Sept./Oct. 2025
Vol. 10 Issue 3
There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!
A Letter from the Editor
One of the silliest things that I have ever attempted to do was to control every aspect of my life. For the most part, that is boyish-like behavior; trying to control how everything happens, and dictating when and where it occurs. During the thought process, it sounded good, but as the stories played out, the end results always pointed to the same conclusion: God doesn’t expect me to control every part of my life.
What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What would you do?
As I have matured into manhood, I have continued to learn how to trust the process God has put in place for me. I can hear the words of the late gospel artist, Keith “Wonder Boy” Johnson, “I Think You Outta Let Go, and Let God Have His Way. Letting go of the easy things is just as important as knowing when to let go of the hard ones, also. While my intentions are good, my control issues haven’t pleased God, as it shows a lack of faith and trust in His plans. Even more, a lack of trust can be perceived as fear, and fear and faith don’t mix.
As Christians and faithful followers of God, to see Him work in our lives fully and without interruption, we must not interrupt His work. There are some things that I have thought would be around to the end of my time, yet God has removed some, and even replaced some. I believe this is His way of showing me how much He loves me, while also reminding me who is really in control.
I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in return acquire life.
The best advice ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet, because someone may get it confused with being arrogant.
It is only by God’s grace that we do die while we are wallowing in our sins. He has given us all purpose and specific assignments, yet part of the assignment is being open to divine leadership and trusting what we cannot always see. If we can possess the ability to smile when things are going right in our lives, then I think we also have the ability to make God smile through our obedience. Even when things don’t feel good, with God, there is always a reason to be happy.
Make you tomorrow happen today, but most importantly make it count. Life is but a whisper and we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is telling us.
General Inquiries
terry.editor@gmail.com (336)340-7844
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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
Winston Salem, NC
WSSU Hires Inaugural Vice Provost
Dr. DeNeia Thomas
Pheonix, AZ
SugarJam The Southern Kitchen
Dana Dumas
Chicago, IL
30th Anniversary BWE
Merry Green
Celebrate Fall with Reketta Brown and Thrive Wellness Center at its Sensory Harvest Festival. There will be fun, games, and family activities for all ages.
Greensboro, NC
He is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one beautiful baby. His name is Sebastian Neal
A Fresh Voice for Greensboro Jamilla D. Pinder
She Built This City LaToya Faustin
The Magic In Her Strings Zoe Johnson
Safe Cultures
& Kedrian Blackmon
Forever Young Spa Jessica Eason
ESTABLISHING SAFE CULTURES
Building Communities Beyond Violence
Information Provided by ESC
When people hear “violence prevention,” they often think only of gun violence. And while gun violence is an undeniable crisis, it is only one part of a larger reality. Establishing Safe Cultures (E.S.C.), based in Greensboro, North Carolina, was founded with the conviction that safety requires more than reacting to tragedies. It requires dismantling the conditions that allow violence to thrive, systemic racism, generational trauma, poverty, lack of opportunity, and the barriers that impact the Black community disproportionately.
E.S.C. is not just a gun violence organization. We are a violence prevention organization. Our mission is to break cycles of harm, create pathways of healing, and build cultures where safety is a right, not a privilege. That means working across every layer of the community, including youth, families, schools, faith leaders, businesses, and neighbors, to foster environments where conflict is resolved with accountability and compassion, rather than aggression.
Beyond Gun Violence
In many Black communities, violence is not random; it is the predictable outcome of systemic inequities. Historic disinvestment, discriminatory housing policies, underfunded schools, and mass incarceration have created conditions where harm becomes normalized. Add to that the daily realities of racism, unemployment, and limited access to mental health resources, and it becomes clear why cycles of harm persist. ESC addresses these intersections directly, meeting people where they are while advocating for change at the systems level.
What We Do
E.S.C. works with young people ages 5 to 18 and their families, equipping them with tools that reduce risk and strengthen resilience. Our Culture Shifting Workshops cover conflict resolution, socialemotional development, financial literacy, and health and wellness, all of which tie directly to mental health and long-term stability. By teaching children and parents these life skills, we help families build stronger foundations and provide youth with alternatives to violence.
We also partner with schools and faith-based organizations to integrate social-emotional learning and conflict resolution into daily life. These partnerships offer safe spaces for youth to develop their communication, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence skills. In addition, our mentorship programs pair young people with trusted adults who model positive behavior and create relational trust, helping youth see new possibilities for themselves.
E.S.C. also believes that prevention must extend beyond the classroom. We host community events and peace walks that bring families together to connect, heal, and access resources. What may appear to be a celebration on the surface is also a form of prevention, replacing isolation with belonging and fear with hope.
Healing and Mental Health
Prevention is incomplete without healing. For the Black community, where generations have carried the weight of systemic
racism and trauma, healing is essential. Trauma does not disappear on its own; if left unaddressed, it becomes generational. That is why E.S.C. emphasizes mental health awareness and integrates it into every program we offer. By normalizing conversations about stress, anxiety, and depression, we reduce stigma and empower families to seek help. We also connect individuals to professional services and support networks, ensuring mental health is treated with the seriousness it deserves.
Advocacy and Action
E.S.C. recognizes that personal healing must be matched with systemic change. This means advocating for equitable funding for schools, supporting affordable housing initiatives, promoting reentry opportunities for justice-involved individuals, and encouraging investment in underserved neighborhoods. Systemic racism cannot be undone overnight, but it can be dismantled with consistent advocacy, community-led solutions, and collaboration across sectors. Our work is grounded in lived experience, making it both authentic and urgent.
Creating Safe Cultures
The phrase “Establishing Safe Cultures” is intentional. A safe culture is one where children can dream beyond survival, parents can lead with confidence, and neighbors can collaborate to build opportunities. It is a culture where accountability means growth, not just punishment, and where safety is measured not only by the absence of harm but by the presence of joy, unity, and possibility.
For Black communities, Establishing Safe Cultures also means reclaiming what systemic racism has tried to deny: dignity, stability, and freedom from fear. It means ensuring that our children see themselves reflected in leadership, in resources, and in hope for the future.
Moving Forward Together
Transforming communities is not easy. It requires confronting hard truths about inequity and injustice. But every child who feels supported, every parent who gains access to resources, every neighbor who experiences safety is progress.
At ESC, our impact is measured not just by numbers but by lives restored, families strengthened, and young people who can now imagine a future beyond fear. Together, we are proving that safety is not a privilege; it is a right. And we are committed to making that right a reality.
We invite others to join us in this work. Safe cultures are not built by one organization alone; they are built when entire communities come together to dismantle barriers and replace them with healing, accountability, and opportunity.
Winston-Salem State University Establishes New Division Of Student Success, Hires Inaugural Vice Provost
Winston-Salem State University is launching a new division dedicated to advancing student success and has named Dr. DeNeia B. Thomas as its inaugural vice provost. She will begin her role on Oct. 1.
Thomas brings more than 30 years of experience in education, spanning K-12, state government and higher education. She has served in executive-level positions in higher education including dean, vice president for enrollment and student success, chief of staff and associate provost. Throughout her career, she has led initiatives that improved student retention and graduation, advanced academic innovation and enhanced operational effectiveness.
