








One of the silliest things that I have ever attempted to do was to control every aspect of my life. For the most part, that is boyish-like behavior; trying to control how everything happens, and dictating when and where it occurs. During the thought process, it sounded good, but as the stories played out, the end results always pointed to the same conclusion: God doesn’t expect me to control every part of my life.
What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never happened? 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 today? What would you do?
As I have matured into manhood, I have continued to learn how to trust the process God has put in place for me. I can hear the words of the late gospel artist, Keith “Wonder Boy” Johnson, “I Think You Outta Let Go, and Let God Have His Way. Letting go of the easy things is just as important as knowing when to let go of the hard ones, also. While my intentions are good, my control issues haven’t pleased God, as it shows a lack of faith and trust in His plans. Even more, a lack of trust can be perceived as fear, and fear and faith don’t mix.
As Christians and faithful followers of God, to see Him work in our lives fully and without interruption, we must not interrupt His work. There are some things that I have thought would be around to the end of my time, yet God has removed some, and even replaced some. I believe this is His way of showing me how much He loves me, while also reminding me who is really in control.
I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in return acquire life.
The best advice ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet, because someone may get it confused with being arrogant.
It is only by God’s grace that we do die while we are wallowing in our sins. He has given us all purpose and specific assignments, yet part of the assignment is being open to divine leadership and trusting what we cannot always see. If we can possess the ability to smile when things are going right in our lives, then I think we also have the ability to make God smile through our obedience. Even when things don’t feel good, with God, there is always a reason to be happy.
Make you tomorrow happen today, but most importantly make it count. Life is but a whisper and we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is telling us.
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Terry L. Watson
Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder
Arlington, TX
Dallas/Fort Worth October Monthly Meeting NiArlington Black Chamber of Comm. Preparing For College 8th Annual Black College Expo
Memphis, TN
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Merry Green continues to pour her heart into her community. Learn more about The 30th Anniversary of The Black Women’s Expo Chicago, IL
He is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one beautiful baby. His name is Sebastian Neal
The Arlington Black Chamber of Commerce invites you to their October Monthly General Meeting — and this one is all about unlocking big opportunities for your business.
This month’s powerhouse speakers include Melissa Lee, Tarrant County Purchasing Agent, Jesse Crawford, Dallas County SBE Program Director. The Topic: “Doing Business with Tarrant & Dallas Counties”.
If you’re serious about growing your business, you need to be in this room. Whether you’re an established company or a bold startup, both Tarrant and Dallas Counties have real opportunities waiting for qualified, innovative businesses like yours.
Here’s the truth: Politics can’t stop you if your business is official. When you’re registered, prepared, and ready — opportunities open. These counties are looking for certified vendors and small businesses right now.
Learn how to navigate the process, get insider knowledge from the decision-makers, and position yourself to win contracts and scale.
The Fort Worth Independent School District is preparing for the 8th Annual Black College Expo that will take place on Saturday November 8th, 2025. Coming to Fort Worth, TX, Seniors and Juniors and College Transfer Students will meet one on one with HBCUs and a variety of other colleges and universities. Everyone is welcome and it’s for students of all ages.
Get Accepted on the spot. Students must bring several copies of their transcripts and ACT or SAT test scores (12th graders and some colleges may accept 11th graders). College Transfer Students, this is a great opportunity to get accepted on the spot also, so bring your transcripts from all colleges that you have attended. Even more, applications fees are waived.
Black College Expo™ will begin at 10:00 am and conclude at 3:00 pm. Entertainment, “Dance Off” for Cash will be hosted by the expo’s celebrity ambassadors. Everyone has the opportunity to win cash and prizes and scholarships will be given there as well.
