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Giving God A Return On His Investment There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

A Letter From The Editor - Terry L. Watson

In the year 2026, I believe the best thing that I have toldA myself thus has been to keep it moving. Keep it Letter from thefar Editor moving even while everything around me seems to be at a standstill. Keep it moving regardless of what I didn’t get What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes accomplished yesterday. As the conversations you’ve had and dreams wouldn’t a street to park on. What with God confirmed thehave assignment beforehand, andifHis word everything that you 29:11 decided to put offauntil tomorrow never so, promises in Jeremiah to give you hope and a future, happened? keep it moving!There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired God blesses us all with many gifts and talents, some more today? What would you do?

than others. It is my belief that we must use them to glorify Him, and by doing so, He promises to bless us. Even more, I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. how we show up in communities and how Honestly, I feel likeour I am not doing enough and we I’m love a firmour neighbors should reflect how God loves us and how weme love believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on God. How can we say that we love God but our is far from that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder howfruit life would that? mustto besitmindful Godwhat is not impressedtoby the be We if I chose idle andthat accept it presented me. I “love” comes out ourboring. mouths it isn’t echoed by our havethat found that to beof very Inifmy opinion, opportunity is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge actions. to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? If I do nothing, I fail, and if I tryand I don’t, learn God has created everything, withbut Hisinstead children being his something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in most prized creation, I believe that He expects the greatest return acquire life. return on His investment from us. I have often asked myself,

what does that look like? Does it mean that I should spend The best advice ever given to me happened when someone more time reading God’s word? Does it mean that I should told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so spend more timemy meditating on His word? it mean I have pressed way through doors with Does a key that onlythat I should spend more time fasting and praying? My answer hope provided. I have also learned the difference between to each of these questions is “YES”. what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and

I am believing God to do great when thingstoinbemy life, because and I don’t quiet, want to unintentionally do anything to prevent Him from someone may get it confused with arrogant. moving onbeing my behalf. That means that I must be intentional about Make youintomorrow how I love Him return. Even happen today, butfor most more, I am so grateful God importantly make it count. calling me, and it is truly an honor is but a whisper and to be Life used by Him.

Terry L Watson

Publisher

www.huamimagazine.com Dr. MarrissaEditor DickIn Chief Writer Terry L. Watson Writer Terry L. Watson Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Monica Montgomery Writer Writers

Tonya Dixon Terry L. Watson Ashleigh Crawley Alana Allen Photographer Tamara Smith Todd Youngblood Jeuron Dove Photographer Snuggs Photography Photographer Photographers

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huamimagazine@gmail.com Who Shotya Photography Layout

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HUAMI MAGAZINE is published 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 terry.editor@yahoo.com or to Mykel Media Company, LLC P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2014 All Rights Reserved

we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is Every dayus. of my life and for the telling

rest of my life, I am committed to proving God right. He did His big thing when He chose me, as He has Terry L. Watson done with all of His children.

Editor/Founder

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CHARLOTTE

CONTENTS

JESUS CHRIST On The Cover SOAR To The Top

Blackdoor Studio

Celise Cawthon

Great Recognition

Kendric & Gia

Charlotte, NC Nobuntu at the Gantt

Harvey B. Gantt Center Charlotte, NC Digija Manneni Selected for NFL

Johnson C. Smith University

Darryl McNair

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SEPT./OCT. 2026

Flash Mob Greenville

Dionne Washington

Kicasso Sneaker Art Bar

Carl Bradley

His journey has brought from around the world. Learn more about The Concord Fellowship Dr. Darius Don Butler Huntsville, AL

40 She is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one beautiful baby. Her name is Siya Stevens

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W hat’s H appening I n O ur C ommunity

Wednesday Night Live: Nobuntu at the Gantt Harvey B. Gantt Center - 10/28/26 Information obtained from www.ganttcenter.org

Nobuntu, the female a cappella quartet from Zimbabwe, has drawn international acclaim for its inventive performances that range from traditional Zimbabwean songs to Afro Jazz to Gospel. The ensemble’s concerts are performed with pure voices, augmented by minimalistic percussion, traditional instruments such as the Mbira (thumb piano) and organic, authentic dance movements. Join us for a special performance at the Gantt Center as part of their US tour. Nobuntu was nominated for Best Musician of the Year at the Zimbabwe International Women Awards in London in 2015 and are currently a two-time winner for the Best Imbube Group at the Bulawayo Arts Awards 2017 and 2019. In the last few seasons, the quintet has performed at festivals and concert halls in Italy, Austria, Germany, Belgium, the Czech Republic and throughout the African continent. The ensemble was a huge critical success at “Trans-Vocal” in Frankfurt and “Voice Mania” in Vienna. Their first tour to Canada, in 2016, included performances in Toronto, Winnipeg, Vancouver, and Victoria. The word Nobuntu is an African concept that values humbleness, love, unity and family from a woman’s perspective. The ensemble represents a new generation of young African women singers who celebrate and preserve their culture, beauty, and heritage through art. The ensemble’s mission is the belief that music can be an important vehicle for change, one that transcends racial, tribal, religious, gender, and economic boundaries. Back at home, Nobuntu holds a number of community initiatives, one of which is The Nobuntu Pad Bank where they gather sanitary pads for young women in the arts in underprivileged communities. Nobuntu has released three recordings – Thina in 2013, Ekhaya in 2016 and Obabes beMbube in 2018. The group has made dozens of television and radio appearances throughout Africa and Europe promoting these recordings and the culture of their homeland. h