She is experienced in building comprehensive student success programs from the ground up. Her work as the inaugural vice president of enrollment management and student success at Texas Southern University from 2021-2023 contributed to its historic enrollment record. She established an integrated unit that oversaw the university’s pre-collegiate programs, recruitment, retention, financial aid, student accounting and student affairs.
Dr. DeNeia Thomas
At WSSU, the Division of Student Success will focus on providing quality support to students with an emphasis on retention, persistence and graduation rates, particularly at the undergraduate level. The division will also function as an extended arm of the Office of the Provost in achieving student success metrics set forth by the UNC System while leading transformative projects, programs and services that enhance the student experience and overall academic profile of WSSU.
“Student success is my highest priority as chancellor, and the establishment of this new division underscores that commitment,” said Chancellor Bonita Brown. “Winston-Salem State University exists to transform lives, and that begins with ensuring every student has the support, resources and guidance they need to thrive from the moment they arrive until the day they graduate. This division will serve as a central hub for those efforts, helping us to not only meet but exceed our goals for retention, persistence and graduation.”
Thomas most recently served as dean of the College of Professional Studies at Lincoln University (Missouri), where she successfully led reaffirmation of accreditation, secured initial accreditation across three schools, and launched a new minor in entrepreneurship and a Master of Science in Nursing program.
At West Virginia State University, she elevated the institution’s profile as chief of staff, securing its historic 1890 land grant match and fostering cross-functional collaboration to strengthen innovation and operations. As associate provost at Kentucky State University, she systematically evaluated barriers to student success and implemented targeted strategies that reduced course failures and withdrawals, improved retention and re-engaged stop-out students to increase graduation rates.
“Dr. Thomas is widely respected for her ability to translate vision into results,” said Dr. Stevie L. Lawrence, provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs. “Her ability to streamline operations, foster innovation and direct cross-divisional planning has made her a trusted leader in academic and student success efforts, which makes her uniquely suited to lead in this visionary role designed to further elevate student success at Winston-Salem State University.”
In addition to her administrative leadership, Thomas is a full-tenured professor and active scholar whose research focuses on factors that promote student success through strengths-based approaches. Her professional influence extends to statewide and national leadership as well. She is former president of the Kentucky Association for Blacks in Higher Education, a Millennium Leadership Initiative Protégé through the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, and a member of the American Association of University Professors.
She is a first-generation college graduate and proud HBCU alumna of Kentucky State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in psychology. She completed her Master of Science and Ph.D. in educational psychology and her education specialist degree in school psychology from the University of Kentucky.
A native of Kentucky, Thomas has been married to her husband, Derrick for 30 years, and they are the parents of two adult sons. h
Greensboro’s Grassroot Visionary For City Council
By Dr. Marrissa R. Dick
As Greensboro gears up for voting on the City Council on November 4, 2025, it’s crucial to understand the significance of the At-Large seat. The City Council is the elected or appointed legislative body of Greensboro, responsible for making and amending city laws, ordinances, and budgets. Members who serve on the council represent their constituents and collaborate to address issues such as land use, public safety, business regulation, and city projects, ultimately setting the goals and direction for the city. The At-Large members, in particular, are representatives who are elected by the entire population of a city, town, or other jurisdiction rather than by a specific geographical district or ward. This means that every eligible voter in the jurisdiction can cast a ballot for all at-large seats on the council. The At-Large members look out for the well-being of all of Greensboro’s citizens, not just those in one particular district. Your vote for the At-Large seat is a vote for the entire city, and it’s a vote that carries significant weight in shaping the future of Greensboro.
Jamilla D. Pinder is a compassionate leader who has consistently prioritized the needs of those she serves. In her numerous community advocacy roles, she is a quintessential servant leader. Even before she was selected to serve as an At-Large representative on the City Council, by the late Mayor Pro Tempore Yvonne Johnson, Jamilla had a penchant for serving her community. She has served on nearly two dozen city boards and commissions, a testament to her dedication to giving back to the city in which she was raised. Her passion is fighting for those who are overlooked within her community. Professionally, Jamilla is the Director of Community Engagement and Impact at the Cone Health Foundation, where she has spearheaded numerous initiatives that have positively impacted the lives of Greensboro residents. Jamilla grew up in Greensboro and graduated from Dudley High School’s Science and Math Technology Academy and North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University.
Jamilla’s campaign is not just about policies, it’s about resilience. She shares, “I understand the ebbs and flows of life, especially when it comes to parenting. I had my son, Darius, going into my second semester at NC A&T. I was grateful that I could stay at home with my parents. Still, I didn’t want my life choices to be fully on their shoulders, especially because I had younger siblings at home, so I felt it was my responsibility to take care of my child. I went and got a job. It was hard for me. I know some people may look at my situation like ‘ohh, you had it easy because you were staying with your parents and you still had a job but those people aren’t working third shift every other weekend, going to school full time with a baby and you’re not 18 years old while trying to figure out your life and even who you are as a person. Of course, I’m grateful for the support system I have and the people around me who guided me through it. Nonetheless, it doesn’t negate the fact that you still have to navigate life while you’re trying to figure out who you are as a young mother as well.” This is the kind of resilience and understanding that Jamilla brings to her role as a leader.
Photos Provided by Still Shots Photography
I want to be that lamp of resources for all of the communities. I want to build those bridges of resources so that everyone can feel connected to the city and also have equitable access to food, shelter, and health care.”
Jamilla drew strength from the faith community and appreciated the diverse people she met as a military child. Originally, Jamilla came to Greensboro when she was 12 years old from Columbia, MD. She discloses that her “father was in the Army and stationed at Fort Meade. We came to Greensboro so he could pastor Mt. Olivet A.M.E Zion Church. It was there that I met many professors from NC A&T State University, and they introduced me to agriculture. You know that social mobility is huge. It wasn’t until I started speaking with these professors that I realized my experience of living in so many different places was actually advantageous to me. You know we moved a lot, so I was always starting friendships from scratch. However, I now realize that doing so exposed me to many cultures and nationalities, and I learned how different people viewed the world. Being able to be in different social circles and having a social network was key in my life because social mobility allows you to see things from a different perspective. Being around those professors allowed me to look at life through an interdisciplinary lens. I used to think that agriculture was just about farming, but I’ve since learned that it is about everyday life. So, when I think about everyday life, I think about the community and the city I live in.”
Jamilla’s vision for Greensboro is one where everyone feels a sense of belonging. Her favorite scripture is Psalms 119:105 ‘Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.’ She adds, “That’s who I want to be for Greensboro. I want to be that lamp of resources for all of the communities. I want to build those bridges of resources so that everyone can feel connected to the city and also have equitable access to food, shelter, and health care. You know that people are working and living in this city, but many have limited access to the resources they truly need. My vision is to help all communities gain access to what they need, enriching their daily lives. You cannot access resources if you don’t know what’s available to you and how to obtain it. There are many resources available in Greensboro, but unfortunately, not everyone is aware of the help that is available to them. Only a few are made aware of it, which is not fair. It can’t be about the haves and the have-nots, or you live in a certain district. That’s the great part about running for an At-Large seat. I aim to ensure the equitable distribution of resources that are accessible to all Greensboro citizens, regardless of the district in which they reside. Therefore, the At-Large seat is an important position because an At-Large member views the city on a macroscopic level, rather than a microscopic one. We’re looking out for the city as a whole.”