All donations to the program helps with serving underserved and underrepresented students, including homeless and foster students. This includes providing them with free services and resources to help them connect to college, careers and beyond. For more information, please call 1-877-427-4100. You may also visit online at www.blackcollegeexpo.com
By Terry L. Watson
Provided by Shana-Lee Scott
Shana-Lee Scott of Dallas, TX, says her name was chosen to match her older sister’s hyphenated name. A gesture that reflects her parents’ preference for unique names. Shana was born in Kingston, Jamaica, and raised in West Palm Beach, Florida. As the youngest of three children, Shana comes from a family rooted in tradition, as her parents recently celebrated fifty years of marriage. Moreover, Shana and her husband, Joshua Scott, first met in elementary school. Although life took them on separate paths, they reconnected in 2014, began dating that year, and married in 2017, and celebrated eight years of marriage on September 23rd of this year.
Shana-Lee earned her undergraduate degree in Hospitality Management from the University of Central Florida and later pursued an MBA in Human Resources, which followed her experience as a hotel manager. Today, she is the owner of Breathe & Exhale 360, an organization dedicated to empowering women to prioritize self-care through thoughtfully curated experiences.
Breathe & Exhale 360 offers quarterly subscription boxes that deliver themed selections of self-care products to subscribers, as well as through the facilitation of events and retreats. These offerings are meticulously designed not only to provide moments of relaxation and enjoyment but also to promote personal, family, and financial well-being. Previously, Breathe and Exhale 360 expanded its portfolio to include specialty boxes for occasions such as Father’s Day and back-to-school season. Its commitment to holistic well-being encompasses more than just physical care, extending into personal development and fostering stronger family and community connections.
Shana-Lee and her company have hosted book discussions featuring works like ‘The Garden Within’ by Dr. Anita Phillips and, most recently, “The Journey of Yes” by Brenda Palmer. Shana-Lee often convenes diverse groups of women for insightful and meaningful dialogue. Their signature event—annual self-care retreats held each October—offers participants an opportunity to connect, rejuvenate, learn, and grow together. This year’s retreat is scheduled to take place in Broken Bow, Oklahoma.
A core belief of Breathe and Exhale 360 is to remind every woman of their inherent worth: “You are altogether beautiful, my love; there is no flaw in you” (Song of Solomon 4:7). Shana-Lee adds, “Faith is central to my life and work, and it has significantly shaped my personal and professional growth over the years.” Additionally, Shana-Lee is the author of “Mommy in Waiting,” a 40-day devotional designed to guide readers through the emotional journey of waiting.
Shana-Lee shares that the inception of Breathe and Exhale 360 originated during a significant period in her life. “As I prepared for my birthday trip, I recognized the importance of self-care. I undertook a personal retreat to prioritize my well-being. After drawing inspiration from this experience, I assembled a gift bag for myself, which ultimately served as the catalyst for establishing Breathe and Exhale 360.”
When asked what she loves most about what she does, Shana says it’s the opportunity to observe the transformative experiences of women at Breathe & Exhale 360 events. They are truly rewarding, whether it is when a participant receives one of our boxes and sets aside time for personal rejuvenation at home, or during a book discussion where she gains an important insight and shares it with the group. Similarly, retreats provide participants with the opportunity to relax and focus on their well-being, often resulting in feedback that the experience was precisely what they needed to reset. These instances, among others, affirm the value of creating meaningful experiences for women who seek time for reflection and self-care, reminding them of their importance.”
While building and managing her company, Shana-Lee has faced a few obstacles. One, she says, has been ensuring she is communicating the value of their experiences. “Self-care is a popular term, so often my events mean the person must be intentional about showing up to my experiences and making the conscious decision to take time for herself. The problem is that many women put themselves last to take care of everything else. I strive to create environments where women feel empowered to be authentic. If necessary, I am willing to adapt the agenda to ensure they have the opportunity to share their experiences and feel recognized. I must assist her and stand in the gap to help her realize it is okay to take time for herself. It means taking care of myself, so I can show up for her even when she cannot. This is intended to help her remember someone does see her, and that it’s time for her to see herself.”
As someone with strong empathetic abilities, Shana-Lee is highly attuned to the emotions of those around her. To maintain her effectiveness in supporting family, friends, and those she serves, Shana-Lee prioritizes intentional selfcare and time management. “I restore my well-being through my faith, quality time with my husband, and engaging in fulfilling activities.”
