July/August 2025
Vol. 4 Issue 5
Social Flare Event Studio
Passion, Purpose, and Expiration Dates
A Letter From The Editor
There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!
A Letter from the Editor
When the moment arrives and you know that your passion doesn’t align with your purpose, it’s time to move on.
One of the great blessings that God offers to all of His children is the opportunity to choose what we want to do in life. Some may aspire to be a doctor, nurse, actor/actress, musician, teacher, dancer, etc. Whatever our hearts desire, God allows us to decide. With this freedom, I believe that God doesn’t expect us to leave Him out totally. If it’s from God, then in order to sustain it, a connection must be sustained.
What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What would you do?
The purpose of an expiration date is to let us know when something has gone bad or has become useless. Who wants to eat food that has expired? We are not supposed to drive cars with an expired driver’s license, so why would we want to show up for an assignment that has passed us by? It doesn’t make sense. Whether it’s a person, place, or thing, or even an airplane, it deserves the best from whoever is in a position to provide it.
Lately, I have noticed that a lack of compassion exists in many places. In the hospitality industry, the healthcare industry, the travel industry, and even at church, people seem to be so disinterested in the feelings of others. Of course, we can come up with a lot of reasons and excuses as to why, again, I believe that it’s due to an expiration date. If the thrill is gone, then the door becomes open to all of the bad habits to walk in.
I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in return acquire life.
The best advice ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet, because someone may get it confused with being arrogant.
I want to encourage everyone who may read this message to always approach what we are called to with love and excellence. Self-reflection is also something that can help us learn where we are in our calling and assignments. The reasons why we started don’t change; what changes is what happens along the journey, and when the moment arrives where our interests are dull and reasoning has evaporated, that’s when we should walk away. Too many people are depending on receiving the best versions of themselves, and that version may even be connected to their livelihood and survival.
General Inquiries
Make you tomorrow happen today, but most importantly make it count. Life is but a whisper and we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is telling us.
Terry L. Watson
Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder
Tamara Smith
Terry L Watson Publisher
Dr. Marrissa Dick Writer
Terry L. Watson Writer
Monica Montgomery Writer
Ashleigh Crawley Photographer
Todd Youngblood Photographer
Snuggs Photography Photographer
Richmond, VA
Fall 2025 Black Business Accelarator
Central Virgina African American COC
Richmond, VA
Happily Natural Events
Duran Chavis
It is time to celebrate those who help make our communities better. The Huami Magazine Community Awards Gala happened in Charlotte. Charlotte, NC She is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one beautiful baby. Her name is Mina Alyssa Kennedy 06 07
Social Flare Event Studio
Paula Hairston
On The Cover
Phiffany & Co.
Phiffany Porter
The Sweet Smell of Candles Jonelle Dawn Green
Obsidian’s Pen Tyrone Gethers Jr.
New Jerusalem Cathedral Dr. Kevin A. Williams 30
Central Virginia African American Chamber of Commerce
Fall 2025 Black Business Accelerator Program
Central Virginia African American Chamber of Commerceis conducting The Black Business Accelerator Program. The program’s goal is to help propel African American businesses to a level in which they can compete and perform equally with majority businesses that have stronger roots and relationships. We support this goal with a 3 month course that covers 6 sessions with industry leaders in the areas of accessing capital, organizational development, human resources, branding, and growing digitally.
The Black Business Accelerator Program receives sponsorship from Henrico Economic Development, Chesterfield Economic Development, and the Virginia State University Center for Entrepreneurship, enabling us to offer a low tuition fee of $300 for the full course. Participants in the program have the choice to pay the tuition in full or opt for a twopayment plan, with the full payment due before the course’s first day.
The program offers both virtual and in-person options. In-person classes are conducted at 6802 Paragon Place, 2nd Floor Conference Room, Richmond, VA. Virtual students will receive information during the course to join. The course consists of six sessions held on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM on the following dates. Applicants should ensure their availability for these dates before applying. The Fall 2025 dates are September 10th, September 24th, October 8th, October 22nd, November 5th, and November 19th. It’s important to emphasize that they are seeking applications only from dedicated and committed business owners.
For additional program information, please visit https://www.cvaacc.org/bbap
22nd Annual Happily Natural Festival & Urban Farm Expo Happily Natural Black Farm Tour
Happily Natural Day was founded in 2003 by Duron Chavis at the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia. While employed as museum coordinator, Chavis proposed the idea of doing a community event in the back parking lot of the museum. Because of a lack of funding (which is unfortunately the case for many black institutions whose specific focus is black history or African culture), the museum was unable to financially support its annual jazz concert.