W hat’s H appening I n O ur C ommunity

Johnson C. Smith University - Divija Manneni Selected for NFL’s Future Leaders in Football Fellowship Information obtained from www.womenbeyondlimits.com

Johnson C. Smith University student athletic trainer and women’s tennis student-athlete Divija Manneni has been selected to participate in the National Football League’s Future Leaders in Football Fellowship. The NFL Future Leaders in Football Fellowship, conducted in partnership with the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) and Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), provides HBCU students with hands-on experience in football-focused roles at their respective institutions. As part of the fellowship, Manneni will receive a $4,000 stipend and additional opportunities to attend NFL programs and initiatives coordinated by the league. Manneni will participate in the athletic training track, gaining additional professional experience while supporting JCSU’s football program. The fellowship is designed to provide HBCU students with meaningful opportunities to develop skills and build experience in areas including athletic training, scouting/recruiting, football operations, equipment and video. Fellows are expected to be meaningfully integrated into their institution’s football program, working at least three hours per week while also participating in virtual sessions coordinated by the NFL. h

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Charlotte - Sept./Oct. 2026

Kendric & Gia SOAR To The Top

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Gia Crawford Gia and Kendric L. Crawford of Charlotte, NC, are on a mission to help business owners of all types obtain the funding they need to sustain and grow. They are the owners and founders of SOAR To The Top and Crawford Capital Investments. SOAR is a faith based, business funding and capital strategy company designed to help entrepreneurs understand, prepare for, and access the capital needed to grow. They do much more than simply connect clients to lenders; they help business owners understand where they currently stand financially, help identify the type of funding that makes sense for their goals, strengthen their funding profile, and develop a capital strategy that supports sustainable growth. The services offered by SOAR include business funding consultations, capital-readiness assessments, business credit and funding strategy, lines of credit, term loans, SBA financing, unsecured business and personal funding strategies, real estate investment funding, and specialized capital solutions for established businesses and government contractors. Ultimately, SOAR helps business owners answer three critical questions: How much capital do I need? What type of capital is appropriate? And how do I position myself to actually qualify for it? Gia says, “Our services are designed for entrepreneurs, small-business owners, real estate investors, established companies, and government contractors who need capital to execute their next move. That could mean opening another location, purchasing equipment, hiring employees, covering payroll, acquiring property, completing a renovation, purchasing inventory, mobilizing for a government contract, or simply creating enough working capital to operate from a position of strength instead of constantly reacting to cash-flow pressure. Kendric and I are particularly passionate about helping business owners who have a strong vision but have never been taught how financing actually works.” Echoing what Gia shared, Kendric states that many entrepreneurs know how to provide their service or create their product, but they are unaware of how banks evaluate businesses, how credit affects access to capital, or how to strategically position their company before asking for money. “That is the gap SOAR was created to help close,” he says. A power couple on various levels, Gia and Kendric are a pure example of what love, commitment, and business look like when combined. They met in college at Francis Marion University. Now celebrating 16 years of marriage, they have two sons, Kylar and Karston. Gia is a native of Charleston, SC. She is a Business Consultant and Funding Strategist with a professional background in program analysis and has experience in real estate investing and strategic funding solutions. Gia also specializes in helping entrepreneurs and investors access the capital needed to grow and/or scale their business. Her additional focus involves credit strategy and capital structuring, along with teaching her clients how to leverage funding (Leveraging OPM Other People’s Money) as a tool to preserve liquidity, build sustainable wealth, and accelerate growth. Even more, Gia and Kendric have built a successful real estate portfolio in only three years and have helped fund small businesses with well over half a million dollars in capital and counting.

Charlotte - Sept./Oct. 2026

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Kendric is a native of Marion, SC. “At the center of everything I do is one word: LEGACY. I’m not simply building for today. I’m building what comes next,” he says. “Engineering Better Business is the goal”. In addition to being a father and husband, he is a Business Transformation Architect, technology and capital strategist, serial entrepreneur, and community leader. With more than a decade of experience in federal technology modernization, AI, Agile delivery, business transformation, and capital strategy, Kendric has built a career around identifying what prevents businesses and organizations from moving forward and engineering what they need to move. Through CODES Consulting, he helps organizations improve operations, modernize systems, and strengthen execution. Through SOAR To The Top, he helps entrepreneurs prepare for and access capital for growth.

Our vision is simple: to take money off the table as an obstacle in entrepreneurship and help more people use capital strategically to build something bigger than where they started.”

