to be quiet, because “played out”, meaning that it’s out dated, out of order, out of someone may get it confused season.

When this happens, we with being arrogant. subject ourselves to unnecessary stress and troubles that will Make you tomorrow ultimately steer us ofbut course. happen today, most Only

by God’s grace andmake mercy will we importantly it count.

He allow us to get a realignment Life is but a whisper and and rejoin the race.

Seek Godinfirst we must put ourselves a in all that you do and position to hearremember what it is to make frequent telling us.pit stops so that you may obtain His instruction for your next journey.

Terry L. Watson Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder

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www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief Terry L Watson

Publisher Terry L. Watson Allen - Deputy Editor DawnAlana C. Thornton Writer Dr. Marrissa Dick Writer Writers Terry L. Watson

Tonya Dixon Writer Terry L. Watson Alana Allen Todd Youngblood Tamara Smith Photographer Jeuron Dove Photographer Ashleigh Crawley Toni Shaw Photographer Photographers Perfect Lenz Photography Todd Youngblood Photography

Lolitta Stanfield Editor Shaw Photography Group Still Shots Photography

Howard Gaither Photography WhoUp Shotya Keep WithPhotography Us on Facebook Huami Magazine For Charlotte Layout “A Group For Followers and Mykel Media Company Supporters Huami Magazine LindaofBennett

mykelmedia@yahoo.com huami.charlotte@gmail.com (336) 340-7844 (336)340-7844

HUAMI MAGAZINE is published bimonthly quarterly by the Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any portion of this publication is prohibited without written permission from the publisher prior to doing so. Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility for statements made by individuals featured or advertisers. Comments concerning this publication may be submitted to the editor by E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com Email or Telephone terry.editor@yahoo.com terry.editor@yahoo.com or to 336-340-7844 Mykel Media Company, LLC P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2018 All Rights Reserved 2014 All Rights Reserved

On The Cover

Photo by Shaw Photography Group Want to advertise, Call 336-340-7844

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CONTENTS

Jai’Tique Designs

Jai Duncan

On The Cover

MAY/JUNE 2018

CHARLOTTE EDITION

Natasha Erwin is connected

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Lady Boss Networking Organization

Curvaceous Closet

Tamika Chisholm

Erica Gray of Memphis Shares her story of how she built the Curvy Chic Boutique Tanya Davis of Nashville From Crack To Christ. She will not allow anything to hold her back.

Barrington Riddick of Ahoskie Off The Hook Seafood and Sweet Cold Treats is coming to Charlotte!

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A H.E.R.O.’s Ball

Joie E. Cook

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Kinsley & Kingston

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Also Featured

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Charlotte - May/June 2018

MOG The Real Learn how he made the transition from the streets to God through his music.

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Todd Youngblood

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Charlotte - May/June 2018

D.A. Academy of NC Hailing from the beautiful island of Hawaii, Ruby Jones is a young, passionate, and successful entrepreneur. She is the owner and director of D.A. Academy of North Carolina Inc., a fully licensed dental assisting proprietary school. She is also the president of NC G.E.M.S. Girls Empowerment Organization, a nonprofit organization that supports the continuous growth of young women. If that wasn’t enough to her busy, her most gratifying roles are those of being a dedicated mother to three daughters, sister, and friend.

D.A. Academy of NC offers a Dental Assistant 1 course which allows students to enter the dental field with an array of skills.

With her instruction, they are equipped to perform alongside to a dentist. She offers a fast paced, 12-week program that is full of lectures and hands on training, and with successful completion students will graduate and receive five different, yet significant certificates that qualify them to assist dentist with their important treatments. Ruby is also a certified NC Dental Radiology & NC Coronal Polishing instructor.

Dental Assisting is a very fulfilling career with room for growth as experience is gained. Many students go back to school for additional credentials such as Coronal Polishing.

“I love helping people,” Ruby says. “My current and previous students thank me all day long for being an awesome instructor.

My goal is to see other women earn a solid income and improve the overall quality of their life. You aren’t a boss if you can’t put people on. It’s bigger than me. I believe that it’s about allowing God to use me for His purpose, and that’s educating people about the importance or oral health, getting people on a career track that will help them grow and provide job placement and moral support. That qualifies me as a Boss.”

“You aren’t a Boss if you can’t put people on” Ruby is inspired mostly by her roots. “No one believes me when I said I’m from the ‘Hood of Hawaii’, or the west side where no tourist care to explore,” says Ruby. Her mother birthed six children and raised them in a two-bedroom duplex, along with her cousins, older siblings’ friends. Ruby describes her mother as a strong believer of the Lord and hard worker and wouldn’t change anything about her childhood. “I’m thankful for my upbringing and I promised myself to never go back to living in poverty,” she says.

www.DAAcademyofNC.com 704-201-9714 D.A. Academy of NC

@DA Academy of NC

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Please Believe Fitness Shannon Greene is a country girl at heart. She was born and raised in Albemarle, N.C. but her dreams of success out grew that of a small town. She tried her hand at various things and pursued a various careers before discovering her passion for health and fitness and assisting others with their health and fitness goals. Today, Shannon co-owns and manages, Please Believe Fitness.

She says that one the primary factors of success is for someone to believe in themselves and their ability to be successful. “This is the reason that my partner, JD Davis and I chose Please Believe Fitness as our name. We are asking our clients to believe, to ‘Please Believe’,” she says. Getting their clients to believe is the greatest driving factor of their program. “Success starts in the mind and then the body follows. If we can get them to truly believe in their ability to succeed, then it’s more likely that they will. One of my greatness feelings comes when someone tells me that their doctor has taken them off certain medication. That is truly an indescribable feeling. Even more, it’s confirmation that I’m making a positive impact on the lives of others.”

“Our workouts will challenge and push you to your limit, or what you thought were your limits.

Shannon has been in the fitness and wellness industry for over five years and maintains certifications as a Personal Training and Group Fitness Certified with AFAA (Aerobics and Fitness Association of America). She was the second of only two people to become Certified FitRanX Personal Trainers in the entire state of North Carolina. The only person to beat me was my business partner. She’s also a Amateur Body Builder, placing first and second in her perspective categories in the 2017 NPC Muscle Heat Open Figure Class A. She plans to achieve her pro card in the very near future.

At Please Believe Fitness, Shannon specializes in HIIT Training (High Intensity Interval Training) as well as muscle building and toning resistance training. “Our workouts will challenge and push you to your limit, or what you thought were your limits. We offer Group Fitness Classes as well as one on one personalized training. We refer to our clients as Believers,” she says. They also provide nutrition assistance and meal planning strategies to every member because according to Shannon, a proper and well-balanced diet is essential for their client’s success. “We like to think that your diet plays 80% into the results that you achieve while on our programs. No matter how hard you try, you will never be able to out train a poor diet,” she says.

