Huami Magazine Raleigh Durham July/August 2017

RALEIGH-DURHAM

July/August 2017 Volume 1 Issue 12 FREE

Carolyn

Marshall Covington Insightful Visionaries Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

HuamiMagazine.com

1

Owner & Stylist

-Alopecia Specialist -Hair Loss -Thinning Hair -Non Surgical Hair Replacement -Restoring Confidence -Private Rooms - Free Consultations

www.invisilacefrontwigs.com

1029 Dresser Ct. Dorchester Village Raleigh, NC 27609 919- 521-4864 2

32

HuamiMagazine.com

HuamiMagazine.com

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

Raleigh/Durham - May/June 2017

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

HuamiMagazine.com

3

Live Your Dreams, And Dream Again

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

A Letter From The Editor

I would rather notthe dream A Letter from Editoror aspire to do anything, rather than to dream and never act upon them. To me that is the equivalent of someone who talks the loudest but never says anything. Those are juvenile acts of a person who is quick to critiquedidn’t others, yet remain withhopes something What if tomorrow arrive?

All of tranquil your plans, that God has ordered for them to do. For if we are blessed and fortunate and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if to translate our thoughts into actions, we are also obligated to see them everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never through.

happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, you could spare the trouble ofeverything making that If I can beand genuine, I must admitsomeone that I haven’t acted on promises.

WhatWhen if yourI was last five opportunity expired has fizzled in my mind. years old,seemingly or somewhere around today?

What would you do? that time, I remember standing on my dresser and singing my heart out to the tunes on the radio. From that point, I knew I wanted to be like the I’vemimicking. been told Ithat I often I do too much. people I was would laterseem grow like up to realize that was only a feel fed likethis I amdesire not doing enough I’m a firm dream.Honestly, Though I Ihave by singing in a and choir, this dream has believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me been settled.

that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would

As I have have realized dreams also come theI be if Igotten choseolder, to sit Iidle and acceptthat what it presented toin me. form ofhave visions fromthat God. years ago, I asked God to bless me found toNearly be very20boring.

In my opinion, opportunity with something thatthat will isn’t utilizeafforded my creativeness, gifts and talents, and is a blessing to everyone.

A challenge He responded me with theisvision for Huami Magazine.

It has to me isby anblessing adventure.

What the worst that can happen? become a huge responsibility as I have realized that in order for this If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn vision to reach its fullest potential, I must allow my mind to dream and seek something new about myself.

Relinquish your pride and in God for confirmation. return acquire life.

If your dream is to be a homeowner or start a business, don’t stop The best advice ever given to me happened when someone there. If your desire is to be an elite athlete, don’t stop dreaming once told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so you get into college. The ability to dream and the opportunity to fulfill I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only them is a blessing. I believe that many times God will give us dreams and I have learned the between to visionshope just soprovided. that others who also are connected to difference us can be motivated what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with jump off of their logs and find themselves in their dreams.

as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet,was because President Barack Obama one of Dr. someone may get it confused Martin Luther King Jr.’s dreams.

What with being of arrogant. would the journey African Americans

be like if those who fought for our freedomsMake didn’tyou act upon or believe his tomorrow dream. happen Even more, what we become today, butwill most if we cease to dream.make Dream, and dream importantly it count. again because there are so many Life is but a whisper and more levels towe your visions, and realizing must put ourselves in a them is position a lifelongto journey that requires hear what it is us to return tous.

God for direction and telling instructions on how to do so.

Terry Terry L. Watson L. Watson 4

HuamiMagazine.com

Editor/Founder

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief

Terry L. Watson Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Writers

Tonya Dixon Terry L. Watson Alana Allen Jeuron Dove Photographers Perfect Lenz Photography Todd Youngblood Photography

Shaw Photography Group Still Shots Photography

Howard Gaither Photography Who Shotya Photography Layout

Mykel Media Company Linda Bennett

mykelmedia@yahoo.com huami.triangle@gmail.com (336) 340-7844 (336)340-7844

HUAMI MAGAZINE is published quarterly by the Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any portion of this publication is prohibited without written permission from the publisher prior to doing so. Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility for statements made by individuals featured or advertisers. Comments concerning this publication may be submitted to the editor by E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com terry.editor@yahoo.com or to Mykel Media Company, LLC P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2017 All Rights Reserved 2014 All Rights Reserved