“Our vision is simple: to take money off the table as an obstacle in entrepreneurship and help more people use capital strategically to build something bigger than where they started.” SOAR was founded in March 2025, but its roots began years earlier through Gia and Kendric’s real estate company, Crawford Capital Investments. “We became real estate investors during COVID, starting with successful fix-and-flips before eventually expanding into mid-term rentals,” they said. “As we grew our real estate portfolio, we discovered something that would ultimately shape the foundation of SOAR: you don’t always need a lot of cash to create opportunities; you need access to the right resources and the ability to leverage what you already have. We learned firsthand how to use credit and OPM to acquire and grow assets, and that experience opened our eyes to the power of strategic access to capital. SOAR was born from that experience and the desire to help others understand and leverage capital as a tool for growth,” they shared. The vision for SOAR came from the Crawfords’ own journey as real estate investors. While successful, they didn’t have large amounts of liquid cash sitting in reserves like many other entrepreneurs. What they did have was good credit, a willingness to learn, and the ability to leverage OPM to create opportunities. That experience showed them that access to capital could be a powerful catalyst for building wealth and creating businesses. “Initially, our goal was to help others use those same strategies to invest in real estate. However, we quickly realized that not everyone wanted to be a real estate investor. Some people wanted to start a business, and others already had a business but were stuck because they lacked the capital, strategy, or resources to move forward. That’s when our vision became much bigger than real estate. We realized SOAR could become a financial resource for entrepreneurs and investors and help them understand their options, become more fundable, access capital, and ultimately turn their ideas and businesses into opportunities for growth,” they said.

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Charlotte - Sept./Oct. 2026

Seeing what happens after their clients receive funding is something that Gia and Kendric share they love. “An approval is exciting, but the real reward is seeing someone open the second location, purchase the property, hire employees, acquire equipment, complete the project, or finally execute something they had been postponing because capital was the missing piece. There is something powerful about watching a business owner move from “I don’t know how I’m going to do this” to “We have the resources. Let’s execute.” That transformation is what we enjoy most. Funding can change the trajectory of a business, but when it’s used strategically, it can also change the trajectory of a family. That is much bigger than a transaction to us.” Kendric shares that their greatest inspiration is family, particularly their two sons, and heritage. “Much of what we’re building today is being built with the understanding that we are responsible for helping prepare the next generation of our family. We want our sons to inherit more than assets. We want them to inherit knowledge, discipline, opportunity, relationships, financial intelligence, and an understanding of ownership.” Kendric says that he also draws inspiration from entrepreneurs who continue to push through the strife of the profession despite uncertainty, inconsistency, and constant change. “Business ownership can be incredibly rewarding, but it requires courage. Entrepreneurs are constantly making decisions without perfect information. This is in addition to solving problems, taking risks, and finding ways to keep moving.” As business owners, Gia and Kendric have faced various challenges, yet they confess they have overcome them by becoming more intentional about the time they invest into their business to ensure success is maintained at a premium. One of their biggest challenges has been learning that being excellent at delivering a service does not automatically mean you have built a scalable business because “Done is Better Than Perfect”. Earlier in entrepreneurship, Gia and Kendric shared that they believed saying yes to more people meant creating more opportunity. They now understand that growth also requires knowing who you can genuinely help, what your expertise is worth, and when to say no. Most importantly, they constantly evaluate what works and what doesn’t. “We don’t become emotionally attached to a process simply because it is how we’ve always done things. If something is preventing the business from scaling, we analyze it, redesign it, and move forward. Every challenge has forced us to improve a system. We have strengthened our client qualification process, our agreements, our pricing structure, our funding-readiness process, and the way we communicate expectations before an engagement begins. We have also learned to protect our time and intellectual property.”

Charlotte - Sept./Oct. 2026

We want our sons to inherit more than assets. We want them to inherit knowledge, discipline, opportunity, relationships, financial intelligence, and an understanding of ownership,”

