There Is Always A Reason To Be Happy
A Letter From The Editor
There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!
A Letter from the Editor
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.
Terry
L. Watson
Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder
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Gary, IN
First-Ever Female Leadership
First Baptist Men of Honor
Merry Green continues to pour her heart into her community. Learn more about The 30th Anniversary of The Black Women’s Expo Chicago, IL
Indianapolis, IN
Indiana Black Expo
Pheonix, AZ
SugarJam Southern Kitchen
Dana Dumas
He is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one beautiful baby. His name is Sebastian Neal
& Rebecca
& Exhale
Shana-Lee Scott
Kind Inside Kayla Allen
First Baptist, Gary’s Oldest Church, Makes History with Installation of First-ever Female Leadership
History is on the horizon for Gary’s oldest religious institution. First Baptist will officially install Nicole P. Guns as the church’s first-ever female pastor the weekend of October 17th through 19th. Guns is a sixth generation licensed and ordained minister and the second Black woman to serve as pastor of a baptist church in the state of Indiana.
A nurse by trade, minister by calling and training, Guns revealed that she did not expect her spiritual journey to lead to Gary, Indiana, especially after being a lifelong Virginian. She characterizes her arrival to the Steel city as “Literally and truly a God thing.”
“Sometimes God laughs at our plans,” said Guns. “I knew staying in Virginia would be easier due to the long legacy of faith leaders in my family, which include my father, grandfather, grandmother and others. However, I recognize the spirit of rebirth taking place in Gary, and I’m both honored and excited to lead First Baptist as one of the many community partners in the city’s growth.”
With more than 15 years of experience as a psalmist, Rev. Guns has served in a variety of ministerial roles including youth pastor at Mt. Hope Baptist Church in Fredericksburg, VA and College and Young Adult Pastor at Second Calvary Baptist Church in Norfolk. She has also participated in international mission efforts in Kenya and Nigeria and has led multiple tours to the Holy Land.
In 2024, Rev. Guns was appointed Assistant General Secretary of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. one of the highest ranking roles held by a woman in the organization. Guns was officially elected as pastor of First Baptist Church on May 18, 2025.
Guns earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Hampton University and a Master of Divinity degree from Virginia Union University. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry from Virginia University of Lynchburg.
Guns has been working with the deacon board, the Installation Services committee and other church members to successfully transition into a role that she continues to express her excitement over. Rev. Guns also indicated that great plans are in store for First Baptist Church including the expansion of its technology infrastructure and music ministry.
“God operates in God’s timing,” added Guns. “He has clearly let me know that my time to serve in Gary, Indiana is now.”
Installation praise and worship services will be streamed live via the First Baptist Church Facebook page. For more information about installation activities, tickets and sponsorship opportunities, call 219-883-3216 or send an email to garyfbc1908@gmail.com.
Installation Services Are As Follows:
Friday, October 17 at 6:00 p.m.
Installation Banquet
The Chateau
530 W. 61st Avenue
Merrillville, IN
Speaker: Pastor R. Janae Pitts-Murdock
Light of the Word Christian CenterIndianapolis, IN
Saturday, October 18 at 10:00 a.m.
Installation Service
First Baptist Church
626 W. 21st Avenue
Gary, IN
Speaker: Dr. Geoffrey V. Guns
Second Calvary Baptist Church - Norfolk, VA
Sunday, October 19 at 10:00 a.m.
Praise and Worship Service
First Baptist Church
626 W. 21st Avenue
Gary, IN
Speaker: Bishop John E. Guns
St. Paul Church - Jacksonville, FL
Information obtained from Chelsea Whittington
12th Annual Elkhart Chapter of Indiana Black Expo Men of Honor
The Elkhart Chapter of Indiana Black Expo (IBE) honored men who gathered the community to succeed against all odds.
IBE, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has been a pillar of the African-American community for decades. As a yearround, multifaceted community service organization with 12 chapters, IBE works to create and advance opportunities for families in central Indiana.