On The Cover

Photo by Shaw Photography Group

CONTENTS

July/August

19

Shae Ramirez

Bebee’s Fashion

10

2017

Prince and Princess For A Day

12

Also Inside Cutest Baby Contest

Kly’len White Knight

20 14

Calvine’s Coffee

Calvine Frazier Opportunities For Those Ready

Johnson’s 2nd Chance Staffing

6

Carolyn Marshall Covington

15

Kenyan Weaks

R

A

L

E

I

Natasha Erwin

G

24

H

/

18 D

Dr. Sharita Lawson

U

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

R

H

A

16 M

HuamiMagazine.com

5

“I am so grateful for the life that God has chosen for me. He has given me a supportive husband of 30 years (Dr. Connell Covington), and compassionate and self-sufficient children that have allowed me to fulfill my professional dreams outside the home. I am Blessed to have their support as we start my new journey, A Greater Vision�.

6

HuamiMagazine.com

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

Carolyn

Marshall Covington Insightful Visionaries

Information provided by Carolyn Covington Cover Photo by Victor Stone Feature Photos by William Manley

C

arolyn Marshall Covington is a dedicated business professional with an expertise in salon/spa ownership, management and personal empowerment. She has passionately served the beauty industry for over 40 years, employing over 1500 people, many of which have achieved great success in their own right as entrepreneurs, celebrity stylist and educators.

Carolyn has always been considered a role model and polestar for success in the hair industry. She graduated from Bladensburg Vocational High School, studying Cosmetology, and blazed a trail from DC/ MD area to NC. She studied abroad and traveled frequently. On one of her many cross country trips, she discovered the name and concept for her dream salon. The infamous INFLIGHT Hair Salon was created in 1982 in Maryland. She has been instrumental in many start up salons. A proprietor and co/owner of over 20 Salons & spas, her face was seen and known by stylist in hair salons across the globe. She graced the cover of the 1st Black Passion International Magazine, giving her an even greater notoriety. Carolyn competed and won the USA Black Hair Olympics under the mentorship of Mr. Floyd Kenyatta, the Global Ambassador for John Paul Mitchell Systems.

She has also directed several educational programs including Regal Academy of Cosmetic Arts, (VA), Kenyatta Higher Learning Academy, (Raleigh, N.C.), SSG Continuing Education CEU Provider NC State Board, FAME Academy Beauty & Barber Next Level Training NC. Additionally, she has led several Research and Product Development campaigns for major product lines such as Manufacturer DZIRE Professional Products, Salon 10 Products, Silky Smooth Products, Skin X Men’s Skincare Products.

Continued on the next page

Pictured with Carolyn are Sherod Holloway Miki Wright and Travis Ruth

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

HuamiMagazine.com

7

Carolyn was awarded the prestigious (Hair –nMotion) Living Legend award in 2015 and the BBU Leadership Legacy Award in 2016, for excellence and dedication to the Beauty industry. From salon owner, platform artist, and educator to new product development, utilizing innovative cutting edge technology, Carolyn’s self-driven highly motivated professionalism has propelled her to the top rankings in her craft.

Carolyn opened Jolie the Day Spa in Cameron Village in 2000, a dream that became a reality. This was also the year she came face to face with the biggest challenge of her life. Carolyn was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) a degenerative eye disease. Carolyn is legally blind but God has given her Vision without sight to continue to impact the Beauty Industry. “When you are blindsided in life you have to stand still and know that God has a bigger plan and purpose for your life.

Pictured with Carolyn are Beauty Icons Kathy Marshall and Matricia Bellamy

“I have too much energy and too many dreams to fulfill before I think about sitting on the sidelines. I am still in it to win it. I believe that sharing my knowledge and experience through lectures and workshops is a perfect and fulfilling way to stay active in this amazing beauty industry that I have dedicated the majority of my life to. My Prayer is that God will continue to use me as a leader, a positive role model and mentor to many,” she says.

After closing her businesses and experiencing a deep dark depression, she became an advocate for the (BVI) Blind & Visually Impaired community and started a nonprofit Insightful Visionaries Inc, which includes a program called Beauty for Sight. Beauty for Sight is a coalition of beauty professionals helping to create awareness and provide training and services for the Blind & Visually Impaired. They sponsored the Beauty Icon event to raise money to provide beauty services to build confidence and self esteem in the community.