The idea for Happily Natural Day was simple. The festival would focus on natural hair, holistic health, and black awareness. It would feature lectures and workshops on those themes, have a vendor marketplace and performances from spoken word & hip hop artists. The mission would be to raise consciousness in the African American community while breaking down inferiority complexes by promoting natural hair.
The first Happily Natural Day was promoted via flyers and posters throughout the Richmond and surrounding areas. Natural hair salons were contacted via phone, email, and snail mail to get the word out about the event. The event would be well attended because natural haircare was popular, and having locs or natural hair was becoming very fashionable. The issues surrounding why “nappy” hair was taboo would be addressed at the festival, making it even more important for people to attend. If not out of sheer curiosity, then patrons came out of the desire to know more about natural haircare and holistic health.
Social Flare Event Studio
By Terry L. Watson
Paula Hairston, of Richmond, VA, is the owner of Social Flare Event Studio. Her company offers affordable event space rentals as well as beautiful, flexible venue for private parties, classes, pop-up shops, and creative events. While Paula and her team’s foundation may be venue rental, they also offer add-on services such as tables, chairs, and basic setups to help our clients bring their vision to life. Paula says, “I’m passionate about helping people make memories, whether through a beautifully hosted event, a fun class, or a pop-up business opportunity. I believe in leading with heart, offering quality experiences, and making event planning easier and more accessible for everyone.
Social Flare Event Studio officially opened for business in 2023, Paula shares, after recognizing a need for affordable, stylish event spaces in Midlothian, VA. After months of planning, securing a location, and curating a welcoming atmosphere, she made a leap of faith and has been going ever since.
The vision to start her company came from Paula’s passion for bringing people together and creating memorable experiences. She also credits her love of art and desire to help others celebrate life’s special moments as contributing factors. Paula says, “I wanted a space where creativity, community, and celebration could meet — whether through painting, entrepreneurship, or personal milestones. I wanted to build a space where creativity, community, and celebration could thrive without breaking the bank. It’s inspired by my love for hosting, entrepreneurship, and empowering others to showcase their talents.”
Paul has enjoyed success in various aspects of her life. Besides being a business owner, educator, artist, and beauty consultant, she has some academic accolades to boast of, including a Master’s Degree in Adaptive Special Education Curriculum.
Photos Provided by Paula Hairston
In addition to running Social Flare Event Studio, Paula expressed her creative gifts in the areas of painting and designing custom tennis shoes. She also enjoys turning ordinary footwear into wearable art. She adds, “I love hosting paint classes, leading makeover workshops through Mary Kay, and providing spaces where people can express themselves creatively and confidently. Everything I do is rooted in my belief in creativity, connection, and empowering others to shine.”
Since starting her company, Paula has faced a few hurdles along the way. That’s understandable, yet her perseverance and determination to succeed has carried her above each one. She shares that one of the biggest challenges she has faced is balancing multiple roles, from managing her event studio to family life, and maintaining a full-time position. Another challenge she says has been building consistent visibility and attracting new audiences while staying true to my brand’s mission. “I’ve learned to prioritize and schedule intentionally, giving dedicated time to each area of my business and passions. I’ve also leaned on building a strong network of support, which involves collaborating with other small businesses and staying connected with my community. I also continue to invest in marketing and learning new strategies. More than anything, staying flexible and willing to adapt has helped me push through challenges and keep growing.”
The advice Paula offers to others aspiring entrepreneurs and even those who may follow in her footsteps is honest and direct. She says, “Stay true to your vision, but be open to learning and evolving along the way. Celebrate small wins, because they build the foundation for bigger successes. Also, don’t be afraid to start small — what matters most is consistency and passion. Finally, surround yourself with supportive people, ask for help when needed, and always believe that your unique creativity has a place in the world.”
Looking ahead, Paula has set her sights on expanding the creative experiences offered by her company, Social Flare Event Studio. She also hopes to add more specialty paint classes, launch a custom sneaker design workshop, and continue to host beauty and self-care events through Mary Kay. “Personally, I’m excited to dive deeper into custom shoe art and share that side of my creativity with a wider audience. Growth, new ideas, and community-building are at the heart of what’s next!” h
Jonelle Dawn Green
Dawn Desirable Melts Candle Co.
