Aug./Sept. 2025
Vol. 2 Issue 2
Denver
Make Your Dreams Your Reality
A Letter From The Editor
There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!
A Letter from the Editor
A dream can only come to life or become a reality by applying action and effort to it. The human ability to produce millions and billions of ideas by the second is remarkable, yet the human body has often fallen short in its ability to sustain the mind’s pace and produce tangible results. Without proof or production, what’s left are merely busy bodies that are being driven by even busier minds. Sounds complicated, right? I thought the same.
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?
Most of what I have achieved or accomplished in life began in the form of a dream. When I was about 12 years old, I would stand on my dresser in my bedroom and act out musical performances that I had seen on television. Being a 70s baby, the talent that I saw was the real deal; Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, LL Cool J, Herbie Hancock..... I could go on and on, but for the most part, the talents of those musical legends and many more were impressed upon me, and I wanted to be just like them. Standing on my dresser and singing, yes, I was only dreaming. I learned way back then that singing was not what God had called me to do. I was dreaming, but by acting on my dream, it became my reality.
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.
Fast forward to the mid-90s, and I continued to pursue my dream of being a musical performer, with a strict focus on rap music. Looking back today, I am so appreciative that God didn’t allow me to go down that path, as the vision I had for myself as a rapper was different from what I see today. Still, in the 90s, I began recording music, and while I thought I was nice, that was not the same opinion that others had. It didn’t matter, though, and I continued to rap whenever the opportunity presented itself.
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.
The dream I had for being a musician would eventually fade away as life continued to happen for me. While I never lost my love for rap music, the genre of which I allowed my ears to enjoy would change to a more inspirational form, such as Gospel. I have been told that I have an old soul, and old-school Gospel music really resonated with me, so much so that I joined my church choir, led a few songs, and even wrote Gospel music. God knew better than me.
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.
I am so glad that I was able to find the beauty of my dream. If I had never stood on my dresser, recorded a few rap songs, and joined and sang with my church choir, I might not have realized what God had purposed for me. I encourage you to dream and dream on, and if you want to see your dream come to life, then apply action to it.
Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder
Terry L. Watson
Tamara Smith
Terry L Watson Publisher
Dr. Marrissa Dick Writer
Terry L. Watson Writer
Monica Montgomery Writer
Journey Grace Photographer Todd Youngblood Photographer Snuggs Photography Photographer
Aurora, CO
African Leadership Group
Fresno, CA
Papa Dia Central Valley Christian Counsel
Jamal Jones, LFMT
Tallahassee, FL
Providing Assistance for STEM
The Ralph W. Turner Foundation
Denise Burgess is scheduled to be the Keynote Speaker for the Colorado Black Chamber of Commerce’s 40th Anniversary Gala. Denver, CO
She is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one beautiful baby. Her name is Mina Alyssa Kennedy
Family. Faith Community Latorie S. Lloyd
Strategic Solutions, LLC Dr. Sherman Green
DeKalb County Development Dorian DeBarr
YLEAD, LLC Shanel Vrontez
Denise Burgess - Keynote Speaker
CBCC 40th Anniversary Gala
Get ready to celebrate excellence, community, and 40 years of impact!
The Colorado Black Chamber of Commerce is bringing back their premier signature event for an unforgettable evening. From the VIP reception to the awards program and dinner to the lively entertainment, this gala is more than a celebration—it’s a moment to connect with key business and community leaders, honor achievements, and envision the future together.
Join the CBCC in marking this milestone anniversary and be part of an extraordinary tradition that uplifts, empowers, and celebrates the best of Colorado’s Black business community. Let’s party like it’s 1985!
The keynote speaker for the CBCC 40th Anniversary Gala will be Denise Burgess. She is the President and CEO of Burgess Services, Inc., a Denver-based construction management firm. In 2017, she became the first African American Board Chair of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce. She has been recognized among the Top 25 Most Powerful Women by the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce and received the Davide E. Baily Small Business Advocate Award, among others.
After earning a journalism degree from the University of Northern Colorado and beginning her career in broadcast management, Denise joined her father, Clyde Burgess, at the family’s HVAC business in 1994. Following his passing, she transformed the company into a nationwide construction management firm and earned a construction management certificate from the University of Denver.
Under her leadership, Burgess Services has delivered major projects including the Denver Justice Center and the Westin Hotel at Denver International Airport—the latter awarded in 2017 as a $39 million contract, the largest of its kind to a woman- and minority-owned firm in Denver. The company continues work across Colorado with clients like the City of Aspen, City of Denver, and University of Colorado Boulder.
Denise attributes her success to strong support from family, her team, and her community, and remains deeply committed to giving back to Denver both personally and professionally.
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Papa Dia - Founder and President The African Leadership Group
Papa Dia is Founder and President of the African Leadership Group, an advocacy organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for African immigrants and members of the diaspora. Through social, economic, and educational empowerment programs, ALG helps families successfully integrate into their local community. A native of Senegal, Papa immigrated to Denver in 1998. He used his first job, stocking books, to teach himself how to read, write, and speak English. Beginning with an entry-level position in a local bank, over the next 17 years, Papa ultimately climbed the ranks to become a regional vice president.