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While they have faced a few storms along the way, the power couple admits there isn’t much they would change about how things have happened. “Every experience, including the wins, the setbacks, the unexpected opportunities, and even the lessons we had to learn the hard way, has contributed to who we are and how we serve our clients today. Each chapter has given us a different perspective and has helped shape SOAR into the company it is becoming. We’ve experienced what it means to bootstrap a business. We’ve experienced what it feels like to have access to capital and the opportunities that capital can create. We’ve experienced the highs, the lows, the pivots, and everything in between. That lived experience is one of our greatest advantages. We’ve been on both sides of the funding journey ourselves. We understand the frustration of trying to grow a business without enough resources, the excitement that comes with finally accessing capital, and the responsibility that comes with knowing how to use that capital strategically. We educate, we strategize, and we help our clients understand what they need today while preparing them for what’s next. Most importantly, we’ve learned that funding is not transactional; it’s relational. We don’t want to simply help someone get funded once; we want to become a trusted resource throughout their funding journey and help them build the foundation for long-term growth.” For other aspiring business owners who may follow a path similar to theirs, the Crawford’s offers the following advice: Start before you’re ready. Solve a real problem, and learn as you go. You don’t need to have it all figured out—you just need the courage to begin and the commitment to keep growing. Build relationships, stay rooted in your purpose, and don’t measure success only by what you make, but by who you help and the opportunities you create. Your business can change, but your purpose shouldn’t. Looking ahead, Gia and Kendric are excited about the growth that is taking place with their companies. “We’re building something bigger than funding. We’re launching The SOAR Club, our new Skool community for entrepreneurs who may not be fundable today, but are determined to become fundable tomorrow. We’ve learned that getting funded isn’t the finish line; It’s a strategy. Inside The SOAR Club, we’ll help entrepreneurs build the credit, credibility, knowledge, and financial foundation they need to stop guessing about capital and start positioning themselves for it.” They are also building an ecosystem designed to help entrepreneurs become more fundable, more strategic, and more confident about building wealth. “Our mission has always been simple: Take money off the table as an obstacle to entrepreneurship. The next chapter of SOAR is going to show people exactly what’s possible when you have the right strategy, resources, and community behind you. If you think SOAR is just a funding company… stay tuned. You haven’t seen anything yet. See you at the top!”

www.soarbizfunding.com 14

Charlotte - Sept./Oct. 2026

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Charlotte - Sept./Oct. 2026

Kicasso Sneaker Art Bar By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Brailen Harrington Kicasso Sneaker Art Bar, located in Indianapolis, IN, is a fun, interactive, DIY art studio that allows its guests to paint and customize their own shoes. Specializing in private parties and corporate event activations, Kicasso has collaborated with premier brands and organizations including Google, Amazon, Eli Lilly & Co., the Indianapolis Colts, and the Indiana Pacers. Kicasso offers both self-guided and instructor-led custom sneaker painting classes, virtual sneaker art sessions, DIY sneaker art kits, and premium branded merchandise. Carl Bradley, an Indianapolis native, is the founder of Kicasso. He is a man of God, a husband, and a father of two. Carl graduated from North Central High School, and later attended Hampton University. He also earned an Audio Engineering degree from Vincennes University. Carl shares that his business journey started with recording music, which led to film and video editing. “Shooting high school basketball highlight videos led me to the sneaker industry,” he says. Even as a kid, Carl says he was intrigued by the idea of business ownership. His mother was a hairstylist and salon owner, and he was blessed to witness her incredible work ethic, drive, and determination from a young age. “I also witnessed the highs and the lows of owning a business. I will never forget the time she fell behind on taxes, and officials threatened to seize everything. I was there to watch my mother navigate through this difficult moment. She did not fold, but prayed, made a plan, and executed it. That experience taught me an invaluable lesson: it is not just about the shot you take, but how you rebound when the shot doesn’t go in.”

Charlotte - Sept./Oct. 2026

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Carl says his greatest inspiration is his mother. He shares that through the health issues and raising kids while working late nights, she never gave up, and she never allowed him and his family to give up either. “I watched my mother build a business, almost lose everything, and then resiliently build her brand and herself back up. She is a woman of God and a strong believer in prayer—and without that foundation, I don’t know where I would be today,” he says. Carl says that he is incredibly excited about what the future holds for him. His immediate focus is to continue strengthening Kicasso’s deep local roots by expanding its partnerships with iconic Indianapolis organizations like Visit Indy, Eli Lilly & Co., the Indiana Pacers, and the Indianapolis Colts, to name a few. “We will be expanding our product line, introducing a wider variety of accessories. We are also looking into new creative services, such as customizable T-shirt designs and other paintable mediums beyond footwear. Beyond their product offerings, Kicasso is officially gearing up for a major expansion in 2027. “Stay tuned for more details,” Carl says. h

www.kicassoindy.com 317-500-7332 Charlotte - Sept./Oct. 2026

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Charlotte - Sept./Oct. 2026

Daryle McNair The McNair Foundation

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Todd Youngblood Since 1963, North Carolina’s governors have reserved their highest honor, The Order of the Long Leaf Pine award, for persons who have made significant contributions to the state and their communities through their exemplary service and exceptional accomplishments. Persons named to The Order become honorary North Carolina “Ambassadors” with their names and award dates recorded on a Roster maintained by The Order of the Long Leaf Pine Society. They may then become Society members by enrolling in the Society’s Directory, entitling them to display Society insignia. Considered the state’s highest honorary society, The Order of the Long Leaf Pine Society is a member of the Federation of North Carolina Historical Societies and is not a part of or representing the Office of the Governor or any other governmental entity. Its mission is to research, record, and preserve the history of The Order of the Long Leaf Pine award and to promote its ideals of civic leadership, service and accomplishment through the engaging of award recipients and support of programs with shared values and objectives.

I don’t look back and pay attention to what I have accomplished and see all the lives that I have touched and people that I have impacted. For me, it was an opportunity to appreciate myself and take in the experience.”

Past recipients include Michael Jordan, Hall of Fame Basketball Coaches Clarence Gaines and Mike Krzyzewski, Billy Graham, and others.