Shannon is a Boss because she has an unstoppable and undeniable drive for her own success, as well as the success of those around her.

She has a “Never Lose” mentality that pushes her in every endeavor and whole heartedly believe in herself and her capabilities to achieve any and everything that she sets her mind to.

www.pleasebelievefitness.com (704) 303-4992 @Please Believe Fitness

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Radio Personality, Author Motivational Speaker Washington, D.C. native and now Charlotte, N.C. resident L. Michelle has a genuine love for people and her community. She is a Radio Personality at WBND Radio, an author and motivation speaker. She has a background in sales, marketing, television production and advertising, yet her entrepreneurial skills and love for politics and entertainment has helped L Michelle to find a home over the airwaves.

Her love for radio and broadcasting is what drives her to further explore the radio industry. She has learned from the very best during her career years and sat on various talk shows as a co-host. Being on different panels and workshops has afforded her opportunity to learn more about networking. L. Michelle brings her own unique and classy style to radio, and to WBND. As a published author, her writings have helped her share her personal stories of tragedy and triumph. Her motto is “I have a platform, you have a voice and it needs to be heard”. Her first book is of 22 women telling their story ‘From Employee to Entrepreneur The Journey to Empowerment’ is designed to help those who want to start a business, see the journey that other entrepreneurs have endured. The second book, ‘I Am A Survivor’ is of seven women telling their story from tragedy to triumph and being a survivor of abuse. This book is designed to help people to understand that they are not alone and how they can be victorious and not be ashamed or feel guilty about the situation that they are in, but instead it shows them how to live victorious. As a motivational speaker, she travels to share her books and story of being a survivor and entrepreneur.

L. Michelle believes a Boss knows their strengths and understands their power. A Boss is successful in their accomplishments and dreams while moving towards their purpose and passion. “I believe a Boss is able to be a leader and take charge when necessary. Sometimes you have to grind, and not everyone is going to like it and it’s all about your hustle. A Boss understands that it’s not about them being seen on the scene, but about making a difference to the scene. It’s not about the part about being a boss but it’s about being determined to take charge and driving to the next level to your success, she says.

“Success is in the eyes of the beholder” L. Michhelle’s motto is “You talk to none, you make none. If you talk to a little, then you make a little. If you talk to a lot, then you will make a lot”.

“The decision is up to you on where you go, how far will go, and what are you willing to do to be successful and move to the next level,” she says.

www.WBNDRadio.com 301-659-9766

@Lynnette M Jewell

@lmichelleshow @Sistar2012

@ Lmjewell68

Sister Girl Network Relationship Coach and Lady Boss, Coach E leads a variety of women’s group. Sista Girls Network, Real Wives of Charlotte, and Lil Sista was created to give like-minded women a forum and opportunity to discuss topics such as relationships, self-building, romance, careers, and hot topics. Sista Girls Network is for single and married ladies, and Real Wives of Charlotte is for married ladies in Charlotte. “Where the focus first is self-love, once you have conquered yourself, everything else will fall into place,” she says. The groups are ideal for women who aren’t married but still would like to share information with those who are. There is one prerequisite for anyone interesting in participating in any of the groups discussions; you can’t be judgmental.

Coach E, aka Erica Strong-Schofield has over 10 years of experience as a relationship coach. She is a loving wife, mother of four, sister, daughter, and friend. What makes her soul light up are the moments when she’s able to help others in their time of need, both mentally and spiritually.

Erica caters to women from ages 19-59, who speak without being judged on the challenges that come their way in relationships with themselves and their love lives. Everyone is able to speak on what they have been through or going through in an open space. A setting such as this allows participants an opportunity to vent and obtain solutions. Erica states there is no male bashing allowed also. “I created the women’s group because I had a need. I didn’t have a sister to call my own, but I treated other women like my sisters. I was newly married and needed a support group and instead of joining another group, I created one for myself,” she says.

I created the womens group because I had a need Erica was concerned with how “side chicks” we so easily accepted within Charlotte after being portrayed on a popular television show. “I wanted it to be known there are a whole lot of married ladies in Charlotte that are in love with their husband’s, and are willing and able to do whatever is needed to maintain a healthy and loving marriage,” she says. “A married couple should have the last word in their marriage, and it is good be able to speak to a circle of friends and wives who will listen to your situation whole heartedly and be able to give advice that will be able to make you think. A group that has your best interest in making sure your marriage survives. That’s what this group is for.”

Lil Sista is a mentoring group for preteens and teens that developed into a nonprofit agency, National Youth Development Academy. The goal is to help youth who may be suffering from mental health issues, abandonment, physical and sexual abuse, or other ailments that keep them from being able to be the best person they can be.

Erica is Boss because you simply can’t contain her in a box. She gained her experience from the ground level and made her way to the top in corporate America. She has higher standards and expects more from everyone around her. She loves having her own and helping others live to their fullest potential. She has always been a leader and not a follower.

All things work together for the greater. Erica is Boss because she allows others hear her story with hopes they will be inspired and encouraged to press through to overcome.

www.sistagirlnetwork.com @Sista Girl Network 10

LADY BOSS CEO I Set The Standards

Mother, CEO, Emcee; those are just a few titles that Natasha Erwin wears. Yet she is quick to share that a title is just that, a title. One would have pierce a little deeper into her outer core to experience the real awesomeness. While some only talk about it, Natasha has built her reputation on applying action and in doing so is becoming one of Charlotte’s most prized entrepreneurs with her company, I Set The Standards..

Originally from Harlem, NY, The Lady Boss CEO was raised in the Charlotte, N.C. area. Due to some trials and challenges she faced as a child, Natasha grew up feeling unaccepted and out of place. As life happened, she adjusted and allowed her struggles to serve as source for strength and a reminder of how far she has come. Today, she is the face and voice of I Set the Standards, a business she conceived that provides motivational speaking and a clothing line.

I Set The Standards is also the platform that birthed the Lady Boss Networking Organization.

“I Set The Standards was conceived in the midst of a change for me. God gave me those four words to put on a shirt. Little did I know that it would alter my way of thinking and others as well. I no longer needed to belong or fit in and loving myself became my focal point and the only thing that mattered,” she says. Lady Boss was a networking group that Natasha initially organized on Facebook.

She wanted to start a business but had no idea where to begin. The networking group of women helped Natasha with her business, and she in return helped others and members. As a result, both personal and business have developed and is backed by unbelievable support systems.

