Huami Magazine Memphis September/October 2018

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July/August 2018 Vol. 1 Issue 6 FREE

Gracious Hands

Natalie Sullivan

Dr. Lawrence V.

Bolar Memphis - Sept./Oct. 2018

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There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

There Is Purpose In Your Storms

There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

A Letter fromEditor the Editor A Letter From The A Letter thedestination Editor Hawaii is afrom prime for tourist and vacationers. Made What if tomorrow didn’t of yourbeaches, plans, hopes up of six unique islands, it is knownarrive? for its All abundant white dreams wouldn’t and havebeautiful a street weather. to park on.

What sands,and colorful landscapes, Hawaii is ifalso that you decided to off until tomorrow never What if tomorrow didn’t All of your plans, hopes richlyeverything embedded in cultures, whicharrive? areput complimented by delicious happened?

There beano reason to a rainy wouldn’t have street to park on. for What if foodsand anddreams traditions thatwould date back hundreds ofsave years. day, and you could someone theuntil trouble of making everything that youspare decided to put off tomorrow never promises.

What if would your last opportunity happened?

There beother no reason toseemingly save for aexpired rainy Recently I learned that unlike tropical islands and beaches, today?

What would you do?

Hawaii isn’t subjected as spare often to hurricanes other day, and you could someone the and trouble oftropical making storms.

I found that toifbe quite especially because promises.

What your lastinteresting, opportunity seemingly expired I’veinbeen told that I often seem like IThe do too much. are Hawaii sits the middle ofyou the Pacific Ocean. conditions today?

What would do? similar or just asI other locations like Miami, Florida or I’m the acoasts Honestly, feel like I am not doing enough and firm of Northbeliever Carolina, thethat storms seem to stay And then inbut knowing that God wouldn’t put onlife me I’ve been told I often seem likeaway.

I do anything too much. happened. that I couldn’t handle.

I sometimes wonder how life would Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm be if I chose to sit idle and accept whatput it presented believer in knowing that God wouldn’t anything to onme. me I Earlier this year in Hawaii volcanos began to erupt, spitting fiery, have found that to be very boring.

In my opinion, opportunity that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would hit lava feet into theaccept atmosphere. streets ofme. this I is ahundreds that afforded to what everyone.

A challenge be ifblessing I chose of to sitisn’t idle and it The presented to once have peaceful place began to crack and buckle from the lava fires to mefound is an adventure.

What is the worst that can happen? that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity that were flowing beneath them. interrupted If aI do nothing, I fail, if I The try to Icalmness don’t, buthad instead learn is blessing that isn’tand afforded everyone.

Abeen challenge and itto appeared meabout that Hawaii in worst its ownthat kindcan of happen? storm. something new myself. your pride and in me is anto adventure.

Whatwas is Relinquish the Instead of pouring rain and 100 miles per winds, the disturbance return acquire life.

If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn camesomething from below. new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in The best advice return acquire life.ever given to me happened when someone What in Hawaii, washappen something that In I see happens toldhad mehappened to make my tomorrow today. doing so in myIlife as well.

God loves me enough to allow me to enjoy peace. have pressed myever way given through doors with a key thatsomeone only The best advice to me happened when He blesses metowith anImy abundance andhappen gives an opportunity to hopeme provided. have also learned theme difference between told make tomorrow today.

In doing so enjoyIwhat His blessings and them to others.

Still, Godme shows God blesses me and what life cana burden with have pressed myshowcase waywith through doors with key that only his love by allowing me to experience pain. as well.

I compare it toalso knowing when be confident and hope provided.

I have learned the to difference between whenlife tocan be quiet, what God blesses me with and what burdenbecause me with Though I may be in the path of a storm, I don’tmay always wet. get get it confused as well. I compare it to knowingsomeone when to be confident and That’s mercy. And during the times when the storms do hit me, I with being when to bearrogant. quiet, because can’t complain because God has spared me before and He promises someone may get it confused to restore anything lost. That’s grace.

Make youarrogant. tomorrow with being happen today, but most Through every storm and every importantly make it count.

Make you tomorrow trial, I have learned there is a purpose Life is but a whisper and happen today, but some most in my pain. There are also pains we must putmake ourselves in a importantly count. that I must endure just as it well.

These position hear what it is Life ismust buttoahappen. whisper and occurrences Without telling us. welife must put be ourselves them, my would nothingin a position to hear whattale, it isand more than a fantasy or fairy us.who God has written uselesstelling to those

Terry L. Watson in pages of my life. My storm is merely a formality, and my story is someone Editor/Founder Terry L. Watson else’s door to deliverance.

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November/December 2014

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Terry L. Watson

Memphis - Sept./Oct. 2018

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CONTENTS

SEPT./OCT. 2018

MEMPHIS EDITION

Sisterly Luv

Natalie Sullivan

On The Cover

Dr. Lawrence Bolar Meet The Author From Richmond

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Beautiful All Around

Christiniafaith McCoy

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The Shepherds Watch

Shuntae Goodjoine

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Kaydence Jeffries

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Also Featured

WOKE After School Program Chameka Duncan and Rakenya Lewers offer a new approach to after school instruction.

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Gracious Hands Sonja Chisolm of Charlotte is providing a place for families to start.

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Memphis - Sept./Oct. 2018

Stormi Harmon She is providing help during the birthing process. A modern day doula.

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Dr. Lawrence V.