Charlotte - Sept./Oct. 2026

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Earlier this year, Daryle McNair received this prestigious honor. Daryle shares that receiving the award was a huge accomplishment. He learned he was a recipient after someone from the Long Leaf Pine organization reached out. “They asked me if someone had contacted him in regard to being considered for the award. I told them that I had not at the time. I had seen other recipients, and I was aware of the prestige that came with being nominated. They shared with me what was needed, such as letters submitted to the Governor that could substantiate your service to the community from different people,” he says. Daryle followed up by contacting people he believed could provide the organization with that information.

Tatum Alston

Daryle is the face and visionary of McNair Foundation Incorporated. This nonprofit organization focuses on preparing students for their future tomorrow. It also offers scholarships and educational assistance for deserving students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU’s). The inspiration behind The McNair Foundation Incorporated is connected to Daryle’s desire to honor his parent’s legacy. He lost his father in 1995, and as time went on, he also lost his mother. Daryle shares that his mother and father made a great impression on him, and he always wanted to do something to honor them. “My father would always ask me what my plan was for my life. He wanted to know what I had in mind for my legacy and what I would do to be an asset to society, not a liability. I thought about education,” he says. Daryle describes himself as a go-getter. He is very involved and a vital part of his community. Daryle graduated from North Carolina A&T State University. He works for Wells Fargo Bank as a Wholesale Relationship Associate in Commercial Investment Banking. Daryle is a proud Prince Hall Masonic Family member and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated member. He has been married to his wife, Stefanie, for more than 20 years and has one daughter, Amiah.

Blake McDowell 22

Since receiving the award, Darryl says it made him step back and reflect on the work he has done. He says that oftentimes when he puts in the work, his focus is on what is in front of him. “I don’t look back and pay attention to what I have accomplished and see all the lives that I have touched and people that I have impacted. For me, it was an opportunity to appreciate myself and take in the experience. I recently celebrated 58 years of life, and I have served my community for over 30 years. I truly appreciate being acknowledged for all the work that I have done. Being recognized and having my name amongst the greatest citizens of North Carolina, and to know that I have done something that my daughter and my family members, and many generations to come, will know that I was there and the contributions that I have made will be forever etched amongst the greatest, means a lot,” he says.

Charlotte - Sept./Oct. 2026

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Those who nominated Daryle for The Order of The Long Leaf Pine Award are Maurice Stewart, a Councilman in Hamlet County, NC; Gordon Sellars, a Charlotte, NC, business owner; Reverend BJ Gibson, of Scotland County; Andrea Nance, of Shelby, NC; and Reverend Garland Pierce, a member of the House of Representatives of Scotland County. The McNair Foundation recently awarded scholarships to several recipients. These include Tatum Alston, Blake McDowell, and Makinley Sellars. Moving forward, Daryle says that he will focus on continuing to grow The McNair Foundation. He plans to keep finding ways to impact his community. He is currently the Precinct Chair for 211, the second largest precinct in the Mecklenburg County Democratic Party. He also plans to continue his work with the Prince Hall Masonry in North Carolina. “I want to be a voice for those who don’t have a voice, find ways to help those in need, and build ways to educate our community. h

Makinley Sellars

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Charlotte - Sept./Oct. 2026

Siya Stevens

The daughter of Sydney Hildreth & David Stevens

The daughter of Sydney Hildreth and David Stevens 25

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Charlotte - Sept./Oct. 2026

Celise

Cawthon By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Out Loud Photography

Nestled in the heart of Little Rock, AR, Black Door Studio is changing the concept of how flexible spaces can be used. Black Door Studio is a flexible space designed for community programs, creative experiences, and private occasions. The studio can be configured for a variety of uses, including workshops, classes, rehearsals, meetings, networking, content creation, photography, dance, music, and performances. In addition to studio rentals, there are plans for the development of original programming and collaboration with local creatives, instructors, entertainers, entrepreneurs, and community partners to bring different experiences to the studio. Celise Weems Cawthon is the visionary behind Black Door Studio. A native of Little Rock, she describes herself as someone who has always valued purpose and independence. She has also had a keen interest in creating opportunities for herself and others. A natural entrepreneur, Celise is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. In addition to entrepreneurship, she shares that her path has taken her through higher education, public and private sectors, government settings, and extensive professional travel, with each chapter adding something different to how she connects with people and approaches new opportunities. “Education has always been important to me,” Celise says. “I earned a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business with an emphasis in Marketing and Management and a Master of Science in Agricultural Economics from the University of Arkansas. I later earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Throughout my career, I have coached and mentored others. I value being able to share what I know and encourage people to recognize their own potential. Even more, I strive to help others navigate their next steps.” Celise received her vision for Black Door Studio in January 2025. It was then that she realized an opportunity to create something flexible rather than limiting the studio to one particular type of use. “I wanted a place where different ideas could take shape—whether someone needed a place to teach a class, host a workshop, rehearse, perform, create content, bring people together, or celebrate an occasion,” she says. “My vision has continued to evolve. Black Door Studio is not just about providing four walls. I want people to walk in with an idea and see the possibilities for what they can create.” Obviously, Celise has a passion for creating. She shares that what she loves most about Black Door Studio is the outlet it offers her to create experiences for others to enjoy. “I love being able to inspire creativity, connection, and engagement around entrepreneurship, music, dance, and art. I also enjoy watching an idea move from a conversation to something people can actually experience. There is something rewarding about seeing how differently the studio can be used depending on the people, purpose, and experience,” she says.