The “I Set the Standards” movement has gone beyond a t-shirt line and motivational speaking platform. It now hosts events including Karaoke at a few local venues. Natasha also speaks at various church events, youth and business conferences, private events, and more. She hosts empowerment and networking events under the Lady Boss and I Set the Standards umbrellas and has partnered with other nonprofit organizations in the Charlotte community to give back to its citizens. “Lady Boss’s main objective is to build a network of support for women business owners and prospective business owners. We have worked together, prayed together, cried together and most of all built together,” says Natasha.

Join The Lady Boss Network Organization on Facebook . Copy and paste this link: www.facebook.com/groups/1637694879815676/

God has used me as a vessel to be a blessing to others despite my brokenness Natasha knows being a Boss is about more than owning a business. As bosses we should use our platforms to create and inspire change within our communities, in our families and in ourselves. This is something that we must strive to accomplish, on a daily basis.

Lady Boss Networking Organization is open to all Women Business owners and prospective busienss owners. Contact Natasha Erwin for more informatoin.

www.isetthestandards.com (704) 885-5753 @isetthestandards 11

BS,MSA, CSM

Author aka The Youth Exceptionalizer Keeya McSwain, aka The Youth Exceptionalizer, is a mother of three sons. She is originally from Detroit, MI and now lives in Charlotte, N.C. She is a published author and public speaker, and CEO & Founder of Beyond Ingenuity, LLC. Even more, Keeya has found time to serve as an Event Planner and work as a Project Manager in corporate America.

Her book “From Fatherless To Famous” is a motivational book geared to the youth. She wrote the book with the intentions of inspiring them with the words and examples of others. “Most of our youth gain their perspectives on life from tv, music, what they read and who they relate to. “From Fatherless To Famous” is a motivating and inspiring collection of short biographies and profiles of celebrities who grew up without their dads for various reasons. But, they were able to overcome their adversities and still reached their goals. My goal is to give hope to our youth and help boost their self esteem,” she says.

Beyond Ingenuity, LLC T-Shirts brings positive awareness while representing some of the United State’s greatest known landmarks, locations and cities.

Called “Mind Gear” it’s goal is to open up the mind of others and make them think. Keeya hopes BI’s efforts will lead others to research and read more. “BI is not just about printing endless lines on T-shirts. It is about inspiring people through unique messages. Our T-shirts and designs are about quality, motivation, zeal, and ambition. When someone wears a T-shirt’s with a message printed on it, that should mean they have owned up to the message. It emphasizes that we are not just selling the idea to others, but the wearer also accepts it.

As a co-owner of Events By 4k, Keeya is capable of providing the decorations to the performers, and help her clients build their event from the ground up, including weddings, birthday’s, graduations, anniversaries, retirements, baby showers, and corporate events

She doesn’t make excuses and is naturally driven, goal oriented and always focused.

Keeya is a Boss because she is able to run successful businesses and keep her sons active in their personal hobbies and activities. She doesn’t make excuses and is naturally driven, goal oriented and always focused. She is a servant leader and a lifetime learner.

“I am inspired mostly be my grandmother, Myrtle Robertson-Wright, who is 97 years old. She instilled in me at a young age to set goals and to never give up.

She instructed on the importance of to always think positive, and reminded me that there will always be nay-sayers. Her positive words is what keep me going each year. She is the reason why I was able to complete my first bucket list by the age of 30.

www.BeyondIngenuity.biz www.FromFatherlessToFamous.com www.

(313)739-5134

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Joie Cook A Hero’s B.A.L.L.

By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by Todd Youngblood On February 20, 2008, Joie Cook intently watched the rise and fall of her father’s chest as he lay in a hospital bed. Initially she didn’t notice the change in his breathing but her significant other, who was also present, brought it to her attention. It was no less than heart-wrenching seeing her hero, the dedicated Marine, battling for his life. At 2:20 p.m., her world was almost destroyed. The love of her life took his last breath and lost his battle with lung cancer. I say ‘almost’ destroyed, because there is light at the end of this tunnel.

child dependent, and the spouse, are all different and are serviced differently.

Her organization assists everyone needing to overcome an obstacle, no matter how they are connected. They’ve paid household bills, for funerals, and even assisted with job searches. They also partner with other non-profits like Goodwill (Operation Good Jobs 3.0) if they can’t help.

This year the expo will be June 23 – June 24 at Johnson C. Smith University and will feature Branches of Success, a panel made up of veterans. They will be discussing the effects of the military both personally and professionally, and “When The Military Hit Me”, a panel discussion that will educate and compare domestic violence between the military and the civilian worlds. On the last day of the celebration, there will be The Salute to Soldiers Jazz and Inspirational Benefit Concert featuring Dante Lewis and Stellar Award Winning Gospel Artist

“It just didn’t make sense because he didn’t even smoke. He was healthy, he juiced, and he ran marathons,” Joie still struggles with the loss.

Prior to the cancer diagnosis, the doctors mentioned that the patriarch of the Cook family simply had pneumonia. When the cancer was finally found, it took less than six months to metastasize and take over his body.

Joie prayed, she bargained with God, and listened to others who told her he would get better. But he didn’t. “It hasn’t been the same since,” Joie confesses through a trembling voice.

The only girl of three children shares fond memories of the life she led as a military kid, moving from state to state, with time in Hawaii and Savannah, Georgia, where she was born and is currently assigned. Joie has spent, collectively, over a decade serving her country in the Army, the Air Force Reserves, and now the Air Guard. Emerging from a family full of soldiers, her father was her biggest influence. She later learned that he too, served in the Army first, then the Air Force. She feels even more connected to him because of this path.

The first year after her father’s passing, Joie and her family decided to get together for dinner in her father’s honor. Every February for the next five years, they broke bread together, until a close family friend, Nadine Henry, and Sandra Cook, suggested that she explore other ideas. Since her dad was a veteran and she currently serves, they decided to pay tribute to him and others in the armed forces by hosting a dinner along with vendors from various aspects of the community. In May 2013, A Hero’s B.A.L.L. (Building Around Life’s Lessons) was born and held at the University Hilton Hotel, in Charlotte. “The first ball hosted approximately 80 people and six vendors, which was great,” Joie says. She credits Los Bravos, Inc. with much of the inaugural balls success. They allowed her to shadow them and learn how to foster a non-profit organization, which helped her tremendously.

By the third year, the event had grown so much, they were forced to create two separate events to properly connect with those in attendance.

That’s how the vendor expo was formed. Now the expo attracts more than 50 vendors offering valuable information in education, employment, serving in the military, health and welfare, housing, products and services, and veteran services such as NABVETS (National Association of Black Veterans) headed up by Commander David L. Graves, Jr. The charity organization targets anyone who can benefit from their services, but especially focuses on women veterans and their families.