By Terry L. Watson
For all things considered, Jonelle Dawn Green is a “Southern Belle”, but considers herself to be a “Country Diva”. She was born and raised in Terrell, TX, and now residing in Dallas, Jonelle has built a successful candle business from the ground up and has made some scentful waves while doing so. Her company, Dawn Desirable Melts Candle Co., Dawn says is where passion meets purpose. “What started as a love for rich, comforting scents turned into a mission to handcraft candles and melts that elevate your space and spirit. Each product is a reflection of care, creativity, and a desire to make your everyday moments beautifully unforgettable,” she says.
Dawn shares she began her journey in business to share the joy of scent. “It was in 2021, and while having a conversation with my spouse, we realized our shared love for candles could become something beautiful-not just for us, but for others seeking peace and ambiance in their homes. The name derives from my middle name, meaning a beginning or emergence of something new, which often signifies hope, clarity, or a fresh start. Today, every candle is hand-poured with purpose, passion, and a touch of magic,” she says.
“Each product is a reflection of care, creativity, and a desire to make your everyday moments beautifully unforgettable.”
Photos Provided by Jonelle Dawn Green
“To be honest, my biggest supporters are people that I do not personally know. I’ve learned that support doesn’t always come from where you expect.”
When asked what she loves most about what she does, Jonelle says it is the intention behind every pour. “It’s not just about wax and wicks, it’s about creating something that brings peace, comfort, and beauty into someone’s space. I love the creativity of blending fragrances, how certain scents can instantly shift a mood or bring back a memory. Every candle I make is crafted with care, patience, and love, and knowing that something I created with my hands can help someone relax, smile, or feel at home that’s the most fulfilling part. Candle-making is my form of therapy, art, and service all rolled into one,” she says.
Not only for the opportunities she has to make others happy, Jonelle says she is inspired by the power of scent and how simple fragrances can shift energy, stir up memories, and create calm in the middle of chaos. She is also inspired by the people who light her candles, such as busy moms, hardworking professionals, people healing, and people celebrating. “Knowing that something I hand-pour can help someone protect their peace or feel more grounded, keeps me going. Additionally, I’m inspired by my own journey, too. What started as a small spark at the kitchen table has grown into a full business rooted in passion, healing, and creativity. That growth, and the impact it’s having, inspires me to keep learning, creating, and showing up.”
While Jonelle says that her family has had the most significant impact on her business, she also acknowledges the support of strangers. “To be honest, my biggest supporters are people that I do not personally know. I’ve learned that support doesn’t always come from where you expect. Every message, every story about how a scent made someone feel-it reminds me why I do this, and they don’t just support my business; they fuel my purpose. I’ve also been impacted by the power of intention and peace. Life can be heavy, and I’ve learned how important it is to create space for rest, calmness, and self-care. That’s what I pour into every product,” she says.
The life of entrepreneurship can be hectic and very demanding. For Jonelle, her determination to succeed does come with many challenges. She says that one of the biggest challenges she has faced is wearing all the hats. “As a small business owner, I’m the maker, the marketer, the customer service rep, the inventory manager; everything. It can be overwhelming trying to balance creativity with the business side. I also face challenges with supply chain delays and pricing, especially when working with quality ingredients. I’ve learned to pivot, stay patient, and always keep my customers in the loop. Every challenge teaches me something-and reminds me why I started. I may get tired, but I don’t quit. I keep showing up for the people who do believe, and I let my passion speak louder than the silence. Another challenge has been emotional weight. You pour your heart into your business, and when it’s met with silence instead of encouragement, it can be disheartening.”
Jonelle offers some advice to others who may follow in her footsteps. She says, “Start where you are, use what you have, and trust your process. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It has to be real. Stay consistent even when the likes, sales, or support feel small. The right people will find you, and remember your passion is your power. When you pour that into your work, it speaks louder than anything else. Also, don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle. You’re building something meaningful, and give yourself time to grow. Most importantly, protect your peace while you build. You are the brand, so take care of yourself just like you would for your business; with love, patience, and intention.
So, what is next for Dawn Desirable Melts Candle Co.? Jonelle says that it is all about expansion with intention. “I’m working on releasing new seasonal collections, exploring custom scents, and growing our presence at local markets and pop-up events. I’m also adding a line of self-care products that align with our mission because protecting your peace goes beyond candles. Growth is coming, but I’m doing it on my terms, with heart and purpose at the center of it all. One collection I’m excited to launch is Ocean Bliss, a coastal-inspired candle that’s fresh, blue, and made for peace. We’re bringing the experience offline and into the community. From candle-pouring workshops to local pop-ups and vendor markets, I want people to not only smell the brand but feel it. We’re not just selling candles, we’re creating space for peace.”
www.dawndesirablemeltscandlecollc.com h
Obsidian’s Pen
By Terry L. Watson - Photos provided by Tyrone Gethers Jr.