Carolyn states “When you help others live a better life and give back you take the focus off your challenges and it allows people to see God working through you to perform his purpose and plan.”

Visions Thrift Boutique is the newest addition to Insightful Visionaries. Visions Thrift Boutique is located at 5300 Atlantic Avenue in Raleigh, and is accepting slightly worn shoes and handbags for resale and the proceeds are used for training for the BVI community.

They employ the Visually impaired to provide work experience and a start of an independent lifestyle.

Tabatha Moore with Heartfelt Alternatives donated $1000 in support of Insightful Visionaries mission to facilitate the independence of the blind and visually impaired community. Assisting with equal employment assistance, training, and counselling along with beauty, grooming and hygiene services to help build confidence.

Tabatha Moore with Heartfelt Alternatives

8

HuamiMagazine.com

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

The 3rd Annual National Blind Idol Semi-Finals singing competition was hosted by Insightful Visionaries and RLCB at the Raleigh Renaissance North Hills Hotel on June 3rd 2017. Over 400 supporters filled the ballroom as Insightful Visionaries amazing team and volunteers collaborated to raise awareness of the blind and visually impaired and encourage people to support an underserved community. It was an opportunity to help fulfill the dreams of the 15 courageous contestants and to strengthen their confidence and independence.

The Visionary Honors Dinner was moderated by the Coffee & Cream TV Hosts Richard and Crystal McCorkell, paying tribute to medical and technology professionals who have made notable contributions to the BVI (blind / visually impaired) community.

The 2017 BVI Champion Visionary Honors Award (community member who is driving change and improvements for BVI individuals and/ or groups) was presented by Cynthia Speight, Director, Division of Services for The Blind to Honoree Diane B. Whitaker, OD, Duke Eye Center. The Keynote Speaker and Honoree, Ed Summers, Software Accessibility Specialist, SAS was the recipient of the 2017 BVI Leader Visionary Honors Award (Paving the way for the BVI community with tools and accessibility to compete on the main stream employment circuit).

Matthew Whitaker

The Visionary Excellence Award was presented to 16-year-old Guest Artist Matthew Whitaker, for his musical talents and for being an inspiration to all.

Carolyn says to Matthew “No matter what twists and turns life puts in your path, you are a shining star.

Please continue to let your light shine so that other may follow.”

It was standing room only at 6:00 p.m. for The National Blind Idol Semi-finals, a production of McMillian Entertainment. Each contestant in the semi-finals was awarded a certificate of participation, and the five semi-finalists received a trophy for their achievement. Insightful Visionaries and Carolyn Covington congratulated the five finalists: D’Meri - Dover, Delaware, Deandre Kellyman - WinstonSalem, North Carolina, Jordan Scheffer - Asheville, North Carolina, Mary Mikels - Raleigh, North Carolina, Michael Kendall Harris - Salt Lake City, Utah. The winners will advance to Winston-Salem for the National Blind Idol Finale competition presented

by IFB Solutions of Winston Salem , on August 12, 2017. The winner will receive a Grand Prize package of $1,000 cash, eight hours of recording time at a recording studio in Winston-Salem, N.C., and a professional headshot. The total prize package is valued at $3,000.

Carolyn pictured with Steve Murphy Coordinators of the Blind Idol

While there have been many curves thrown at Carolyn, she has stood strong and continues to be a pillar in the community and an advocate for the blind and visually impaired. Her determination and positivity continues to influence the younger generation as she creates opportunities for them to grow individually and collectively.” The future has no boundaries, when you are obedient in your purpose, the one God has chosen for you.” h Mary Mikels

Donations are happily accepted at www.insightfulvisionaries.com

Carolyn Marshall Covington Insightful Visionaries www.insightfulvisionaries.com 919-890-0117 Jordan Scheffer

9

H

ello fashionistas! My name is Bebee Arnold and I am the owner of Bebee’s Sassy Hats & Accessories. That’s me wearing one of my favorite hats. What do you think?

As I hope you can already tell, I LOVE to have a good time. And I love to look my best while doing so. We all know that when you look good, you feel good. That’s actually how Bebee’s Sassy Hats was born.