Bolar

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Memphis - Sept./Oct. 2018

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Dr. Lawrence V. Bolar Dr. Lawrence V. Bolar is an educator of 25 years, a published author, and motivational speaker. Ever since the age of 15 he has been is passionate about the teaching and learning, for both students and adults. These passions have helped him to develop programs for under-resourced and underrepresented students, while meeting their needs and helping them to overcome insurmountable challenges. His primary mission is to inspire every individual to unleash their untapped gifts and talents that God created in them.

Dr. Bolar is very adamant about utilizing his calling to impact others. “As a published author, I recognize that there is an enormous amount of responsibility that lies beneath each line that I produce.

My words have the power and capacity to reach people that I will never meet. Therefore, it’s important that everything that I produce is fact checked, researched based, and founded on biblical principles,” he says. “My voice and my books are my products. Speaking and writing is an honor and a pleasure for me. There are millions of people in the world speaking and sending out messages every day. My only concern is the quality of the message delivered. These messages are often times opinionated and taken at face value. Depending on the individual, people don’t question whether or not the message is factual or just opinionated.”

Dr. Bolar began writing while in high school, however he lacked the guidance and confidence needed to start and finish a project.

He decided to start teaching others how to write instead. A part of his business is “Writing From Start 2 Finish”. As an author, he often meets others who have a strong desire to write a book but lack the knowledge on how to get started. In his attempt to help or give back, he arranges various strategic methods and procedures to provide a format to help others start and finish their work. “I strongly believe that there is at least one book in all us that will create change in everyone who reads it,” he says.

His general focus is rooted in research-based strategies that empower others to read, digest what they have read, and carry out the information with fidelity so they may live their best lives. “I believe that we are a sum total of our experiences. It’s in this belief that I recognize we can also learn from other experiences, such as partnering with homeless students and families who are impoverished. Also, students with incarcerated parents or parents who are incapable of providing the emotional or psychological assistance that 21st century students demand,” he says.

Dr. Bolar has a genuine concern for others. He has a master’s degree in counseling and uses what he’s learned in life and through his education to assist and support others. Some of the titles of his works are, Nothing Substitutes Time, No Parents Left Behind, Strategies of Success For the 21st Century Parent, Eradicating The Saggy Pants Syndrome in America, Dissertation Marathon, A Three Year Guide To Crossing the Finish Line, New Beginnings, Responding To The Call, and The Non-Negotiable: Educating African American Male students K-12.

Dr. Bolar says he is inspired by God, family, and life. “I know that I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengths me and gives me hope and encouragement,” he shares. He is also Inspired by the relationships developed from the experiences of working with students who have had enormous challenges in their home, school and community.

He says writing allows him to create opportunities with the world.

And even though time may be his greatest challenge, he references the bible and how it teaches that some people plant, some people water, but God gives the increase. “I want to see the increase in people’s lives,” he shares.

Moving forward, Dr. Bolar has plans to keep writing and speaking to anyone who will listen. He loves motivating people to live there best life and helping them in whatever capacity that is possible.

“My career has been amazing and I don’t have very much I would change about it. I enjoy the challenges, though if I was given the opportunity to change anything, I would create an opportunity where I could speak to every individual in the world about how important it is for them to get their individual message out,” he says.

To learn more about Dr. Lawrence V. Bolar, please visit him online at www.drlawrencebolar.com

Memphis - Sept./Oct. 2018

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By Terry Watson Photos by Todd Youngblood

L Michelle, is a native Washingtonian but was raised in Southern Maryland. She currently resides in Charlotte, North Carolina. She has a sincere love for her community and educating and helping people.

L Michelle has a background in sales, marketing, television production and advertising. Her interest in radio and broadcasting is what drives her to explore the radio industry and has learned from the ‘best of the best’ and sat in on various talk shows as a co-host. “Being on different panels and workshops has allowed me to learn more about networking,” she says. She will bring her own unique and classy style to radio and to the Focused Radio Family starting in September.

L Michelle is a published Author of two collaboration books that cement her dream of her telling her stories of tragedy and triumph. The first one is titled, ‘From Employee to Entrepreneur - The Journey to Empowerment’. Within the pages, she describes a journey to empowerment. It is also designed to help those who want to get in the business and allow them to see the journey others have already experienced. The second book is ‘I Am A Survivor’ is seven women telling their story from tragedy to triumph of being a survivor of abuse. The book is designed to help people understand they are not alone and how they can be victorious, and not ashamed, or feel guilty about the situation that they are in. It shows them to live and be victorious.

As a motivational speaker, L Michelle promotes her books that shares her story of being a survivor and being an entrepreneur. She hopes she can help somebody and make a difference in their life.

“What I love most about what I do is getting information to people allow their voices to be heard. I am driven to letting them know that they their voices will no longer be silent. By me speaking and being transparent, I allow my voice to help someone understand and know their worth. I also teach them how to believe in themselves. If I can just touch one life, my work is done. I love meeting new people and learning what’s on their mind,” she says.

“It’s not about you being seen on the scene, it’s about making a difference on the scene.”