Tyrone Gethers Jr., of Kansas City, MO, is an educator by trade and has over 24 years of teaching experience embedded in his resume. His passion for teaching is rooted in his desire to give students an experience of learning from someone who looks like them. Tyrone’s passion for educating people of color aligns with his goal to close the disparities in the achievement gap, and he uses his love for writing and literacy to help bridge this gap.
Tyrone is a member of the last graduating class of Southwest High School in Kansas City. He later attended Western State University and acquired his undergraduate degree. He followed this feat with getting his graduate degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Today, Tyrone expresses his love for writing as an author and has published several works. These include Assorted Emotions, Love/Lost, and Gems of Confection, which is an interactive journal.
“When I was younger, my parents were pretty strict about our studies. We couldn’t watch television all the time, so I would create my own comic strips instead. My dad was very supportive of that, and he took me to a comic book store, Culturally Speaking, where I picked up some black superhero comics. I was also able to meet a comic book creator, and he autographed a book for me. That was life-changing for me, and I decided that I wanted to be a writer,” Tyrone says.
When he got to college, Tyrone continued to explore his passion for writing and began writing mysteries. He was introduced to another author, Glenn Norris. The encounter Tyrone says, put gasoline into what he was doing. “He was a brother, real smooth, and loved what he was doing,” and I wanted to be just like him.”
Tryone’s love for writing has produced a company called Obsidian’s Pen. When Tryone first launched his company, Tyrone offered literacy support, consultation, coaching, and editing services. He also provided workshops and a home for writers of color to sit and write, and express themselves comfortably. He later branched off into offering services for students between the grades of kindergarten and twelfth grade, as well as college students.
Why Obsidian’s Pen? Tryone says, “I came up with this name because there were some writing groups in Kansas City that had little minority participation. I felt that I needed more support to blossom. I ran with an organization called the Music and More Foundation, which Terrence Williams ran. He has been and continues to be very beneficial in promoting the arts within our city. I thought that it would be great to have a group of black writers in Kansas City that would provide a place for us to go and provide us representation as well. I shared my idea with Tryone, and he thought it was great. I then came up with the name, Obsidian’s Pen.”
The meaning of Obsidian’s Pen clearly reflects the culture and heritage of black people. Tryone says the Obsidian stone is rare; it is a rich stone, just like the black culture. “The stone is just like black people, we are amazing to look at,” he says. “The pen is what we use to get the word out. I want to let others know we have power in our pen.”
Tryone says what he loves most about what he does is the opportunity to help others. He adds, “I appreciate the opportunity to help others realize the gifts they have through writing. Even more, I absolutely love writing. It’s serene and peaceful. Obsidian’s Pen allows me to exercise the skills of writing and modeling what I do in the classroom.”
Tyrone credits his son, Paul, with having a significant impact on his life. “My son was participating in a talent show, and I asked him what his talent was. He told me that it was telling jokes. I then told him that he was more than just someone to laugh at. I told him that he needed to utilize his gifts. I then broke down all of the gifts that he had. I also realized that I needed to model the intellectual nature that I wanted him to use. Everytime my son sees me doing what I do, I hope to be that kind of example,” Paul says. Tyrone also credits Glenn North, Terrence Williams, and George Walker with helping to shape his career.
It is obvious that Tyrone loves writing, so much so that he wishes that he had stepped out on faith sooner to do it full-time. Along the journey of building his brand, Tryone has also faced several challenges, including support, and says, “We need support to keep moving. My mom reminded me that people are with you while the idea is in your mind, but when the time comes to get that work in, you don’t see them. Yet, when you are established, they reappear. I have also been challenged by the feeling of loneliness. I counter this by praying more and being patient with myself and others, and realizing that what is for me is for me.”