Shana-Lee credits her father with being a significant role model throughout her entrepreneurial journey. “Having observed his achievements and ups and downs as an entrepreneur during my upbringing, I naturally turned to him for insight, mentorship, and guidance as I began to pursue my own path in entrepreneurship,” she says. When asked if there is anything she would change about the way things have happened in life for her, she said there isn’t. “I would not make any changes. Each setback has provided valuable learning opportunities. I have developed the ability to pivot when initiatives are not profitable and have enhanced my skills as a businesswoman by prioritizing data-driven decision-making over emotion. Additionally, I am learning to value both my time and the quality of experiences I offer my customers.”
Looking ahead, Shana-Lee is preparing for the Breathe & Exhale 360 self-care retreat scheduled for October in Broken Bow, OK. She is also actively promoting her book, “Mommy in Waiting”. She has podcast interviews planned throughout October, as well as Meet the Author events in November and various pop-up events in December to conclude the year. Recently, she launched a podcast titled “Patient-Lee Waiting,” which is available on all major platforms, and is planning to pursue speaking engagements in the near future.
For continued engagement, readers are welcome to connect with Shana-Lee on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok at BreatheandExhale360 or Mommyinwaiting1124. h
By Terry L. Watson
Photos Provided by Jessica Eason
Forever Young Spa: Where Luxury is Your Sanctuary Step into Forever Young Spa, an exquisite haven where pampering meets a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Their team of skilled estheticians and massage therapists is dedicated to providing their clients with an unparalleled experience. Their commitment to excellence ensures that every client leaves looking and feeling their absolute best. With a clear mission to elevate your wellness journey, they aspire to be the premier spa destination in Spartanburg, SC. Even more, their passion for client satisfaction drives everything they do.
Jessica Eason is the visionary for Forever Young Spa. She is a passionate, licensed esthetic instructor and entrepreneur. Her journey began two decades ago when she first fell in love with the art of beauty and wellness. The spa was originally founded by Yung, transitioning to new ownership when Misty Fant, the second owner, recognized Jessica’s exceptional potential in 2019. Under Jessica’s leadership, she transformed Forever Yung Day Spa into her own vision, rebranding it to Forever Young Spa in 2025.
Jessica’s educational background in esthetics and her family support have fueled her drive to succeed. Her commitment to nurturing both her clients and her dedicated staff creates a harmonious environment, making every visit a memorable one.
Located at 1400 Boiling Springs Rd, Spartanburg, South Carolina, Forever Young Spa is your sanctuary for rejuvenation. With operating hours from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday through Sunday, Forever Young Spa makes it easy for its clients to carve out time for self-care. “Once you experience our services, you’ll find it hard to leave the cozy, calming atmosphere we’ve created,” Jessica says. “What truly sets Forever Young Spa apart is the moment you walk through our doors. You’re greeted with a smile in a serene environment filled with soft spa music and the soothing scent of lavender candles. We take the time to understand your needs, customizing your experience to ensure you feel valued and treated like royalty.”
“There’s something incredibly rewarding about witnessing the transformation that takes place when a client steps through our doors. It’s not just about enhancing their physical appearance; it’s about nurturing their self-esteem and helping them reconnect with their inner beauty.”
Forever Young Spa offers a diverse array of services designed to provide pure bliss. Jessica and her team specialize in customized facials, rejuvenating skin treatments, anti-aging solutions, chemical peels, and relaxing and therapeutic massages. “Our waxing services and wellness options—including hot stone treatments, aromatherapy, cupping, reflexology, and couples massages—ensure a comprehensive approach to self-care. Our commitment to using only the finest professional products means that clients experience remarkable transformations during their visits. We are proud to offer high-quality products for home care, ensuring that the benefits of our treatments extend well beyond the spa,” she says.