After being retired for several years, I started looking for a new project. One of my favorite past times has always been shopping, especially for clothes and accessories.

Finding the right clothing isn’t too hard – finding the right accessories, now that is sometimes a little harder. I began to think of how I could make finding the right accent piece easier, not only for myself but for my circle of friends. And that’s when it hit me…the rest, as they say, is her-story.

Bebee’s Sassy Hats & Accessories wants to be your source for the perfect finishing touch to your attire for every occasion. Your weekly church service – we’ve got you covered. A fancy dinner party – we have just the right

10

HuamiMagazine.com

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

accent piece. For every occasion, every milestone in your life, every season and every photo opt – let Bebee’s Sassy Hats & Accessories help you find the statement piece that will complement every outfit.

Society has gotten away from hats like they did in my grandmothers day. She would never go out without a hat. But the hats are coming back.

There are more occasions to wear a hat such as going to church or having tea. When wanting to look good from head to toe, wearing a hat is the crucial piece that completes the ensemble. When shopping for a hat, we are looking for something that says “I have arrived”.

Our products are updated regularly so check back often to browse the selection. Hats are our specialty. We also have stylish scarves, jewelry and even a few accessories for the men in your life. Oftentimes we will also feature special items that have been requested by our customers or that we believe there is a demand for.

My hope is that the selection of pieces that you will find on this site are sassy and chic enough that you will be able to find what you need for the occasion. If there is anything that I can help with please don’t hesitate to contact me. h

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

HuamiMagazine.com

11

Princess For A Day

Prince For A Day Making A Difference In The Lives of Youth

12

HuamiMagazine.com

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

N

Information and Photos Provided by Pforaday aveah Designs and The Gent’s Life have partnered together to host Prince and Princess For A Day events.

Their mission is to promote self worth, build self esteem, and self confidence in the lives of the youth in various communities throughout the United States.

Each participant receives hair care services by licensed Barbers and Cosmetologist,manicures, hygiene session, lunch (provided by Indulge Catering) and much more. They truly believe that “looking good and feeling good” goes hand and hand in today’s society.

P for a Day staff are firm believers of the “I AM’s” which are affirmations that they have the children and young people recite everyday. I Am Smart, Kind, Intelligent, Confident, Beautiful/Handsome, Successful, I AM ME. Although they provide most of the services for the events they are always seeking financial sponsorships from neighboring organizations and local businesses.

“We need the help of our community to make a difference in our young peoples lives. Your sponsorship will benefit children between the ages of 4yrs - 18 yrs old,” says Shabba Parker of Naveah Designs. “Sponsorships will help the continued success of our Prince and Princess For A Day Events.”

Their next event will be held on August 27, 2017 from 1:00pm till 5:00pm. If you need any further assistance with becoming a sponsor or you want to learn how your child can participate visit us at the links below. h

www.pforday.com

Shabba Parker 919-791-5884

Rob McKiver 631-693-9401

13 13

Her mother showed her how to be resilent in any circumstance and to perserve over any obstacles that may present itself. As a wife, mother and grandmother, she continues to live by those same principles they taught her.

“I have never forgot the taste nor the aroma of my grandmothers coffee.

When we would take family vacations I visited different coffee shops, anxiously trying to find my childhood experience,” she says. This venture was unsuccessful, so Calvine decided to blend her own instead.

Her goal was to make people change the way they think about coffee.

In 2015, she launched Calvine’s Coffee, a gourmet specialty roast blend of coffee beans from many origins around the world, including small farms and farmers. Their beans are roasted in small batches in a SanFranciscan Artisan roaster which infuses a gentle roast to every bean. She offers unique roasts and blends that matches the quality and taste profile her clients desire.

Calvine selects the ‘Grade 1’ beans for every batch and give meticulous attention and precise detail to ensure quality and consistency. They use a state of the art packing process that includes foil lined bags and new zip bags with a degassing valve that promotes a longer coffee life up to one year. Her company acknowledge small farms and farmers who are part of the Certified Rainforest Alliance Fair Trade and Direct Trade.

Calvine’s Coffee blends are deeply rooted in Calvine’s family heritage.

Viola Bold takes the heritage of Calvine’s Signature blend and adds a bold finish with slight vanilla, and named after her grandmother Viola.