His advice to other writers who may follow a path similar to his is straightforward. “Just write. Keeping it in your head is not going to get it out there. Put it on paper and tell your story in a manner that it should be told.” Looking ahead, Tyrone plans to continue to do what he loves most, which is writing. He is putting the finishing touches on a novel and a children’s book. Tyrone is also looking to expand the tutoring aspect of his business. h
Dr.KevinWilliams MotherFlorenceWilliams
50 Years of God’s Grace New Jerusalem Cathedral 1975-2025
While most may believe that it all started in 1975, the foundation of New Jerusalem was well in the making long before. To be honest, the stars were aligned and in full beam on the streets of Philadelphia way back when. There was a young fellow who went by the name of Frank. Ambitious, confident, and modest in some ways, Frank possessed promise and purpose, and as time would reveal, through obedience and by faith, he would leave a lasting impact on the world. Fast forward to 2025, and Frank’s presence and persona are as resounding as they ever were.
Florence Plummer Williams, also known as Mother Williams, recalls when the late Bishop Frank Williams visited his father in Philadelphia. She lived across the street from Bishop Williams’ father, and a connection was made, and life began to move fast for the young couple. In 1963, Frank moved to Greensboro, NC. After proposing to Florence, she came to Greensboro, NC. When Florence moved to NC, they got married a month after sharing their nuptials in April. Florence was pregnant in May, and Bishop was called to Pastor in June at Mount Zion Baptist Church, which was on Bingham Street at the time. “It was a small wooden church with an outside baptismal pool. We had a small membership of about 50 or 60 people. We stayed there for about five years. Through fundraising efforts, the church relocated from Bingham Street to Spencer Street. At some point, my husband was called to do something different. We decided to start our own ministry, and New Jerusalem Cathedral began in the YWCA building on the corner of Pearson Street and Murrow Boulevard. That was in 1975. We stayed there until a building became available. That happened when New Light Baptist Church, now located on Willow Road, changed its location. We purchased their previous location on McConnell Road and remained there for several years. Due to the city of Greensboro’s expansion, we were forced to relocate from that location. We then rented space at the Greensboro Coliseum until our eventual location at 1606 Phillips Avenue became available,” Mother Williams shares.
When speaking of her late husband, Mother Williams’ smile is very generous. She lost her husband in 1998 and remains unmarried today. As she describes their union, it becomes evident that she understood her purpose then and remains fully committed to it now. “God had blessed my husband with an amazing gift. That became apparent to me very early. I wasn’t raised in the church and meeting him was a whole new world for me. We dated in Philly, and he asked me if I would marry him. Of course, I was young and in love, and I told him I would go wherever you go. After the first month, I was pregnant with my first son, Michael. We were a young couple, and many of our members were a lot older than we were, and they were very supportive and helped me and Bishop Williams along our journey,” she says.
New Jerusalem Cathedral (1975-2025)
September 14, 1975
New Jerusalem Baptist Church - (Pearson Street YWCA)
Church name changed to New Jerusalem Cathedral
New Jerusalem Churches of Sound Doctrine
New Jerusalem Cathedral - Greensboro, NC (Mother Church)
November 1984
January 26, 1998
July 6th, 2025 1977
Purchased building sold by New Light Baptist Church 1860 McConnell Road - Greensboro, NC
Greensboro Coliseum Town Hall Auditorium
New Jerusalem Cathedral Moved 1606 Phillips Avenue - Greensboro, NC
Monument of Praise Ministries Began High Point, NC
Bishop Frank Williams called home to be with God
New Jerusalem Moved 1822 Sharpe Road - Greensboro, NC
Frank and Florence Conference & Sports Center Opened 1824 Sharpe Road - Greensboro, NC
Dr. Kevin A. Williams became King of Development of Adukrom, Ghana
Monument of Praise Ministries - High Point, NC
Church of Redemption - High Point, NC
New Jerusalem Cathedral West - Winston Salem, NC
Hope Church International - Durham, NC
Refuge Temple Bridging The Gap - Clinton, NC
Amazing Grace International Church - East London, South Africa
Embassy of Faith Worldwide - Nairobi, Kenya
Grace & Priase Kingdom Assembly
Harmony Community Church
Greater Fellowship Worship Center
Greater Connectors Church of Sound Doctrine
Phillips Avenue Annex - Greensboro, NC
Sharpe Road Location - Greensboro, NC
Monument of Praise Ministries - High Point, NC
The Frank and Florence Williams Conference & Sports Center
The young Bishop Frank Williams was a very busy minister. In addition to leading the members of New Jerusalem, he served in many other capacities. Mother Williams shares that Bishop Frank Williams had a lot of energy and a remarkable vision. He gleaned insights from the various places he visited, and he knew exactly what he wanted to do. Reverend Williams organized the Poor People’s March here in Greensboro, NC, and a March on Washington that impacted the disenfranchised. He also caused laws to change. Because of Bishop Williams, the Privileged Communication Law was established. During that time, Protestant pastors were required to testify in court about things shared with them in confidence, while Catholic priests were not. Due to Bishop Williams efforts in changing this law, Protestant pastors are now also protected from having to testify. The Mayor also instituted Frank Williams Day.