In 2017, Papa left his banking career to focus his full attention on running and growing ALG.
Since its inception, ALG has organized multiple community events, engagements, and discussions with programs focused on key issues, such as education, career and job opportunities, Business Development, Immigration, Political and Community involvement, and many other activities regularly reaching thousands of individuals in the local community.
ALG advocates for the entire African Immigrant Community – across national origin, tribes, and language – to ensure continuous improvement to immigrants’ quality of life. h
www.usalg.org
Yourz by Dezign Events
By Terry L. Watson
Gequinn Mattox is a native of Pittsburgh, PA, but has called Denver, CO, home since 1984. In Denver, she is the owner of Yourz by Dezign Events, an Event Planning and Designing company. Her company specializes in classy and elegant corporate and social events, as well as weddings. In addition to event planning and design, she curates tablescapes for those intimate celebrations which she says are “dezigned uniquely for you”. Recently, her company launched its “At Your Service” concierge services. This new tool allows them the opportunity to handle every detail for their clients. Whether it’s a dinner party, a private flight to a luxurious destination, or a weekend of fun activities, Gequinn and her team are ready to serve.
Gequinn says her event planning journey began back in 1995. It was then that she planned the first Christmas party for her family. She adds, “My desire is to celebrate every moment in life surrounded by family and friends definitely came from my family. The vision of curating events in a classy and elegant way came about from watching my mother and my grandmother while growing up and even into adulthood. My mother was such a natural beauty and was always well-dressed. It made sense that this would be the vision for my passion.”
Gequinn shares that her childhood was filled with lots of love. She comes from a close-knit family, rooted in strong faith. Today, she is a blessed mother and grandmother, having one daughter and four grandsons.
“My desire is to celebrate every moment in life surrounded by family and friends definitely came from my family.”
Photos Provided by Gequinn Mattox
“I appreciate that when working with my clientele, they allow me to bring uniqueness and be intentional through dezign—every detail, every texture, every moment.”
In October 2024, and after 35 years of service, Gequinn retired from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, CO. “In this new chapter of my life, I am blessed to be able to live out my deep-rooted passion for event planning full-time,” she says.
Since 2021, Gequinn has been a member of the National Society of Black Wedding & Event Professionals. She also serves as the coDirector of Events on the Board of Directors, a role she says enables her to continue to do what she loves, but on a larger scale.
When asked what she loves most about what she does, Gequinn says it the chance she has to bring someone’s vision to life. “Curating elevated experiences that reflect the individuality and sophistication of my clients is incredibly rewarding. I also enjoy creating moments that people will remember for a lifetime. I appreciate that when working with my clientele, they allow me to bring uniqueness and be intentional through dezign—every detail, every texture, every moment. Every event is different, and it keeps me inspired, creative, and constantly learning.”
As a business owner, Gequinn has faced a few challenges. One she says was setting her pricing. “To overcome this, I had to shift my mindset and remind myself that the elevated service I provide isn’t just about logistics. It’s also about delivering an elevated experience, and it needs to be priced accordingly. Once I aligned my pricing with the value and transformation I bring, I started attracting clients who truly respected and appreciated the investment.” Another challenge she faced was building a team that could match her level of care and commitment. “I realized that excellence couldn’t just come from me; it had to be embedded in my company culture. I became intentional about finding people who not only had the skills but also shared my passion for service, attention to detail, and high standards,” she says.
For other aspiring event planners, Gequinn offers some sound business advice. She says, “Know your why. It will keep you grounded through the long days and unpredictable moments. Build relationships, and not just a contact list. Strong vendor relationships are a planner’s secret weapon. Be resourceful and not just creative. Challenges will come, and you must learn how to pivot gracefully and find solutions under pressure. Also, keep learning and stay inspired because the industry evolves constantly just like cell phones. Attend workshops, invest in education, and always look for ways to elevate your skill set. Most importantly, don’t just plan events; create experiences that people will remember forever. That’s where the magic is!.”
In the future, Gequinn hopes to expand her business and continue to impact her industry. She adds, “I’m focused on scaling Yourz by Dezign Events with intention, while staying rooted in the personalized, high-touch service we’re known for. We’re growing within the market by curating destination experiences, expanding our concierge offerings, and crafting events that are bold, elevated, and unforgettable. On a personal level, I also view this next chapter as one of legacy building. That includes mentoring emerging planners, especially women and creatives of color, who are ready to step into leadership and excellence in this industry.”
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Strategic Directions LLC Dr.
By Terry L. Watson
Photos Provided by Dr. Sherman Green
Dr. Sherman Green of Jackson, MS, describes himself as an encourager, accountability partner, great listener, and someone who always wants for other people to win. Aside from all of that, he is a transformative leader who has a heart to serve and help others.
Dr. Green is the CEO and Executive Life Coach of Strategic Directions. His company, launched in 2018, offers executive and personal life coaching, mentoring, and training services in large or group settings, as well as motivational speaking engagements.