W

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Todd Youngblood

en Calvine Frazier was a young girl, her parents sent her along with her sibling to spend Summer vacations with her grandparents in Florence South Carolina. There were sugar canes, pecan trees and other fun things for her to immerse herself in, but her most favorite was to pick and sell pecans. These were vacations she looked forward to mainly because she would get to smell the aroma of coffee perking on a wood stove, and witness her grandmother and mother sitting at a small table with a bible, praying, laughing and having loving conversation.

Marylicious Original Blend is a medium-dark city plus roasted while maintain the dark chocolate with rich texture and a slightly almond dry finish, and named after her mother Mary. Medium-Krystalight focuses on consistently providing the best medium-light roasted cup with flavors like Caramel with a bright beginning to each sip, and is named after her daughter Krystal. Calvine’s Signature is a dark roast specialty blend of smooth silky almond berry coffee with a great baked chocolate finish, her original blend and perfect example of a balanced cup.

Calvine’s Coffee strives to satisfy coffee lovers all over the world including Kentucky, Maryland, New York, Texas, Washington D.C., South Carolina and North Carolina. It can be found at Williams-Sonomna in Charlotte every other Saturday for free samples and purchase. It is also the proud coffee resident for Little Rock African American Cultural Center for all events. “I am a huge advocate for Black Economics. I would love to see Calvine’s Coffee impacting our neighborhoods by creating jobs and circulating money back into the African American community,” she says. h

It was during one of those vacations that Calvine knew it was time for her to get a sip out of that cup and see exactly what was making them laugh. That was a sip that would change her life forever.

Calvine realized that she would one day become a house hold name. This was due do in part to her telling anyone she met to remember her name, promising that it will be famous one day.

Blessed wth the namesake of her father, whom she says was a giving and compassionate figure that embedded the importance of family and church into her, Calvine had no choice but to strive for excellence.

14

HuamiMagazine.com

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

(800) 545-8553 morning@calvinescoffee.com www.calvinescoffee.com

Developing Shot Makers, Not Shot Takers

Kenyan Weaks

S basketball.

By Safiya Nelson Photos by Kenyan Weaks

hooting, by far is one of the most critical aspects of basketball. Teaching players, especially young players, the correct way to hold and shoot a basketball is a lost art. A lot of personal trainers focus on the players overall game. They do tons of drills, which is good, but rarely do they take the time to breakdown the mechanics of shooting a

Kenyan Weaks has taken a concept utilized in professional leagues and carved out his niche for shot excellence. Billy Donavan, Coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder of the NBA, states “Weaks is one of the best shooters I have been around.”

For shooting lessons from The Jump Shot Mechanic, Kenyan can be reached at 980-777-5594

“I was sick and tired of going to basketball games and watching players, especially young players, shoot and score long range baskets while shooting the incorrect way. This results in practicing a bad habit that develops over time and is hard to break once a player gets older.”

Kenyan Weaks, aka “The Jump Shot Mechanic”, played collegiately at the University of Florida from 1996-2000 helping lead the Gators to two Sweet 16 appearances, 1 Elite 8 appearance, a trip to the Final 4 while advancing to the Championship game. He completed his career with 1,234 points (21st in school history), 2nd in career list for 3 pointers made (198), 4th in 3 point field gold percentage (42.7 %).

During his sophomore year, Weaks shot a blistering 50.1 % from 3-point land leading the SEC in that category and finishing 5th in the nation. He was also Third Team All SEC and Co-Captain during his Senior Season. Kenyan has taken his shooting specialty and made it accessible for all players, especially young players.

Following his career at Florida, Weaks played for the Harlem Globetrotters for a season, then played professionally in countries Turkey, Slovenia, Greece, Israel, Bulgaria, and South America.

Weaks launched No More Bricks, LLC in 2017 to teach players the proper mechanics of shooting and tricks to improve accuracy and confidence. “I was sick and tired of going to basketball games and watching players, especially young players, shoot and score long range baskets while shooting the incorrect way. This results in practicing a bad habit that develops over time and is hard to break once a player gets older.” Weaks desires to develop shot makers, not shot takers. h

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

HuamiMagazine.com

15

Mathis-Lawson 16

HuamiMagazine.com

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Media Lane Photography

S

elf motivated, committed, driven, creative, an out the box thinker. These are just a few ways to describe Sharita Mathis-Lawson, a single mother of four who has recently obtained a doctor of philosophy in leadership studies from North Carolina A&T State University. “I am a goal setter who is always trying to be better than I was on yesterday. I try to maintain balance on every level; physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I am a servant leader who loves to support other,” she says.