Jessica draws inspiration from her clients, her dedicated team, and the transformative power of self-care. Along her journey, she has learned that navigating the complexities of the beauty industry and managing a growing business requires resilience and adaptability. Jessica has adapted by fostering a supportive team culture and continuously seeking to improve her services. Even more, navigating the challenges posed by the COVID-19 shutdown was a pivotal moment for Jessica Eason and Forever Young Spa. Like many businesses, the temporary closure forced her to reassess operations and adapt to a new reality. Jessica focused on developing a robust comeback plan, implementing enhanced safety protocols and reimagining the client experience to ensure comfort and confidence upon reopening. During the off-seasons when business was slow, she embraced creativity by offering seasonal promotions and wellness packages, encouraging clients to invest in self-care even during quieter months. Additionally, as a first-time business owner, Jessica faced the steep learning curve of managing a spa, from understanding financials to refining operational efficiencies. Each challenge became an opportunity for growth, allowing her to build resilience and foster a stronger connection with her clients and staff alike.
Building the brand of Forever Young Spa, Jessica shares has been profoundly guided by her faith in God. “I wholeheartedly believe that every step I take is a part of a greater plan, and this conviction inspires me to strive for excellence in all that I do. My family has been an unwavering source of support, providing love and encouragement during both the triumphs and challenges of entrepreneurship. My partner stands by my side, offering insights and motivation that push me to reach new heights. My partner has been an invaluable source of strength, consistently pushing me to challenge myself and explore new opportunities within the spa industry. Their insightful perspective and practical support have helped me navigate difficult decisions, allowing me to remain grounded and focused on my goals while nurturing our shared vision for a successful future. My best friend has been an incredible pillar of support throughout this journey, always ready to lend an ear or offer sage advice when I need it most. Their unwavering belief in my vision and relentless encouragement have not only motivated me to stay focused but have also reminded me of the importance of friendship and connection in achieving my dreams. Additionally, the friendships I’ve cultivated have created a network of inspiration and strength, reminding me that I am never alone in this journey. All together, these relationships fuel my determination and remind me of the importance of community. With their support and the guidance of my faith, I am empowered to overcome obstacles and pursue my dreams with passion and purpose, ensuring that Forever Young Spa is not just a business, but a reflection of my values and the love I have for those around me.”
When asked what she loves most about what she does, Jessica says it’s the profound impact she has on her clients’ well-being, both inside and out. She says, “There’s something incredibly rewarding about witnessing the transformation that takes place when a client steps through our doors. It’s not just about enhancing their physical appearance; it’s about nurturing their self-esteem and helping them reconnect with their inner beauty. Each facial, massage, and treatment is an opportunity to create a space where clients can unwind, feel valued, and embrace their uniqueness. I cherish the moments when they leave our spa with a renewed sense of confidence and radiance, knowing that I’ve played a part in their journey to self-love. Helping clients discover their own beauty, both in the mirror and in their hearts, is what fuels my passion for this industry and inspires me to strive for excellence every day.”
For those looking to follow in her footsteps, Jessica advises, “Stay true to your passion and always prioritize your clients’ needs. Build a team that shares your vision and values, and don’t be afraid to adapt and grow.” She believes that genuine care and commitment to quality will set any business apart.”
Looking to the future, Jessica envisions expanding Forever Young Spa’s offerings and continuing to elevate the client experience. With plans for innovative treatments and wellness programs, she remains committed to making Forever Young Spa the ultimate destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. “At Forever Young Spa, we offer more than just services; we provide an escape from the everyday hustle. Immerse yourself in relaxation and experience true delight. When it comes to the best spa services in the Upstate, Forever Young Spa is the place to be,” Jessica concludes.
By Terry L. Watson
K. Johnson
Beverly K. Johnson, Certified Health Coach, creative entrepreneur, and leader, proudly announces the launch of the Luxe Wellness Collective, a transformative community and coaching experience designed specifically for women navigating perimenopause and menopause. Through her new program, Johnson offers holistic support that blends mindset, movement, nutrition, and self-care rituals to help women reclaim energy, confidence, and balance during midlife transitions.