Joie feels like women veterans are typically underserved because they’re the minority within all four branches. When they’re in need of diapers, feminine products, and other items most take for granted, her organization can help. “One time a female client came in and needed a bra. That’s simple but she didn’t have one,” she explains.

This year the expo will offer workshops on VA claims, business financial literacy, financial literacy for kids and teens, home ownership, and the importance of sisterhood. A big supporter of the charity is the Charlotte Chapter of Woven, a curriculum-based support group made up of all women veterans. The organization is run by Tina Bryce and Cat Corchado and aids women in coping with everyday issues, such as how to manage stress, transition, job loss, suicide, divorce, and a host of other set-backs.

“There is a misconception that the VA blankets everyone with help, and that isn’t the case,” says Joie. She explains that the actual veteran, the

Isabel Davis. The concert is a ticketed event($10 donation for the general public, vets w/ID and kids are free). The event is open to the public. Sunday June 24 at 3:00 pm in Biddie Hall Auditorium. Exhibitors that will be present include T-Mobile, Zurvita (Zeal For Life), NC A&T State University, Charlotte Area Fund, AARP, Authors, and Paparazzi.

The Cook Family has poured their energy into keeping their father’s legacy alive by working tirelessly to serve the community that gives so much, veterans. I’m sure they believe that their fallen one is proudly looking down, marveling at their dedication and strength, possibly saying “This, is the light.”

The events of AHB are held in memory of Nathaniel S. Cook-USMC (May 4, 1955 - February 20, 2018).

Upcoming events include the Annual Black Tie Fundraising Gala on July 21 at the Crown Plaza, featuring guest speakers Army Captain Ty Young, Author Lila Holley, and Boot and Color, and educational guide for women of color in the military. h

5th Annual Carolina Veterans Appreciation Expo June 23-24th, 2018

Grimes Hall Charlotte, North Carolina www.ahb220.org Register Today www.2018ahnexpojcsu.eventbrite.com Vets w/ID and Kids, General Public $5 704-380-7686

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Curvaceous Closet

Tamika Chisholm 16

HuamiMagazine.com

Charlotte - May/June 2018

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By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by Todd Youngblood he was a mother at 14 years old, a runaway, a group home alumni, and the target of a scam artist. But failing doesn’t become her. Tamika Chisholm has been challenged all her life, and she always finds a way to win. She had a less than loving upbringing.

She’s always been a fan of fashion, styling her dolls as a child, so it was only fitting that Tamika invest her money in something she was passionate about. She initially planned to open a small clothing boutique and had hired a contractor (recommended by a friend) to help redesign and build out the space. After handing over thousands of dollars to pay for what she thought was building materials, permits, and other necessary costs, the contractor ultimately took off, and left her with no business, no money, and a broken spirit. “I was depressed. I was going to give all my stuff away, but I just didn’t do it. I just couldn’t let go of it,” says Tamika. When she realized the boutique that she hoped for wouldn’t be, she placed her merchandise in a storage unit until she figured out another plan. This set-back almost ruined her completely. She gained more than 50 pounds as a result.

One day, she stumbled upon an article online about someone who owned a fashion truck and a lightbulb went off in her head. Initially she could only find trucks for sale several states away, potentially forcing her to travel to purchase one.

‘Something told me to look for a truck here in Charlotte. I found a truck and I initially was going to rebrand it to the name of my boutique, but after doing research, I realized the one I found already had a following and was well-known. So, I wanted all of it. The trademark, the name, everything.

It was God’s plan.” It took her a mere week to actually find the truck and when she saw it and met the owner, she purchased it on the spot.

Tamika has only owned her new wheels for three months, but she’s steadily picking up speed with customers and sales. The most recent event she participated in was in Spartanburg, SC and it attracted almost 75,000 people. Instead of attending the fling for two days, she was motivated to stay for three. By the time she returned home to Charlotte, she was completely burned out. But that’s normal when you have a dream and are working to fulfill it. On the days she’s not driving and promoting her new brand, she’s buying inventory, tagging and stocking merchandise, and reviewing her books to make sure her dollars make sense.

“I was depressed. I was going to give all of my stuff away, but I just didn’t do it. I just couldn’t let go of it”

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Curvaceous Closet doesn’t just cater to plus size women like the name suggests. But when a plus size woman steps on the truck, she will be able to find the right fit, up to size 24. Tamika enjoys showing women with any number of curves how beautiful and appealing they are. “Low self-esteem comes in all sizes. I like motivating a woman and letting her know to love herself, period,” Tamika explains.

If it sounds like she is handling this busy life like a pro, you should know that she also has a home healthcare business that she has run for eight years, along with being a mom to two adult daughters, ages 29 and 24, and grandmother to two grandsons. She hesitates for a brief moment when I ask her age. She has a youthful voice. Then she laughs, “I’m 45. I don’t really care!” It doesn’t take long for her to own it.

Pictured with Tamika is her friend Vanessa

During her 45 years, she’s experienced more than some have. She freely admits to having a troublesome few years as a teenager. She attended three different high schools as she moved from her mom’s home, to her aunt’s house, to a group home, and back with her mother. She ran away at age 17. She eventually obtained a GED at the age of 19. She decided to change her habits when her immediate family was involved in a horrific car accident and needed her to care for them. Her 13-year-old daughter sustained a brain injury during the accident.

Considering all the dangerous decisions she made growing up, Tamika knew she wanted to succeed. She was confident, that she would fail, but she simply had to restructure her path.

Now her paths lead to anywhere her mobile boutique will allow her to go. She loves being on the road in her fashion truck. She still has her sights set on having her salon studios one day, but she hopes her daughters will take over Curvaceous Closet and make it their own.

It’s clear Tamika had a delayed start and countless bumps along the way. But it’s evident that she didn’t let any of these circumstances dictate her direction. We all get lost and stray at times. But it’s the strong ones that forge ahead, marching onward and upward. h

Tamika Chisholm Curvaceous Closet 704-802-2082 www.curvaceouscloset.com 18

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Charlotte - May/June 2018

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Huami Magazine For Charlotte Representative

Safiya Nelson

Though Safiya Nelson needs no introduction, Huami Magazine is very fortunate to have her join our team as a Representative for Charlotte. In her role, Safiya is ready available to answer any questions in regards, to what Huami Magazine is and what we offer. She has a knack for marketing and for being a connector. Her network is quite extensive, and she has an amazing ability to attract people.