“Executive coaching addresses the professional aspirations of the client. An individual in a leadership role has a responsibility to many people (shareholders, subordinates, the public, etc.),” Dr. Green says. “Because of this level of responsibility, the executive coach may suggest that the leader focuses on specific measurable outcomes as they impact their role in the business. For this coaching relationship, the measurement of success is directly related to the client’s professional achievements.”
With his Life Coaching tool, Dr. Green provides individual life coaching services to help others discern their purpose and meaning, make realistic goals, get organized and structured, work toward true fulfillment in life, and overcome life obstacles.
Dr. Green was raised in a single-parent family. He says his mother worked hard and instilled structured values into him and his older sister that were often found in two-parent homes. “My mother never made us feel as if we couldn’t have the same opportunities as other kids. We never went without. We always had clothes on our backs and food in our stomachs, and we were able to do a lot. We had to work hard, and we had to make good grades. I took that very seriously, and I wanted to honor her word as a kid, and it paid off in the long run,” he says.
My mother never made us feel as if we couldn’t have the same opportunities as other kids. We never went without. We always had clothes on our backs and food in our stomachs.”
The rise to get to where you want to be is not as simple as others make it out to be. When you are a Black man and working with people from different backgrounds, people are intimidated by you and the work that you bring.
Dr. Green graduated sixth out of 280 in his class from Callaway High School in Jackson, MS. That was in 2000. His next move landed him at Mississippi State University, and led a very active student life. He pledged Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., and was the Black Student Alliance President. He was a student recruiter, as well as an RA. In 2004, he graduated with his Bachelors Degree in Communication. In 2005, he was given the opportunity to be a Residence Director. That opportunity allowed Dr. Green to attend graduate school and live in an on-campus apartment at no cost. He would eventually obtain his Masters Degree in Counselor Education, before entering into Mississippi State’s PhD program in Community College Leadership. Dr. Green received his PhD in 2015. He received his life coaching certification from the Institute of Life Coach Training (ILCT). He is also certified in the assessment PeopleMap, which is designed to develop “people” skills within companies, build better relationships between employees, and help people maximize their potential. Dr. Green is also a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW) and specializes in creating résumés for individuals seeking a change in employment.
One of the things that Dr. Green says he loves most about what he does is the conflict resolution coaching. “This requires me to come into an organization and stand between the middle of the parties who are having differences. The inability of people to communicate effectively creates an opportunity for me and my services. The exercises that I offer allow people to learn how to communicate with one another. All of the work that I do, whether working with businesses or individuals, I truly enjoy it all,” he says.
Dr. Green says he is inspired mostly by his mother. He adds, “My mother was the trailblazer of her family. She grew up in a large family with seven siblings. She was the first one to go to college and see the benefits of getting a degree. She earned her Bachelors in 1977 and embarked on a career, achieving the things she had always wanted. I have such a high esteem for her because she told me that I could do it so many times. She also supported everything that I wanted to do. She taught me how to trust God and believe in His plan for my life. She has always shown me unwavering love, and I appreciate her for that.”
Being an educated Black man is a huge challenge, Dr. Green says. “I’ve been at several institutions at this point. The rise to get to where you want to be is not as simple as others make it out to be. When you are a Black man and working with people from different backgrounds, people are intimidated by you and the work that you bring.” When asked if there was anything that he would change in his career, Dr. Green says he would have pursued a career in Journalism. “That is what I wanted to do. Now that I have a podcast, I can meet people and interview them; however, I truly loved journalism,” he says.
Looking ahead, Dr. Green says he is looking forward to seeing how the relationships and connections that he has made will take him further up the totem pole. “The future looks pretty promising. There are other things that I want to accomplish, and I keep myself accountable throughout the process. I am pushing myself to limits that I have never seen, and more than anything, my future looks extremely beneficial to me.”
The Ralph W. Turner Foundation
The Ralph W. Turner Foundation is a beacon of opportunity, empowering minority students to thrive in STEM disciplines. By providing institutional endowments, academic scholarships, mentorship, and research fellowships, the Turner Foundation bridges the gap between dreams and achievements. Our aim is to equip the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators with the tools to excel and successfully matriculate through the academic curriculum and be prepared to pursue high-level science and research careers. To date the Turner Foundation has partnered and invested in bright minds at: Johson C. Smith; Florida A&M University; and North Carolina A&T State University. At the Ralph W. Turner Foundation, we are shaping a future in which diversity fuels STEM discovery and innovation.
By Terry L. Watson
Provided by Raplh W. Turner Foundation
Dr. Ralph W. Turner, Ph.D., a 3M Corporation - Distinguished Professor of Chemistry, left a legacy at Florida A&M University that continues to impact the lives of students and professionals. Dr. Turner held multiple administrative positions and coveted research posts at various universities across the country over hiş 60-year career in academia. His first love was being a faculty member and a professor of Chemistry. He served as the Dean of the Florida A&M University (FAMU) College of Arts and Sciences. He was responsible for managing an annual budget of a million dollars to operate the largest college on FAMU’s campus. In this position, Dr. Turner also provided governance for personnel, curricula, facilities, and all planning matters of the college, ensuring that each college unit maintained and exceeded specialized accreditation standards. Dr. Turner was also responsible for the procurement of other internal and external funds to adequately fund FAMU.