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experiences networking creative

Community Programs

Celise shares that she finds inspiration in people who see possibilities and are willing to act on them. She describes these as those who aren’t afraid to create something that doesn’t already exist. Those who can take an unconventional route or keep refining an idea until they find what works. This is something that resonates with Celise, she says, because entrepreneurship has required her to do the same. Having had opportunities to coach and mentor others, Celise shares that she understands the difference the right guidance can have on someone. “At this stage in my own journey, I would welcome an experienced mentor who sees potential and is willing to challenge my thinking, share perspective, and help me see opportunities I may not recognize on my own. I draw this conclusion because I believe there is value in being willing to learn regardless of how much experience or education you already have,” she says. The combination of Celise’s education and professional experiences, she says, has had a tremendous impact on who she is. Her studies in marketing, management, economics, and business administration taught her to think analytically and strategically, while her career gave her opportunities to apply those skills in very different environments. She shares how working across public, private, and government sectors, exposed her to different people, perspectives, organizations, and ways of doing business. “Those experiences taught me adaptability, strengthened my communication skills, and showed me the importance of understanding people—not just processes.” She adds that her family has also influenced the way she approaches life and business. Being a small business, Black Door Studio is faced with various challenges, with visibility and awareness being a significant one. “I’m not on the map yet,” Celise admits. “Black Door Studio is still a young business, and creating something worthwhile doesn’t automatically mean people know it exists or understand what it has to offer. I’ve had to become very intentional about getting in front of people, building relationships, testing programming, marketing the studio, and paying attention to what actually generates interest. I’ve also learned not to confuse a slow response with a bad idea. Sometimes the concept needs adjusting; other times, more people simply need to know about it. Learning to recognize the difference is part of building the business,” she says.

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For other aspiring entrepreneurs who may follow a path similar to hers, Celise offers some sound advice. “Give yourself permission to adjust the vision as you learn. Starting a business will teach you things that no business plan can completely prepare you for. What you imagine before opening may look different once real customers, expenses, schedules, marketing, and day-to-day operations enter the picture. Also, pay attention to what works, what doesn’t, and what people actually respond to. Be willing to make changes without assuming that changing direction means you failed. Sometimes the adjustment is what moves the business forward.” Looking ahead, Celise plans to continue to sharpen the distinction of the Black Door Studio and make it more visible as a recognizable part of Little Rock. “I want to build recurring programs and residencies that give people a reason to return, while continuing to connect with individuals and organizations that can bring new ideas into the studio. I’m also interested in what entrepreneurship may open up for me beyond what I can see right now. Black Door Studio is still relatively new, and I’m allowing room for opportunities, partnerships, and ideas that I may not have anticipated when I started. I don’t believe I have to have every part of the next chapter figured out today.” In conclusion, Celise shares how important this venture is to her. “Black Door Studio represents a new chapter for me—one that brings together my business background, years of professional experience, and desire to create something of my own. What started as concrete and brick has become an opportunity to build something with a life and identity of its own. I am able to do this while exploring entrepreneurship in a much more personal way. As Black Door Studio continues to develop, I want its reputation to be built not only around what happens inside the studio, but around the relationships and opportunities that come from it. I am interested in meaningful collaborations, recurring programming, business connections, and opportunities to learn from other entrepreneurs and leaders. I am still growing, still learning, and still discovering where entrepreneurship can take me. The opportunity to continue evolving while remaining open to where this journey may lead is what makes this chapter so exciting.” h

I want to build recurring programs and residencies that give people a reason to return, while continuing to connect with individuals and organizations that can bring new ideas into the studio.”

Charlotte - Sept./Oct. 2026

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Charlotte - Sept./Oct. 2026

FLASHMOB GVL

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Dionne Washington

It’s not only about fashion; Flashmob Greenville, also known as FlashMobGVL, is a league of dapper and extraordinary gentlemen that champions Purpose, Empowerment, Self-Improvement, and Leadership. Its mission is to inspire black men and provide them with a safe space to thrive, all while exemplifying Black Excellence. Led by Detroit, MI, native Dionne Washington, the community-based organization is dedicated to elevating the culture of the Greenville Upstate by connecting its dream team of local talent, leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and community advocates. Flashmob GVL also hosts rallies and networking events, and curates transformative experiences that build sustainable pathways to generational success. “Every event, every initiative, every photoshoot builds sustainable pathways to generational success, all while creating a legacy that transcends individual achievement and enriches the community,” Dionne says. “The FlashMob Rally Events are largescale suited gatherings designed to make a visual statement about Black excellence.” Dionne Washington is the eldest child of Deidra Washington. He was raised alongside three siblings in Detroit and attended Wayne State University, where he majored in Business Administration with a minor in Fashion Design. Dionne relocated to Greenville in 2010 with the intent to pivot into a new career field. He would soon become employed as a Direct Care Staff member with Excalibur Group Homes. In his role, Dionne is responsible for mentoring at-risk teens, a move he says planted the seeds for everything that FlashMobGVL would become.