IBE celebrates unity and social impact across all races, ethnicities, nationalities, generations, socioeconomic levels and religious affiliations.
This year’s honorees are very special to us our them working together works is made special by this group of men and are key to this city’s growth and sucess.
The history our community depends on men like this. This year the Elkhart Chapter will honor the life and legacy of The Rev Nichols Cossey & Rev Thedois Hadley.
Regina Beard, RN Dr. VicTory 4 Kidz
By Terry L. Watson
Photos Provided by Dr. Regina Beard, RN
Without question, Dr. Regina Beard, RN, loves people. As life has dealt her a few daunting obstacles, she hasn’t wallowed in them, but instead has made it her mission to be a clarion example of what resilience and determination can achieve.
Born in the midwestern community of Gary, IN, Dr. Beard professes that she was a failing student in high school. Yet, she persevered and would become a first-generation college graduate, and the very first in her immediate family to own a business. At the age of 20, Dr. Beard was the mother of two children. Being a young mother came with a lot of responsibility, and she was intent on providing a secure life for her family. Dr. Beard recalls that while she was a freshman at Andrean High School, her teacher, Coach Bob Buscher, gave her an assignment to explore a future career. “I told my dad, and he told me to become the kind of nurse who puts patients to sleep. My dad told me to become a CNA, and then a LPN, and instructed me to follow that with becoming an RN. I was so intrigued that I did the research and called Methodist Northlake, a local hospital, to find out more, and learned the correct title for that kind of nurse is a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). It also required a Masters Degree. I would eventually fail Biology and decide that nursing wasn’t for me, and give up on that dream.”
Life would continue to happen for Dr. Beard. In the back of her mind, her dream of becoming a nurse continued to fester, and she would seek new ways to fulfill that dream. “In 2003, I became intentional about my walk with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It was a new journey and I was on fire for the Lord. All I wanted was to be in His presence and will. I was going through a fasting series with my church titled “Daring to Dream Again.” That journey showed me that I had given up on my God-given dreams. I also realized that my dreams as a person were limited. I wanted more, but didn’t know where to start. My new journey provided the tools to deepen my walk with Christ, and I began to utilize principles in the Bible to transform my life. I prayed to God about what He wanted me to do, and soon had a dream about going into the nursing program. I took all of my practical nursing courses at Ivy Tech, but still, I wasn’t accepted into the nursing program, and I
“My new journey provided the tools to deepen my walk with Christ, and I began to utilize principles in the Bible to transform my life.”
began to doubt my dreams. I would eventually take the test to get into the program three times, and still wasn’t accepted. I was in my last prerequisite when I overheard a couple of classmates discussing a new 16-month practical nursing program. I prayed to God to confirm if He wanted me to go in this direction. I also met with Purdue University and Brown Mackie to inquire more about their programs, and Brown Mackie said that I would only require 11 months with credit from my prerequisites at Ivy Tech. Purdue told me that as long as I passed NCLEX, I would be eligible to attend their program. That news was major, and I realized that I would be able to complete the PN program at Brown Mackie, pass the NCLEX, and eventually obtain my Associate’s Degree from Purdue and become an RN. I enrolled and earned A’s and B’s, and completed the program in 2006,” Dr. Beard says. She would return to school to get her other degrees, including a doctorate in Nursing. “Earning my Doctorate Degree wasn’t a part of my dream, it was God’s. God desires to use this degree for His glory.”
Fully armed academically, Dr. Beard set her sights on serving others. Today, in Hobart, IN, she manages several businesses, including a non-profit organization. One of her businesses is VicTory Training, which provides Healthcare Training for Nurse Aides, Qualified Medication Aides, Dental Assistants, Medical Assistants, Phlebotomists, Pharmacy Techs, and Electrocardiogram (EKG) Techs. Dr. Beard shares that VicTory Training came from one of the lowest seasons of her life. She was an unemployed Nurse and was taking care of her father, who was dealing with terminal cancer. “I realized that I had something living inside of me that every time I turned to it, it would prosper. I also realized that one of my greatest attributes is teaching, and I decided to use that gift to make money,” she shares. Dr. Beard began teaching her Nurses Aide course in 2015.