While at FAMU, Dr. Turner also implemented strategic plans in ways consistent with the school’s mission, and created and supported an intellectual and cultural environment that promoted faculty efforts in teaching, scholarship, and program development while ensuring compliance with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Even more, Dr. Turner has completed numerous publications such as the “Crystal and Molecular Structure of Metal lonAromatic Complexes, I” which was published in the Journal of The American Chemical Society and The Manual for Physical Science Students at Florida A&M University. Politically, he advocated for voter registration and awareness. For his untiring efforts, Dr. Turner was honored at the 3rd Annual Golden Democratic Recognition Luncheon sponsored by the Leon County Democratic Executive Committee.
Photos
Throughout his career, Dr. Turner served as a member of many academic societies and professional organizations including The American Chemical Society; The American Crystallographic Association, The American Association for the Advancement of Science, The Alpha Kappa Mu National Honor Society, The Research Society of America, The Beta Kappa Chic National Honor Society and The Phi Lambda Upsilon Scientific Honor Society. Truly, Dr. Turner distinguished himself as a noted researcher, higher administrator, and competent advisor to thousands of persons across the country. Dr. Turner also served as the Principal Investigator of the Florida-Georgia Alliance for Minorities in STEM (FGLSAMP), a grant through the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support (financial, academic performance, and graduate school preparation) students from underrepresented populations in STEM at 14 institutions of higher education located in Florida and Georgia. Dr. Turner was instrumental in securing more than $20 million in funding to support this program.
Dr. Turner was the youngest son of the Late Harry and Bessie Harris Turner of Blakely, Georgia. Dr. Turner was reared in the Allen Chapel community in Early County, GA, and progressed through local segregated schools there, eventually graduating valedictorian of The Washington High School in 1955. He completed his undergraduate studies in chemistry and mathematics at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, NC, graduating Magna Cum Laude. Dr. Turner went on to complete graduate and doctoral studies at the University of Pittsburgh (PA), and earned the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Physical Chemistry in 1965. Additionally, he completed his post-doctoral studies at the University of Wisconsin in Madison, WI, and the University of South Carolina in Columbia, SC.
Dr. Turner retired from FAMU after working there for nearly 50 years. Byron Greene, who serves as the Executive Director of the Ralph W. Turner Foundation, describes Dr. Turner from a personal and professional relationship that he shared with him. “The Ralph W. Turner Foundation is a culmination of a dream by Dr. Ralph W. Turner. He was an extraordinary educator who led others by example, embodying the values he wanted to see in them. He would stay on campus late at night to meet with students. He never saw a student that he didn’t believe could learn. Maybe they couldn’t learn Chemistry, but he believed they could still learn. His lifelong commitment is really what the foundation is all about. It is about giving students a chance to pursue degrees in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines,” Greene shares.
Pictured above: Ralph W. Turner High School Graduate Pictured above: Dr. Ralph W. Turner at FAMU
While Greene continues to reflect on the life of Dr. Turner, it becomes apparent that Dr. Turner had an impact on people. Greene shares how Dr. Turner had a knack for relating science, or at least chemistry, to everyday things. “I worked at FAMU while Dr. Turner was there, and we would talk regularly. I recall a conversation we had about paint. Dr. Turner asked me, “Why do you think that paint doesn’t fall to the floor when it is applied to a wall. It is because of chemistry and the chemical bonds between the substance of the paint and the wall”. Dr. Turner would relate science to everyday things that were all around us,” he says.
Greene adds that family was also very important to Dr. Turner. Growing up in Blakely, GA, Dr. Turner was surrounded by siblings who played a huge role in his upbringing. The love and nourishment would follow Dr. Turner to FAMU, as his presence on campus was life-changing. He advocated for colleagues and students and could always be found helping others. “That is who Dr. Turner was. He wasn’t a gatekeeper. His goal was to bring others up and open windows and doors of opportunity for others,” Greene says. “He even did that for me. Dr. Turner would often invite me to participate in high-level meetings. His goal was to prepare me for an eventual high-level administration role that I would have. Those experiences allowed me to see how the university worked and learn the dynamics of how those meetings worked. If he had a meeting, I had a meeting. I hope that he would be proud of where I am today.”
Meet Our Board
Board Chair Executuve Director Treasurer Board Member Board Member
Shalom W. Turner
Byron Greene
Brandon T. McCray
Yarileen Peña Sam Houston
Dr. Turner would often invite me to participate in high-level meetings. His goal was to prepare me for an eventual high-level administration role that I would have..... I hope that he would be proud of where I am today.
Byron Greene
The Ralph W. Turner officially began in 2020, and is an organization that funds minority students, assisting them in achieving excellence in study in Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Neuroscience, and Mathematics (STEM) at selected Historical Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Today, the focus of The Ralph W. Turner Foundation continues to be directed toward helping students along their journey of obtaining higher education. The foundation has established endowments at various universities. These include Florida A&M University and Johnson C. Smith University. They have also partnered with North Carolina A&T State University for a graduatelevel fellowship, supporting two students in the Chemical Engineering major. The foundation also provides between $15,000 and $25,000 per year to FAMU to support students directly.
