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God Does Wonders With Our Impossible There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

A Letter From The Editor - Terry L. Watson

Recently, while listening to a sermon online, one thing that was spoken reminded me of the kind of discipline required for A Letter from the Editor the believers in Christ. “When God wants to increase our faith, He reduces our sight,” the minister shared. He also reminded if tomorrow didn’tand arrive? All sight. of yourWalking plans, hopes me that What we must walk by faith not by by faith and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if and not by sight has always been a challenge for me, as I typically decided to putin offmy until tomorrow trust everything what I can that see. you If there is money bank account,never then I happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy believe that my ends will be met. If there is food in my cupboard, and you someone the trouble then day, I believe thatcould I will spare eat. On the contrary, whenofI making have not promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expiredGod been able to see what I need, those are the moments where today?me What would you has asked to trust that Hedo? will provide, and I must confess that He always has. I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I am notofdoing enough firm “Now faith isI feel the like substance things hopedand for,I’m thea evidence believer knowing that God put anything on me of things not in seen.” Hebrews 11.1 wouldn’t (NKJV). That is the written that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would word of God, and when I speak those words over my life, they be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I become my reality. While it doesn’t always feel good during the have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity trusting process with God, I have learned that it is necessary. In is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge all things and every part of our lives as believers, God desires to to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? be glorified. 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 When weacquire are faced return life.with obstacles as large as Mount Everest, and there appears to be no end in sight, God is there. He specializes in moving and by faith,when as believers The best advicemountains ever given out, to me happened someone in Christ, we have the power to move them also. The word so of told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing God tells uspressed to speak toway thethrough mountain, andwith it shall bethat moved. I have my doors a key only “For hope assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be provided. I have also learned the difference between removed cast into notburden doubt in whatand Godbe blesses me the withsea,’ and and whatdoes life can mehis with heart,asbut believes thatitthose things when he says be done, he well. I compare to knowing towill be confident andwill have whatever he says.” Mark 11:23 (NKJV). faith in what when to By be our quiet, because God said He will do, situations are changed. ourget faith, we can someoneBy may it confused overcome. ourarrogant. faith, we are able withBy being to break generational curses and see Make youbehalf. tomorrow God move on our happen today, but most make it count. God importantly specializes in making a way Lifeway. is butHe a whisper and out of no is also sovereign wewhat must He putdesires, ourselves inwhen a and does and position to hear what itto is bless He desires to. He also wants telling us. us, yet without faith in His word, it is impossible to please Him. Try God and allow Him to do wonders with Terry L. Watson your impossible. 4

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Terry L Watson

Dr. MarrissaEditor DickIn Chief Writer Terry L. Watson Writer Terry L. Watson Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Monica Montgomery Writer Writers

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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 2014 All Rights Reserved

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RICHMOND

CONTENTS

JESUS CHRIST On The Cover BLCK Street

JULY/AUGUST 2026

The EmpowerPath Initiative

Queani Johnson

Faith. Family. Real Estate

David Sharpley

Rasheeda Creighton

Richmond, VA Back To School Rally

Northside Coalition for Children Inc. Richmond, VA Our Freedom: Our Land

Virginia Museum of History and Culture

Leader Live Generously

Dr. David D. Shannon

Grace Beyond Borders NWI, Inc.

Marcus Martin

The EmpowerPath Initiative

Queani Johnson

Learn more about her role and interest in the Women in Film Arkansas. Celeste Shelton

06 07

Little Rock, AR

20 He is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one beautiful baby. His name is Kamarion Allen

31 5

W hat’s H appening I n O ur C ommunity

VENDORS Only Registration: 18th Annual Citywide Back to School Rally Information obtained from Online Event Posting

Northside Coalition for Children, Inc is parterning with Bethlehem Baptist Church to provide school supplies to local residents for free. In 2008, Northside Coalition for Children, Inc. was formed as a nonprofit organization for the purpose of ensuring that ALL students and teachers received the supplies they needed prior to the first day of school for free. It has been NCC’s mission, with your dedicated and continued support, that we continue to do so 18 years later. h

About This Event

18th Annual Citywide Back to School Rally August 8, 2026 10:00am-1:00pm Bethlehem Baptist Church 215 Wilkinson Rd, Richmond, VA

www.northsidecoalitionforchildren.com

W hat’s H appening I n O ur C ommunity

Our Freedom, Our Land: A Black Family’s Story of Slavery, Liberty, and Survival - VMHC Information obtained from online event posting