While pursuing academic excellence, Lawson found her self in a uncomfortable place. She was pregnant with her fourth child and didn’t really know what the future held for her. She found peace after enrolling in Iylana Vanzant’s personal development program from Inner Vision Institute of Spiritual Development. “When I started there I was in a dark place. I was so broken and depressed when I discovered Iyanla and her work. So by the time she tweeted about her school, I knew I had to be there. That program saved my life. I got grounded, and really spent time getting to know myself,” she says.

After receiving her PhD, many things in Lawson’s life were confirmed. “It is a demonstration to myself that I can do whatever I choose. Nothing is too big or out of reach and I am living demonstration to my girls of what is possible in life. Nobody can ever tell them what’s not possible because they saw me do it,” she says.

At age 39, she is an adjunct instructor at NC A&T and founder of an online social movement called, Black Girls Cheer, which is devoted to showing the world that Black girls cheer, and do so much more.

“We are dedicated to creating equity in the cheerleading industry by promoting opportunities to cheerleaders and providing platforms to give voice and visibility to cheerleaders of color.”

of a series of workshops and individual coaching sessions. These programs are designed to support education preparatory students in self-exploration and the discovery of meaning and purpose in college and in life. Students identified to participate in this pilot program are in danger of non-admittance into the EPP program.

Moving forward, Lawson plans to continue with her organization, Black Girls Cheer and promote scholarships, athletics and leadership in young girls. On the academic side, she hopes to build her program and continue to help support college students to excel in school. h

During her time as a graduate teaching assistant at NC A&T, she piloted a student retention and success program that consists

Raleigh/Durham Raleigh/Durham- July/August - July/August 2017 2017

HuamiMagazine.com HuamiMagazine.com 17 17

NATASHA

Erwin

She Set The Standards

By Safiya Nelson Photos by Todd Youngblood

I’ve often wished others could walk a day in my shoes, one day I thought, “many are walking in shoes that are very similar, how can I encourage them?” January 2016 I conceived Fitted Hatline, LLC, a company that was established as a result of an idea I had to design hats. I soon found that hats, however, was only the push I needed to get to the ultimate plan. In effort to build revenue to begin my journey, I designed a t-shirt with four very powerful words on the front, “I Set the Standards”. As my T-shirt sales grew, so did my purpose. Like many, I have a story. I have always believed my story could inspire and encourage others, I had no idea that just may be the mission God has for me. I Set the Standards became a movement. People everywhere were reaching out to me, buying tees and sharing their testimonies about how they set the standards. This blessed me! The true meaning of “I Set the Standards” is knowing you are the compass of your fate, reaching your own level of greatness and not what others expect or desire of you. I spent most of my life trying to be accepted, to fit in and belong. I was never happy “trying”. At some point I had to decide to be happy with myself, therefore knowing I did not need the approval of others, hence “I Set the Standards”. My ultimate goal is to see people everywhere setting the standards and wearing it on their shirts. I Set the Standards is not just a brand, it’s a way of life.

One On One With Safiya

When you visit I Set the Standard web page and see CEO/Lady Boss, Natasha Erwin’s smile radiating from the inside out, it is difficult to comprehend the odds she has beaten, the challenges she has overcome, and the darkness she has navigated to discover her own sunshine. Born to drug addicted parents, and later adopted by Christian family members in Charlotte, this Harlem Girl at heart has become the personification of inner glow. Now she helps to lead others on that journey of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and value realization. She indeed has triumphed over many tragedies and now serves as a source of inspiration to others who once sought approval and external acceptance because they never felt like they belonged.

What does “I Set The Standard” mean?

I Set the Standard came to me because I spent a lot of time appeasing other people, and as a result -it made me unhappy. Then I finally came to a point in my life where I reached my own level of greatness and that greatness became what makes me happy. It was birthed out of hearing “I would be like my mother, that I wouldn’t be much or do much ” and one day it dropped in my spirit “I Set the Standard.” As I thought about what these words meant, it was the voice that conquered every negative word that was ever spoken over my life. Those words literally changed my life. Understanding Natasha, I Set the Standard is for every person that was ever told they wouldn’t amount to anything and/or for every person wanting to take a stand in their lives against imposed mindsets that become belief systems that trap us.