Councilwoman Pinder speaks passionately about ensuring that all Greensboro citizens have access to essential resources, including housing, economic growth and opportunity, infrastructure, sustainability, public safety, and community engagement. “You know I am aware that people talk about my key priorities all the time, especially when running for office. The difference with me is that I was already implementing these things way before I was even appointed to this seat. When I speak about housing, I want to advance housing opportunities for everyone. I am committed to creating housing options that meet the diverse needs of our residents, from those experiencing homelessness to first-time homebuyers and seniors, ensuring everyone has a stable and affordable place to call home. When I talk about economic growth and opportunity for Greensboro, I’m talking about empowering our local small
and mid-size businesses. This is crucial for creating jobs and fostering economic opportunity within our community and providing pathways for upward mobility for our residents. I’m also concerned about the infrastructure and sustainability of Greensboro. I believe we should modernize our water and sewer systems. It’s not just about the pipes; it’s about laying the groundwork for sustainable housing, attracting businesses, and ensuring the long-term prosperity of our city. Finally, I’m concerned about public safety and our community engagement. I believe by investing in community safety initiatives and promoting access to health resources, we are building a foundation where every resident feels secure and has the opportunity to thrive,” she says.
Sustaining a sound connection to her community is very important to Jamilla. She adds, “I believe it’s important to foster strong social connections through community engagement and inclusive initiatives. Having these connections helps strengthen our city’s fabric, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose among all Greensboro residents. I have lived experience in all of these key areas. As I’ve grown up in this great city, I’ve witnessed it undergo significant changes. Greensboro looks different than when I was 12 years old. It looked different when I was in my 20s, and now that I’m in my 40s, I see it continuing to evolve in more places while other areas within the city have remained the same. Throughout my life, I have consistently worked in the community, which has come naturally to me. Everything I’m campaigning on is from my lived experience in this city. Watching my father live a life of servitude, I learned to live the same way. As I gained more experience in the community and in my own personal life, I realized how stress can affect your overall well-being. When I worked in emergency management, I was able to share resources with people in need. As I began to not only listen to but really hear their stories, I was like, ‘Wait a minute. This person is here for a chronic condition such as diabetes or hypertension, but what’s really the root of their problem? Is it the food they’re eating that’s causing the diabetes because they don’t have access to healthy food? Or do they have high blood pressure because they’re stressing over a lack of income or poor wages, or is the stress coming from their living conditions, and they’re unable to have a peaceful night’s sleep? All of these factors contribute to a person’s overall health and well-being. These are the issues that spurred me and put me on the trajectory of finding the necessary resources to help the people in my community. Knowing about someone’s condition is one thing, but being able to provide the resources for them to address the problem is something different. That’s why I made it a personal point to understand the people in my community. I did that by volunteering every Friday night at Greensboro Urban Ministries, where I checked people in at the shelter. It was there that I learned their stories and how they had arrived at this particular station in life.”
From there, Jamilla volunteered at the Women’s Resource Center and learned their stories, too. It’s easy to pass judgment on someone when you’re looking from the outside without truly understanding the conditions that led them to where they are, she shares. You have to be willing to be a part of changing someone’s condition to help people be healthier in every area of their lives.
Ensuring that the citizens of Greensboro have safe and affordable housing for all is a priority for Jamilla. She says, “I recognize that the needs will be different for people at various stages in their lives. It was the same for me. The one thing that will remain consistent is that people will always need food, shelter, health care, and clean air. That means you need to have rental opportunities available for people across every economic status. How can we ensure that someone with a disability can have housing that’s conducive to their needs? Social connection is key. In my community, I know the people who work at my local Dollar Tree. I know the people who work in my local restaurants and nail salon. It’s about building relationships in these places and matching those relationships with the resources they need to help them grow personally and economically. That’s one of the reasons I’m a champion for workforce development, which affords people the opportunity to retool and relearn their trade, allowing them to access higher-paying jobs or even train for something else to start a small, local business. That’s how small businesses grow and employ people from the community. They play a crucial role in helping a community thrive.”
When equitable resources lie within the community, everyone can thrive. Jamilla believes it shouldn’t be necessary to go outside your community to find help. “I’ve been rooted and grounded in Greensboro for most of my life. What better advocate could you have for access, especially around health disparity issues, than someone who has been advocating for and working on it for over 20 years? How can you tell a person that they need to eat healthier when they don’t have access to it in their community? That’s why I made it my business to open a food market where people can come and get the food they need. I didn’t just open this market because I’m running for a seat on the city council. I was supporting my community long before I decided to run for office,” she says.
Jamilla understands that people see things differently. She also believes it’s necessary to have someone at the table who is better equipped to champion the citizens’ interests. She has faced some of the same challenges as many Greensboro citizens, including low-income wages and struggling to make ends meet, and states, “I can speak for that individual who happens to be that low-income earner because that was me. I used to work two or three jobs to make ends meet. I feel that I can speak to a wide range of classes simply from the work I’ve done and the passion I have always had for the Greensboro community. Community engagement is the blood that flows through my veins. It’s at the core of my very existence. You can’t get things done without engagement and commitment. We have to stop doing community work apart and begin to operate as a collective. Having a siloed way of thinking and doing isn’t good for anyone. That’s why I’m running for office so I can help the next generation and the generation after that.”
Why is Jamilla campaigning for Greensboro’s City Council? Her reasons are very clear. “I am campaigning to be that voice and change how people live. I’m campaigning because it bothers me when I see people not feeling valued due to their circumstances. We should all be serving others in some way. Service is a core value that demonstrates integrity and compassion. When I look at those who are less fortunate, I see so many possibilities. I wonder how they got there. I wonder what type of environment they came from, and then I automatically begin to think about the resources I can offer that person. I recognize that not everyone is ready or in the right mindset to accept what I have to offer, but at least I made an attempt. At least I didn’t look away.”
Jamilla has faced a few challenges in her life, including a health scare about eight years ago, which has played a significant role in her campaign. Jamilla had cancer in her chest wall and describes the fears she held during that ordeal. “As an African American woman, I had to go through that health care system, wondering if I was really being heard. I had the knowledge because I work in this system. I often think about the people who don’t understand the health care system and who don’t know what to expect, or even know the right questions to ask. I’m a resource for those people; I connect them with individuals who care about them, sight unseen. I feel it’s my mission to help people navigate through systems so they can achieve a better outcome in life, especially for our senior population.”
She has been passionate about equity in health care for a long time, and professes that if you’re not healthy, you can’t work effectively. “If you can’t work, then you can’t pay your bills. If you can’t pay your bills, stress comes. When stress comes, anxiety follows. Initially, you were sick mentally and emotionally, but when the pressure is attacking the inside of your body, you now need to go to the doctor, but you can’t afford to go because you can’t miss a day from work, let alone afford the prescription.”
As an At-Large City Council member, Jamilla is making it her business to put an end to such cycles. She has already begun speaking with students at educational institutions like NC A&T, UNC-G, and Elon about community service. She is inspired because she can see those students literally taking her words of wisdom and implementing them throughout the community. She says, “When I see these students taking what I’ve shared with them to the next level within the community, this is what I call evolution. And because I represent the entire city, I must have a multifaceted approach to connecting, lifting up, and bringing us together. That’s my superpower. I’m able to convince, connect, and collaborate with people to get the job done so we can have a win-win situation.”