Presented By: Virginia Museum of History & Culture on August 20, 2026 at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) Numerous books have been written about John Randolph of Roanoke, his eccentricities, and even his potential madness. But this is not his story. This is the story of the men, women, and children he exploited in life and granted liberty in death. This story begins in slavery and ends in freedom with all the complexities and racial barriers that accompanied Black liberty. This is an American story of a Black family manumitted in 1846 who subsequently worked to forge lives of freedom in a land of slavery. The project, therefore, examines how African Americans envisioned and actualized freedom in antebellum Virginia through their eyes. Dr. Michael Dickinson is an associate professor of history at Virginia Commonwealth University. His research interests include comparative slavery, the Atlantic slave trade, and early African American history. Michael is the author of the award-winning book, Almost Dead: Slavery and Social Rebirth in the Black Urban Atlantic, 1680–1807. Dr. Dickinson’s lecture comes out of his research in 2025 at the VMHC as the inaugural recipient of the Emily Winfree Fellowship for African and African American History in Virginia. The content and opinions expressed in these presentations are solely those of the speaker and not necessarily of the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. Program Notes: Tickets are required for in-person attendance. Lecture ticket includes admission to VMHC galleries. Tickets are not needed if you would prefer to join us live on YouTube or Facebook. Admission to this lecture is free for members. In-person attendees are invited to meet the speaker immediately following the lecture. Signed copies of the book will be available at ShopVirginiaHistory.org.

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Rasheeda

Creighton BLCK Street

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Rasheeda Creighton Rasheeda Creighton is best described as someone who has a tough time moving on. She is a daughter, sister, mother, and friend. Born and raised in Richmond, VA, Rasheeda shares that at the young age of 12, she knew she wanted to attend Spelman College and also to become a lawyer. She did, received her undergraduate degree at Spelman, and later attended the University of Michigan Law School. After graduating from the Ukellniversity of Michigan, Rasheeda returned to Richmond and worked as Clerk of Court for the Fourth Circuit of Appeals for Judge Gregory, the first Black to serve on the Fourth Circuit of Appeals. Rasheeda says her initial goal was to stay only for one year. She took the Virginia Bar Exam and passed, and 24 years later, she is still there. Rasheeda eventually agreed to a Contracts Manager role with Capital One, kicking off a corporate career that lasted 15 years. There she worked on the business side, worked in technology, and in her very last role, she worked in the External Affairs Group, and was tasked with helping design and run the Michael Wassmer Innovation Center at 1717. After leaving Capital One, Rasheeda says she was encouraged to start her own non-profit organization, an idea that she was totally against. Instead, Rasheeda started her own consulting and program management business. She also worked with two other professionals, Kelli Lemon and Melody Short, and launched the Jackson Ward Collective in 2020. As of June 1, 2026, the organization has become BLCK Street.

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BLCK Street is a non profit organization that supports black business owners in Richmond with helping to build thriving, sustainable businesses. Their focus is to recognize the journey of Black business owners as not the one sold as the American dream. Serving as the Executive Director for BLCK Street, “We envision a world where Black business owners have the access, resources, and community support needed to build sustainable businesses that drive economic growth. Our mission is to equip Black-owned small businesses by delivering culturally relevant programs and resources that build resilient operational foundations and foster meaningful connections, unlocking opportunities for growth, sustainability, and community impact,” Rasheeda says. The flagship program offered by BLCK Street is the BLCK Street Business Lab. They have run five sessions of the incubator and have graduated 78 alumni. Presently, it operates as a nine month program, and is broken down into two parts: Part One is a three month intensive that is in-person classwork. Part Two consists of two sub cohorts of usually (3 to 5) people who receive group coaching that focuses on three areas: business coaching, therapy for entrepreneurs, and financial coaching for entrepreneurs. At the end of the nine months, upon completion of the program, the participants become eligible to receive a $3500 grant. “When they graduate, they are not done with us. Those who have graduated from the previous version of our incubator, we call them our “Legacy Builders”. Those who have graduated from our newest version, we call them our “Builders”. They both come together in an alumni community, and we offer them quarterly programming, exclusive benefits, and more. Another program offered by BLCK Street, and is offered to every business owner, is BLCK Street Exchange. “This is where learning meets action, for business owners at every stage,” Rasheeda says. “Whether you’re managing your money, building strategy, or fine-tuning operations, our programs help you grow with intention. Each offering falls under one of our three focus areas: Finance, Strategy, and Operations. From expert-led workshops to co-working and accountability sessions, we give you the tools, support, and space to level up.” BLCK Street Exchange provides participants with information on books and balance, and a volunteer Bookkeeper, Accountant, or CPA (Certified Public Accountant) is present each month. This service is free to the public. On the second Thursday of the month, Mind Your Business, a CEO Strategy event is held. This event is focused on helping those who work in the business but forget to work on it. On the third Monday of the month, a learning series called The Lab is conducted, which provides business owners with additional support and information.

This is where learning meets action, for business owners at every stage......Whether you’re managing your money, building strategy, or finetuning operations, our programs help you grow with intention.”