To be an effective leader, L Michelle states that a person must know their strengths and understand their power. “This also means being successful in your accomplishments and in your dreams and moving towards your purpose and your passion. A leader must take charge. Sometimes you have to grind and not everyone is going to like it. It’s not about you being seen on the scene, it’s about making a difference on the scene. It’s not about being a boss, but it’s about being determined to take charge and having a drive to go to the next level to reach your success and helping somebody else to be a successful by putting them on the right path,” she says. h

301-659-9766 @ Lmjewell68 @Lynnette M Jewell

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Shuntae Goodjoine

A Modern Renaissance Man

By Toya Moore Photos by Apollo Wonex

iscipline. Dedication. Determination. From an early age Shuntae Goodjoine knew that these three words were the foundation for his success. With those three words in mind, he established Shepherds Watch as an official 501(c) 3 in 2014. The mission statement for Shepherds Watch is: Committed to enriching the lives of future leaders through the human and animal bond. Shun (as he is called by friends and family) began the organization as a way to start a movement in the lives of the boys and girls growing up in his community.

That movement is deeply rooted in the principles of Pet Education, responsible pet ownership and his true passion, Veterinary Medicine.

Shun began to learn everything he could about animals, especially dogs at a young age. He became known for his ability to take care of and train dogs. That was his informal education. The formal education began when he became a kennel assistant, and eventually a Veterinary Assistant.

During those years is when he began to call himself a Pet Enthusiast.

“It kept me out of a lot trouble. It gave me responsibility and discipline, because all I wanted to do was get home and take care of my dog and learn more about dogs. I guess you could also say there was a calmness in learning about animals. I think I found some type of healing when I was learning about and caring for those animals,” he says. After graduating from Southside High School, Shun went off to college and played basketball collegiately, and had aspirations of becoming a Veterinarian. He quickly lost interest in his studies. “I just didn’t fit in there. Although I’m not sure I knew it at the time, I think I was disenfranchised with the lack of culture. There was really nobody there that I could relate to.”

So, he left school, returned to the Upstate and began working for a veterinarian in the area. His informal education continued, but once again he did not feel as if that was where he was supposed to be and again walked away from veterinary medicine. He dabbled in the entertainment industry for a little bit, traveling and writing music. Shun then went into telecommunications work for a few years. He also worked part time for Greenville County with adults that have disabilities and special needs.

Currently Shun works as a shift leader in the automotive industry and coaches AAU and high school basketball. He is even an author, having selfpublished his own book called “Dawg Game”. No matter his profession, he has always owned and trained multiple dogs, and he has always taken the time to educate family, friends, and community about responsible pet ownership. Does he regret not finishing school to become a veterinarian?

“I am good with where I am right now,” he says. “But I do sometimes think back and wonder what if I had finished. I kind of feel like my lack of commitment to pursuing my goal to be a veterinarian drives me every day to help these kids pursue their goals. I do that with my program for the kids”.

The program that Shun has created with Shepherds Watch provides an outlet for any child. Any child between the ages of 6 and 16 can participate in the training that Shun provides with his dogs. He uses dogs to teach life lessons, responsibility, leadership and so much more. But why dogs?

“Because I feel a connection to dogs more so than any other animals. The intelligence, work ethic, and instinctual ability of the German Shepherd to guide and oversee is what inspired the name of my organization. The strength, loyalty, intelligence, and tenacity of the pit bull has inspired me to keep moving towards my goals. Just taking care of my personal dogs makes me want to do the best I can for them. That in turn makes me want

Continued on the next page

to do what’s best for me. But it’s not about me anymore, it’s about the kids.

So, I guess the dogs motivate me to do what’s best for the kids.”

When the conversation shifted to talking about goals, Shun is very specific.

“I want to spark minds. I want to close the disproportionate gap between minorities and veterinary medicine. I want to advocate for those doing the right thing and do the best for the community.” His passion for animals and his commitment to youth are obvious with each word he speaks. “I want to partner with Tuskegee University and take kids there. I want to put kids through veterinary school. I want to relate people’s interaction with animals to their interactions in life. I just want to be a source of education and exposure for those that may not have it on their own or in their family.”

Shun is currently working with two community centers and an after-school program in Greenville so he can expand Shepherds Watch. His message of pet education, responsible pet ownership, and veterinary medicine needs to be heard. His method of teaching and developing youth is not traditional, but it works. His desire to serve youth is commendable and his love of animals is admirable. He is humble about the attention and accolades. When acknowledging all he has done, and the greatness that he is planning on doing, h he told me “I just want to find some good, that’s all.”

Shuntae Goodjoine - The Shepherds Watch www.shepherdswatch501c3.org - 864-614-1843 11

Christiniafaith

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Apollo Wonex

McCoy

The multi-talented Christiniafaith McCoy has been performing since the age of ten. She began competing in talent shows all over Spartanburg and Greenville, South Carolina and performed vocal pieces by various musicians including Jennifer Hudsons’ ‘One Night Only’. She has competed in pageants such as the one for Miss South Carolina, and became Miss Greater Carolina Teen in 2011.

As it goes in show business, most talent doesn’t make it to the mainstream until it is discovered. This also happen in the case Christinia when local Greenville producer Randy Edmund saw her perform. Christinia says he liked what he saw and eventually introduced her to the Phillis Wheatley Repertory Theatre and worked under the direction of the late Dwight Woods. Christinia played almost every lead role in each of his productions at the Peace Center. She was Dorothy in “The Wiz” when she was only 12. She played in “Dream Girls” as Diana Ross and the Supremes at the age of 15. Woods molded her into an amazing performer.

Believe it or not, Christinia was a very shy and timid child.