Another business that Dr. Beard owns is VicTory at Home-Indiana Home Care Agency. With this, she provides attendant care (bathing and grooming) and homemaker services (light housekeeping and cooking) for her clients. “We are dedicated to providing safe, caring and understanding companionship, personal care, skilled care and home support services to physically-challenged, convalescing and dependent individuals of all ages in the comfort of their own homes,” she says.
Her non-profit organization, VicTory 4 Kidz, encourages young people to fall in love with healthcare careers. Founded in 2022, VicTory 4 Kidz aims to inspire young children to pursue healthcare careers by exposing them to various healthcare careers. The program offers camp sessions, including a oneweek-long camp for children aged 10-13 years old. They also collaborate with various individuals and organizations to teach student campers valuable skills that will benefit them throughout their daily lives. “We teach, we inspire, and we transform,” Dr. Beard says. VicTory 4 Kids also hosts Healthcare Career Expos throughout the midwest, and are currently seeking new areas to host them.
With all of her academic and even personal accomplishments in life, Dr. Beard continues to find ways to serve others. Possibly, her actions and interests are a result of her life’s journey. Regardless, Dr. Beard is living by purpose. “I am committed to having a lasting and profound impact on my community. My faith in God is what continues to drive and push me. I also find inspiration in my father, mother, aunt Monica Beard, and Maynard Beard Jr. I also draw inspiration from my grandmothers, my children, and spiritual leaders, including the late Apostle Jo Ann Long, Archbishop William Hudson III, and Prophet Andria Hudson,” she shares.
Most recently, she was honored as the NWI Non-Profit Influential Woman of the Year by the Northwest Indiana Influential Association for Women (NWI-IAW). As she looks to the future, she is focused on securing a legacy for her family, businesses, and organizations. “My desire is for them not to ever return to where we started. The goal is for us to ensure that our rental properties provide subsidized housing for a family or young mother to change the trajectory of their lives,” she says.
Her advice to others who may follow a similar path in life as hers is to pray and seek God’s will for your life. “Be obedient about living a lifestyle that is pleasing and acceptable to Christ. You don’t have to believe in the vision, but if you’re obedient, you will see the vision come to pass.”
VicTory Training, LLC
409 North Wisconsin Street Hobart, IN 46342
219-806-5383
www.victorytraining.net
VicTory At Home
409 North Wisconsin Street Hobart, IN 46342
219-806-5383
www.victoryathome.net
VicTory 4 Kidz
409 North Wisconsin Street Hobart, IN 46342
219-806-5383
www.victory4kidz.net
The National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum
Celebrating Years
Earlier this year, the National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum (NAPRPPRM) announced the launch of a yearlong celebratory campaign honoring the 100th Anniversary of the founding of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters (BSCP) as the first Black labor union and the museum’s 30th anniversary. On August 8th, 2025, representatives of the A. Philip Randolph Institute visited the museum, which was founded by Randolph in 1965.
Founded in 1925, the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters holds a pivotal place in American labor history as the first Black labor union in America to be chartered under the American Federation of Labor (AFL). Organized and co-founded by the legendary labor organizer and civil rights leader, A. Philip Randolph and a group of dedicated porters fought tirelessly for the rights and dignity of their members, who endured harsh working conditions and discrimination. The union’s formation marked a significant step towards the advancement of labor, civil rights, and equity for African Americans.
Located within the boundaries of the Pullman National Historical Park in Chicago, Illinois, the NAPRPPM itself made history. Founded in 1995 by Dr. Lyn Hughes, the museum stands as the only formally established Black Labor History Museum in the world dedicated to celebrating the legacy of Asa Philip Randolph, the BSCP, and the vital contributions of African American laborers in America. This is done through exhibits, educational programs, and community outreach. In essence, the museum preserves the history and honors the sacrifices of those who fought for social justice, labor, and civil rights.