At the end of the day, Jamilla believes her vision for Greensboro is about building partnerships. This is an area where she excels - in community engagement, where she can impact policy and continue to advocate for equitable communities, often involving underrepresented individuals who struggle with issues such as insurance, health care, and food and shelter insecurity. Jamilla says that her “listening prowess is one of my many gifts that allows me to truly listen deeply and gain understanding that leads me to be of support in meaningful and impactful ways. Through listening, I can make informed decisions for positive and sustainable change and progress.”
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There is Magic In Her Strings
Information and Photos Provided by
Zoe Johnson
As a born and raised Memphian, Zoe Shalome-Inez Johnson was immersed in the music that names this city from a very young age. She grew up with two musicians for parents and a rapper for an older brother. When her mother discovered she had an ear for music and loved to sing, she started her journey through teaching piano, ear training, and music theory. When it was time for Zoe to go into middle school, she decided to choose orchestra as her elective.
Zoe shares, “I come from a musical family, talented in many instruments. My first instruments were voice and piano. While I was in the 5th grade, I chose elective classes for sixth grade. These were orchestra, band, choir, art, and physical education. I knew I did not want to play an instrument that requires you to use your mouth. So, I began playing the violin in the 6th grade in my orchestra class.” Along with gospel and her parents’ childhood music, Zoe listened to a lot of classical music as a child. She says her favorite composer growing up was Vivaldi. “I loved listening to his work with strings and concertos like “The Four Seasons.”
One of Zoe’s favorite genres of music as a small child was classical, and she particularly loved the masterpiece of Antonio Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. Zoe was in awe of the violin solos and the composition of the string instruments working together, so she chose the violin as her instrument.
Ever since then, that was her journey towards success. By the time of high school graduation in 2018, she had participated in the All-West regional orchestras four times in a row, All-State Tennessee high school symphony orchestra in April of 2018, selected for multiple honor festivals in Memphis and Clarksville, Tennessee, in honors orchestra at Collierville High School all four years, created her own string quartet that played in multiple locations around the city, and recorded her first song with her brother called “Free Indeed” by M.K.J. These are just to name a few. Zoe has now graduated with a Bachelor of Arts as of December 2023 from Austin Peay State University.
Zoe now spends her time teaching private lessons and performing all around Memphis and the surrounding areas. She shares, I am a private violin and viola teacher. I work at a local music store, and I also work as a freelance musician. Additionally, I am also planning to start my non-profit organization that focuses on teaching free music lessons to the underserved children of Memphis.”
Additionally, she is now blossoming into a field she never knew she did not think she had a gift for: composition. Now known as Avid Violin, Zoe is an original artist. On February 2, 2024, she released her very first song called “Dawn.” She now does arrangements and compositions for solos and string quartets. Zoe has recently become a contracted violist for the North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra based in Tupelo. Her first album was released this year. h
Huami Magazine On The Road
30th Anniversary Black Women’s Expo
Chicago, IL August 2nd, 2025
Addressing The Harsh Reality of Gun Violence In Our Community
By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Still Shots Photography
In 2022, firearm deaths were the third leading cause of injury-related deaths in the United States, surpassing motor vehicle accidents as the top cause of death for those under 19 years old. In North Carolina (NC), most homicides occur using firearms (82.5%), including homicides among Black victims (81.7%). Victim ages start at 10 years and peak in the 20-to-24 age group, with 64.1% of victims being Black.
Thus, there is an urgent need to reach children and adolescents for prevention. National research implicates structural racism and historically racialized spaces as a root cause of gun violence disparities. There is an urgent need for evidence-based multilevel firearm violence interventions. Fortunately, promising research is emerging for individual and organizational level interventions that draw from broader community level insights, feedback, and buy-in.
Firearm and health policy variability across the US also necessitates place-based research to provide community-specific insights and development of targeted, community- and state-level interventions. For example, Guilford County, NC, has community-partnered interventions. Between 2011 and 2020, there were 1,122 violent deaths, including 479 homicides (42.7%). Guilford’s homicide rate was highest among non-Hispanic Black (20.5 per 100,000 population), followed by Hispanic (4.6 per 100,000), with arguments or conflicts being the most common contributing factor.
Establishing Safe Cultures, an interorganizational coalition engaged in youth-based, holistic violence prevention efforts in Guilford County, NC, formed a collective to address this community need. ESC leverages trusted members of the community as “credible messengers,” who identify community members to engage in mentoring, teaching nonviolence, and changing conflict norms. ESC’s violence prevention program is built on a 9-month, evidence-based curriculum. ESC has partnered with local schools to conduct afterschool programming, mentoring youth who have been engaged in violent behaviors, conducting over 20 parent/caregiver workshops, and delivering a career fair that reached over 500 youth.
In 2022, the North Carolina General Assembly appropriated $126,000, with bipartisan support, to implement ESC’s program in schools with 7–12-year-olds. ESC has conducted workshops for Guilford County’s Parks and Recreation Department for children ages 10-17. Such system-level partners are critical for filling a gap in anti-violence programming. In its efforts to advance work at a systems level, ESC has partnered with the HEEAT Lab—Health disparities addressed through Engagement, Equity, Advocacy, and Trust (theheeatlab.org). The HEEAT Lab’s Founding Director, Dr. Schenita Randolph, notes that this collaboration aligns directly with the Lab’s mission to address health inequities and improve outcomes for individuals, families, and communities.
Supported by a Duke Intellectual Community Planning Grant and a Rita and Alex Hillman Foundation Grant, ESC and the HEEAT Lab are working together to examine ESC’s programming while also strengthening infrastructure and sustainability. Their shared goal is to dismantle community violence through policy, advocacy, and research partnerships that generate culturally and socially relevant interventions, programs, and policies.
Through Hillman Emerging Innovation support, ESC has been partnering with The HEEAT Lab to refine an evidence-based violence prevention program that can serve as a national model for improving firearm-related violence among marginalized communities. They have also participated in Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI), which provides standardized training in research ethics and responsible conduct of research, particularly for studies involving people. This training provides community members with foundational knowledge, positioning them to be partners and leaders in research, with equal shared decision-making. Communities of color, particularly Black communities, have historically been underrepresented, misrepresented, or even harmed in research. Their active participation is critical to advancing equity, relevance, and justice in science, health, and policy. Representation matters. ESC is positioned not only to participate in research but also to lead and shape it.
The Establishing Safe Cultures program (ESC) is the brainchild of a group of community advocates, practitioners, and professionals who have worked with and on behalf of youth and their families. Collectively, the group has over 100 years of experience, and individually, they each saw a need that was not being fully met by the existing agencies and organizations. As a result, they decided to address that need.
Establishing Safe Cultures is dedicated to shifting the culture to foster a change of perspective and the desire to avoid the pitfalls that could lead to them becoming the victim or perpetrator of violent crime. Gene Blackmon, the organization’s founder, says, “We sincerely believe that to effectively address the issue of violence and other ills in our communities, we must change the existing culture. This is especially true for our youth.”