Though still humble, she wouldn’t put herself out front for people to notice her and hear her big voice. As she continued her singing career as a young performer, Christinia was introduced to Apollo Wonex, a professional photographer who saw something in her; that something would dramatically enhance her model career.

Christinia became Miss Richland County Teen in 2012. She was chosen to be the leading role in the play called “Speak Easy”. She became “Lula Mae Jones” in the making of the play and it was shown at the Peace Center in Greenville.

Once her tenure as Miss Richland County Teen concluded, she took a few years off from competing and pursued her talent show journey while performing for the Phillis Wheatley Repertory Theatre. When she was 18, she graduated and became an alumnus of Phillis Wheatley. This feat allowed her to go back each year and help other young performers.

In 2015, Christinia was crowned as Miss Duncan. She competed for the chance to win Miss South Carolina. Though she didn’t win, that didn’t stop her performing journey but instead made her stronger and more determined to continue her career as a performer. Soon, she decided to leave the pageant world for a while and start her journey to doing something that she had been wanting to do since the age of sixteen years old. She finally started taking footsteps into the life of being a model.

Apollo Wonex became her dedicated photographer and manager and helped her become the woman she is today.

Christinia was first published in Level 63 magazine in 2017, and followed that with being featured on the cover of the second issue in the same year. Apollo assisted with getting her the opportunity to perform with ‘The Night Affair Band’ during the Fall For Greenville event. She recently competed in the Miss South Carolina pageant this past June as Miss Powdersville 2018, and she will hold that title until March 2019.

Christina says she always had this mindset of someday being more than just another girl who post selfies of herself on social media. “My life is on a new level and there is no turning back. I am only going further with what I am is passionate about and that is achieving and accomplishing more.

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Memphis - Sept./Oct. 2018

@eternalmelaninn

W.O.K.E.

After-School Program At Sterling School

By Terry L. Watson - Photos by AWaddellImages

Chameka Duncan and Rakenya Lewers Chameka Duncan is a native of Spartanburg, South Carolina but now calls Greenville home. She is a quiet, introverted woman of God who loves to serve. For many years, she was very comfortable with being behind the scenes and “making things happen”. However, the calling on her life has pushed her from the back to the forefront. Chameka has a passion to serve, love, an assist people in any way that she can, and unwaveringly shares her heart with children and adolescence.

From a very young age Chameka says that others identified her teacher like qualities. “Many people would tell me that one day I would be a teacher,” she says. “Being a teacher was not the career I wanted for myself, but I later learned that being in education and a counselor was certainly a part of my calling. I was always very concerned about my friends and others and how they perceived life. My goal was to simply help people. For a long time ran away from my calling and worked in other fields.” Chameka currently serves as a professional School Counselor, Behavior Intervention Specialist, and Director of the W.O.K.E (Working on Knowledge & Excellence) After School Program at Sterling School. She received her Bachelors of Art degree in Business Management from Winthrop University, Masters of Art degree in Human Resources Management from Webster University. She also obtained her Masters of Education degree in School Counseling from Liberty University. She is also certified as a licensed Professional Counselor Associate, National Certified Counselor, and a Global Career Development Facilitator, and a successful clinical therapist who specializes in individual and family therapy. She has been a K-12 school counselor for the last six years and has also worked in higher education. “My mission is to assist all children with maximizing their potential by building positive relationships, providing resources, and exposing children to new experiences,” she says.

Rakenya Lewers is a native of Greenville, SC and the Nicholtown community. She has been employed by Greenville County Schools for over seven years and has a passion for outreach and advocating for families. Besides an affinity with wood fired pizza and the arts, she loves bridging the knowledge and real-world experiences of professionals to families and children in a way that uniquely augments who they are and where they want to be. With experience in overcoming adversities such as sudden loss of loved ones, health challenges, homelessness, raising three children as a single mother, she developed a deep appreciation for how non-profits seek to improve the quality of life for our community one program at a time.

W.O.K.E., Working on Knowledge; Excellence, is an after school program that seeks to specifically address the various academic, behavioral, and social needs of students who are enrolled in the Sterling Program at the Sterling School. Students who participate generally reside in the Nicholtown community and are not currently enrolled in the school’s existing, for-profit afterschool program. The program supports the school’s mission to provide an environment that promotes the development of the Whole Child. The Whole Child framework highlights five key elements that children need in order to become engaged, productive members of society: healthy, engaged, challenged, safe, and supported. A Whole Child approach to education develops and prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of today and tomorrow by addressing students’ comprehensive needs through the shared responsibility of students, families, schools, and communities. A Whole Child approach sets the standard for comprehensive, sustainable school improvement and provides for long-term students success. The WOKE Afterschool Program at Sterling School directly supports this effort and our school’s collective mission.

A key component of the program is mentorship. Unlike traditional afterschool programs, the WOKE Afterschool Program at Sterling School provides students with adults who can support our students’ development of resilience and hope. Mentors also encourage students to consider careers and professions by developing relationships and life skills. The program provides students with academic enrichment and opportunities to develop life skills through various activities such as dance, music and organized sports. Our program also offers various resources and workshops to our families through community partners.

Chameka says she is most inspired by the children and families that she has the opportunities to work with. “To serve people that I come in contact with is my true calling. I am motivated to pull the best out of people, and to assist people with understanding that they can do anything that they set their minds to. My greatest inspirations are to see a diverse group of people come together and support each other. I am big on diversity, multiculturalism, and forming positive and supportive relationships,” she says. Ra’kenya finds inspiration in her own children. “Their resilience is inspiring and the fact that they know my imperfections and still see greatness and believe in me completely encourages me to want to be better,” she said.