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Each year, The BLCK Street Summit is held. This is an annual conference that brings Black business owners, community members, and supporters together for learning, connection, and celebration. Rasheeda says, “It’s not just another conference; it’s where we roll up our sleeves and get real about building businesses in the community. By design, the Summit is an intimate experience — curated so every attendee can truly learn, leave with tangible takeaways, and build real connection.” This year’s conference, which is scheduled for September 28, 2026, will not be held in person, but interested participants are asked to reserve the date to pour into themselves and relax by stepping away from the day to day rigors of running their business. The last program offered is Black Owned by BLCK Street. This program is primarily a directory of Black-owned businesses in Richmond, VA. Participants who successfully complete the cohorts are eligible to have their businesses listed in the directory at no cost. Rasheeda shares that more than anything else, she enjoys the opportunity she has to help others walk out their paths and dreams, and knowing that BLCK Street has played a role in doing it. “To know that we offer something of value, and we are providing a place for them to return after gaining it, that makes me very happy,” she says. “I see our work as a seed that we plant and is watered by the participants. That warms my heart to see others grow and succeed.” Looking ahead, Rasheeda shares that BLCK Street will continue to help Black business owners. While they have encountered challenges such as funding, they have persevered and found ways to meet their operational needs. “While we have faced some challenges, I wouldn’t change much about how things have happened. There are lessons to be learned with each experience. All of the things that I have faced throughout my professional career have prepared me for BLCK Street,” she says. Rasheeda is also involved with building a tech company, something that she is excited about. “Eventually, I will move on from BLCK Street, but my focus will always be on helping others succeed.” h

www.blckstreet.org

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Faith, Life & Real Estate By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by David Sharpley

David Sharpley of Athens, AL, knows something about overcoming adversity. Born in the midwestern city of Detroit, MI, David moved to Decatur at a young age. He graduated from West Morgan High School before later attending college for a brief period. Life threw him a few curveballs. At the age of 21, David found himself sitting inside a prison cell, convicted of Robbery, serving an eight-plus-year sentence. Yet, he held onto his faith in God. Once released, David allowed his life lessons to serve as a reminder of what he didn’t want to do with his life. He soon enrolled in school to study to be a Machinist. Due to his unsuccessful attempts to find employment in that field, David pivoted and started his own business, an automotive detailing service, while continuing his education. Eventually, he found structured employment working in the shipping department of a local manufacturing company, later becoming a chemical operator. In 2022, life would change again for David. He was diagnosed with Appendicitis and spent a few months in and out of the hospital because of his illness. Once healed, David knew there was something more he wanted to do with life, and that is where the idea of being a Real Estate Agent came to mind.

The feeling I get when someone that I have helped buy a home is indescribable, especially for those who believed they would never become a homeowner.”

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Becoming a Real Estate Agent posed a challenge for David, as he was a convicted felon and was still on parole. “I got off parole and received a full pardon from the State of Alabama. That allowed me to get my license, and I have been practicing real estate since 2023,” he says.

I got off parole and received a full pardon from the State of Alabama. That allowed me to get my license, and I have been practicing real estate since 2023.”

Today, David works as a Real Estate Agent with Linda Blue Real Estate LLC. He serves the communities of Madison County, Athens, Huntsville, and the surrounding areas. “My goal is to help other families achieve the American dream of homeownership,” David says. “This is something that I have a passion for. My speciality is new construction. I enjoy helping buyers navigate through the process of purchasing a home. The feeling I get when someone that I have helped buy a home is indescribable, especially for those who believed they would never become a homeowner. I can relate to that experience, as I never thought I would be a homeowner. As a child, my family lived in a single-wide trailer, and to be a homeowner now, after all that I have experienced in life, the feeling is truly amazing.” In addition to Real Estate, David works full-time as a Chemical Operator for a local Aerospace company in Huntsville. David shares his life with his wife of nine years, Lisa, and they were able to experience the thrill of homeownership in October 2025. Additionally, David is very active in his community. He often volunteers at the community center in Athens, as well as donating his time and resources to worthy causes there.

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David credits many experiences and individuals for having a meaningful impact on his life. One person he acknowledges is his father. “Before my father passed away in 2014, he put the seed in my brother and me, and showed us how to be a man. He was a man’s man. Regardless of what I did, my father showed me the right way to do things. He went to work every day and held our house together. Witnessing how my father lived was the best example for me, and when I made the decision to get my life together, I went back to what I already knew,” David says. Understandably, David has faced a few challenges in his career as a Realtor. One, he says, is trying to produce a steady flow of clients. “Because I work a full-time job, I am not technically considered to be a full-time Realtor. However, I am always trying to help someone purchase a home. I counter this challenge by increasing my social media presence and looking for more ways to connect with prospective buyers. Due to being a plethora of Realtors in our area, the element of competition is always there. I counter that by being personable with all of my clients, focusing on ways to make each experience unique and enjoyable,” he says. Real Estate itself is a very challenging profession. David shares that a lot of people complete the course of getting their license, but due to the business having its share of peaks and valleys, many Realtors give up and fail to renew their licenses when the time arrives. “I got into Real Estate while looking at it as a hobby, so that I would not get frustrated. Now it’s fun. It’s fun to take others to look at houses. I don’t feel the pressure of not closing the sale, and that has truly allowed me to love the art of what I do,” he says. What is next for David? He shares that he plans to continue to assist others with the homebuying process. He also has aspirations to be a broker. Additionally, David plans to continue serving his community by way of volunteering and business. “I really want to get the information on homeownership out to the African American community, as I have learned there are so many of us that are unaware of how the process works,” he says. h