Safiya is a woman of faith and gives Jesus, her Lord and savior all the glory for every one of her accomplishments and achievements. She is a mother of two beautiful and brilliant teenage young ladies who are an exact reflection of her.

Safiya’s educational background is rooted in Industrial and Systems Engineering and she has a Masters Degree in Business Administration. She’s an alumni of North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University. She is a banking professional with well over a decade of experience in Project and Program Management. She currently serves on the board for Team Richardson Foundation, a mentoring program for High School students that was founded by Asia Richardson. This summer they will partner with Samaritan’s Feet International, to take a dozen high school students on a mission trips to the Dominican Republic. She also serves on the Board for “Engage ME!”, a program for minorities in engineering at UNC-Charlotte.

As a means to feed her creative craving, she began producing the podcast series “Essential Soul with Safiya” on iTunes.

Each episode highlights someone with an inspiring story and/ or gives them a platform to promote their gifts and talents.

“When I think about all the wonderful people I have been blessed to meet in Charlotte, I’m in awe. It is very important for me to see others succeed because inspiration fuels faith,” she says.

As an entrepreneur, she co-owner at Applause! HD Health and Beauty salon in Huntersville, N.C. There she practices “AromaTouch”, a technique that allows clients to experience Doterra essential oils infused along their spine and aids in relaxation. The technique uses seven oils applied along the back of her clients in a systematic way. Applause HD is currently hiring stylists and are in search of a female barber. They offer booth rent or a commissioned based relationship. “We stand on unity, community, and excellence,” she says.

As if she hadn’t already had a full plate, she has found time to author a book entitled “It’s Time To Heal.” “This book will touch the lives of many and help them focus on what they need to heal. So many people are walking around wounded and highly functioning trauma victims whose brains and bodies are in crisis mode and they don’t even realize it,” she says.

“In the next five years I hope to see the Black Charlotte Business community continue to collaborate on a higher level and build on synergies and leverage one another. I would also like to see other cultures embracing and supporting Black businesses and the black dollar circulating more frequently in the black community before exiting. It’s possible. We have to make it happen,” she says. h

704-960-7655

I’m here to answer any questions you may have about Huami Magazine For Charlotte Keep Up With Us on Facebook (in the search box type) Huami Magazine For Charlotte 21

MOG The Real

By Dr. Marrissa Dick Photos by Shaw Photography Group

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ransplanted from Dayton, Ohio and rooted in Saint James Hampton Homes in Greensboro, NC rapper, singer, and song writer Kyle Carver, The Real M. O. G., is creating some serious buzz in the Christian music industry.

With his newest release, “G Praise” having well over 349 thousand views and comments and over 2,900 shares on Face Book, Kyle is certainly turning the heads of Christian and secular music listeners alike. With his closed posture, submitted demeanor, and humble smile one would find it difficult to believe that he bellows out inspirational and rhythmical raps to what sounds like hard core gangsta beats; but this is exactly what he does. According to Kyle, “G Praise is a street praise. It’s a crazy praise like David when he got the ark of the covenant back. It’s that shower praise when you don’t care about what notes you’ve missed or what tune you’re singing in or even if you got all the words right. It just feels good to praise GOD regardless of what other people think.”

Kyle hasn’t always lived this life of praise and worship, so he doesn’t down play his past. Instead he uses his testimony by being the bridge that links the streets to the church. He shares, “My language is versatile, you know, I can talk street and I can talk Bible.” When speaking about recidivism he acknowledges that he repeated the same cycle his father did, but he vowed it was going to stop with him. He knew he had to focus his time on something different - -something positive. He says,

“You know you have to seek God and ask Him what your gift is, so you can get focused on something positive. I knew mine was music because I enjoy it and it comes effortlessly for me. It’s crazy because I almost let it all go because I despised my father. He was locked up for most of my life. He wasn’t here to teach me how to navigate life as a man, but the one thing I always heard people say about him was that he loved to sing. So, since that’s what he loved that’s what I hated.” Nonetheless, the passing of his father touched his heart and made him realize that he had a choice. He could either chose to harden his heart toward his father and his music or he could embrace it.

Kyle shares, “You know death has a way of turning your heart. So instead of being hardcore and choosing to hate I chose to embrace him and his music. I give all the glory to God for that because if I hadn’t forgiven him I would have blocked my own blessing and I wouldn’t have been able to use the gift that God gave me to bring the people from the streets to Him.” From his realistic lyrics to the tranquil musical bass, he plans to inspire this millennial generation to seek after God. Being consistent with his music, Kyle’s perspective on praise is also unique. He says, “All praise is acceptable. If I was an organ player and I am playing for the Lord, then that’s my acceptable praise. If I were a tap dancer I would praise God through my ability to tap dance. If I was a freestyle dancer and the Spirit of God moved me then my free style would be my authentic praise.” Kyle considers his musical praise as a sacrificial offering; however, he explains it like this, “My music is my sacrifice unto God. I look at praise like Cain and Able. To me, Cain presented his offering unto God with a bad attitude. Like he didn’t really want to do it but then you have Able who reflected on the best thing he could give to God and presented it to Him with a good attitude and a clean heart. That’s how I see my music. It’s an offering to God. I mean that’s pure and real and that’s all I have to give Him where it’s just all about Him. It’s void of me; but it’s everything about Him. I give God my Able sacrifice and praise.”

Kyle will be the first to admit that transitioning from street life to the church is not such an easy thing to do. He shares, “You know most people don’t know that there’s a difference when you’re locked up for a couple of years verses those in there for life. The life timers are very serious about God and they minister to the younger ones. So, if you can feel the presence of God in a place like that then I know you can experience Him anywhere. That’s why I titled my album, G Praise which stands for Gangsta Praise. I wanted to show the different aspects of praise. God is different for everybody and there’s not just one way you can praise God. Some people clap their hands while some stomp their feet while some people run. I can use myself as an example. My wife, Kimberly, introduced me to church. When I first started going to church with her I sat there for maybe two or three years feeling the Holy Spirit, but I didn’t want to jump up and praise Him because I didn’t want everybody to think I was this crazy dude who just did a back flip down the aisle. I know there are people out there that think like that. They want to give God praise but they don’t know how. They want to let go but they’re afraid of being judged.

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When they feel the Holy Spirit, I want them to know that they can do what they feel as long as it’s an Able praise offering and not a Cain offering. True praise is always pleasing and acceptable unto the Lord.

Through my music I want to let the street person know that they’re welcomed in the house of God, too.

That’s basically what G Praise is all about; it’s all about hearing the Word of God through the music.”

John 12:32 clearly says, “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.” This Biblical verse is one of the corner stones of his music.