Natasha shared how I Set The Standard began; however, it quickly evolved she went on to explain, and became different things for many people. People began to own it as theirs. They began sharing their testimonies about how they set the standard at school, they set the standard at work, and they set the standard in pretty much whichever arena they found themselves. Doors opened for speaking

18

HuamiMagazine.com

www.isetthestandards.com engagements for Erwin. I began publicly speaking to people about self-esteem and self-acceptance and encouraging them to set their own standard. When I shared what it meant, people got it. I wanted to encourage people and empress upon others that they too can set their own standard.

What challenges have you had to overcome?

I live with Bail’s Palsy, which has paralyzed one side of my face, this also contributed to feelings of not being enough and not measuring up to society’s standard of being beautiful.

Although Erwin shared her confrontation with this stifling dis-ease, her inner beauty still outshines its darkness. I viewed pictures of Natasha and had no idea. This made me think symbolically of how the things scarring us and causing shame, are often undetected by others. You may not have a debilitating dis ease, but what other things has life presented you with that may have left you feeling paralyzed and no one else knows.

Where do you get your inspiration?

My children are my greatest inspiration. I do everything I do for my children.

Natasha’s life long friend Venitra Dean says “Natasha’s love and dedication for her children stands out. Natasha is an advocate for her son.

She always stays engaged with his teachers, administration and even went so far as to accept a seat on the board of an organization she enrolled her son in, From Boys To Men”. This is yet another way Erwin advocates for her youngest son to Set The Standard.

Erwin was recently awarded the privilege of being one of the writers for Women on A Mission “Leaving our Legacy”, and anthology. Erwin embodies the quote by Brian Tracy “It doesn’t matter where you are coming from, all that matters is where you are going!” h

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

I am Shea Ramirez and I Will Be

The People’s Mayor

I’m the wife of a man who lives with Crones Disease, and a mother to six beautifully young women all with unique personalities. Over the years I have become a respected business woman, a dedicated community servant, and patron to the arts. I feel that I genuinely relate to the diversities at the heart of our community. My objective is to revitalize our enervated city. Our home is sick and is in need of healing from a plethora of maladies ranging from crime and homelessness, to violence and gentrification. I will put great effort towards uplifting our city and rekindling the flames of pride in ourselves and our community.

The creators and dreamers of tomorrow are being robbed of their opportunities to flourish by way of the deplorable defunding of the arts in schools.

I believe that your talent Is your ticket, and this is a gross disservice to our youth. The foundations of our future are built on behalf of our children whom shall build great wonders upon that very foundation which is our duty to lay for them here today. That precious foundation is being undermined and sabotaged by a callous and apathetic administration that values self serving cronyism over intelligent and compassionate legislation and I swear to do everything in my power to protect the vital influence of art and music in our schools.

With this, please understand that love is the bridge that will cross the divides that are plaguing our communities. I want to bring accountability to our communities and reform policing in our neighborhoods through empathy and mutual respect. Our people are distressed, both financially and emotionally. There is a lack of love. I want to resurrect the spirit of Durham.

I am eager to begin the conversation about change. Durham needs direct action. We need to come together as a whole body. As a unified community through my administration we shall forge our future into the gorgeous vision of individuality, love, and acceptance that I see within our historic city. I conclude with a quote from the king of pop himself, the late great Michael Jackson. “Let us dream of tomorrow where we can truly love from the soul, and know love as the ultimate truth at the heart of all creation.”

Kershemia La-Shea Ramirez, was born on April 2, 1973 in Greensboro, N.C. After graduating from James B. Dudley High School, she went on to attended NCCU where she received her Bachelors of Arts in Public Administration in 1995. She has been an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. for over 20 years and graduated from FullSail University with a Masters degree in Entertainment Business In August 2016.

Shea is a determined entrepreneur at heart, having started Sa’Shea Shoes in 2006 which began by her selling shoes from her car (with her girls in tow) to make enough to open a storefront which she grew over an 11 year span.