“With celebrating this anniversary in American history, we reflect on the legacy created by A. Philip Randolph and John Mills, the visionaries who founded the Chicago branch,” said Dr. Hughes. “We are fueled and inspired by the enduring impact of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters and the ongoing mission of the museum to educate and inspire future generations.”
Dr. Lyn Hughes Founder
While some viewed the job as menial, the legacy of the work of Pullman Porters exudes ethnic perseverance and selfdiscipline, characteristics that would set the stage for what would become the foundation of the Black middle class. Hughes went on to discuss the challenges faced as the museum expansion project unfolds. “The year 2025 has been bittersweet, yet exciting,” added Hughes. “In any situation when an attempt is made to effect change, resistance is expected. As the only museum in the nation bearing the names of these trailblazers, there have been a plethora of roadblocks as our supporters and I sought authorization and funding to expand the campus. After a 16-month wait, we finally received a building permit, and the museum’s expansion construction is off to a fantastic start.” Plans for expansion include the creation of “A. Philip Randolph’s Way,” the first Black labor Tourism District in the United States.
Dr. David Peterson, President and Executive Director of the museum, emphasized that although obstacles may sometimes be a part of the process, the team’s resilience has carried them through. “While our 30-year-old museum is under construction, this has not stopped us from consistently honoring and keeping the legacy of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, and union organizer and co-founder A. Philip Randolph, alive to the American public,” said Peterson. “We are not just a museum. We are the new face of cultural economic development.” Dr. Peterson was appointed President of the National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum in 2009.
Dr. David Peterson President and Executive Director
Even during expansion construction, tour buses filled with excited visitors randomly pull up to snap pictures of the museum’s exterior, which features an iconic mural of Randolph and the porters on the building’s exterior. The 2024 Visitor Attendance Overview, touts the annual visits as 179,869. The question is frequently asked, “How can that be?” because that is more than the National Park Service’s site.
“It is because we operate a little differently than other museums,” recounted Peterson. “Because our operating budget is not funded with government funds, we had to rely solely on an entrepreneurial model. We have spent the last 30 years cultivating and building a multi-cultural international tourism base, while the National Park Service in Chicago only came into existence 10 years ago.”
Additional facets of the museum expansion include the Reverend Jesse Jackson Civil Rights Wing, the creation of the Pullman Porters Row, and the Dr. Lyn Hughes BSCP Ladies’ Auxiliary-Women’s History Museum. It will essentially become the first Black Labor Tourism District in America.
To continue the community engagement phase of the project, critical partnerships are starting to emerge with organizations like Acclivus, Inc., and A Bridge to Freedom. These entities seek to create local hiring opportunities, ensuring that local residents and exoffenders are introduced to careers in the trades.
“Our goal is to create a strategic partnership with the Institute and work collaboratively to continue to preserve the legacy of A. Philip Randolph,” said Hughes.
In 1995, Dr. Lyn Hughes founded the National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum in Chicago’s Pullman National Historic District. Dr. Hughes is an author, speaker, and activist-scholar and has immeasurable contributions helping to rebuild community pride by generating a combined interest in History, the Arts, Cultural Heritage Tourism and Historic Preservation utilizing the inspiring legacy of A Philip Randolph and the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters and Maids.
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Heart of Compassion Compassion, Community, Connectedness
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.
So Kind Inside Skincare Made with Kindness
“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
Breathe & Exhale 360
By Terry L. Watson
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.”
Photos Provided by Shana-Lee Scott
https://mail google com/mail/u/3/#inbox/QgrcJHsTgsbSGWpfdwNpTMkZgTHqqtPPsTG?projector=1
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
Huami Magazine On The Road
30th Anniversary Black Women’s Expo
Chicago, IL August 2nd, 2025
Sebastian Neal
The son of Brian Neal and Leann Marion
SugarJam The Southern Kitchen
By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Dana Dumas
Dana Dumas is the founder, head chef, and CEO of SugarJam The Southern Kitchen, SugarJam Cookies, LLC, and SJ Concepts, LLC.