To begin this culture shift, the ESC coalition has created a comprehensive program to engage young people between the ages of (5 and 18) years. Some of the services they offer are Culture Shifting Workshops, Mentorship, Community Events, and Peace Walks. With its Culture Shifting Workshops, some of the areas of focus are Social & Emotional Learning, Conflict Resolution, Financial Literacy, Kids Yoga & Fitness, and Critical Thinking.
Gun violence in our communities is not just about the presence of firearms; it’s about layered issues like poverty, lack of resources, fewer opportunities, and generational trauma. Solving this problem requires a holistic approach: addressing systemic inequities, creating safe spaces for our youth, investing in mental health, expanding educational and economic opportunities, and strengthening community trust. It also means elevating community-led initiatives, like ESC, that understand the lived experiences of our neighborhoods and can provide solutions rooted in healing, accountability, and prevention.
Gun violence stems from poverty, unemployment, lack of opportunity, untreated trauma, and easy access to firearms. The solution is a mix of better education, mental health resources, mentorship, and communitydriven initiatives that address root causes and restore hope.
Thankfully, I have not lost a family member to gun violence, but I’ve lived in a neighborhood where the sound of gunshots was heard frequently. There have been times when we had to move quickly to safe spaces inside our home to protect ourselves. That kind of environment shapes you, creating both fear and resilience. It made me more determined to speak out, to contribute to change, and to help build communities where our children can feel safe both inside and outside their homes.
I answered the call to become involved because this work is personal to me. As someone who has lived through the realities of unsafe environments, I know how it feels to think about safety constantly. My background in healthcare administration and my passion for advocacy and community service have taught me that real change happens when we combine data-driven solutions with compassion and lived experience. I believe my voice, skills, and commitment to serving others can help break cycles of violence.
I am committed to community service and dedicated to addressing the issues that affect our neighborhoods, especially gun violence. I believe the solution must start with opportunity, education, and resources. Too often, young people in disadvantaged and black communities don’t see positive outlets for their pain or a clear path toward success. We need stronger community programs, mentorship, mental health support, and job opportunities that give people real choices besides violence. At the same time, there must be accountability and sensible approaches to firearm access to reduce the easy flow of guns into our neighborhoods.
Gun violence has touched my life and the lives of people close to me. It leaves behind a feeling of heartbreak, anger, and frustration. But instead of letting that pain consume me, I’ve chosen to respond by being part of the solution—standing up, speaking out, and working with others to stop the cycle before more lives are lost.
I learned that gun violence is not just about the weapon itself—it’s about poverty, broken systems, lack of opportunity, untreated trauma, and cycles that go unaddressed. Statistics show that where resources are limited, violence grows. But when communities invest in youth programs, economic development, and mental health services, the rates of violence drop significantly.
Serving my community is important to me because our young black men and women are the future, and their lives matter. Every time one is lost to gun violence, we lose not just a person, but the potential of who they could have been—a leader, a father, a mother, a business owner, a role model. Serving is my way of protecting that future and showing the next generation that we care enough to fight for them.
Kedrian J. Blackmon
Corey Jones Board Member Workshop Host
Gun violence in disadvantaged and Black communities is a complex problem that requires layered solutions. I believe that we need a mix of public-safety measures and long-term community investment: stricter enforcement of common-sense gun laws (universal background checks, safe-storage requirements, restricting access for those with violent histories), targeted interventions like violence-interruption programs and community-based outreach, and substantial investment in education, jobs, mental-health, and addiction services. Equally important is addressing structural drivers — poverty, under-resourced schools, lack of economic opportunity, and the legacy of segregation and disinvestment — so young people have real alternatives to violence. These strategies must be community-led, culturally competent, and sustained, not one-off efforts.
Gun violence has touched people close to me and others in my community. Seeing the pain it causes, such as loss, trauma, and disrupted families, made me feel heartbroken, angry, and determined. Those feelings turned into action. I started volunteering with local outreach groups, supported survivors, participated in community vigils and forums, and used my voice on social media and in local meetings to push for practical solutions. I also focused on tangible help — mentoring youth, helping organize job-readiness programs, and supporting trauma-informed care resources for those affected.
I answered the call to serve my community because I want it to be safe and for young people to have the chance to reach their potential. I’ve seen the ripple effects of a single violent act, and I don’t want that to be the typical story for our neighborhoods. Serving is a way to translate compassion into concrete change: helping survivors heal, preventing the next tragedy, and creating opportunities that replace cycles of violence with hope.
I think that adult and youth leaders can tackle the issue of gun violence through community organizing, advocacy, and mental health initiatives. Expanding funding for violence prevention and intervention, focusing on black and brown youth and adults, is critical. Funding can support credible messengers-individuals from the community trained to mediate conflict and connect at-risk individuals to services. Using resources such as organizations that promote culturally responsive, community-engaged research and policy development. Also, a public health model that addresses root causes such as poverty, trauma, and lack of opportunity would be beneficial, and engaging youth directly in shaping solutions and initiatives would be powerful.
Gun violence leaves deep emotional scars. We have experienced feelings of anger, withdrawal, post-traumatic stress, and, in some cases, a desensitization to violence. Heightened safety concerns, trust issues, and emotional instability have also been experienced during gun violence incidents. My responses have been different. Some have been inclined to retaliate, though I personally have encouraged them to talk about their experience without pressure. I avoid minimizing their experience and am conscious of everyone grieving differently. Even more, I offer comfort, reassurance, and resources.
One thing that I have learned in my research is the warning signs of someone at risk for gun violence. There are emotional and psychological indicators such as mood swings, depression, and withdrawal. This also includes behavioral changes such as increased substance use, decline in personal appearance/hygiene, and multiple violations of rules/policies. Threatening conduct, such as intimidating or verbally abusive behavior, is a sign, as well as fascination with weapons, and stalking/harassing behavior.
Wendy Armstrong
Nakia Womack Board Member
Coalition Member
Gun violence has affected me and members of my family on multiple occasions. It has made me feel sad, angry, numb, anxious, and frustrated. Each situation has been different; however, in the majority of them, I have cried and felt anger. I am a person who does not believe in the use of guns as a result of these incidents. The conclusion I have come to is that most of these incidents do not end in a way that gives the assailant and the victim another chance to learn from an event.
I believe this problem can be solved through the use of proper gun education regarding making responsible, trauma-informed, and evidencebased decisions about guns. This includes education on Gun Safety and Responsibility, Gun Laws and Policy Literacy, Gun Violence Data and Statistics, Types and Contexts of Gun Violence, Trauma and Mental Health Education, Media, Messaging and Culture, and Practical Civic and Community Tools.
Understanding the different areas of gun education helps each group in meaningful ways. For lawmakers and officials, it provides the evidence they need to design policies that balance constitutional rights with community safety. For community leaders and educators, it offers the tools to build programs, lead advocacy efforts, and create prevention strategies that are culturally responsive and effective. Parents and adults gain practical guidance for keeping households safe and communicating openly about firearms, while also knowing how to respond in a crisis. For teens and young adults, this education provides real statistics, awareness of risks, and opportunities to build stronger decision-making and leadership skills.
Through podcasting, personal development, and confidence-building workshops, I work to amplify voices and strengthen the next generation. Alongside this, I contribute to vital research through the Heat Lab, addressing some of the most urgent challenges facing our communities.