David Sharpley Realtor

Linda Blue Real Estate LLC 8840 Madison Blvd. - Suite 200B/C Madison, AL 35758 256-318-8020 dsharpley56@gmail.com Richmond - July/August 2026

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Celeste

SHELTON

Women In Film Arkansas

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Celeste Shelton “Dream boldly, create fearlessly, and let your vision lead the way.” Celeste Shelton of Little Rock, AR, loves to tell stories that connect people, inspire conversations, and leave a lasting impact. As the City Producer of Little Rock 48 Hour Film Project and Vice President of Women in Film Arkansas, Celeste has a unique opportunity to bring life to the stories of others. As a filmmaker, producer, and creative entrepreneur, Celeste offers a variety of media production and consulting services designed to help individuals, organizations, and businesses bring their stories and visions to life. These include film and video production, from concept development and pre-production planning to filming, editing, and final delivery. She produces short films, documentaries, promotional videos, interviews, event coverage, and branded content, and provides project management, crew coordination, casting assistance, and production support for film, television, and creative media projects. Additionally, Celeste offers fundraising and pitch deck development services, helping filmmakers, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs create compelling presentations to secure funding, sponsorships, grants, and investment opportunities. “I am passionate about community engagement and education,” Celeste says. “Whether I am producing a film, developing a marketing campaign, organizing an event, or helping someone tell their story, my goal is to create meaningful content that informs, inspires, and connects people.”

Whether I am producing a film, developing a marketing campaign, organizing an event, or helping someone tell their story, my goal is to create meaningful content that informs, inspires, and connects people.”

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Born and raised in Little Rock, Celeste says that family is at the heart of everything she does. She is the proud granddaughter of the Shelton lineage and is the mother of three amazing children, and Gigi to a wonderful granddaughter who brings so much joy to her life. With more than 10 years of experience in the film industry, Celeste works to advocate for women and help create opportunities for creatives to learn, grow, and succeed. “My journey started when I was about eight years old. Long before I knew what filmmaking was, I was already creating stories. One of my favorite things to do was pretend I was a waitress from the television show, Alice. I carried around a notepad for taking orders, tucked a pen behind my ear, and served my stuffed animals meals made from leaves, grass, and dirt. It may have looked like child’s play, but looking back, I was already performing, creating characters, and building worlds through imagination,” she says.

Even as a child, I knew I was drawn to the art of cinema. I didn’t have the language for it then, but I knew I wanted to create, inspire, and connect people through storytelling. That passion has stayed with me ever since and continues to guide everything I do today.”

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Storytelling has always been one of my greatest passions. I believe film has the power to inspire, educate, connect communities, and preserve stories that matter. Whether I am producing a film, organizing events, mentoring filmmakers, or building partnerships, I am driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact through the arts. My greatest accomplishments are not the titles I hold, but the family I love, the relationships I have built, and the opportunities I have helped create for others,” Celeste says. Movies and television would eventually become a huge part of Celeste’s life. She says she was fascinated by storytelling and entertained herself by watching films of every genre. “I would grab the TV Guide each week and carefully mark all the shows and movies I wanted to watch. It became my roadmap to new stories and adventures. Make-believe was my escape and my creative outlet. That’s where the vision came from. It wasn’t a single moment; it was a lifetime of curiosity, imagination, and a deep love for stories. Even as a child, I knew I was drawn to the art of cinema. I didn’t have the language for it then, but I knew I wanted to create, inspire, and connect people through storytelling. That passion has stayed with me ever since and continues to guide everything I do today.” Understandably, Celeste has faced a few challenges in her career. One she says is working in an industry that has traditionally been male-dominated. There have been times when she found herself in rooms where there were very few women and even fewer women who looked like her. Those moments, Celeste says, can be intimidating, but they have also been incredibly rewarding. “I know I earned my seat at the table through hard work, perseverance, and dedication to my craft.” Another significant milestone in Celeste’s journey has been becoming the first Black female City Producer for the Little Rock 48 Hour Film Project. While being the first comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities, it has also given her the opportunity to open doors, create representation, and show others what is possible. She has managed these challenges by staying true to who she is and remaining focused on her purpose. “My faith has always been my foundation. I believe God has given each of us unique gifts and talents, and my responsibility is to use those gifts to the best of my ability. My motto is simple: I will always be the person God created me to be and move confidently in the talents He has given me. Rather than allowing obstacles to discourage me, I use them as motivation to keep growing, learning, and paving the way for others who come behind me,” she says.