“As women, we’re often told to hustle harder, hide our symptoms, or accept discomfort as ‘normal,’” says Johnson. “But midlife isn’t the beginning of the end—it’s the beginning of becoming. With Luxe Wellness Collective, I’m creating a safe space where women can honor their changing bodies, release fear, and embrace a new season with strength and grace.”
Beverly shares that the Luxe Wellness Collective will provide Group & Private Coaching Programs that will focus on restoring energy, balancing hormones naturally, and building self-confidence. It will offer Wellness Products, including journals, candles, and intentional tools such as Breathe, Color & Write, and the Cozy candle, crafted to inspire reflection and rest. Additionally, Beverly will provide her clients with Workshops & Community Gatherings, which will be conducted both virtually and in person. This experience she shares will bring midlife women together for education, empowerment, and connection.
“As women, we’re often told to hustle harder, hide our symptoms, or accept discomfort as ‘normal. But midlife isn’t the beginning of the end— it’s the beginning of becoming.”
Johnson’s mission is deeply personal. Drawing on her own journey of reinvention—balancing a high-powered career, entrepreneurship, and individual healing—she brings authenticity and relatability to her coaching practice. Her story reminds women that it’s never too late to realign with purpose, prioritize health over hustle, and thrive in their next chapter.
The launch of Luxe Wellness Collective comes at a pivotal time when midlife women are increasingly seeking holistic solutions to manage menopause symptoms, career stress, and lifestyle shifts. Johnson’s unique blend of professional expertise and personal experience positions her as a leading voice in the growing midlife wellness movement.
Beverly is a native of Mobile, AL, and a graduate of Alabama A&M University, located in Huntsville, AL. She is an Army veteran and prides herself on pushing the boundaries of any limitations set on her dreams.
Beverly is also an astute professional who blends leadership, wellness, and creativity into her life’s work. In addition to Luxe Wellness Collective, she is the author of intentional wellness products, including the Breathe, Color & Write mindfulness journal and the Cozy candle. Through her coaching, writing, and speaking, she empowers women to embrace alignment, rest-based living, and transformation in midlife and beyond.
To learn more about Beverly K. Johnson or any of her products and services, please visit her website.
Huami Magazine On The Road
30th Anniversary Black Women’s Expo
Chicago, IL August 2nd, 2025
“As someone who has battled sensitive skin myself, I understood her discomfort all too well. When it became clear that the products I trusted weren’t helping and were often making things worse, I knew I had to find a better way.”
By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Kayla Allen
Kayla Allen is an accomplished woman who was raised on the Southside of Chicago, IL. Kayla’s life is shaped by the experiences of her upbringing, coupled with the entrepreneurial drive and creative spirit inherited from her family. Kayla’s father, a former McDonald’s Owner-Operator, instilled in her a strong business acumen, while her mother, an accountant and multifaceted creative, inspired Kayla’s artistic side. As both the youngest on her father’s side and the oldest of her mother’s children, Kayla’s had the unique perspective of experiencing life through multiple lenses of responsibility and resilience.
“Growing up, I had the privilege of watching my father successfully operate multiple McDonald’s franchises across Chicagoland until his retirement in 2017. As a little girl, I often accompanied him to the stores, and later, worked summers in his office. Those early experiences taught me discipline, focus, and the value of hard work—principles I carried into every area of my life, from academics and sports to my own creative pursuits,” Kayla shares.
She attended Lindblom Math & Science Academy, a selective-enrollment high school on the Southside of Chicago. There, she cultivated a love for Art, Engineering, and Mandarin Chinese. She also played tennis, and her passion for both art and technical problem-solving sparked an interest in architecture, something that also allowed Kayla to merge creativity with structure. After high school, Kayla obtained her Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She also became a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Gamma Chapter, and was involved in several other organizations on campus.