Gun violence can’t necessarily be stopped or end all together, realistically, in my opinion. However, as a community, we can suppress a lot of it. The first step is reigniting hope. Without hope, people live in survival mode, where anger and desperation grow. By rebuilding trust, educating, and pouring resources back into our neighborhoods, we can restore dignity, empower families, and create spaces where love and opportunity outweigh fear and violence. These things within themselves will help eliminate stress and that survival mentality, which demonstrates the beginning of change.
I have lost friends due to gun violence. Both my family and I have stood in the crossfire as innocent bystanders. Those moments left me shaken, unsafe, angry, and grieving. Instead of letting pain define me, I chose to fight back with purpose by advocating for peace, uplifting my peers, and making it clear that we will no longer be part of the problem. We will be part of the solution.
Through research, I have learned that one person’s voice and action does matter. Change begins with someone willing to step forward. I also learned that the community does not trust many of the systems designed to protect them. That broken trust is itself a root cause of violence, and until it is repaired, real change will be limited.
Dr. Latoya Waddell
Ashley Good Survey Coordinator Media Coverage
The issue of firearm accessibility in our communities isn’t just about the guns themselves—it’s about the lack of opportunity, resources, and safe outlets. We solve this problem by addressing root causes: creating real economic pathways, improving mental health access, strengthening family and community bonds, and pushing for policies that keep illegal guns out of circulation while educating our youth about safer choices.
Losing a close friend to gun violence left me broken and angry at first, but more than anything, it left me with a sense of urgency. It’s a pain you never forget, and it pushed me to turn grief into purpose.
Research conducted within the city of Greensboro shows that gun violence is concentrated in certain neighborhoods, fueled by poverty, lack of opportunity, and cycles of trauma. It also revealed that many incidents involve young Black men and often stem from preventable conflicts. That data tells us that if we invest in prevention and community programs, we can save lives.
Serving in my community, I believe, is very important because these children are our future, and too many are being stolen too soon. My background involves overcoming struggles, pivoting, and finding new beginnings, and it taught me that with the right support, transformation is possible. I want to give them that chance to live out their potential without fear of violence cutting it short.
My solutions are hands-on. It includes building community gardens and markets to teach skills and create income, offering mentorship to show alternatives, advocating for fair policies, and creating wellness spaces where healing can begin. We can’t just talk prevention; we have to model it, fund it, and live it in front of our kids.
As the founder and Executive Director of Peace of H.O.P.E Foundation- (POH), it is my belief that gun violence cannot be solved by one approach alone—it requires a holistic strategy. One Part of the solution is addressing mental health, trauma, and emotional regulation through SEL programming. When young people learn how to manage conflict, build resilience, and feel supported, they are less likely to resort to violence. At the same time, we must advocate for policy reform, community investment, and increased access to mental health resources in disadvantaged communities.
Like many in our community, gun violence has touched my family, both in homicide and suicide. It was a painful and life-altering experience that brought grief, anger, and frustration. My response has been to turn that pain into purpose—using my voice and my platforms to help prevent or navigate other families through the same tragedy.
Research shows that gun violence is deeply tied to systemic inequities, poverty, limited access to mental health care, and a lack of safe, supportive environments for youth. It also reveals that preventive measures, such as SEL programs, mentorship, and community-based interventions, reduce the likelihood of youth turning to violence.
I have answered the call to get involvee because this is my purposed work. I believe everyone, including young people, deserves to feel safe, valued, and supported. I’ve seen firsthand how trauma impacts lives, and I know healing-centered programs and safe spaces can change trajectories. This work is not optional—it’s necessary.
Gun violence has affected my family. My cousin was murdered in her home while her young children were upstairs asleep. I have assisted in raising those kids; however, it’s tough to remove the anger they felt and get them to trust again, so they run to the streets looking for comfort simply because they are too afraid to love someone like their mom and lose again.
I learned the system fails our kids. We sent them to therapy through the system, and no one ever talked to them; instead, they let them play away their emotions. My family refused to discipline them since they lost their mother. By the time I had stepped in, they were mentally set up for failure.
I refuse to ever sit and wait for my turn again. I make it a priority to step in immediately when I see the youth thinking about going the other way. We have to step in while they are still doing good kid things before they turn the other way.
The contributing factors I still see in the men in our communities is a lack of accountability. We have many organizations that offer help and guidance; however, the problem is we need to educate the fathers, the uncles, the grandfathers, the ones that are attached to the young men’s family. If we teach them, their offspring will become better.
Tiah Henderson
Tiffany Fox Rathell Dailey Mental Health Advocate Mediator & Conflict Resolution Instructor
The Gardening Realtor
Drashonta Brinson
I serve as a Conflict Resolution Specialist and educator who partners with ESC. In my role, I design and implement curricula that provide practical strategies for de-escalation, communication, and restorative approaches to conflict in disadvantaged communities. It is my opinion that gun violence must be addressed through a systems approach that considers root causes, not just symptoms. While policy reform around access is necessary, the deeper solutions lie in addressing systemic inequities, poverty, untreated trauma, and the absence of conflict resolution skills. My philosophy emphasizes empowering individuals to respond to conflict without escalating to violence, teaching tools such as active listening, de-escalation, and problem-solving. When combined with mentorship, economic opportunity, and culturally relevant mental health resources, these strategies help communities replace cycles of violence with cycles of peace.
Through my academic and community-based research, I have learned that gun violence stems from a convergence of unmet needs, systemic failures, and unresolved conflict. Access to firearms may be the tool, but hopelessness, poverty, and lack of conflict transformation strategies are the drivers. We have also found that teaching individuals, especially youth, how to pause, ask clarifying questions, and de-escalate conflicts significantly reduces the likelihood of violent outcomes. Prevention and empowerment, rooted in education and restorative approaches, create the most sustainable change.
Community involvement is essential to me because I believe every young Black life represents possibility, and far too many are lost due to preventable violence. Serving my community allows me to use both professional training and lived experience to protect that possibility. I believe that when people feel seen, valued, and are equipped with tools to handle conflict, they are less likely to resort to violence. For me, saving young lives is not only an obligation but an act of love, legacy, and justice.
For me, Establishing Safe Cultures is more than an initiative; it is my life’s calling. My “why” is rooted in the belief that children are not born violent; the systems, environments, and narratives around them shape them. Too often, systemic racism, poverty, underfunded schools, and limited access to mental health care create conditions that foster despair and hopelessness. Violence is one of the most apparent symptoms of these broken systems, and I refuse to accept it as an inevitable reality in our communities. I believe culture can shift. Safety, love, and opportunity can be restored when we come together as a resourced, supported, and empowered community to heal and thrive.
At the same time, I challenge the harmful narratives pushed by the media, where Black people are disproportionately linked to violence and crime. These portrayals overshadow the resilience, brilliance, and leadership that define us, reinforcing stereotypes that do not accurately represent who we are. Establishing Safe Cultures also means shifting the mindset within our communities, changing the belief that once you reach a certain level of success, you must relocate to the suburbs or neighborhoods shown on TV as symbols of status. Instead, we can show our children what’s possible by investing in our neighborhoods, rebuilding them, and modeling positive examples of what our communities can look like when we stay, lead, and grow together.