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Celeste shares that she draws inspiration from people whose stories often go unheard. These are the individuals who believe their experiences aren’t important enough to be shared or that no one would be interested in listening. She adds that her greatest inspiration is her family, which includes her three children and her granddaughter. “My family and close circle of supporters keep me grounded and motivated. They encourage me, challenge me, and remind me why I do what I do, even during difficult seasons,” she says. Through every experience, both good and bad, Celeste shares that she appreciates them all and would change much about the way things have happened in her career. She adds, “Every success, setback, challenge, and opportunity has taught me something valuable and helped shape the person and professional I am today. If there is one thing I might change, it would be believing in myself sooner and recognizing the value of my own voice and talents earlier in my journey. Yes, there were times when I questioned whether I belonged in certain rooms or whether I was qualified enough to pursue bigger opportunities. Looking back, I realize that those experiences were preparing me for the leadership roles and accomplishments that would come later. I understand that growth comes through experience, and everything has helped build my confidence, resilience, and determination. Rather than focusing on what I would change, I choose to focus on the lessons learned, the people I’ve met, and the opportunities.” Looking ahead, Celeste shares that she is stepping into a very active season of producing. She is currently working on one short film and three feature films. She also plans to continue collaborations with incredible creatives from all over the country and expand both her perspective and network as a filmmaker. Celeste will also continue serving as Vice President of Women in Film Arkansas and as the City Producer for the Little Rock 48 Hour Film Project. “Both roles are deeply important to me because they allow me to support filmmakers, build community, and create real opportunities for others in the industry.” Celeste says she is excited about a new business venture she’s launched called DeckWorks Consulting by Celeste Shelton. Personally, her focus continues to be growth, balance, and legacy. “I’m building not just for myself, but for my family. Everything I do is rooted in creating something meaningful that they can look back on and be proud of,” she says. To see Celeste in action and experience the energy of independent filmmaking up close, she invites everyone to join her at Golden Reels & The Bell-Bottom Ball: The Little Rock 48 Hour Film Project Movie Premiere Screenings on August 22, 2026. Doors open at 1:00 PM, and the show begins at 1:30 PM at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts. h

Celeste Shelton

Women in Film Arkansas

www.womeninfilmarkansas.org

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Marcus Martin

Grace Beyond Borders NWI, Inc.

A Legacy of Service By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Marcus Martin Marcus Martin of East Chicago, IN, is the face and founder of Grace Beyond Borders NWI, Inc. Founded in 2013, Grace Beyond Borders NWI, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization that meets the physical and spiritual needs of those impacted by homelessness and drug addiction. They accomplish this by providing food, long-term housing, and a safe space to help neighbors get back on their feet. They also provide resources for a hand up and not a handout. As a program to end homelessness, life-changing services are given to transform and restore lives. The program’s mission is to offer hope, love, care, and the Good News of Jesus Christ. “I come from a very humble beginning. I grew up in a melting pot, diverse community. Most of the opportunities available for the youth involved sports. There was limited transportation, and we became accustomed to walking to get to where we wanted to go. As a young boy, I delivered newspapers,” he says. After graduating from high school in East Chicago, Marcus graduated from Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, TX. He later returned to East Chicago and worked part-time in the public school system. That experience, he says, he learned a lot about working with young people and individuals. He would also work with the Boys and Girls Club of America for twenty plus years, before choosing to work with the homeless population in his community.

“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the lord, and he will repay him for his deed.”

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Proverbs 19:17

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In the beginning, Marcus worked with the Homeless Outreach Ministry at his church. “At first, I thought I would stand behind a table, serve food, and help clean up. I found that it was much more,” he says. After working with the Homeless Outreach Ministry, Marcus says he began to feel a calling to work with the homeless population. That was around 2010. “I remember being at a leadership retreat at our church. It was being held at a major shopping mall, and I recall having a free afternoon. That was when I heard a voice telling me to do what I was called to do, which was work with the homeless population.” When Marcus returned to work on Monday, he says that he was offered a chance to resign from his job with the Boys and Girls Club. By that Friday, he accepted a severance package and stepped out into what he called the “unknown”. Soon, Marcus would launch Grace Beyond Borders. It began on the streets, appropriately, as the issues they strive to address are found there, being the homeless population. In his first year, Marcus came in contact with nearly 100 homeless individuals, primarily in East Chicago, but also in neighboring communities such as Gary, Hammond, Amarville, and others. “Being outdoors, and being on the front line, I was able to learn that not all homelessness is connected to substance abuse. I learned that some people are homeless for various reasons, many of which can be reversed,” he says. Fast forward to 2018, through news broadcasts and radio promotions, Marcus announced that he would be staying out 30 different nights in 30 different locations where the homeless population was known to inhabit. Marcus shares that it was during the winter months, and these were some harsh conditions that people were living in, and it was extremely difficult for him. On the bright side, that event was very successful for Marcus and the homeless community, as he was able to raise over $70,000. He used the money to purchase a building that is now a Women’s and Children’s Mission, located in East Chicago, IL. While the main focus is to assist the homeless population, Grace Beyond Borders does a lot more. “We take every call that comes in. We work with families in getting placement. I recall working with a mother with six daughters, ranging in age of one and eleven. She was in a domestic violence situation with her kid’s father. We helped her get a hotel and food. We were also able to get her out of danger, and ultimately assist her with reestablishing her family. That is the kind of work that our organization does,” he says.