This dynamic duo is able to provide a safe place for children while meeting a need so they will have a greater sense of confidence in themselves. They are able to watch children grow and be more social and experience undesired behavior changes. With the assistance of positive and supportive mentors they are able to develop the whole child.

W.O.K.E. has had it share of challenges. They are a program that operates fully on donations and grants, therefore the availability of funds is very critical.

“Although we had a successful four months with our pilot program, the two days per week doesn’t provide an adequate amount of time to build in the academic and enrichment activities that we feel is needed for our students,” they said. Another challenge is the stigma that comes with children who need extra social and emotional help.

In the future there are plans to continue to secure additional funding so W.O.K.E. will be able to operate to its fullest potential. They want to be able to continue to provide their students with the best opportunities and increase learning by providing more enrichment activities, tutoring, and have a dedicated mentor for every child. Another focus for WOKE is bridging the gap between schools and communities. There are plans to increase the number of days of operation from two to four days per week and partner with more community leaders and organizations for positive relationships. h

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Memphis - Sept./Oct. 2018

By Terry L. Watson Photos provided by Patrycya Williams

P

atrycya Williams has done it again. On August 18, 2018 she held the 2nd Annual Power Moves Awards Gala at the Omni Hotel in Nashville, TN. The event, which has grown in popularity and anticipation, is designed to spotlight ordinary people within the Nashville and surrounding areas for doing extraordinary things. Patrycya also uses it as an opportunity to give back to her community. “I wanted to create an atmosphere full of glamour, glitz and classy ‘black tie sophistication’ while we honor the ‘Movers and Shakers’ of Nashville,” she said.

Patrycya K. Williams is the founder of PK Williams Enterprises LLC, a company dedicated to giving back to their community.

She is a native of Nashville, and was born into an iconic music family, which gave her an aptitude for reading music and playing instruments at a young age. Excelling in her talent, she became a proud member of Whites Creek High School Band of Distinction in which she was chosen as a section leader by 9th grade. She later became an Aristocrat at Tennessee State University.

PK Williams Enterprises has a core emphasis on paying it forward. Their vision is to create unique community opportunities through educational awareness and community service. They also provide mentorship to middle and high school students, with an emphasis on young women, through the components of coaching, training and advocacy. Additionally, they provide scholarships and recognition to high school seniors who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence through academic achievement and public service.

The Power Moves Awards Gala was cohosted by Page Turner (Flip or Flop Nashville) and Kenny Smoov (Program Director for 92Q Cumulus Radio Station. There were various categories of which to honor from. These include Education, Entrepreneurship, Service and Philanthropy, Community Advocacy, Arts and Entertainment, Finance, Health Care, and Fraternity and Sorority. The individuals honored were Robert Sherrill, Sharon Reynolds, Slim and Husky’s Pizza Beeria, Dr. Jennifer Silva, Dr. DeAndra Jenkins Holder, Memphis - Sept./Oct. 2018

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Kevin McKenzie, Eric Meriwether, Dimeta Smith, Chuck Winfrey, Quanie Cash, William “Bug” Mason Jr., Lolita Toney, Yolonda Beech, Henry B. Hicks III, Latavius Mulzac, Ambi Smith, W. Montrell Toney, Julius Gallon, LaShan Dixon, Dr. Shawn Pruitt Sr, Dr. Katherine Brown, and Dr. Carmen April-Washington.

One of the organizations that benefited from donations made by Patrycya were Breaking The Sickle Cell Cycle Foundation. The Alpha Kappa Alpha (Alpha Delta Omega Chapter, and the Omega Psi Phi (Gamma Phi Chapter) received awards for the service in the community. James Shaw Jr., the hero who helped stop the shooting massacre at the Waffle House shooting in Nashville earlier this year was recognized for his brave acts of heroism.

Patrycya is very thankful for the support and donations of the Nashville community along with the Power Moves Gala sponsors including Omni Hotel Nashville, DevMar Products, Designed Ice, Roland’s Photography, The Hamilton Brothers, Finch and Associates, I Am Jay Sweet, 353 Media and Diverse Inclusions.

There are already plans for the 3rd Annual Power Moves Gala for 2019. No date has been set, but Patrycya is already working to ensure this purposeful and noteworthy event takes place, so others can continue to be honored for their greats acts of service and kindness in the Nashville community.

Be on the look out for the EmPOWERed By HER Conference that will take place on November 3rd, 2018 at the Omni Hotel. Patrycya says, “the conference will speak to your mind, body and soul, and will give you BALANCE and put you in a space to connect with like-minded women who are making POWER MOVES, and know that WE are STRONGER TOGETHER!” For more information please visit their website or contact Patrycya K. Williams.

PK Williams Enterprises, LLC PO Box 1563, Nolensville, TN 37135 615-364-7964 MRA1KUTz www.pkwilliamsenterprises.com

Greenville/Spartanburg - July/August 2018

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Sonja Chisholm Gracious Hands

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Memphis - Sept./Oct. 2018

By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by Todd Youngblood

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We see it every day. Without fail, there stands a person on a street corner, clothes tattered, backpack soiled, and unsteady hands holding a sign that reads, “Please Help…God Bless.”