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I love witnessing the elevated, polished presentation of men when they get dressed for a FlashMob event. I also love the aura, the confidence, the aspiration, the energy they project, and the moxie they exhibit.”

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Charlotte - Sept./Oct. 2026

In the fall of 2022, Dionne planned the first FlashMob rally. He shares that he was inspired by the iconic black-and-white photographs of Black Wall Street. “These are the same photos that depict black men and women of class in tailored suits and dresses, posing proudly in Tulsa and Harlem beside a Model T Ford. Those images captured something powerful: a standard of black excellence. I wanted to recreate that energy in the present day and bring back the nostalgia and iconic fashion with a photoshoot displaying distinguished men and women, changing the narrative about people of color and inspiring Black opulence. Most importantly, our photoshoots capture unity and community service.” When asked what he loves most about FlashMob Greenville, Dionne says it’s the transformation and the impact. He adds, “I love witnessing the elevated, polished presentation of men when they get dressed for a FlashMob event. I also love the aura, the confidence, the aspiration, the energy they project, and the moxie they exhibit. It’s a language they’re speaking to every room and every atmosphere without uttering a single word. Seeing someone step into a refined and powerful version of themselves they didn’t know existed, and watching that experience change the way they carry themselves long after the event is over, makes what I do worth it, and that’s the part I love most.” Getting others to see and commit to the vision of Flashmob is something that Dionne admits is an ongoing challenge. “One of our greatest challenges with Flashmob GVL has been getting people to fully understand that the vision extends far beyond dressing well, taking great photos, or attending events. We are building a movement centered on purpose, personal growth, leadership, community impact, and legacy. That kind of vision requires more than participation—it requires commitment. Not everyone will immediately see what we are building, and not everyone is prepared to invest the consistency it takes to build something meaningful. But we remain committed to cultivating a core of men who believe in the mission, understand the responsibility, and are willing to help turn the vision into lasting impact.I can also make this more personal and vulnerable, so it sounds like a direct quote from you in the Huami Magazine article.Even when the support hasn’t matched the size of the vision, I’ve chosen to keep building.

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The key initiatives for FlashMob Greenville include Coats for Kids: A Winter Coat Giveaway, a Halloween Coat Drive and Fundraiser that is scheduled for October 31, 2026. There is a Black Wall Street Edition that will focus on an economic empowerment showcase that is scheduled for November 2026. Some additional initiatives are Dapper Dialogues, which are networking events where style meets purpose, and a Grown Man Expo, which is a vendor showcase and professional development event. Dionne shares that he finds inspiration in his mentors. These include Wendell Jones and Rueben Hays. He is also inspired by his cousin Renee Ferguson, who recently passed away. “Renee has inspired me since childhood. She was a model featured in Jet Magazine and appeared on the Ebony Fashion Tour in 1988. She was a fitness instructor with a nationally televised show on the cable network and was an example of greatness in my family, and a role model who set the bar high for all of us. Renee showed me what it looked like to carry yourself with purpose, presence, and excellence, and that standard has shaped everything I’ve built with FlashMobGVL,” he says. The iconic Blackmenswear FlashMob has also been a huge inspiration for Dionne’s organization, he says. Looking ahead, Dionne says that he plans for FlashMobGVL to continue to be very active in the Upstate community. This includes helping men discover their purpose, build their confidence, and create their own sense of dapper. “We are a movement rooted in five core values: Purpose, Polish, Brotherhood, Service, and Excellence. We show up suited. We show up purposefully. We show up for each other and for our community,” he says.

IG: flashmob_gvl

IG: dionne_flashmob

FB: Dionne Washington www.flashmobgvl.com 36

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Dr.

The Concord Fellowship By Terry L. Watson Photos Provied By Gianna Snell and Concord Media Team

Dr. Don Darius Butler, affectionately known as “Pastor B,” founded and leads The Concord Fellowship in Huntsville, Alabama, an intergenerational church plant rooted in Baptist faith and heritage. The Concord Fellowship serves the Madison County community with a vision of creating community in Christ. Its identity is captured in a simple but intentional declaration: “We’re a different kind of church,” Dr. Butler says. “We envision a family of faith where every generation belongs, no one is a stranger, and our servant-disciples transform our community.” Dr. Butler’s journey into ministry began long before he arrived in Huntsville. A Christian minister for more than 25 years, he was raised in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. The Pentecostal tradition shaped his faith, with influences from African Methodism and Anglicanism, and nearly 35 years ago, he professed his faith as a Baptist. Even as a young boy, Dr. Butler wrestled with questions of vocational identity and whether he was called to ministry. At age 16, however, he accepted God’s call. At the time, he had imagined a very different future for himself. “I wanted to be the Prime Minister of The Bahamas by the time I was 40,” he recalls. “However, God upended that plan and called me into the ministry.”