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I remember being at a leadership retreat at our church........ That was when I heard a voice telling me to do what I was called to do, which was work with the homeless population.” When asked what he loves most about what he does, Marcus says it’s the opportunity to work with the homeless population and help to meet their needs. Looking ahead, Grace Beyond Borders is seeking to partner with organizations and others who are interested in investing in the program. With helping the homeless population find permanent shelter being their ultimate goal, he says they want to ensure that need is met. “My vision is a larger expansion of where we are, that will allow us to take in more families with children, and then move into housing. We have to expand to meet these needs and it requires funding. We want to have everything in place to show our supporters that they are making a difference and impacting the lives of others. We don’t want children who are presently in a homeless situation to repeat the cycle. That is why our work is so important,” he says. h

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Queani Johnson The EmpowerPath Initiative By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Queani Johnson Who is Queani Johnson? Well, If you ask her that question, she probably won’t begin by talking about her accomplishments. She wouldn’t start with the internships, the awards, or even her future plans. While those are all meaningful parts of her journey, they aren’t what define her. Instead, Queani defines herself by one simple image—a lotus flower. Queani shares that the lotus has become the symbol of her life, mainly because it grows in muddy water. It begins beneath the surface, surrounded by darkness, yet somehow it rises above everything around it and blooms into something beautiful. “Most people admire the flower without ever thinking about what it had to push through just to reach the light. Every time I see a lotus, I see my own story. My life hasn’t been free of hardship, disappointment, or moments of uncertainty, but I’ve learned that difficult seasons don’t have to determine your destination. Sometimes the places that seem the darkest produce the greatest growth,” Queani says. Queani was born and raised in Franklinton, North Carolina, a small town that taught her some of life’s biggest lessons. It was there that she learned the value of hard work, faith, humility, and community. Her parents taught her that success isn’t measured by what you have, but by how you treat people and how willing you are to serve others. Those values have remained the foundation of everything she does. “Growing up, I often questioned whether I belonged. I was the quiet girl who observed more than she spoke. People sometimes mistook my quietness for weakness, but over time I realized there is strength in listening. Listening allows you to understand people before judging them, and it allows you to see what others often overlook. That ability to truly listen has shaped the leader I am becoming and the attorney I hope to be one day.” Presently, Queani is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and African American Studies with a minor in Criminal Justice at Virginia Commonwealth University. She also aspires to become the first person in her family to attend law school. “That dream is bigger than earning another degree. It represents generations of sacrifice, perseverance, and hope. It represents every person who believed in me before I fully believed in myself,” she says. At her core, Queani is simply someone who wants people to know they matter. Whether through law, mentorship, leadership, or community service, she desires to see every person that she encounters leave feeling seen, heard, and valued. Queani’s greatest accomplishment has been becoming the woman she once doubted she could be. Professionally, she’s had the privilege of interning with the United States District Court Eastern District of Virginia and the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia. Those experiences gave me her inside look at our legal system and strengthened her desire to pursue a career rooted in justice and service. They also introduced Queani to judges, attorneys, probation officers, and public servants who demonstrated that leadership is about integrity, humility, and treating every person with dignity. She shares that at Virginia Commonwealth University, she was honored to serve as Freshman Noblity Homecoming Court and Miss 1906. “Those recognitions meant much more than receiving a crown. To me, they represented growth. They reminded me that the quiet young woman who once questioned whether she belonged had grown into someone trusted to represent an entire community. It wasn’t about popularity; it was about purpose.” Queani has received numerous scholarships throughout her academic journey, experiences that she says have reminded her that hard

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work, perseverance, and faith never go unnoticed. More importantly, they reinforced her responsibility to continue opening doors for others. Queani says the accomplishment that means the most to her is co-founding the EmpowerPath Initiative with her mother. “Building an organization dedicated to empowering youth and strengthening families has allowed me to transform my own experiences into opportunities for someone else’s growth. Watching young people begin to believe in themselves reminds me why we started this work in the first place,” she says. “My testimony is one of God’s grace, healing, and purpose. There was a season in my life when I faced significant mental health challenges and struggled to recognize my own worth. From the outside, life appeared to be moving forward, but internally I was carrying burdens that very few people knew about. I questioned my purpose, battled self-doubt, and wondered whether I truly belonged in this world. Looking back, I now understand that God never stopped working, even when I couldn’t see it. While I was questioning my future, He was preparing it. Every opportunity, every mentor, every encouraging conversation, and every open door became another reminder that my story was not over,” she shares. Healing, Queani says, taught her that faith doesn’t always remove the storm, but it gives you the strength to walk through it. “I learned that asking for help is not weakness, it is courage. I learned that healing is not a destination but a lifelong journey of choosing hope, choosing faith, and choosing to believe that your life still has purpose. Today, I share my testimony because I know there are people quietly carrying burdens they believe no one understands. I want them to know they are not alone. My story is not about the pain I experienced, it is about the purpose I discovered because of it. I believe God allowed me to walk through those difficult seasons so I could remind someone else that healing is possible, hope is real, and your current circumstances do not determine your future.”

I learned that asking for help is not weakness, it is courage. I learned that healing is not a destination but a lifelong journey of choosing hope, choosing faith, and choosing to believe that your life still has purpose.”