Oftentimes I feel compelled to dig in my purse and hand them whatever I can find that will sustain them, at least for a few minutes. Two days ago, I handed a gentleman a cold bottle of water and a small bag of pretzels that was supposed to be my daughter’s snack. She didn’t mind. When we got home she went and grabbed her piggy-bank and asked could we go back and give it to him so he could buy himself a house.

According to the Housing Instability and Homelessness Report of January 2017, 44% of the homeless population in Charlotte were female and 21% were children. There were close to 2,600 permanent housing beds available for occupancy, which has increased 16% from the previous year and 321% the last seven years. One of the silent soldiers helping to fight the good fight and increase these numbers is Sonja Chisolm, co-founder/Director of Gracious Hands Transitional Housing for Homeless Women and Children.

Sonja has never been homeless but she does know how it feels to not have a place to call her own. For a moment in her life, she and her three children lived with her mother, until she could afford a home.

Gracious Hands initially just offered a bed and a hot meal to whomever was in need. As time passed, Sonja and her former partner noticed the women needed guidance in other areas as well.

They began to offer onsite psychological counseling, life coaching, credit repair, and job related skills that would allow them to obtain and sustain a paying job. After Sonja’s partner decided to leave the venture, Sonja expanded her services further and partnered with a staffing agency to ensure more women would have the opportunity to work and earn her own money at a decent hourly wage. She also partners with ResCare, a program that helped women 25 years and younger attend school. She has also been in contact with Habitat for Humanity in hopes of a resident eventually being blessed with a newly constructed single family home. Even Commonwealth Bank wants to help the women open a bank account, the first for some, and deposit the first $25.

Acceptance into the program isn’t automatic and it’s not easy to live up to Sonja’s high standards. Potential residence must have experienced domestic violence, homelessness, and/or substance abuse to be considered. The women and children can reside at the transitional home for one year, provided they are in good standing with the expectations. “Each resident must have a job and go to work every day, they must save 50% of their income and put it into escrow, and they must abide by the curfew of 9:00 pm unless they have a job that ends a little later,” Sonja explains. There are other rules, and some can’t cut it and decide to leave shortly after they move in. But most want to change the lifestyle that landed them there in the first place. Sonja becomes a mentor to many of the ladies, and a grandmother to the precious children who become a part of her life for a short time.

She feels a tremendous sense of responsibility to help her residence succeed after they’re ready to move out and start over.

“Getting a call from someone who is doing really well because of what they learned here always makes me feel good,” Sonja’s voice beams. The counseling the women receive while at Gracious Hands doesn’t stop when they leave, they’re able to continue the services for as long as they want, free of charge.

Over the last three years, the facility has housed 108 women, 111 children, and transitioned 47 families. The house can serve up to 6 families at a time. Because there is such a need, Gracious Hands is forced to turn families away every day. Those families may end up on the street if another housing facility doesn’t have space. Sonja admits, “That’s the most difficult part of what I do. Where are these families going to go?”

Those instances happen much more often than the city would like to admit.

Managing lives that aren’t yours can be stressful. The matriarch runs a tight ship in hopes of changing the path some ladies have already created.

As strict as her residence thinks she is, Sonja knows what’s waiting on the other side of the door when they make the decision to leave. She attempts to protect her ladies as long as she can.

Her goal is to open nine more transitional homes across the city to help tackle Charlotte’s sky-high homeless population. “Every single shelter in the city is full right now. We need more housing.” h

Gracious Hands Transitional Housing For Women and Children 245 N Hoskins Rd, Charlotte, NC, 28216 (704) 962-6147

Memphis - Sept./Oct. 2018

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Stormi Harmon 20

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Memphis - Sept./Oct. 2018

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Apollo Wonex reenville, South Carolina native, Stormi Harmon is the kind of person that is likely to leave a lifelong impression with almost everyone she meets.

She is a wife, mother, home school educator, Doula, Health Educator, Herbalist, Vaginal Steam Facilitator, and healer. She is also the founder and owner of Live 2 Serve, a beautiful umbrella of services and products for everyone.

As a Doula, she provides physical, emotional, and educational support to mothers during pregnancy and postpartum. In other words, she works with mothers to help them achieve their best birth.

She also offers Prenatal Nutrition, Birth Planning, Breast Feeding education, Postpartum Self Care Sessions, Postpartum Herbal Baths, custom blended Postpartum Vaginal Steams, Postpartum Healing Tinctures for afterbirth pains, Nourishing Meals, Amber Teething Jewelry, Organic Baby Powder, Cloth Diapering Sessions, Baby Wearing Sessions, and more.

Doula’s are not just for natural home births. Harmon provides care no matter where they choose to have their baby, whether it be in a hospital, birthing center, home, hallway, car, elevator; wherever they are, there she will be also. While many families are sometimes hesitant in investing in the services that a Doula offers, due to money and other reasons, there is so much scientific proof that says otherwise. “I rest in knowing that what I do is very valuable and historical. Black women were the original Doulas, or Granny Midwives. This is ingrained in us to do this work for our mothers. I just continue to share the benefits and let my work speak for itself,” she says.

When it comes to physical support, her focus is to assist her clients through various challenges during the child birthing experience.

These include breathing techniques, counter pressure, and many other comfort measures that allow Harmon to “hold space” for the birthing mother and growing family. “Emotionally, I help families feel supported by easing any concerns about their birthing experience and allowing the mother to surrender and listen to her body on this journey,” she says. “In regards to education, I connect families with evidence-based resources so they can ask great questions and always make informed decisions. Doing this allows me to serve as a bridge between families and health care providers, by encouraging them to be advocates for their care.”