My impact is not measured only by numbers but by lives restored, families strengthened, and young people who can now imagine a future beyond fear, highlighting parents who are present and leading, children who are thriving, and community members who dedicate themselves each day to building unity and safety where we live. My commitment is to advocate, act, and build bridges so that we can break cycles of violence and replace them with cycles of healing and hope. For me, this work is urgent but straightforward: to create a culture where safety is not a privilege but a right, and where children in our community are equipped with the tools to navigate conflict in healthy ways, so they grow into adults who can resolve challenges and engage in crucial conversations without resorting to violence. At the same time, they deserve the freedom to grow, to dream, and to live without fear.
Gene Blackmon
Founder & Executive Director
Establishing Safe Cultures
Coalition Members
Dr. T. Eugene Blackmon
Founder/Executive Director
Tevin Whiteside
Community Activist/Mentor/Program Coordinator
Trevor Koonce
Personal Trainer/Health And Wellness Instructor
Rathell Dailey
Mediator and Conflict Resolution Instructor
Drashonta Brinson, MA
Peace and Conflict Resolution Instructor and Mediator
Tiffany Fox, BSN, MBA
Mental Health Advocate
LeeAysia Williamson
Wellness Advocate and Yoga Instructor
Tiah Henderson
The Gardening Realtor
Nacho Average Podcast Crew
FitZ Wellness Network
Media Coverage Board Member
Corey Jones Thugod
Workshop Host
Workshop Host
Program Consultants
Dr. Eric Payton-Foh
Mr. David Moore
Mr. Sherman Moore
Ms. Sohnie Black
Dr. Schenita D. Randolph
Pastor C J Brinson
Dr. Dallas Scales
Dontae Donnell
Alisa Branch
Celebrate Fall With Thrive Wellness Center
Thrive Foundation is a Guilford County-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that educates children, families, and the community on the importance of mental health awareness. We foster hope and resiliency in the communities we serve by providing programs and resources that help empower, educate, and evolve communities. Our trained team of mental health advocates is committed to building emotionally healthy communities.
Reketta Brown, the founder of the Thrive Foundation, is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 16 years of experience empowering individuals toward emotional well-being and self-care. She leads a team of mental health advocates at this Guilford County-based nonprofit organization, educating children, families, and communities on the crucial importance of mental health awareness. Through the Thrive Foundation, Reketta and her team provide empowering programs and resources dedicated to fostering hope and resilience in the communities they serve.
Sebastian Neal
The son of Brian Neal and Leann Marion
She Built This City
By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by LaToya Faustin
LaToya Faustin of Charlotte, NC, has been tasked with leading a very essential organization that’s purposed for women and marginalized communities.
Born and raised in the Southeastern section of Greensboro, NC, LaToya graduated from James B. Dudley High School, where many of her values and worldview were formed. She would later attend Elon University and graduate with a double major, obtaining Bachelors Degrees in Corporate Communications and in Spanish. Attending Elon University would have a lasting impact on LaToya’s life. She shares, “I have traveled all around the world. I have been to Belize, Australia, China, Cuba, and Haiti; however, the twenty-minute trek from Dudley High School to Elon University has been the biggest culture shock I have ever experienced in my life.”
After graduating from Elon, LaToya joined Teach For America and drove her Toyota Camry to the borders of Texas and Mexico, and taught high school English for three years. “Initially, my goal was to be a Social Justice Attorney, but what I saw while teaching in the Valley, help to develop my heart for community. I realized that what was possible within the four walls of the classroom was extremely limited by the community that surrounded it. If we don’t have access to affordable housing, quality healthcare, and good-paying jobs, no matter what we did as teachers in the classrooms, it would not yield the fruit, because there is no pathway,” she explains.
LaToya would eventually leave the classroom and become involved with various non-profit organizations. She returned to school at Elon and acquired her Master’s in Business Administration. Today, she uses her experiences and education to lead as the CEO of She Built This City, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide industry-disruptive programming that sparks interest and builds pathways to lucrative careers in the skilled trades for youth, women, and marginalized communities. Their vision is to dismantle barriers and stigmas in traditionally male-dominated industries through innovative, sustainable practices that prepare women for a future of jobs that have yet to be created. In North Carolina, She Built This City has established offices both in Charlotte and in Greensboro, and serves surrounding communities including York,SC, and Cabarrus County, NC.
“Initially, my goal was to be a Social Justice Attorney, but what I saw while teaching in the Valley, help to develop my heart for community. I realized that what was possible within the four walls of the classroom was extremely limited by the community that surrounded it.”
She Built This City was founded in 2019 by Demi Knight Clark. A self-professed “spitfire” and energy ball, Demi envisions a world where thousands of ceilings are shattered, and women and men stand equal in all trades. Throughout her career, often finding herself as the “only woman in the room” Demi has been a fierce advocate for equal representation at every table, from boardrooms to sports endeavors. With unwavering passion, she leads the charge towards a more inclusive and diverse future, empowering women to thrive in the skilled trades and beyond.
Today, She Built This City has expanded its reach to serve not only women and girls but also marginalized communities. In addition to equipping and empowering women to succeed in areas that have traditionally been inaccessible to them, She Built This City offers Adult Workforce Development Programming, which includes a nine-week, Pre-Apprenticeship Program that prepares participants with the skills and experience necessary to build successful, long-term careers in the construction industry. Graduates can either enter entry-level employment within the construction industry or move on to receive additional training through apprenticeships. They also have a two-year, Facilities Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship Program that provides classroom instruction and on-the-job learning. The curriculum and the day-to-day training schedule are designed by a licensed general contractor and former teacher and delivered by industry professionals from several construction trades areas. Individuals who successfully complete all aspects of our training are placed either with an employer partner, in employment with SBTC, or are encouraged to start their own business. Additionally, She
Built This City provides the youth with exposure to the skills trade, which includes hands-on builds for summer camps and afterschool programs.
As the CEO, LaToya has faced various challenges. She says, “One challenge has been to develop pathways for our clients into a white, male-dominated industry. While trying to get more women into this space, we need to have more conversations around maternity leave and childcare accessibility. Race and diversity are also a challenge, and have been.”
LaToya is very appreciative of how her life has happened. The opportunities to serve and play a pivotal role in improving the lives of so many are some things that she cherishes. She also credits many organizations and individuals who have impacted her life and career, including her alma mater, Dudley High School, and Elon University, Latonya Richmond of Elon, and Jake House, one of her first supervisors with a non-profit. She credits her mother, Lynda Pettiford-Marcus, for being a sound foundation and putting her in good spaces to fight the “good fight”. LaToya also mentions her son, Thaddeus, whom she says is the reason why she goes as hard as she does. “My son is why I question what I do, and why I seek peace in all the other areas of my life. I chose not to bring any storms around him,” she says.
In order to run a successful organization, the leaders must have a sound supporting cast. For She Built This City, LaToya has constantly benefited from such a team, which includes Board Members, Carl Coffey, and Jenine Edwards. When asked what she loves most about what she does, LaToya shares that it’s the opportunity to be in a position to make real change for people and their families. “We see whole families come through our program, including mothers and daughters. The real tangible impact that I am able to make is what keeps me. The frustrations that I face on a daily basis allow me to be a creative thinker in a business space, and I absolutely love it.”