After graduating in 2018 from UIL, Kayla explored adjacent fields, becoming a licensed real estate broker in 2021. “Real Estate allowed me to tap into my entrepreneurial spirit by helping others achieve their goals of buying, selling, and investing,” she says. “Deep down, I always knew I wanted to create something of my own; something rooted in passion and purpose.” That vision would come to life with So Kind Inside, her first business.
So Kind Inside® – “Skincare Made with Kindness is a skincare brand built on kindness and a commitment to helping others feel both confident and cared for. “So Kind Inside was created with skin in mind with the ultimate goal of providing kindness for your skin. It’s more than a skincare company; it’s a promise to treat your skin with the gentleness it deserves. We create thoughtfully formulated products using natural, organic, vegan, and cruelty-free ingredients of the highest quality. Our mission is to bring kindness to your skin, especially for those with sensitive, eczema-prone skin. Every product is crafted to nourish, soothe, and protect, while remaining safe and effective for all skin types,” Kayla says.
According to Kayla, So Kind Inside® is more than skincare— it’s a movement toward nurturing both one’s skin and body from the inside out. “We are passionate about raising awareness of the ingredients that touch our skin and ultimately enter our bodies. Just as plants soak up the sun, our skin thrives when it’s replenished by pure, natural ingredients from the earth, restoring balance and locking in essential moisture,” she says.
Kayla’s Ultimate 360 Collection is designed for the ultimate transformation of her client’s skin. Formulated with natural and organic ingredients and completely free of harsh synthetics and chemicals, each product is made with kindness and crafted to moisturize, restore, and protect the skin’s barrier. The Ultimate 360 Body Butter blankets the skin with a Vegan Body Butter that promotes the ultimate form of natural protection and hydration. It is crafted to transform the condition of the skin and provide the nourishment one’s body and mind crave each and every day. She also offers Ultimate 360 Body Scrub, which can be used for daily exfoliation of dead skin cells and helps to improve the skin’s overall health.
In addition to being a successful entrepreneur, Kayla enjoys the opportunity she has to be a mother to twin daughters. One of them, she says, began to struggle early on with atopic dermatitis (eczema). “As someone who has battled sensitive skin myself, I understood her discomfort all too well. When it became clear that the products I trusted weren’t helping and were often making things worse, I knew I had to find a better way. I tried everything, from big-name brands to niche “natural” products. I searched high and low for something gentle enough to soothe our skin, and what I found instead were shelves full of harsh chemicals, synthetic additives, and ingredients that only further irritated our already delicate skin. I couldn’t believe how few options there were for people with sensitive, reactive, eczema-prone skin. That frustration sparked something in me, and I started doing my own research, diving deep into the world of natural ingredients and traditional remedies. What I discovered changed everything. There were effective alternatives—pure, plant-based ingredients that could heal, hydrate, and protect the skin without doing more harm. Fueled by hope, I began experimenting in my own kitchen and created my first batch of body butter using natural, organic ingredients. Almost immediately, I saw a change. The dry, itchy patches on our skin began to fade. Our skin felt soothed, hydrated, and healthier than it had in years, and for the first time, I felt like I had found something that truly worked. That was the beginning of So Kind Inside.”
Kayla shares that she knew there were many others facing the same challenges, who were also looking for something real, something gentle, something kind for their skin. So, she made it her mission to create skincare that not only worked but was also safe, clean, and thoughtfully formulated for sensitive skin. In 2020, she began researching manufacturers who specialized in natural, organic, and sustainable skincare. “I wanted my products to be more than homemade; I wanted them to be certified, professionally crafted, and of the utmost quality,” she says. In 2021, Kayla partnered with a local manufacturer and spent the next few years working closely with a chemist and product development team. They went through multiple rounds of formulation, fine-tuning every detail until the results aligned with what she envisioned. On May 5, 2023, she officially launched So Kind Inside.
Kayla shares that her inspiration as an entrepreneur comes from her family. She adds, “My mother, a creative at heart, always pushed me to strive for more, to overachieve, and to take advantage of every opportunity that came my way. My father’s entrepreneurial spirit and the profound legacy he built continue to motivate me, and I’m proud of how he broke barriers, persevered through challenges, and shared wisdom that shaped so much of who I am today.” She also credits her children for inspiring her every single day. “Knowing that they are watching me pushes me to be greater, to create, and to show them what’s possible when you pursue your dreams with determination.”