Kyles’ main passion is to turn the tides of the dark streets by sharing the Light of the World with those who reside there. His inspirational music has been supported by the Ali and Tyson of Christian hip hop pioneering artists, Canton Jones and Da’ T. R. U. T. H. who are both rapping on his new cd.

Notwithstanding, Petey Pablo is also featured.

According to Kyle, “A lot of people don’t know that Petey was raised in church.” Canton, Da’ T. R. U. T. H. and Petey sing and rap about street life with hip hop flavor and fashionable appeal. Kyle has tapped into this genera of music because the millennials who follow him and others like him adamantly confess Jesus Christ as their Personal Lord and Savior. They just so happen to confess it with a hip hop feel.

According to Kyle, The Real M.O.G., “I have a strong passion for people who find it difficult to change their mindset of doing certain things that will put them back in prison. I just feel like it’s my duty to help them change. I want to spark the minds of this generation and challenge them to be positive; instead of being who the world has told them they had to be. They need to know that God is the beginning of it all and without Him nothing is possible. I know it can be done because I’m an example of being changed by listening to the Word of God. If God can change me He can change anybody.”

Quite often when people utilize the acronym MOG most Christians equate it to a pastor; however, that is not what Kyle is referring to. Instead, he has taken a more simplistic approach. He says, “I’ve always believed that when you’re dealing with God you want to be title-less. A lot of people want a title, but I don’t need a title to praise God. I had a title for years in the street and I found it to be a burden. When I decided that I wanted to get married and have children I knew I had to shed that title because it was related to my past. The Real M.O.G. simply means I’m just a man who loves God. I’m really nobody. I was made from dirt and I’m just trying to walk this truth and bring as many people with me as I can through the gift that God gave me and that’s my music.”

Check out Kyle Carvers new album which will officially be released on Sunday, May 20, 2018. He also encourages others to listen to his singles on Facebook. He can also be followed on Instagram at mogthereal and thereal_m.o.g. His music is also available for purchase on iTunes, Tidal and all major digital streaming services. h

From his realistic lyrics to the tranquil musical bass, he plans to inspire this millennial generation to seek after God.

To listen to “I Give It All To You God” and “G Praise” or to contact Kyle Carver for booking engagements, go to The Real M.O.G. on FaceBook. To purchase and follow his release dates, please visit www.mogthereal.com

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Jai Duncan Jai’tique Designs

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By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by Todd Youngblood

reativity runs through Jai (pronounced Jay) Duncan’s veins. Her mom is a furniture maker and her uncle crafts jewelry out of precious stones. The talent apparently settled on her too. She’s tried her hand at several different art forms, paring different materials, colors, and her own special techniques.

Jai started designing jewelry a decade ago until she hit a rough patch in her life and took a break. When she was ready to crank it up again, she had an idea to buy pieces in bulk and sell them. After a few months, she realized she wasn’t dedicated to it and stopped. Another idea was to take pictures of her uncles’ jewelry and put the images on drinking mugs. “That didn’t work too well because you couldn’t really see some of the pictures very good,” she explains. The self-taught artist went back to the drawing board to figure out exactly what her niche would be. She discovered a site that allowed its customers to purchase images without being subject to copyright infringement as well as a program that would allow her to create her own abstract designs, allowing her to reinvent her mugs. Her love for wood sparked an idea to put ethnic images on different pieces too.

Although she has been creative all her life, Jai was inspired to pursue her art when she noticed a coworker selling her handmade jewelry at work. The wheels in her brain started flowing and she began crafting afro-centric medallion necklaces, rings, and other pieces. She has most recently added sculptures constructed from rocks, glass, and beads to her list of items she offers. Jai credits ‘You Tube’ for helping teach her how to create many of her pieces.

“Last year was a really good year for me.

I met so many people and attended lots of street fairs and it’s helping me build my brand,” says Jai. She recently particpated in an art show in April and shared her artwork with the community.

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When Jai is not gluing, printing, or crafting, she works as a Billing Supervisor at a publishing company. Her team makes sure all magazine advertisements are correct, including coloration, price, and size of ads, prior to the issue being printed. “I started out as an Administrative Assistant at this company in New York and have been at the Charlotte location for 11 years now.”

Considering her day job, there are times when Jai has to pace herself and step away from her art. She suffers from Fibromyalgia, a disorder characterized by chronic muscle pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues, according to mayoclinic.org.

“Although it is somewhat managed, it’s still a struggle at times. Sometimes, I’m in so much pain, I’m unable to create things I want to,” says Jai. At one point, she also suffered from Carpel Tunnel and had to resort to painting t-shirts with one hand.

Growing up in her hometown of Harlem, the mother of two reminisces on her teenage years, being a free spirit, dancing at different parties around the city to house music, and even appearing in a rock video. Her formative years are long gone, but the results of those times have had a great impact on her current lifestyle. Raising two sons who may ultimately follow in her footsteps has been personally rewarding. Her oldest son lives in New York and is forging a career in music while also designing a clothing line. Her youngest, a high school senior graduating in June, also dabbles with t-shirt designs.

When asked about the investment needed to begin, she quickly laughs, “Blood, sweat, and tears! But it’s all been worth it.” It goes without saying that oftentimes art is a labor of love, because the items you’ve spent time pouring into won’t appeal to everyone. The sculptures she creates are her pride and joy. “I’m literally creating something from scratch so there’s no telling what direction it could go in. No two pieces are the same,” says Jai.

(704) 659-5254 www.jaitiquedesigns.wixsite.com/jaitiquedesigns

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Within the next five years, Jai has plans to greatly expand her business. Traveling to art shows are high up on her list, as is possibly opening a brick-and-mortar store. “I’m a firm believer that you have to put out in order to get back. I’ve done a lot of putting out and the journey has been wonderful.” h

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Huami Magazine For Charlotte Representative

Natasha Erwin I Set The Standards

Huami Magazine is happy to introduce Natasha Erwin as a Representative for Charlotte. She brings energy and ambition to the table and is eager to help individuals within the Charlotte and surrounding areas get more involved with our publication.

When Natasha is not tending to her duties as a mother, she spends any free time that comes available fulfilling various passions she has. These include motivational speaker and host (or what some would call an Emcee). She has spoken at events, large business expos, and youth conferences. “As a host, I do anything from private parties to church events. Another passion for me is Karaoke. As a singer, I am offered to host Karaoke almost every week,” she says.

In addition to my bi-weekly Karaoke show at 360 Lounge in Charlotte, Natasha creates opportunities for businesses to connect and build through networking and events with “I Set The Standards Motivational Speaking” and clothing line. Her newest interest in the Lady Boss Networking Organization, which was formed to give business women a platform to connect.