“On our first service at New Jerusalem, we had almost 150 people who joined the church that Sunday. Some of our present members from then are still members now, supporting our ministry in some capacity, she says.
While building their ministry, there was a keen set of eyes always focused on whatever his father was doing. The young Kevin Williams is a true “daddy’s boy”. He loved his late father with his whole heart, and whatever he saw his dad do, he wanted to do the same. Dr. Kevin A. Williams credits his father with shaping and molding him into the person he is today. At the young age of four, Dr. Williams was called to preach, but his father wouldn’t allow him to preach. “His father’s response was how would you tell anyone about life, and you do not know anything yourself?” At the age of 10, he gave his life to Christ, an experience that his mother describes as emotional and equally inspiring. Dr. Williams preached his initial sermon at the age of 15, and the rest is history.
Dr. Williams recalls the experience of giving his trial sermon. “Before then, I was my father’s drummer. I was only 15, and I hadn’t spent much time in the pulpit. I was terrified. There were three of us scheduled to give our trial sermon that day, and I had to go first. The church was packed out with many of my father’s friends. I did ok, and for four years, I wasn’t a great preacher. My father told me that I would never become a great preacher until I lose my first love for a new love. My first love was drumming. I was great at it. I had to break up with my girlfriend (drums) in order to pursue this relationship. Preaching is not just a calling, it’s a relationship,” he says.
Dr. Kevin Williams graduated from Southeast High School in Greensboro, NC. He later attended Shaw University (satellite campus) in High Point, NC, the Overcoming School of Religion in South Carolina, and the Institute of Christian Works in Seattle, WA. He also worked in the patient accounting department at Cone Hospital in Greensboro. He would later work at John Hancock Insurance (later bought out by Unicare).
In 1998, Bishop Frank Williams was called home to be with the Lord. Before his passing, he had suffered from several health ailments, including a massive stroke. That ordeal left him disabled on his right side and affected his speech. Yet, he remained defiant and continued to attend church and preach to the best of his ability. As Bishop Williams’ health declined, his ministry was adversely impacted. “We lost members, and as a result, we struggled to pay many of the church bills. Yet, we were determined to make it. I sold plates of food and did whatever we could to make it, and God saw us through,” she says.
Pictured above and below if Bishop Frank Williams
Pictured above is Mother Florence and Bishop Frank Williams
Dr. Kevin A. Williams
“My father told me that you are a good preacher, but you can also be versatile in any environment. If you are stuck in one style, you are not a good preacher; you should be able to go into an environment where no one knows the Bible at all, and shift your style to grip them.”
In 1992, Dr. Williams, along with Mother Williams, began a new ministry, Monument of Praise Ministries. Leading his ministry, Dr. Williams served in dual roles: Senior Pastor of Monument of Praise in High Point, NC, and Vice Bishop of New Jerusalem alongside his father. As one can imagine, he maintained a fairly hectic schedule, traveling between the two churches and preaching two sermons on any given Sunday, all while working at Unicare full-time. After losing his father, Dr. Williams took the role as Senior Pastor of New Jerusalem Cathedral on Phillips Avenue and became the pastor of both ministries. In 2005, they moved to a newly constructed location on Sharpe Road in Greensboro. Under his leadership, the ministry continued to flourish, and membership increased. In 2024, they moved into the newest location, the Frank and Florence Williams Conference & Sports Center. This remarkable edifice is multifunctional and can seat up to 2500 people.
New Jerusalem Cathedral is a nondenominational, multi-cultural, independent church whose primary mission is to pursue evangelism as structured in the book of Acts in order to help resolve homelessness, first in Guilford County, and then in the uttermost parts of the world. The church has grown and expanded over the years, but its purpose has remained steadfast: to exalt God, to edify the Body of Christ, and to evangelize the world.
Losing his father left a void in Dr. Williams’ life. That was his best friend, his mentor, his pastor. He taught Kevin how to fish, how to play chess, and other intricate things for a man to know, and made sure he took care of his mom. “My father died on Monday, January 26, 1998. He was funeralized the following Saturday. I preached his funeral at Power House of Deliverance Church. I had a small recorder, and it held a recording of my father reading a scripture. I played the recording and then proceeded to preach. I stood in my father’s pulpit the next day, and I have been in it ever since. My father was a great man of vision, and he was 30 years before his time. Many of the things that are happening today, my father was talking about in 1982 and 1983. Because of what he shared with me, I have already been prepared for this moment, and he is still fathering me because I still hear his voice,” he says.