Dana hails from New York City and moved to Arizona in 2002. She is a degreed educator with an extensive corporate background from the toy industry to fashion, NASCAR, and travel. However, in 2011, as a new mother of fraternal twin boys, Dumas began the SugarJam brand when she combined her corporate business background and love of baking into SugarJam Cookies, LLC. Dana quickly grew her customer base with a modern twist on a cookie of the past, a jam-filled sugar cookie sandwich. She expanded her baked good offerings and was featured in several craft fairs, festivals, arts shows, and more across the Valley.
In 2014, Dana opened her first brick-and-mortar shop, SugarJam Bakeshop and Bistro, located in Scottsdale Airpark, which served light breakfast, lunch, and baked goods. That same year, she launched a vintage-style bakery trailer that emerged into the food truck scene. With business booming, Dana expanded her offerings to include weekend brunch at the Bistro that drew in even more business, which also led her into catering. This growth allowed her to understand her business and realize what she truly wanted.
Dana’s present-day concept, SugarJam The Southern Kitchen, officially opened in January of 2021 in a different location within the Scottsdale Airpark. SugarJam The Southern Kitchen is a Southern-inspired restaurant based in North Scottsdale with a full bar and bakery that offers crafted brunch and weekday lunch.
With SugarJam The Southern Kitchen, Dana Dumas has created a unique brunch experience designed for all to enjoy. The brunch restaurant features Southern-inspired breakfast, lunch, baked goods, and cocktails. The food, vibe, and décor will make you feel as if you have been transported into the modern South with a twist of New York City.
“My grandparents, who are no longer with me, but their spirit presides over me every day. I am a woman of faith, and without God, none of what I do could be possible.”
“In order to thrive, one must be true to their own cause; you must believe in what you do and be respectful to all who have helped along your journey.”
SugarJam has quickly become known for its “Brunch N’ Vibes” weekend experience. Every Friday through Sunday, guests can come enjoy some delicious Southern brunch, craft cocktails and mimosas, sweet treats, and SugarJam’s resident DJ playing all the greatest hits. The word about SugarJam and its Brunch N’ Vibes experience has spread through local media, print publications, and has garnered large growth on social media platforms. The restaurant has travelers from around the country and local guests who book reservations 30–60 days out to experience its weekend “Brunch N’ Vibes”.
Under the leadership direction of Dana, SugarJam The Southern Kitchen was recognized in 2024 by Ebony Magazine as one of the Top 45 Restaurants in the US; she is also a 2024 Titan100 CEO; 2023 & 2024 named #1 Brunch in Arizona; 2023’s Top 100 restaurants in Arizona by Phoenix New Times and 2024 NAACP Woman of The Year (Maricopa Branch, AZ).
Dana is affirming her power as an African American Woman business owner who employs all ethnic groups and ensures that equal opportunities are open to everyone, including members of the LGBTQ+ community. She is also paving the way for women in her company to have leadership roles, with 98% of her management team being women. Dana has experienced tremendous growth in the last 13 years, and that is reflected in her focus on an inclusive environment, giving opportunities to marginalized people.
In the bias of the male-dominated restaurant industry, Dana has witnessed this industry not giving accolades to all the women who blaze the way in the shadows of the men who are in the forefront. In most cases, you do not see African American women in leadership or ownership roles, especially with high revenue numbers. African American women make up less than five percent of representation in the restaurant and hospitality industry.
Dana herself is a pioneer, laying the groundwork and shattering ceilings as the first African American woman business owner in the Scottsdale Airpark with her first and second restaurant concepts. Dana has worked tirelessly from the small beginnings of annual gross revenues of $60,000 to now well over $2.845 and is still growing. Dana looks forward to launching her newest restaurant innovation with Soul Fire Tacos, LLC this year.