Greene says the future of the Dr. Ralph W. Turner Foundation is to be a significant player and supporter of students pursuing degrees in STEM at HBCU’s. “We seek to expand our presence from FAMU and JCSU, and have several partnerships with colleges to be able to help students prepare to become leaders in the science and technology fields,” Greene says. The foundation is currently a two-million-dollar organization, but he sees it doubling that amount in the next few years. “We are actively talking with potential funding partners to help us prepare our organization for growth. We want to assist universities and institutions with professional development and analytical skills, and provide students a chance to meet others in their fields who look like them.”
To learn more about The Ralph W. Turner Foundation, please visit their website.
YLEAD, LLC
I am no longer a product of rejection.I am a carrier of resurrection.
By Terry L. Watson
Shanel D. Vrontez of Milwaukee, WI, is a woman called by God, shaped by pain, and propelled by purpose.
Shanel was born to a teenage mother and abandoned at the hospital. Her mother’s adoptive parents took Shanel in as a foster child, raising her through unimaginable loss and instability. At the young age of five, Shanel lost her grandmother, and at age 12, she lost her grandfather. At the age of 17, Shanel’s biological mother would also transition. In the years of her young life, Shanel would survive five foster homes, juvenile detention, and the aching question of identity that so many forgotten youth carry.
Faced with so many hurdles, Shanel possessed one weapon that would defeat all of them; her faith. “I’m a daughter of the Most High, a survivor turned speaker, a leader of leaders,” she says. Shanel earned her Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice (with a juvenile focus) from Harris-Stowe State University, and her Master’s in Organizational Leadership from Concordia University. Presently, she is completing her Master’s in Education at Bank Street College. Beyond titles, Shanel professes to be a voice for the voiceless, a bridge for the broken, and a builder of legacy through love, leadership, and liberation.
“While I have faced many challenges in life, God saw destiny in my chaos. He picked me up, cleaned me off, and gave me a voice,” Shanel says. “I’ve cussed, cried, fought, and fallen—but I’ve also gotten back up. Now I write, I speak, I preach, and I build. I am no longer a product of rejection; I am a carrier of resurrection.”
Amongst other things, Shanel is also business-minded and owns YLEAD, LLC, which stands for Youth Leadership, Empowerment, Advocacy & Development. She has recently launched SDV Ministries, LLC, as a spiritual extension of her work, where faith, purpose, and healing intersect.
Photos Provided by Shanel Vrontez
She shares the vision for YLEAD was born in 2017, but the roots go back to her own childhood. “I remember being a hurting child, surrounded by chaos and rejection, with nowhere safe to go— until I found Unity In The Community, a faith-based organization founded by Elder Gerald Saffold. That space was my saving grace. We sang, we traveled, we prayed, we wept, and we found strength in Christ together. It was there that I realized I wanted to create similar spaces for other children,” she says.
Shanel says that YLEAD was birthed from both pain and promise. It’s not just a business—it’s a response. A response to what she needed, and what she believes so many youth still need, which is safety, empowerment, and a path to healing. She adds that YLEAD, LLC provides Restorative practices training for schools and organizations, Youth leadership development through workshops, summits, and mentorship programs, - Faith-based experiences like youth revivals and healing circles, Trauma-informed coaching and curriculum for educators, churches, and youth workers, Consulting for schools, ministries, and nonprofits seeking to shift culture, reduce violence, and build equity.
When asked what she loves most about what she does, Shanel shares, “I love seeing the light come on in a young person who once believed they were worthless. I live for the moments when students, broken by life, realize they still have something to say, something to build, something to become. This work allows me to look my younger self in the eye through every child I serve.”
Shanel shares she draws inspiration from God. She is also inspired by every young person who shows up despite being told they’re not enough. “I’m inspired by my ancestors, those who survived so I could speak. I’m inspired by the elders like Elder Gerald Saffold who created spaces of healing and hope. I’m even inspired by my own scars, as they remind me that healing is not only possible, but contagious. Most importantly, I am inspired by the many women leaders who walked with me during different stages of my life. A few have gone on to be with the Lord and a few are still pouring into my life today.”
Starting YLEAD, Shanel says, happened with a few challenges. Yet, she faced them with faith. “I stepped out without financial backing, without investors, and often without institutional support. I had to learn to build while bleeding—to lead while still healing. I’ve faced judgment for being too bold, too faith-driven, too real. I’ve also leaned into authenticity and let that be my brand. I’ve prayed through obstacles, strategized through scarcity, and remained focused on impact over image. Every challenge became a classroom, and allowed the “no’s” to fuel me.”