She has co-authored a book and is currently working on a solo project that is soon to be published.

She also has a passion she has for helping others and has been instrumental in establishing business relationships in Charlotte.

She currently mentors two prospective business owners and will be offering a mentorship program for teen girls this summer. This program will give young ladies insight on continuing education and/or becoming entrepreneurs after graduating high school.

“My prayer is that in five years black business will come together and begin circulating our dollars to make our community richer and stronger,” she says. h

I’m here to answer any questions you may have about Huami Magazine For Charlotte

704-885-5753 natasha@isetthestandards.com Keep Up With Us on Facebook (in the search box type) Huami Magazine For Charlotte Charlotte - May/June 2018

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Barrington Riddick Off The Hook Seafood & Chicken Sweet Cold Treats

By Dr. Marrissa Dick Photos by Shaw Photography Group

It’s officially spring and summer will soon be around the corner. With both comes weather just perfect for a cup of delicious Philadelphia Water Ice and a fresh “straight out the hot grease” “Around The World” fried fish plate accompanied with an addictive cup of strawberry lemonade. Meet Barrington Riddick, owner and operator of Sweet Cold Treats and Off the Hook Seafood and Chicken.

Home grown in Bertie County, North Carolina, Barrington’s entrepreneurial spirit was put to task by his mother at an early age. He says, “My mother was the reason I started my first business. I asked her for some money one day and instead of her giving it to me, she gave me the best piece of advice of my life. What she told me to do was - save up my allowance, go buy some candy and sell it instead of coming and asking her for money every day. So that’s what I did. I would go to the store and buy some lollipops and Jolly Ranchers and sell them at school and around the neighborhood. I came from an entrepreneur family, so they taught me how to reinvest the money back into my business and I saved the profit. That’s how all of this got started because my mama wouldn’t give me any more money,” he laughs. It suffices that Barrington was reared by Proverbs 22:6 which states, “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Barrington is so grateful his parents set his mind and his feet on a positive path.

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Another lesson he gleaned from his father and mother, who is a math teacher, was to complete his education. After graduating high school Barrington moved to Greensboro and attended Guilford Technical Community College and majored in Auto Body Repair. After graduation he worked at Crown Paint and Body for a while, but realized that he really enjoyed working for himself. With some patience and dedication, he found himself selling Italian ice from the Philadelphia Water Ice Franchise. This business picked up relatively quickly and Barrington saw he was earning more money selling the ice part-time than working a full-time job. The math didn’t add up for him, so he developed a plan to branch out on his own. He shares, “I worked at Crown Paint and Body for years and I really loved my job, but my side business started growing. I knew I was going to have to let Crown go because I had three ice carts going at the same time that needed my attention. So, in 2006 I finally saved up enough money to get my license and began my own business debt free,” he said with a smile. “I remember the days when I had to drive to Philadelphia, pick up the ice, then turn around and drive back to Greensboro, and still be on time for work. This wasn’t easy. A lot of hard work went into the birth of Sweet Cold Treats.”

Though some say Sweet Cold Treats’ water ice taste better than ice cream, Barrington realized that his sales reduced significantly during the colder months. Being the entrepreneur, Barrington knew that he needed his carts and truck to work for him regardless of the weather. He shares, “I branched out into selling hot food because of the cold weather, it’s harder to sell Italian ice in the winter, so I had to figure out a way to still make my truck work for me. Well, I started going to a lot of beauty shops and barber shops where people congregated during the winter time, you know. The women would be under the hair dryer and you know it’s hot under there and so they would buy a cup of Italian ice to keep their minds cool,” he laughs jovially. “So, they started calling me the Icey Man. I knew that wasn’t going to work for long because they have to come out from under that dryer at some point!

So that’s when I started to think about selling hot food. As a result, I rented my uncle’s food trunk during the weekdays when he wasn’t using it for his own catering business. Over time using the same model, I saved up enough money to purchase my own food truck, and Off The Hook was born.”

Barrington advises anyone wanting to begin a business to do their research, first. He admits that he started his business completely backwards.

He shares, “I kind of started my business backwards, but I knew enough that I had to make my business pay for itself. I had a full-time job and when I got paid I would use my entire check to buy my products, make my money, and then pay my bills. That’s how I operated. I mean looking back on it now that’s not what I should’ve done, but it actually worked for me. I wouldn’t tell anybody to do that though because it’s backwards, but I’ve also learned that you have to do what’s right for you. At the time my responsibility level was different. I’m disciplined and I’m a hardworking man. I’m always trying to be innovative and find ways that work better.” And yes, he certainly found a way to make his mobile truck work for him when he created Off the Hook Seafood and Chicken. This mouthwatering southern fried menu is best known for its delectable signature “Around the World” plate that consists of market fresh fish, shrimp, scallops, and oysters. He also caters to the person who enjoys fried chicken with all the extra trimmings.

Barrington knows that he’s fortunate to have two thriving businesses.

When asked if there were plans to establish a brick and mortar location Barrington said, “Well it’s not really in my plans, but whatever God has for me is what I want. I don’t want to say no because I really enjoy going to the different events and meeting different people, but at the same time I don’t want to block my blessings. I just want what God has for me, so I guess the answer to that question remains open. What I do know for certain is that I want to do the right thing with what God has given me now. Everything else will come in due time.” Whether Barrington is catering a special event at church or a family reunion, he is genuine in his belief that these are opportunities to foster relationships and build bridges. He also enjoys being mobile because he can participate with community activities, such as festivals in the park, NC A&T State University Homecoming, Aggie Fest, and their Health Fair, the fundraiser for “Kids on Wheels Foundation”, National Night Out in the Community, the Annual Run for the Red (American Red Cross), The Community Theatre of Greensboro, and the Lexington Barbeque Festival, just to name a few. He also enjoys servicing the different area colleges and high schools when they have their annual carnivals.

Just look for the longest lines. Anyone who has indulged in his delectable delights will volunteer that “It’s worth the wait!”

Barrington believes people wait in line because his water ice and food are not only ‘Off the Hook,’ but the customer service is second to none. He is firm in his belief that people don’t have to patronize you no matter how good your food might be. According to Barrington, “People spend their money where they feel appreciated. I’m grateful for my clientele because a lot of them have been faithful and loyal.

When I’m at a festival, they come looking for my truck and it’s like seeing old friends. They do that because the food is good, hot, and seasoned with love, and they also know they’re going to be treated right. That’s how I was raised.”