Shea believes that everyone is beautiful inside and out, and by doing so she opened SH’ Bella Model and Talent Agency where she strives to instill that very idea into all her projects. Shea took those core beliefs and brought a program to all the middle schools in Durham to impart self esteem, confidence, and love of one’s self.

She has been involved in her community through a myriad of programs such as the annual Back To School drives, servicing The Genesis Home; providing clothing, haircuts, and hairstyling for families in need. Shea has been a National Night Out sponsor for the last four years, focusing on curving violent crimes in Durham, and has worked to bridge the gap between Durham’s law enforcement and the community with a physical fitness program.

Driven by her passion for her city’s youth, she held the first annual Teen Summit in May of 2016. Her goal was to open up a much needed dialogue between youth and their community. She also has partnered with Bridge the Gap, Hillside High School Anti-bullying campaign, worked directly with at risk youth facing imminent expulsion, and The Stop The Violence Rallies.

Her aim is to restore a sense of self worth with the youth and show them that someone cares about their success.

Truly, Shea has begun the work needed in our beloved community. She is a self motivated, caring, intrepid woman who knows when they say you aren’t and you can’t, God says you can and you will.

Our Community, Our Children, Our Future and Accountabilty for All People I believe in spreading the economics through out Durham by providing adequate training and education for all citizens. When we have good paying jobs our crime rate is low. Each and every child will not attend a four year college but a obtaining a trade is also an great option as well. You can still be successful and complete your life goals. There are plenty of opportunities in Durham but not all people have access to these opportunities.

We must provide all citizens with a fair chance to be successful in our city. h

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

HuamiMagazine.com

19

huami

MAGAZINE

20

Kly’len White Knight

Cutest Baby

The son of Brittani White & Dwayne Knight Photo provided by Lita White

HuamiMagazine.com

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

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

Johnson’s 2nd Chance Staffing of Durham

J

Helping Those In Need of A Second Chance

ohnson’s Second Chance Staffing (JSCS) is a locally owned non-profit staffing company based in Durham and Greensboro, N.C. Founded in 2014, the company was buit with a focus on creating unique opportunities for individuals.

Their goal is to help improve their quality of life of others while providing an untapped but viable resource for their partner corporations. Founder Bryan Johnson says they have witnessed first-hand the challenges judicially served individuals face trying to obtain suitable employment, as well as the challenges employers face identifying staffing companies to partner with where there is a mutually beneficial relationship. “Our team is passionate about identifying opportunities and creating positive memorable experiences for our staff, while developing and building relationships with our corporate partners in an effort to ensure that both the client corporation and the employee are happy.”

Bryan Johnson received his Associates of Arts (AA) degree in Business Administration from CW Post. However, a series of bad choices landed him a 7 ½ year prison sentence. After being released, he ran into challenges securing gainful employment. Over a period of time, Johnson worked in various industries being overworked and underpaid. Time after time he was told “no” or “we don’t hire felons”. These negative job seeking experiences and low wage paying jobs were the driving force that motivated Johnson to become interested in the judicially served population. After much exploration, he knew that he had to help that demographic by doing something to make a difference in their lives; he had to impact recidivism. Johnson began praying about the matter and received instruction from God to open up opportunities of gainful employment for others. He set out to learn as much as he could about the staffing industry and even worked for a staffing company. Later, Johnson’s Second Chance Staffing was born, serving communities in Greensboro and Durham, N.C. h

315 S. Westgate Dr. Ste E Greensboro, NC 27407 336-493-1711 919-519-2447 www.jscsstaffing.org

Advertise in Huami Magazine For more information, please call

336-340-7844 Also Available Online at

www.huamimagazine.com A Mykel Media Company Publication HuamiMagazine.com 21 21

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

www.thelooprdtees.com

Crystels Styles and More Pedicures Plus

Cleaning Repairs To Mechanical Works Oiling Restoration of Broken Parts

Crystels Styles and More Pedicures Plus is designed and dedicated to providing safe sanitized services for those whom may be mobility impaired. Our serene environment helps to create that perfect ambiance for relaxation. Release and rely on us for your personal care.

22

HuamiMagazine.com

Lyons Clock Repair 919-225-1194 lciscoathome@aol.com

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017

HuamiMagazine.com

23

24

HuamiMagazine.com

Raleigh/Durham - July/August 2017