The future looks bright for Shanel and YLEAD, LLC. As she focuses on expansion and elevation, her goal is to grow the organization into a national movement. Shanel also plans to launch SDV Ministries, LLC, and expand her faith-based impact. Additionally, she is writing her first book and building a curriculum that will transform schools and churches alike. “I’m believing God to provide a physical space, a leadership and healing center, for young people to grow, heal, and thrive. Most of all, I plan to keep walking in bold obedience and leading others to God, one soul at a time.” h
Dorian DeBarr
Decide DeKalb Development Authority
By Terry L. Watson
DeBarr
Dorian DeBarr is the President at Decide DeKalb Development Authority. In partnership with DeKalb County via an intergovernmental agreement (IGA), Decide DeKalb serves as the primary facilitator of business development and job growth throughout the county. Serving in this role since 2019, Dorian leads the organization in bringing and retaining firstclass businesses to the county, and remains committed to identifying a flourishing pathway to quality developments and job creation for a thriving quality of life for all DeKalb residents.
Dorian is a graduate of Georgia Southern University. There, he earned both his Bachelor of Business Administration and Master of Accounting degrees. Dorian is a certified public accountant (CPA) and an active member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Georgia Society of CPAs. The success Dorian has enjoyed as the President of Decide DeKalb Development Authority has only happened with the support of his amazing staff. Decide DeKalb Development Authority is the official economic development organization in DeKalb County.
Dorian has also guided the creation and implementation of Advance DeKalb, the Authority’s 501(c)(3) division. Advance DeKalb is responsible for raising funds over the next five years to promote inclusive job creation. Dorian is also credited with raising Decide DeKalb’s annual budget three times over. Even more, he has led Decide DeKalb to deliver unprecedented job growth in needed employment centers and overall county investments in 2019 and 2020.
Photos Provided by Dorian
“Economic Development is needed to ensure that families have what they need to thrive and survive in this country, in this state, the city, and even in DeKalb County.”
“Strong leaders depend on strong relationships,” Dorian says. It also requires action, and Dorian has and continues to deliver. One way has been fostering significant inroads in how key stakeholders perceive Decide DeKalb. Additionally, he created comprehensive and collaborative relationships that proved beneficial for all parties. In 2020, Decide DeKalb introduced a more equitable and inclusive housing policy co-authored and chaired by Dorian.
Prior to coming on board at Decide DeKalb, Dorian served as the chief financial officer (CFO) of Invest Atlanta. In his role there, he attracted investments to Atlanta’s most underserved communities.
Why Economic Development and why DeKalb County? When asked this question, Dorian shares, “Economic Development is needed to ensure that families have what they need to thrive and survive in this country, in this state, the city, and even in DeKalb County. In DeKalb County, we have a great group of citizens and families. We are one of the top counties and the best places for families to be in the state of Georgia, and that is only possible with the support, participation, and leadership that exists here. As a native of DeKalb County, I know what it looks like to be counted out. I know what it looks like to be underserved. I am most excited about providing opportunities to others who need them here in DeKalb County. That is why it’s so important to me.”
Dorian shares that he draws inspiration from seeing the impact of the organization he leads in the community of DeKalb. “The privilege that I have enjoyed over the last 15-20 years has opened my ears and eyes and provoked me to continue to search for ways to build up and improve the quality of our community,” he says.
Looking ahead, Dorian says he will continue to look for ways and methods to do his job better. With the support of his team, The Decide DeKalb Development Authority will be on the frontline to meet the needs of DeKalb County, which includes attracting new businesses or finding additional resources and tools for the existing ones.
To learn more about The Decide DeKalb Development Authority, please visit their website.
Central Valley Christian Counsel Jamal Jones, LMFT
By Terry L. Watson
Photos Provided by Jamal Jones
Jamal Jones, of Fresno, CA, is a man of faith, raised as the son of a pastor. At the young age of 13, Jamal accepted Christ as his Lord and personal saviour. Since then, Jamal shares that everything he has pursued in life, whether academic, athletic, public speaking, or therapy, has always been motivated by his love for God and people.
In addition to being a dedicated husband to Mattie, a father to Grace, and a leader, friend, and mentor, Jamal is the face and founder of Central Valley Christian Counsel. Within his practice, Jamal specializes in various areas, including Therapy for Entrepreneurs, Depression Therapy, Anxiety Therapy, Christian Marriage Counseling, and more. Launched in 2019, Jamal has enjoyed the opportunities he’s had to help high-achieving Christian professionals overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems. “No matter where they start on their journey to mental and spiritual wellness, I aim for my clients to find clarity, confidence, and courage in the areas of their life that matter most,” he says.
Jamal specializes in supporting entrepreneurs and therapists in private practice, leveraging my expertise as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), small business owner, and Growth Coach. He also offers nontraditional mental health and coaching solutions tailored to his client’s unique needs, providing a unique approach that blends faith, psychology, and proven business, marketing, sales, and entrepreneurship strategies. “My mission is to help you achieve optimal impact, profitability, and balance in your personal and professional life,” he says.