Barrington is grateful for the support of his family because they have taught him a lot about preparing food; they have also been some of his biggest supporters; and they show their support by working right by his side as his establishments continue to grow. He says, “I’m thankful that I have my family as a support team. They know me, and they know how I operate. I’m also grateful to God who is first in my life for making all of this possible. I don’t ever think that this is all about me. I know who really makes this happen.”

Barrington believes in giving back to the community from his home town to Greensboro. He offers job opportunities to those who don’t mind working hard and to those who are dependable. He also mentors youth in becoming entrepreneurs. “I don’t mind giving back to the communities that have blessed me.” Most recently Barrington was featured on ABC News for providing over 500 hot fish dinners to those in need on the East Side of Greensboro after the tornado ravaged that community. According to Barrington, “It was just the right thing to do.” h

Charlotte - May/June 2018

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Erica Gray rica Gray is the owner of Curvy Chic Boutique, an online boutique based out of Carthage, Mississippi. What was first established in 2014 as Erica’s Closet transitioned into something more personable and capable to meet their customer’s needs. “I dress women with curves so that they feel empowered about the way they look and feel,” Erica says.

“I sell women’s clothing, jewelry, accessories and shoes. I also host business brunches and small business expos for entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners. My services are geared toward anyone looking to start a business or progress in their current business,” she says. “I love fashion, period. My mother was an entrepreneur and she stirred a passion for clothes in me. She was pretty good at sewing and made a lot of my clothes when I was a young child. She also was a creative person who often sold her crafts to others.”

Though she has faced her share of challenges, Erica has learned how to survive. She is a divorced mother of two boys and Jackson State University graduate. She is also a member of Zeta Phi Beta sorority. Erica was born and raised in Gary, Indiana but has lived in Carthage most of her adult life. She has worked in the education and social services fields and utilizes those skill sets to empower women and others in becoming entrepreneurs.

Erica Gray

Curvy Chic Boutique is a result of Erica’s drive to be successful. She wanted to do something different with her career and set an example for her children. “My testimony is sacrifice. There are a lot of personal and professional sacrifices you must make as a business owner. I learned that you’re going to lose friends, maybe even some family members along the way.

There’s going to be some things you can’t do because you’d rather spend that money and time on your business. I also learned how to do without so that I will be able to meet my customers and needs,” she says.

Erica is quick to point out that there wouldn’t be a Curvy Chic Boutique without the support from her core circle. “They keep me motivated and keep me going. The fashion community in Jackson, MS has always given my business and brand a lot of love and support,” she says.

Erica is inspired by seeing women embrace their curves and not afraid to flaunt them. While mainstream society is slowly starting to accept the fullfigured woman, Erica wants to make sure she gets her due recognition. “I hope to become a small business coach and consultant. I believe I can help upcoming business owners with my knowledge and experience. h

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From Crack To Christ

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Johnathan Snorton

Tanya Davis of Detroit, MI is a perfect example of how God’s grace and mercy works. It is impossible to understand her pains and pitfalls just by looking at her outward exterior. You would have to pierce quite a bit more and listen to her soul sing the praises of God and how He saved her from a life of despair and hopelessness.

Tanya is a mother, wife, grandmother, and friend to many. She is also a overcomer, motivator, faith walker, and mentor. Though what she is most proud of is her 28 years of being sober.

Tanya’s life took a dark turn while she lived dangerously on the streets of Detroit. She was a drug addict, plagued with drug use, prostitution, domestic violence, and homelessness. Her habits led to crime and eventually incarceration. Her life changed when she opened her eyes to God. She confesses that He met her in her jail cell and began to change her life, freeing her from addiction, crime and the binds of wickedness. Today, she is an entrepreneur, consultant, producer, professional hair stylist, writer, and is a witness to the love and redemption of God. Though she isn’t an ordained minister, she does her share of ministry work.

Lives have been saved through her testimony and she has shown many how to overcome obstacles merely by living as an example. “I often tell others that I know a man and He’s not from Detroit or Nashville – but He’s from Galilee,” she says. “I love to show others who are suffering with addiction how to succeed in recovery. When asked, “What’s next?”, her answer is always, “Wherever God leads me because I know it is His purpose.

Tanya has a long list of accomplishments. She is the 2006 Recipient of the Phenomenal Woman Distinguished Award and the 2009 Who’s Who Award.

Additionally, she is founder of Ice Media Group, and publisher of Ice Magazine – a cross-cultural lifestyle magazine and Focus On This International Hair Magazine. She is also the owner of Salon ICE in Nashville, TN and directs From Crack to Christ Ministries. She is the Executive Producer of “I Just Got My Hair Did” talk show on 92Q cumulus station, and a National Spokesperson for Beauty Behind Bars.

Tanya is driven by an incredible passion for self-expression through hair.

Her works are often noted for their unique style, elegance, and her signature techniques in blending traditional methods as well as modern techniques especially when it comes to hair care. She has also served as a Glam Professional working with many celebrities during Stellar Awards of gospel music.

She has helped to produce hair shows in Detroit, Dallas, and Chicago, with audiences of over 10,000 people. In 2010, at The Hutton, one of the most prestigious hotels in Nashville, TN she produced and created “Rip the Runway Awards,” a show highlighting Nashville’s best in the Hair and beauty Industry.

www.FromCrackToChrist.net www.tanyadavisallthingsbeauty.com www.ijustgotmyhairdid.com

Tanya has also developed a passion for helping new and transitioning salons through her consulting business. Her experiences, vibrant personality and strong strength of faith has secured her for a wide range of projects and purposes. Presently she is the Founder of ABA American Beauty Awards, and Co-Founder of I Love To Battle Hair Competition.

Tanya credits her mother’s constant prayers for keeping her sane through everything she has faced. She also credits her mentor, Jacqueline Kelly, who has opened many salons and also has a commercial real estate firm in Nashville for providing her with insight and direction. Her number greatest supporters are her husband Kenneth, daughter, and granddaughter.

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huami MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

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Kinsley & Kingston Jones-Brown

The children of Lakisha Jones and Kendrick Brown Photo provided by Michael Garris

HuamiMagazine.com

Charlotte - May/June 2018

To submit photographs to be placed in the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby feature, please send a Want TotoAdvertise?

Call 336-340-7844 detailed email huami.cutestbaby@gmail.com

TEE SHIRTS

BLUE W/WHITE LOGO BLUE W/RED LOGO

WHITE W/BLACK LOGO WHITE W/RED LOGO BLACK W/RED LOGO BLACK W/WHITE LOGO

GREY W/BLUE LOGO GREY W/RED LOGO

www.huamimagazine.com

Charlotte - May/June 2018

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HuamiMagazine.com

Charlotte - May/June 2018