Queani credits her parents with having the greatest impact on her life. She adds, “Long before I understood sacrifice, they were living it every single day. As a young student, I knew they worked hard, but I didn’t fully understand the weight of those sacrifices until I became older. Looking back now, I realize every extra shift, every long day, and every sacrifice they made was an investment in my future. They chose to carry additional burdens so I could focus on building the life they dreamed for me. Their example taught me that success is never achieved alone. Every accomplishment I celebrate belongs to them just as much as it belongs to me.”Queani’s experiences within the federal court system, she states, transformed the way she viewed leadership and justice. Working alongside judges, attorneys, probation officers, and legal professionals showed her that justice is about far more than laws and courtrooms. It is about protecting people’s dignity, advocating for fairness, and ensuring every individual has the opportunity to be heard. One individual who left a lasting impression on Queani was Chief Judge Roger L. Gregory. Watching his humility, wisdom, and compassion, she shared, demonstrated that leadership is measured not by power but by service. His example reaffirmed her desire to pursue a career in law rooted in integrity, empathy, and justice. The EmpowerPath Initiative is more than a nonprofit organization, it is a reflection of Queani’s purpose and the heart behind everything I hope to accomplish. Founded by her mother and Queani, EmpowerPath is rooted in family, faith, service, and community. Together, they recognized that empowering youth means supporting the entire family. Queani says that it was founded on the belief that every young person deserves the opportunity to discover their potential, regardless of where they come from or the obstacles they face. “Growing up in a rural community, I experienced firsthand how limited access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities can influence a young person’s future. Too often, talented young people don’t lack ability, they lack exposure, guidance, and someone who believes in them. EmpowerPath was created to help change Richmond - July/August 2026

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that narrative. That’s why our work extends beyond mentorship to include advocacy, health literacy, family wellness, leadership development, workforce readiness, youth justice, and educational programming. We want to equip young people and their families with the knowledge, confidence, and resources they need to build stronger futures. Our mission is simple but powerful: to empower every voice, strengthen every path, and help young people recognize that their circumstances do not define their potential. We believe that when youth are supported, families become stronger, and when families become stronger, entire communities thrive. More than anything, I want every child who encounters EmpowerPath to leave knowing they are seen, valued, capable, and created with purpose,” she says. The vision for EmpowerPath didn’t begin with a business plan, it began with lived experience. As Queani reflected on her own journey, she realized that many of the challenges she faced could have been easier to navigate if she had greater access to mentorship, resources, and opportunities. She often thought about the young people growing up in communities like the one she grew up in, and wondered how many of them were carrying incredible potential without anyone helping them recognize it. That question stayed with Queani. She says that she and her mother began talking about what it would look like to create something that not only encouraged young people but also strengthened families and communities. Those conversations eventually became EmpowerPath. In November 2025, they officially launched the organization with a vision of creating stronger pathways for youth and families, particularly in rural communities where opportunities can often feel out of reach. “We wanted to build an organization that addressed more than one need. We wanted to create a place where advocacy, education, leadership, health and wellness, workforce development, and mentorship could come together to help people build lasting futures,” she says. As the future unfolds, Queani says the next chapter of her journey is one that she has dreamed about for years, and one that she approaches with excitement, gratitude, and humility. “Right now, my primary focus is preparing for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and applying to law schools as I continue pursuing my lifelong goal of becoming an attorney. I know this next season will require discipline, sacrifice, and perseverance, but every step brings me closer to the purpose I believe God has placed on my life. My hope is to earn my Juris Doctor, pass the bar examination, and dedicate my career to advocating for justice, serving communities whose voices have too often been overlooked, and ensuring that every individual is treated with dignity, fairness, and compassion. I want to use the law not only as a profession, but as a tool to create meaningful change and expand opportunities for others. Alongside my legal journey, I remain deeply committed to growing the EmpowerPath Initiative. My vision is to expand our impact by creating more opportunities for youth and families through mentorship, leadership development, educational programming, workforce readiness, health and wellness initiatives, and community partnerships. I believe meaningful change doesn’t begin only inside a courtroom, it begins within our homes, schools, neighborhoods, and communities. As I reflect on this chapter of my life, I also want to express my sincere gratitude to the Virginia Commonwealth University community. VCU has been more than a university; it has been a place where I have grown academically, professionally, and personally. I am especially thankful to the professors who challenged me to think critically, encouraged me to believe in my abilities, and invested in my success both inside and outside the classroom. Their mentorship, guidance, and belief in my potential have played an important role in shaping the leader I am becoming. I am equally grateful to the judges, attorneys, probation officers, mentors, classmates, family, and friends who have poured into my journey. Every opportunity I’ve received has been possible because someone took the time to encourage me, teach me, or open a door. No matter where life leads me next, my mission will remain the same: to honor God, serve others with humility, advocate for justice with integrity, and leave every place I enter better than I found it. I truly believe the best chapters of my story are still being written, and I look forward to embracing every opportunity that lies ahead with faith, purpose, and a heart committed to making a difference,” she says. h

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The daughter of Sydney Hildreth & David Stevens

Kamarion Allen The son of Monica Allen Richmond - July/August 2026

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Dr.

Anthony D.