Without question, Dr. Kevin Williams loves his parents, and fulfilling their legacy is his most important priority. “My responsibility is to cover and protect my mom and make sure she is honored as co-founder of everything that we have done. When I do ministry, I do it based on everything my parents have taught me to do. This is my family’s legacy and livelihood. My job is to protect my family,” Dr. Williams says.
While Dr. Williams is walking in the image of his mother and father, he also credits a few other ministers for having a profound impact and lasting impression on his life and ministry. These include Bishop Noel Jones, Willie James Campbell, Caesar Clark, CL Franklin, and Jasper Williams. “My father told me that you are a good preacher, but you can also be versatile in any environment. If you are stuck in one style, you are not a good preacher; you should be able to go into an environment where no one knows the Bible at all and shift your style to grip them. The scripture says that “I became all things to all men for the saving of some,” he says.
The future for Dr. Kevin Williams and Mother Williams looks very bright. Today, Dr. Williams celebrates 41 years of preaching sound doctrine. In September, New Jerusalem Cathedral will celebrate 50 Years of Ministry. Earlier this month, Dr. Williams traveled to the continent of Africa and was crowned as King by a King in Ghana. Under his leadership, New Jerusalem Cathedral, Monument of Praise, and The Church of Sound Doctrine continue to soar. Why? It is because Dr. Williams is a man with great vision and determination.
Additionally, Dr. Williams has been focused on doing things differently from his father. One in particular is structure. “I call it “Christian Etiquette Structure”. My father did not allow women to wear pants in the sanctuary. If he came back right now, he
would get me. I have learned and accepted there are certain things you will have to advance in if you are to stay relevant in this culture,” he shares. “My journey has really been a walk of faith. One of the scariest things is that we don’t have enough visionaries. Our assignment is to challenge the mindsets of this generation and to help them know the true Savior of the world. We should also focus on reaching more people and preparing them for the coming of the Lord and for what is happening next.
In closing, Dr. Williams continues to express his appreciation for the privilege of serving the members of his ministry. He is also grateful for having his mother present to see him do what he does. “In my own way, I believe that with my mother seeing what I do, my father can see it also. Her smile is coupled with my father’s. If she says that is good, then I believe I am being a good carrier of the Williams’ family legacy,” he says. h
Phiffany & Co.
By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Corrie Wilson
It’s not how you start, but how you finish.
For North Little Rock, AR, native and resident, Phiffany Porter, that adage is resounding and of great significance. As the owner and face of Phiffany & Co., Phiffany has made quite a name for herself in the real estate industry. She’s young and ambitious, and those qualities have fueled her fire. Yet, there is so much more that drives her passion, but at her core, Phiffany is answering a call of purpose planted into her as a young child.
“My life began with humble beginnings,” Phiffany shares. “I grew up in the East Gate Public Housing community. It was me, my mother, uncles, and cousins, all housed in a two-bedroom duplex. We stayed there until my grandmother purchased her first house, which was also a two-bedroom. While we may have been classified as a low-income family, it never felt like it, because there was so much love around. Of course, while at school, I noticed that some of the other kids had things that I didn’t, but still, I never felt like I was missing out. Living with my grandmother, Phyllis Porter, I absorbed many of her qualities. While my mother, Lucianna was there, I was really a “granny’s baby”. Sitting under her and watching the shows she watched on television, I learned a whole lot, including how to cook.”
Phiffany is a graduate of Sylvan Hills High School in Sherwood, AR. After high school, Phiffany tried several different careers, but entrepreneurship was always in her heart. Soon she moved to San Antonio, TX, and enrolled in Real Estate School. She would make her way back to North Little Rock and continue her studies in Real Estate, and eventually obtain her license to be a realtor. Phiffany also attended Shorter College and graduated with an Associates Degree in Arts and Science in 2017.