As a Health Educator, Harmon offers instruction through classes and teaching sessions, food demonstrations, Smoothie Pop-up Shops and more. Additionally, she has created a Smoothie eBook, loaded with over 275 plant-based recipes and educational tools.

With her Holistic Nutrition services, Harmon’s focus goes beyond food and seeks ways to serve the whole person. “I help you make realistic, sustainable changes in many aspects of your life. I help you get to the true heart of the matter that may have created the habits you are trying to break. Once that is done, if it even needs to be, we focus on what you consume and provide Nutrition and Herbal consultations for the entire family. This includes Herbal consultations, Pantry swaps- removing foods that are harmful and replacing them with better options, and sustainable changes. I also offer Herbal blends for optimal health which includes Butters for Eczema, joint pain, sleep disorders, muscle pains, and many other imbalances. My custom Herbal Vaginal Steams are designed for women with fibroids, conception issues, chronic infection, and more.

My custom herbal blends include Elderberry Syrup Kits, Parasite Cleanses, and Vaccine Detoxes.”

Harmon finds inspiration in her ability to take charge of her health without depending on someone else. She says, “we can do it if someone who truly cares about us will only show the way. I can’t help everyone but I can help anyone who trusts and allows me to help them heal themselves. As black women, the odds are truly against us when it comes to bringing forth life in this country. Black women are four times more likely to die in childbirth or from postpartum. These numbers do not change merely due to economic or social statuses. It does not matter. Hiring a Doula causes these numbers to drop dramatically because you have someone in your corner fighting for you the whole time.” “There are times where birth work can be very exhausting. Birthing a child is very unpredictable.

A mother can be in labor for days and often times out of the loop with her family’s needs. Seeing a happy, healthy mama and baby makes it all worth it. It is my job to be there for them. They can count on that.”

Her support system includes her husband and her oldest daughter. “My husband encouraged me to take better care of myself. From there it grew beyond anything I could have ever imagined. My daughter turned my life upside down, but in a good way of course. I never wanted any other mother to experience what I went through. After researching, I knew becoming a Doula would be a perfect fit. If she was never given to me, I never would have done any birth work and would have never known how important and valuable the services I provide are,” she says.

To learn more about Live 2 Serve and Stormi Harmon, please contact her to schedule a free, no obligation consultation. h

Stormi Harmon - Live 2 Serve 864-901-5172 live2serve@gmail.com - www.live2serve.com

Memphis - Sept./Oct. 2018

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By Terry L. Watson - Photos by Apollo Wonex Who is Natalie Sullivan? If you let her tell it she would most likely describe herself as someone who is colorful and creative and someone who loves to live life outside the box. She is a native of Greenville, SC and graduated from ECPI University in 2007 with an Associate of Science degree in Medical Administration. Besides being a full-time mom, Natalie works as a natural hair care enthusiast, natural hair stylist and organic hair care formulator. She has also found the time to launch her very own line of hair care products, Sisterly Luv. “Sisterly Luv” is a brand that’s dedicated to formulating healthy hair treatments to women and men based upon specific hair care analysis. We’re not just a brand, we are also a movement that’s predicated upon teaching and celebrating the uniqueness of natural hair and it’s beauty,” she says. Natalie began her natural hair journey when she decided to step out on faith and quit her job and give her passion a sure shot. “At the time when I started styling hair there was little or even no products that were available. Many of the

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Memphis - Sept./Oct. 2018

products that I tried didn’t quite do what I needed for myself or my clients. After diligent research along with many series of trial and error, my sister and I formulated a product that worked,” she says. “As a hairstylist you always have to be creative and also innovative. I often study pictures on different social sites such as Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook of other stylist and hair styles. They inspire me and allow me to keep up with the latest trends. My greatest inspiration happens when I step away from the chair and completely immerse myself in nature. Being totally present in each moment allows my imagination to be free,”Natalie says.

Natalie offers Natural Hair Care products that help restore and nourish hair with the assistance of moisture rich ingredients that are infused with botanicals and oils that are essential for sustaining and achieving complete natural hair. According to Natalie, her products make it easier to maneuver within the body of hair with minimal breakage. This is also possible because of the anti friction agent in her products that help to contain slippage. “Our products is that they can be used on all types of curly hair textures. Most people who desire to have a natural hair composition are quite frustrated with how to care it. Our team of natural hair care specialist helps to style, treat and manage anyone,” she says.

NATURAL HAIR TREATMENT

For all natural hair types

When asked what she loves most about being an entrepreneur, without hesitation Natalie says its the flexibility. “Success is different for everyone; everyone defines it in their own way and that’s I believe it is important to stay in tune with myself. My career gives me the ability to be able to spend more time with my son. It also gives me an outlet to express my creativity or come up with new ideas to see how they can make my business better and also touch lives, in my own way, within my community,” she says. “It’s easy to get side tracked and just go throughout our lives without being grateful for what is right now.”

www.sisterlyluvnatural.com 864-361-3964

Moving forward Natalie plans to expand her Sisterly Luv product line into larger cities and eventually end up in stores and allow others to enjoy them and also benefit from the wonderful results they produce. Contact Natalie Sullivan to learn more about her products and services that are tailor made for the individual who desires a healthy and natural hair experience. h

Memphis - Sept./Oct. 2018

HuamiMagazine.com

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Available On All Digital Platforms Spotify & Apple Music - Follow me on Social Media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram @Emanthaprofezzor

Eman Tha Profezzor Eman Tha Profezzor, experimental Gospel artist emerging from Johnston County (JoCo), North Carolina. Unable to be contained in a traditional genre, the “experimental” Gospel genre was crafted in the reason that there was no other suitable category.