Dana is leading the way for African American women in the restaurant and hospitality industry. She hopes her success positively impacts the direction within the restaurant industry to improve representation for women and men of color. While it takes time to navigate the business world and truly understand what the focus of business is all about, Dumas continues to encourage others to fight for their passions. Her proven entrepreneurial mindset has inspired several of her employees to launch their own catering, cake, and bakery businesses.
Dana is a dedicated, passionate, and hardworking business owner who is continuously exploring new ways to evolve SugarJam The Southern Kitchen. She strives to create an inclusive dining experience that welcomes diners of all demographics to enjoy Southern-inspired cuisine in Arizona. Dana also created a family-oriented culture with her staff and customers, forming a supportive work environment that encompasses the true Southern charm.
While building her business from the ground up, she has always supported other local and national, minority businesses in the process. When she first began in 2011, Dumas teamed up with local jam vendors from the different craft fairs, expanding her jam-filled sugar cookie sandwich offerings. From April 2022 to May 2024, Dumas partnered with several business owners to feature their products and merchandise within SugarJam’s gift shop, “The Market by SugarJam”. These products were sometimes one-of-a-kind and ranged from candles, t-shirts, bags, kitchen accessories and more.
In addition to creating a successful and beloved Southern-flair brunch restaurant, Dana helped to show a range of diversity for cultural cuisine in North Scottsdale. SugarJam The Southern Kitchen is one of the premier Southern Brunch restaurants in Arizona.
At the start of SugarJam Cookies, LLC, Dana was the first and only employee as an at-home baker. As her brand grew, Dumas was able to bring in additional bakers and staff throughout the years. With SugarJam The Southern Kitchen, Dana now employs over 40 full-andpart-time employees. She has successfully contributed to job growth in the metro-Phoenix community, providing equal opportunity of employment to marginalized people of color and gender. Though growing a business is not for the faint of heart! You must have passion, a plan, dedication and a way to fund your business. Funding is always the biggest hurdle as a Minority owned business even when you are doing well! SugarJam is not backed by Venture Capital, Private Equity nor Crowdfunding! SugarJam has been funded by Dana and is turning all profits back into the business. Using personal savings and investments to aid initial funding and helping with growth along the way hasn’t been the easiest, but it has paid off with Dana’s tireless dedication to her business. As growth started to take shape, some business bank loans were finally secured to aid in scaling the business to what it is today.
Outside of SugarJam The Southern Kitchen, Dana works to support several local charities through donations of baked goods and monetary meals, as well as volunteering her time. She has provided Thanksgiving meals for at risk students and their families at Ombudsman High School (a division of Chance Light Education), passed out cookies and pies to the homeless in downtown Phoenix, and shared inspirational insight for new entrepreneurs through the Urban League. Dumas also donated to The Foster Alliance, Dirty Dogg Saloon – AZ Charities (Veterans and Local Animal Rescue), ElevateMeD scholarship fund, and UMOM New Day. In addition, she has partnered and provided donations to Black Students Union at the Phoenix Coding Academy, Children’s Miracle Network and has donated over 1,000 pounds of food to Arizonans in need through MealConnect.
The key things that drive Dana as an entrepreneur and restaurateur, she says, are her family. “My grandparents, who are no longer with me, but their spirit presides over me every day. I am a woman of faith, and without God, none of what I do could be possible. I have a passion for innovation and creating newness in a space that I am not represented within a demographic where I have decided to establish roots. I want my guests to experience black culture and understand we are people of profound excellence, and the narrative is a positive one. I also like to empower my women-led staff with optimal knowledge that leads to their autonomy for an enriched career, and not just a job. I don’t put on heirs; being my authentic self is who I am. In order to thrive, one must be true to their own cause; you must believe in what you do and be respectful to all who have helped along your journey.” h
The Ralph W. Turner Foundation is a beacon of opportunity, empowering minority students to thrive in STEM. Through scholarships, mentorship, and research initiatives, we bridge the gap between dreams and achievements, equipping the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators with the tools to excel academically and make a lasting impact. N O V