Interestingly enough, Phiffany didn’t immediately jump into real estate full-time after obtaining her license. She continued to work for the federal government, but realized that life was very stagnant and she wanted more. After giving birth to her daughter, she jumped into real estate full-time, and her impact was immediately recognized. “In my first year of being a realtor, I volumed half a million dollars in sales in only six months. My first full year 3.5 million dollars. I tell people all of the time that it was nothing but God. I used to tell my grandmother all of the time that I would make my first million before I am thirty-five. Sadly, while I was pregnant, I lost my grandmother. I never really grieved her, and now she is my purpose. I told her what I was going to do, and I want to fulfill that affirmation,” Phiffany says. Fulfilling that promise appears to have been an easy task, as Phiffany has accomplished multimillion-dollar sales each year since beginning in 2021.
When asked what she loves most about what she does, Phiffany shares it’s the opportunity to help families. “I love to see people’s dreams come true. I feel like every client I have helped has become a part of my family. Every transaction has taught me something. I love to help others see their dreams come true. As African Americans, we don’t always get the opportunity to purchase property. When I purchased my first home, I also built my first home. It was a custom build as well. That was a major feat for me, and is an experience that I want to share and make possible for others,” she says.
In her quest to help and serve others, Phiffany has been blessed with memories she shares that will last a lifetime. “My first sale is my most memorable sale. It was a listing in Maumelle, AR. I was so nervous. I had to sell myself and let my client know that I was the right person to help them sell their property. I was ready and I had a plan. I had my pitch prepared, as well as the comparative market analysis, and my client stopped me from talking mid-sentence and told me they believed that I would do everything that I said I would,” she says. Phiffany would go on to sell her client’s home $30,000 over value. That experience, she says, was very scary, but it equipped her with a new level of confidence. “I cried like a baby after closing because I was very proud of myself.”
Being raised by her grandmother, it’s quite understandable that she is the one who has impacted her life the most. Phiffany says she is the person who molded her and shaped her as a God-fearing woman. “My grandmother always told me that I must be a lady first in everything that I do. When I walk into a room, I want others to feel my presence. That is something that my grandmother taught me. She moved that way. She left her grace in every room that she stepped into. I am a hustler at heart, and I hustle with grace and purpose. My grandmother taught me that, too. That is her legacy, and I want to ensure that her legacy continues.”
In my first year of being a realtor, I volumed half a million dollars in sales in only six months. My first full year 3.5 million dollars. I tell people all of the time that it was nothing but God.”
Phiffany also credits her son, Kobe, and daughter, Khori, with impacting her life, and has already involved them in her business. Her son, who is 13, sits in construction meetings with her, which exposes him to the inner workings of business. “I want my kids to see firsthand what confidence looks like and learn what it takes to succeed from my perspective. I don’t want just to tell them, I allow for them to see it firsthand,” she says.
In the field of real estate, there are some challenges that Phiffany has faced. One that she happily admits is getting out of her own way. She adds, “I wasn’t confident in the beginning. I knew I had the skills and the ability, but I wasn’t very confident. Where I come from, I have never seen someone doing what I do. Still today, I am scared because I have so many people looking at me. My kids are watching me, and family and friends that I grew up with are watching me. I don’t want to let them down.”
While there have been challenges, Phiffany says that she appreciates the way things have happened. She also states there isn’t much that she would change, other than not listening to the words and advice of non-believers. Over the course of her career, her strength and confidence have grown because of her faith in God and her belief in His purpose for her life.
In addition to being a realtor and managing her own company, Phiffany & Co., she owns a construction company ERA Development. Phiffany is also a member of the highly successful realtor team with Plush Homes and has her hands involved in a few other things, including serving as a Client Relations Manager for Bisutomodo Entertainment.
For others who may follow a path in life similar to hers, Phiffany offers some sound advice. “You can do whatever you set your heart to, but make sure that it’s your passion, because if it’s your passion, it doesn’t feel like work. I love what I do; the real estate, the music industry, and construction development. I love them all. Things are going to change, but you must be open to that. You have to hustle every day and always have faith,” she says.
Phiffany has accomplished a lot in her young life. Looking ahead, her goals are to do even more, much of which involves helping others. “I want to develop neighborhoods and communities for minorities to live luxuriously but at an affordable cost. I want to be an all-around powerhouse to help people, all people. I grew up with no stability, and I didn’t get my first bed to sleep in until I moved out on my own after graduating from high school. I want to provide those opportunities to others who may be in a similar situation,” Phiffany shares. Using her life’s experiences, Phiffany has plans to publish her first book, There is Purpose with Pain, which is scheduled to be released in 2026.
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Mina Alyssa Kennedy
The daughter of Christopher and MacKenzie Kennedy
Charlotte, NC
Photos Provided by Still Shots Photography
2025 Huami Magazine Community Awards Honorees