Jamal’s areas of expertise include Entrepreneurial Mental Health, Emotionally Focused Therapy for Entrepreneurs, Therapist Coaching and Growth, Faith-Based Mental Health and Coaching, Group Therapy for Entrepreneurs, and Money and Financial Psychology. With their Black Therapist tool, Central Valley Christian Counsel seeks to provide people of color a safe place to talk about the microaggressions they experience. “As a person of color, you have different life experiences and perspectives than many of your counterparts. The breadth and depth of your trauma and anxiety are indescribable, and oftentimes, your emotional pain feels unbearable. You may have grown increasingly concerned about your ability to cope with the daily stressors of life. Racial Trauma impacts your thoughts, mood, feelings, and behaviors in more ways than you can imagine. This, and
“No matter where they start on their journey to mental and spiritual wellness, I aim for my clients to find clarity, confidence, and courage in the areas of their life that matter most.”
other stressors in your life, may be affecting your physical health with conditions such as headaches, difficulty concentrating, higher blood pressure, or even panic attacks,” Jamal says.
Seeking treatment with a Black therapist can be a healthy outlet for working through such challenges. Even more, finding a person of color therapist who will empathize with their pain, affirm their identity, and remind them they’re not crazy can make the therapeutic experience more meaningful and productive. Research shows that Racial Trauma impacts our thoughts, mood, feelings, and behaviors in more ways than one can imagine. This, and other stressors in our lives, may be affecting our physical health with conditions such as headaches, difficulty concentrating, higher blood pressure, or even panic attacks. Jamal recalls a time when he was in therapy. “I was going to a local, faith-based therapist in Fresno. She was a white therapist. I had a moment during my session where I expressed that I didn’t want someone to be offended or intimidated by me. The therapist shared that she couldn’t connect or relate to what I was feeling. I realized then how important it was for me, and people of color, to be able to have a relatable therapist.”
Jamal’s decision to become a therapist is in response to God’s call on his life to accomplish all God has set out for him to do. He shares how life was for him as a young boy. “I am the youngest of five kids, and I had the advantage of profiting from some of the mistakes of my older siblings. I was the more compliant child, and I was the first child to obtain a college degree. At age 13, I went to a Church Camp, and I made a decision that I would practice abstinence. That was a way I wanted to show God my loyalty to Him. This was also during a time when people in my community of East Oakland were adamant about representing their set, hood, or whatever. I decided that the same way people were representing their sets or hoods, I wanted to represent Christ. That mentality catapulted me through high school and college. When I got to college, I was a Christian-Student Athlete. I also became a pastor, and I was excited to serve in ministry full-time.”
What Jamal says he loves most about what he does is being able to operate in his purpose. He adds, “The nature of what I do is suicide prevention and intervention. I am a container for grief and loss and all types of Trauma, and there is power when people, whether they are Christians or not, have a space to talk about parts of their lives that are dark and secret, and need someone professional and confidential to walk alongside them with grace, love, and mercy. As I experience the grace and love of God in my life, I appreciate the opportunity to extend that to others,” he says.
When asked if there is anything he would change about the way his journey has happened in business, Jamal’s response is focused on the business aspect of his profession. “I wish that I had learned more about the business of therapy. We receive extensive training as mental health providers, but the business side was not available,” he says.
In the future, Jamal has set his sights on scaling his brand. “In my therapy practice, I am currently working on a marriage mastermind to answer the growing need for marriage counseling. I am also working on a program called “Mind Over Media”. We are creating a group to help address the issues we are dealing with due to today’s climate, which is causing a lot of anxiety. Additionally, I am creating a mastermind for other therapists to want to create and sell premium therapy packages.”
In addition to Central Valley Christian Counsel, Jamal has published several books and serves as a Business Coach. To learn more about Central Valley Christian Counsel, please visit their website.
Faith. Family. Community
By Terry L. Watson
Photos Provided by Journey Grace Photography
Rooted in service and driven by vision, Latorie S. Lloyd is a catalyst for community growth through business, education, and leadership.
Born and raised in Moncks Corner, SC, Latorie is a woman of great vision and shares her gifts on many different platforms: business and entrepreneurship, public service, education, and community service. She is a current member of the Moncks Corner Branch of the NAACP, Charleston Area REALTIST Association, The Coastal SC Women’s Council of Realtors, The Berkeley Chamber of Commerce, and the South Carolina Women’s Leadership Network.
Latorie previously served as an Executive Board Member with the local and state chapters of the American Business Women’s Association, and continues to be a member. She has served with Father to Father, Inc., and as the National President of the American Business Women’s Foundation. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, the Order of the Eastern Stars, and Grace Reformed Episcopal Church.
Having nearly three decades of experience in early childhood education and small business development, there are many brands that can be credited to Latorie. These include Aspire Early Learning Academy, Suite One Sixteen Business and Event Studio, Corner Bay Properties & Management, Latorie Lloyd & Company Consulting Firm, and Platinum Vacations and Tours Travel Agency.
What is more impressive, Latorie has a Master of Arts in Management and Leadership, a Bachelor of Business Administration, and an Associate of Arts in Public Service with a concentration in Early Care and Education. She is a licensed Real Estate Agent, holds a Child Care Management Certification, and a Travel Agent Certification. Additionally, she is a Certified Trainer for South Carolina Endeavors, which is the early childhood governing agency for trainers in the State of South Carolina. Latorie has received several accolades over the course of her career, including being named as one of South Carolina’s 2018 Top 20 Under 40 with the SC Black Pages. She was also awarded the 2019 National American Business Woman of ABWA.