Shannon Leaders Live Generously

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Dr. Anthony D. Shannon

Dr. Anthony D. Shannon of Canton, MI, is a transformational leader, prophetic voice, and leadership strategist. His mission is to train and equip leaders to break free from limiting beliefs and allow them to step into their full potential and succeed in life, business, and ministry. Dr. Shannon is the founder of Leaders Live Generously. Under this brand flows the Leaders Live Generously Academy, The Victory Church International, where he serves as the Senior Pastor, and Anthony D. Shannon Consulting Group. Dr. Shannon says that every expression carries one message. Lead with clarity. Love with intention. Give with purpose. “Leaders Live Generously is more than a name. It is a philosophy. It is a lifestyle. It is a call to lead well, steward wisely, and serve faithfully in ministry, business, and community,” he says. Dr. Shannon’s focus is to add value by providing strategic mentorship, faith-based leadership principles, and proven success strategies that empower individuals to overcome obstacles, build confidence, and create lasting impact. Whether an entrepreneur, executive, or ministry leader, he helps others develop the mindset, tools, and strategies needed to lead with clarity, resilience, and excellence. “If you’re ready to elevate your leadership, expand your influence, and unlock new levels of success, let’s connect. The only thing standing between you and your next level is your mindset,” he says. Dr. Shannon’s journey in business began over three decades ago, right in Canton. He says that it all began with a heart full of faith and a call that would not let him go. “The vision came through prayer, trials, and moments where God made it clear—I was called to lead leaders. I saw too many gifted people stuck under the weight of doubt, fear, and lack of direction. So God birthed in me a mandate to train, mentor, and raise up leaders who would live generously, think strategically, and walk boldly in their assignment. That’s how Leaders Live Generously Academy was born—not as a program, but as a movement.”

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If you’re ready to elevate your leadership, expand your influence, and unlock new levels of success, let’s connect. The only thing standing between you and your next level is your mindset.”

In the various capacities in which he serves, Dr. Shannon shares that what he loves most is the opportunity to see people wake up to who they really are. He adds, “When someone finally realizes they have value, purpose, and the ability to succeed—that moment is everything. I love seeing leaders break through fear, walk in confidence, and know that God is using them for something greater. Every time someone I’ve trained steps into their next level with clarity and courage, I know I’ve done what I was born to do.” As a man of God, understandably, Dr. Shannon draws inspiration from Him. He says that it is God who called him before he even understood what purpose truly meant. He also credits his wife, Lady Glynis D. Shannon, for inspiring him. “My wife has been a constant source of strength, wisdom, and support in every season,” he says. Additionally, he acknowledges other spiritual leaders for their impact and influence on his life. These include Bishop I.V. Hilliard, Bishop William H. Murphy, Bishop E. Bernard Jordan, Dr. Myles Munroe, Joel Osteen, and John C. Maxwell. These leaders, he says, helped him understand that leadership is not about titles, but about transformation. “I am here today because of the people who saw potential in me when I was still wrestling with my own reflection.” Dr. Shannon shares that he has faced many challenges in ministry and business. One, he identifies, has been building trust and maintaining honor in spaces where people are gifted but lack character. “I’ve had to navigate partnerships where there was excitement but no execution, and moments where my prophetic insight was misunderstood in professional spaces,” he says. Another challenge Dr. Shannon shares was scaling vision without compromising values, especially when resources were tight, yet the call remained heavy. “I managed these challenges through prayer, strategy, and spiritual discernment. I learned to slow down and seek clarity before committing, to document everything, and to surround myself with people who value integrity and accountability. I’ve also learned to invest in systems, not just energy, and to rest in the truth that what God ordains, He also sustains.” While there have been a few obstacles, Dr. Shannon shares that there isn’t much he would change about how things have happened for him in business. He says, “If I could change anything, it would be that I trusted my voice sooner. There were seasons I made myself small to make others comfortable, or waited for validation from people God never assigned to confirm me. I’ve learned that delay is costly when it comes from fear. I would’ve acted quicker, partnered wiser, and protected my peace more fiercely.”

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For those who may follow a path similar to his, Dr. Shannon shares the following advice. “Stay anchored in your calling and unmoved by opinions. Invest in your development, both spiritual and strategic. Understand that leadership is a weight—not everyone is called to carry it, and fewer are willing to endure it. If you’re going to follow in these footsteps, walk with wisdom, guard your heart, and keep your faith at the forefront. Your future is not accidental. It’s designed, so build it intentionally.” Moving forward, Dr. Shannon plans to expand the reach of Leaders Live Generously Academy globally, equipping the next generation of prophets, pastors, and purposedriven entrepreneurs to lead with faith, excellence, and strategy. There are also plans to launch The Faith Factor Book Legacy Project, host live intensives, and build digital platforms that will outlive him. Dr. Shannon is also stepping into new media opportunities, continuing our partnerships with major networks such as The Word Network, Impact, and TCT, and preparing to license other coaches and trainers under the Leaders Live Generously brand. He concludes, “This next season is about duplication, succession, and global impact—not just doing the work, but equipping others to carry it forward.” h

I’ve had to navigate partnerships where there was excitement but no execution, and moments where my prophetic insight was misunderstood in professional spaces.”

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