Building her brand has come with a plethora of challenges, and Kayla says that while they have stretched her at times, she has viewed them as stepping stones, allowing them to prepare her for the bigger opportunities and growth that lie ahead. “My challenges have shaped not just my business but me as a person,” she says.
For other aspiring business owners who may follow a similar path to Kayla’s, she offers some advice. “Keep going even when the road gets rough, and remind yourself that building something meaningful is a journey, both personal and professional, and it evolves over time. The first version of anything may not be perfect, and that’s okay. Progress and growth matter far more than perfection. Also, focus on what truly drives your business. It’s easy to be distracted by what others expect or think, but staying true to your vision, your values, and why you started gives you strength when discouragement tries to sneak in. Most importantly, you don’t have to do everything by yourself. Figure out the things you’re strongest at and outsource or lean on people who are strong in other areas. Building a team, even a small one, allows you to stretch further without burning out. Also, do research to find what truly works for you. Especially in skincare (or any specialized field), it’s important to identify the right fit for your budget and resources. You may face rejections or hear “no” often, but there’s almost always a way to make it happen if you stay persistent, resourceful, and creative,” she says.
Moving forward, Kayla is focusing on expanding So Kind Inside. She also has plans to launch another collection soon. Kayla also hopes that her products will be recognized by organizations dedicated to sensitive skin, such as the National Eczema Association. That kind of recognition, she says, would be significant as her brand is rooted in caring for and supporting people with sensitive skin. “Ultimately, my dream is to make So Kind Inside widely accessible and to see it evolve beyond skincare into more of a lifestyle brand that inspires people to embrace kindness, wellness, and confidence in every part of their lives,” Kayla says. h
By Terry L. Watson
Photos Provided by HOC
There is an organization located in the Upstate community of South Carolina that is making a difference.
Led by Rebecca and John Fabanwo, Heart of Compassion serves those in South Carolina and nationwide facing poverty and hardship by equipping churches/ agencies to provide non-food essentials to families in need. Many struggle to afford basic necessities like diapers, toilet paper, cleaning supplies, and soap—items often taken for granted but vital for dignity and well-being. Without them, families face difficult choices, and the stress of unmet needs can be just as overwhelming as food or housing insecurity.
“In July 2014, we stepped out in faith, moving from New York to Greenville, South Carolina. Later that year, on December 20, 2014, we were blessed to be married. Four years later, in 2018, Heart of Compassion (HOC) was born. The Lord gave me the vision during an outreach where we were helping a church serve its community. When I shared it with John, he immediately said, “Let’s do it.” With the love and support of others, Heart of Compassion was officially established in 2019,” Rebecca says.
Rebecca says that by God’s grace, she received my GED in February 2020. “I am deeply humbled and honored that God chose me to be the founder of Heart of Compassion.” John, with his Bachelor of Science degree, brings strength and leadership, and together, they are committed to serving others with love and purpose. “Above all, we give thanks to Jesus Christ, the true founder and sustainer of HOC.”
“ The Lord gave me the vision during an outreach where we were helping a church serve its community. When I shared it with John, he immediately said, “Let’s do it.”
Rebecca Fabanwo
Heart of Compassion was birthed from God’s divine purpose, working through the trials and tribulations of Rebecca and John. More than a decade ago, they faced difficult circumstances, struggling to meet even their most basic needs. Time and time again, they sought help from government agencies, churches, and community centers, only to be turned away or told to return later. Though assistance was available, it often felt just out of reach.
HOC’s mission is simple: To serve those in need. The organization provides other nonprofits and communities with nonperishable items, brand-new clothes and shoes, paper towels, toilet paper, toys, school supplies, hygiene products, home goods, baby items, and more. Today, they are blessed to serve over 40 churches and organizations that are members of their network, and are now shipping nationwide, sending truckloads of supplies to other states, even overseas to countries such as Ukraine, Uganda, the Dominican Republic, Zimbabwe, and more.