This multi talented musical man of God; starting from age 2, when he discovered his curious attraction to pitch and rhythm, tapping and racking on pots and pans, which persuaded his parents to get him his first drum kit at age three, resulting in his growing skill as a drummer from 5 years of age.

Having joined the choir at his home church, playing the drums, he revealed a passion for other instruments as well. While in High School he started realizing that all his talent had gotten to a point that he could start producing music on his own using the Music production software FruityLoops 3, which he had received from a friend. After producing and writing several pieces of music he decided to enter the 2002 talent show at West Johnston High School, taking the show with 3 of his friends, who formed their group in a day. After advancing his gift, he went on to enter The Next Gospel Star Talent Search in 2004 with a close friend, forming The Disciplez; placing in the top 10 finalist, they concluded the competition in achieving runner-up.

After his group The Disciplez went after different endeavors in their lives in 2006, Eman put out his first album “I Mean Business: Crunk Worship”. He played an array of gigs in Churches and venues in the greater North Carolina vicinity - Making his first appearance, performing his song “Get Up” on a Local Raleigh television station RN10 on the show Beyond Gifted with Koyah Rivers and his first radio appearance on 750AM interviewed by Bobby Parker, of the Bobby Parker Show, where they played 2 of his singles “Get up” and “In God we Trust” - leading to him producing the music for The Bobby Parker Shows introduction in 2006; all gaining him more exposure and shows.

When he began realizing he was becoming more of a Gospel artist; desiring to perfect his craft, having the mind to be professional; he enrolled in Living Arts College, formerly The School of Communication Arts; Taking classes in Audio design and Audio Engineering: While attending college, Eman began improving the development of his skills, he also began developing his 2nd album, having acquired the new knowledge and skill through his schooling - as E3 Productions (Entertainment, with the Father the Son and the Holy Ghost - his music production company) was also underway, when he met a few friends in college along with his cousin having likeminds for ministry, who believe the good news of Jesus Christ. He and all of his friends, who also being artists, started producing and writing music, which took them to bigger platforms for shows, travelling to many churches and venues.

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Before finishing his Sophomore album “Salvation Motivation: The Story” Eman was blessed with the opportunity to intern with Loreal Shampoo, doing a background track for a 2007 television ad. While preparing for fall graduation he entered his graphic design for E3 Productions, winning the gallery exhibit for logos. Graduating September 2007, he received the Digital Audio Merit Award - leaving with an outstanding GPA of 4.0. In 2008 Eman released his sophomore album “Salvation Motivation: The Story”, bringing him to playing shows in multiple college universities and in many states, such as North Carolina, South Carolina, Atlanta Georgia, Missouri, Virginia, Alabama, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Tennessee, Cozumel Mexico, New Jersey and Washington DC. With Salvation Motivation, the song “Blow Out” received so much buzz that it was brought on the Coco Brothers Show 103.9 The light, NC on Play it or Fade it for 3 nights consecutively, and while touring in South Carolina he was picked up to do an interview, with the Bad Boy Radio Brian Seabrook WJNI 106.3 FM, SC - while touring, his song “Changed Man” ended up taking a spot at #3 on Drive at 5, later earning a place at #2, then having its finale at #1 for the day over Kirk Franklin. Meanwhile also achieving the artist spotlight at WKNC 88.1fm at NC State University.

Within three years after the release of Salvation Motivation, Tha Profezzor was blessed to gain fellowship and share stages with the likes of Papa San, Rawsrvnt, Jeff Majors, Warren Barfield, Marcus D. Wiley of the Yolanda Adams Morning Show, Grammy nominated Cynthia Jones, Grammy nominated Canton Jones, Grammy nominated Mali Music, Grammy/Dove/ Stellar/Soul Train award winning Israel Houghton.

After his previous accomplishments, being discovered by a long time friend and mentor for his dynamic gift in poetic writing; he was given a grand opportunity to partake in a revolutionary idea for invoking youth to inspiration and encouragement in their gifts for the Kingdom of God; the stage was set for his heart for the Gospel to be shed through the art of Spoken Word, at the Church of God of Prophecy International Assembly in Louisville Kentucky held in the Kentucky International Convention Center. The artistic piece he presented is known as “My Powerful People”, viewed by over 500k streaming and in person - Empowering listeners to unchain their God given gifts and seek their purpose in the calling of the Lord.

Founded at the top of 2015, Introducing a new flavor to the mix in the ministry of Eman Tha Profezzor, with plans for outreach and youth camps to accompany the silky sound of Eman, as he brings to the world his heart for the Gospel and the winning of souls for the Heavenly Kingdom of God. The world has yet to see what Tha Profezzor shall presents to you by the grace of God in the adventures of the NERD UP Music Group LLC. h

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Cutest Baby

Kaydence Jeffries The daughter of Da’Quan and Sharhonda Jeffries Photo provided by Da’Quan Jeffries

Memphis - Sept./Oct. 2018

To submit photographs to be placed in the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby feature, please send a detailed email to huami.cutestbaby@gmail.com

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