Knowing that my love, generosity, and dedication are planting seeds for the future inspires me to wake up and pursue my passion every single day.”
Aspire Early Learning Academy is a boutique-style early learning facility offering small group settings for children ages 2–5 in nurturing, loving environments. Established by Latorie in 2012, the academy proudly operates in four South Carolina locations in West Columbia, Lexington, Columbia, and Moncks Corner.
Latorie says her journey with caring for children began when she was in the seventh grade and babysat her cousins and neighborhood kids. She shares, “In college, I worked in an after-school program while studying education, which further refined my skills. Over the years, I worked for several childcare programs, many with over 100 children enrolled. That experience sparked a desire to create something more intimate — a “home away from home” for children to receive individualized attention in a warm, community environment.”
As Latorie’s journey continued, her apparent calling and purpose would continue to be revealed to her. She says, “While working as the Director of a church-based child care center in Columbia, I felt it was time to step into my own vision. That was a challenging moment for me, as I had no savings, limited credit, and only $37 in my account. Still, I knew it was my season. During my birthday week, I found a building on Craigslist, contacted the owner, and shared my vision. He believed in me, held the space until my next payday, and worked with me for the first 10 months while I built my business. I kept working my full-time job during that time, using one paycheck for household expenses and the other to build the business. Ten months later, I opened with six children. Within six months, we were full with 20 children enrolled and two teachers. Today, Aspire Early Learning Academy serves approximately 150 children, employs 30 staff members, and operates in four thriving communities.”
Her other brand, Suite One Sixteen, is an intimate and affordable event center that serves families and businesses in Moncks Corner, providing a welcoming space for celebrations, business and social meetings, and community gatherings. Corner Bay Properties, Latorie shares is her personal property management company, and she oversees rental properties she owns across South Carolina. Platinum Vacations and Tours is Latorie’s independent travel agency which operates under the InteleTravel umbrella. With this, Latorie creates custom travel experiences specializing in domestic and international vacations, group travel, and family reunion coordination.
As if Latorie didn’t already have a full plate, mother of two young men, Jakari and Lance, and Dog Mom to Deuce, she has found the time to serve as a Council Member for the Town of Moncks Corner. She is the author of Aspire in Your Pursuit and the co-author of The A2Z of Early Childhood Management, and has served as a Notary Public for the State of South Carolina for over 27 years. Latorie volunteers her time by serving as a Board Member with Grace Impact Development Center, Inc., and Vice Chair and Executive Committee Board Member of I AM VOICES.
Latorie shares she appreciates the opportunity she’s been afforded to impact the lives of children and families in her community. “Knowing that my love, generosity, and dedication are planting seeds for the future inspires me to wake up and pursue my passion every single day,” she says. Her ultimate mission is to break cycles of poverty and pain for her family. That is one of the reasons why she is so inspired to grow daily and live fully in what God has planned for her. “My goals include achieving financial freedom, traveling the world, and inspiring other women to pursue their dreams boldly,” she said.
Owning and managing a business undoubtedly comes with its share of challenges. For Latorie, she says some have been finding and retaining trustworthy team members. Other challenges have been balancing multiple businesses with family responsibilities and personal time , and staying focused on growing my current businesses without chasing every new idea. To manage these, Latorie has built strong leadership structures. For Aspire ELA, she relies on a regional leader who supports her Directors, empowering them to set the culture in her centers. For Suite One Sixteen, Latorie has dedicated an hour daily to priorities and inquiries. She accomplishes this with help from her mother and son for set-up, breakdown, and admin tasks. Latorie also admits she is working toward a better work-life balance and not working on evenings and weekends.
Her two sons, Jakari and Lance, she explains, have shaped her life and career more than anything else. She says, “My first son, my ‘game changer’, was born when I was 23. I was a single mother with no clear path forward , and he made me see life through a new lens. Six years later, my second son arrived, and I became even more determined to work twice as hard to provide for them both.
It is obvious that Latorie is someone who believes in going the extra mile, working hard, staying humble, and always being a student. More than anything, Latorie enjoys advocating for children of all ages and serving families. Her favorite scripture is Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” She also enjoys traveling the world to broaden her horizons, knowledge, and wisdom.
Her advice to others who may follow a similar path as hers is as follows. “Your journey is yours alone, and don’t measure your success by someone else’s story. Document your goals and systems so you can delegate effectively and steer your vision. Also, give yourself grace, and stay engaged with your business even during seasons of burnout. Finally, always remain a student, because the moment you stop learning is the moment you stop growing.”
Looking ahead, she plans to expand Aspire Early Learning Academy across South Carolina, open additional event centers, and purchase more rental properties. On a personal level, Latorie shares she is looking forward to traveling, enjoying time with her family, and, God willing, sharing life with a loving partner in a healthy marriage. h
www.aspireearlylearningacademy.com
Mina Alyssa Kennedy
The daughter of Christopher and MacKenzie Kennedy