Rebecca shares, “Many Americans believe that government assistance provides everything a family in need requires, but this is far from the truth. Programs like SNAP only cover food, leaving families struggling to afford essential non-food items such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, laundry detergent, and hygiene products. Other necessities, like toilet paper, paper towels, and diapers, also fall outside of assistance programs, forcing families to make difficult choices. According to Feeding America, 58% of families living in poverty must cut back on food just to afford these basic essentials—highlighting the urgent need for support and compassion. Our mission is to bring relief and stability by equipping churches/agencies with nonperishable essentials to serve those in need with kindness and compassion. We strive to ease burdens by providing these necessary items while offering Christ-centered support, helping to restore dignity and break the cycle of poverty through love and provision.”
Rebecca shares that they are thankful for those who have stood with them on their journey. This includes Sister Faith, who she says prayed with them and helped with the name Heart of Compassion. She also acknowledges Mama Austria Hatcher, who believed in them and supported their beginning steps. She mentions Uncle Tom Whitted and their board members, whose leadership and encouragement keep HOC moving forward, as well as their dedicated volunteers, family, and friends who continue to serve faithfully.
Rebecca says the scripture that guides HOC is Proverbs 3:27–28 (KJV): “Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it. Say not unto thy neighbour, Go, and come again, and tomorrow I will give; when thou hast it by thee.” She adds, “We know what it feels like to need help and not receive it right away. That is why our hearts are committed to serving others with urgency, compassion, and love.
Information and Photos Provided by
Zoe Johnson
As a born and raised Memphian, Zoe Shalome-Inez Johnson was immersed in the music that names this city from a very young age. She grew up with two musicians for parents and a rapper for an older brother. When her mother discovered she had an ear for music and loved to sing, she started her journey through teaching piano, ear training, and music theory. When it was time for Zoe to go into middle school, she decided to choose orchestra as her elective.
Zoe shares, “I come from a musical family, talented in many instruments. My first instruments were voice and piano. While I was in the 5th grade, I chose elective classes for sixth grade. These were orchestra, band, choir, art, and physical education. I knew I did not want to play an instrument that requires you to use your mouth. So, I began playing the violin in the 6th grade in my orchestra class.” Along with gospel and her parents’ childhood music, Zoe listened to a lot of classical music as a child. She says her favorite composer growing up was Vivaldi. “I loved listening to his work with strings and concertos like “The Four Seasons.”
One of Zoe’s favorite genres of music as a small child was classical, and she particularly loved the masterpiece of Antonio Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. Zoe was in awe of the violin solos and the composition of the string instruments working together, so she chose the violin as her instrument.
Ever since then, that was her journey towards success. By the time of high school graduation in 2018, she had participated in the All-West regional orchestras four times in a row, All-State Tennessee high school symphony orchestra in April of 2018, selected for multiple honor festivals in Memphis and Clarksville, Tennessee, in honors orchestra at Collierville High School all four years, created her own string quartet that played in multiple locations around the city, and recorded her first song with her brother called “Free Indeed” by M.K.J. These are just to name a few. Zoe has now graduated with a Bachelor of Arts as of December 2023 from Austin Peay State University.
Zoe now spends her time teaching private lessons and performing all around Memphis and the surrounding areas. She shares, I am a private violin and viola teacher. I work at a local music store, and I also work as a freelance musician. Additionally, I am also planning to start my non-profit organization that focuses on teaching free music lessons to the underserved children of Memphis.”
Additionally, she is now blossoming into a field she never knew she did not think she had a gift for: composition. Now known as Avid Violin, Zoe is an original artist. On February 2, 2024, she released her very first song called “Dawn.” She now does arrangements and compositions for solos and string quartets. Zoe has recently become a contracted violist for the North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra based in Tupelo. Her first album was released this year. h
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