We envision a family of faith where every generation belongs, no one is a stranger, and our servantdisciples transform our community.”

That call would lead him to Nashville, Tennessee, where he enrolled at American Baptist College and earned a degree in biblical and theological studies. He continued his theological education at Vanderbilt University Divinity School as a Kelly Miller Smith Scholar. During his time at Vanderbilt, he also met his future wife and the love of his life, La Keisha Wright Butler, Esq. Together, they love their two children, Dahlia and Don Jr.

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Following Vanderbilt, Dr. Butler completed four units of Clinical Pastoral Education at Norton Healthcare in Louisville, Kentucky. In 2009, he received the call to his first pastorate in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he served as pastor of Tabernacle Community Baptist Church for 10 years. His ministry in Milwaukee extended beyond the church walls. Dr. Butler led social ministries and worked closely with the Mayor’s Office, the Police Department, and local businesses to address gun violence and other community challenges. His commitment to service also extended globally through missions, including leading teams to Haiti and South Africa. He continued his theological education by earning a Doctor of Ministry degree from Duke University. His doctoral work examined the prophetic social ministry of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in a thesis titled A Maladjusted King: Theological Resistance and Nonconformity in an American Prophet.

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In 2019, Dr. Butler arrived in Huntsville and succeeded the legendary Dr. Julius R. Scruggs as pastor of First Missionary Baptist Church. During his tenure, Dr. Butler led the ministry through the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, expanding its social media presence to ensure that the Word of God continued to be taught and preached. Dr. Butler’s tenure at First Missionary Baptist Church concluded in 2024. This transition marked the beginning of a new chapter in his pastoral journey, one that would lead to renewed vision, deeper purpose, and a continued commitment to serving God and His people. Pastor B founded The Concord Fellowship, describing the church as “a dream replanted.” The journey began with a prayer gathering of 58 servant disciples who came together seeking God’s direction for a new season of ministry. From that humble beginning, The Concord Fellowship began to take shape as a congregation committed to creating community in Christ and living out its call to serve God and others.

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Charlotte - Sept./Oct. 2026

Sunday Gatherings at The Concord fellowship reflect the spirit of Acts 14, emphasizing the power of a community that gathers around one another with grace, encouragement, and healing — strengthening people to rise again and continue the work God has called them to do. “Our desire is to make room for others, so no one has to fight to belong, and no one has to force themselves to ‘fit in,’” Dr. Butler says. “They belong simply because they are a child of God. They are loved because God loves them.” Since its founding, The Concord Fellowship has worshiped at the Low-Profile Car Club and the Baptist Campus Ministries building before establishing Columbia High School Auditorium as its Sunday gathering place in March 2026. In August 2026, The Concord Fellowship began its HOME generosity campaign – a discipleship journey centered on opening hearts, embracing the mission, and making room for others. In only 17 months, the ministry was able to purchase 17 acres on Alabama Highway 53, laying the foundation for future campus development and expanded ministry in the Harvest community and the northwest corridor of Madison County. Through this journey, and with their new home in mind, the congregation is focusing on creating a community-facing campus where people can encounter God, belong, grow, and serve. The vision Dr. Butler carries for The Concord Fellowship has been shaped not only by his experiences in ministry, but also by the people who have invested in his life along the way. He credits several individuals with having a significant impact on his life, ministry, and pastoral identity. Among them is Dr. Forrest E. Harris, President Emeritus of American Baptist College. Dr Butler deeply admires Dr. Harris’ passion for the prophetic Christian tradition, embodied mystic spirituality, integrity in leadership, and ability to interpret the world with meaning and profound significance through the lens of the God-human relationship. He also acknowledges Dr. Reuben E. Cooper Jr., with whom he made his profession of faith and under whose leadership he was first installed as a minister. Additionally, Dr. Butler credits William Buchanan, his college and seminary pastor in Nashville, with helping him embrace his pastoral identity. These relationships, along with the experiences Dr. Butler has encountered throughout his journey, continue to shape his understanding of ministry and leadership. Reflecting on both the good and difficult seasons of his life, he says, “I was once told that God doesn’t waste any of our experiences. It doesn’t mean that God causes them; it means that not even the worst things that happen to us go without the scrutiny of God and His ability to work in and through them.” Those lessons continue to inform Dr. Butler’s vision for the future. Looking ahead, he is excited about developing The Concord Fellowship’s future campus, with plans that include an intergenerational care center designed to serve children and older adults. Dr. Butler also remains committed to community engagement and service, including his work with the Children’s Defense Fund as Chairman of the Board of Directors. As The Concord Fellowship continues to grow, he looks toward the future with faith, vision, and a deep commitment to creating community in Christ. h

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