LaToya
Faustin She Built This City
Looking ahead, LaToya is positioning She Built This City to take on even bigger and better projects. This involves taking on residential and commercial construction assignments. “We are within the earned revenue space. As an organization, I want us to have our very own ecosystem. This thought aligns with where we currently are. We are currently hiring and training individuals from our workforce development program. We are the General Contractor on our own projects, and are able to give sub-contract opportunities to our graduates who’ve started their own business.”
SugarJam The Southern Kitchen
By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Dana Dumas
Dana Dumas is the founder, head chef, and CEO of SugarJam The Southern Kitchen, SugarJam Cookies, LLC, and SJ Concepts, LLC.
Dana hails from New York City and moved to Arizona in 2002. She is a degreed educator with an extensive corporate background from the toy industry to fashion, NASCAR, and travel. However, in 2011, as a new mother of fraternal twin boys, Dumas began the SugarJam brand when she combined her corporate business background and love of baking into SugarJam Cookies, LLC. Dana quickly grew her customer base with a modern twist on a cookie of the past, a jam-filled sugar cookie sandwich. She expanded her baked good offerings and was featured in several craft fairs, festivals, arts shows, and more across the Valley.
In 2014, Dana opened her first brick-and-mortar shop, SugarJam Bakeshop and Bistro, located in Scottsdale Airpark, which served light breakfast, lunch, and baked goods. That same year, she launched a vintage-style bakery trailer that emerged into the food truck scene. With business booming, Dana expanded her offerings to include weekend brunch at the Bistro that drew in even more business, which also led her into catering. This growth allowed her to understand her business and realize what she truly wanted.
Dana’s present-day concept, SugarJam The Southern Kitchen, officially opened in January of 2021 in a different location within the Scottsdale Airpark. SugarJam The Southern Kitchen is a Southern-inspired restaurant based in North Scottsdale with a full bar and bakery that offers crafted brunch and weekday lunch.
With SugarJam The Southern Kitchen, Dana Dumas has created a unique brunch experience designed for all to enjoy. The brunch restaurant features Southern-inspired breakfast, lunch, baked goods, and cocktails. The food, vibe, and décor will make you feel as if you have been transported into the modern South with a twist of New York City.
SugarJam has quickly become known for its “Brunch N’ Vibes” weekend experience. Every Friday through Sunday, guests can come enjoy some delicious Southern brunch, craft cocktails and mimosas, sweet treats, and SugarJam’s resident DJ playing all the greatest hits. The word about SugarJam and its Brunch N’ Vibes experience has spread through local media, print publications, and has garnered large growth on social media platforms. The restaurant has travelers from around the country and local guests who book reservations 30–60 days out to experience its weekend “Brunch N’ Vibes”.
Under the leadership direction of Dana, SugarJam The Southern Kitchen was recognized in 2024 by Ebony Magazine as one of the Top 45 Restaurants in the US; she is also a 2024 Titan100 CEO; 2023 & 2024 named #1 Brunch in Arizona; 2023’s Top 100 restaurants in Arizona by Phoenix New Times and 2024 NAACP Woman of The Year (Maricopa Branch, AZ).
Dana is affirming her power as an African American Woman business owner who employs all ethnic groups and ensures that equal opportunities are open to everyone, including members of the LGBTQ+ community. She is also paving the way for women in her company to have leadership roles, with 98% of her management team being women. Dana has experienced tremendous growth in the last 13 years, and that is reflected in her focus on an inclusive environment, giving opportunities to marginalized people.
In the bias of the male-dominated restaurant industry, Dana has witnessed this industry not giving accolades to all the women who blaze the way in the shadows of the men who are in the forefront. In most cases, you do not see African American women in leadership or ownership roles, especially with high revenue numbers. African American women make up less than five percent of representation in the restaurant and hospitality industry.
Dana herself is a pioneer, laying the groundwork and shattering ceilings as the first African American woman business owner in the Scottsdale Airpark with her first and second restaurant concepts. Dana has worked tirelessly from the small beginnings of annual gross revenues of $60,000 to now well over $2.845 and is still growing. Dana looks forward to launching her newest restaurant innovation with Soul Fire Tacos, LLC this year.
Dana is leading the way for African American women in the restaurant and hospitality industry. She hopes her success positively impacts the direction within the restaurant industry to improve representation for women and men of color. While it takes time to navigate the business world and truly understand what the focus of business is all about, Dumas continues to encourage others to fight for their passions. Her proven entrepreneurial mindset has inspired several of her employees to launch their own catering, cake, and bakery businesses.
Dana is a dedicated, passionate, and hardworking business owner who is continuously exploring new ways to evolve SugarJam The Southern Kitchen. She strives to create an inclusive dining experience that welcomes diners of all demographics to enjoy Southern-inspired cuisine in Arizona. Dana also created a family-oriented culture with her staff and customers, forming a supportive work environment that encompasses the true Southern charm.
While building her business from the ground up, she has always supported other local and national, minority businesses in the process. When she first began in 2011, Dumas teamed up with local jam vendors from the different craft fairs, expanding her jam-filled sugar cookie sandwich offerings. From April 2022 to May 2024, Dumas partnered with several business owners to feature their products and merchandise within SugarJam’s gift shop, “The Market by SugarJam”. These products were sometimes one-of-a-kind and ranged from candles, t-shirts, bags, kitchen accessories and more.
In addition to creating a successful and beloved Southern-flair brunch restaurant, Dana helped to show a range of diversity for cultural cuisine in North Scottsdale. SugarJam The Southern Kitchen is one of the premier Southern Brunch restaurants in Arizona.
At the start of SugarJam Cookies, LLC, Dana was the first and only employee as an at-home baker. As her brand grew, Dumas was able to bring in additional bakers and staff throughout the years. With SugarJam The Southern Kitchen, Dana now employs over 40 full-and-part-time employees. She has successfully contributed to job growth in the metro-Phoenix community, providing equal opportunity of employment to marginalized people of color and gender. Though growing a business is not for the faint of heart! You must have passion, a plan, dedication and a way to fund your business. Funding is always the biggest hurdle as a Minority owned business even when you are doing well! SugarJam is not backed by Venture Capital, Private Equity nor Crowdfunding! SugarJam has been funded by Dana and is turning all profits back into the business. Using personal savings and investments to aid initial funding and helping with growth along the way hasn’t been the easiest, but it has paid off with
Dana’s tireless dedication to her business. As growth started to take shape, some business bank loans were finally secured to aid in scaling the business to what it is today.
Outside of SugarJam The Southern Kitchen, Dana works to support several local charities through donations of baked goods and monetary meals, as well as volunteering her time. She has provided Thanksgiving meals for at risk students and their families at Ombudsman High School (a division of Chance Light Education), passed out cookies and pies to the homeless in downtown Phoenix, and shared inspirational insight for new entrepreneurs through the Urban League. Dumas also donated to The Foster Alliance, Dirty Dogg Saloon – AZ Charities (Veterans and Local Animal Rescue), ElevateMeD scholarship fund, and UMOM New Day. In addition, she has partnered and provided donations to Black Students Union at the Phoenix Coding Academy, Children’s Miracle Network and has donated over 1,000 pounds of food to Arizonans in need through MealConnect.
The key things that drive Dana as an entrepreneur and restaurateur, she says, are her family. “My grandparents, who are no longer with me, but their spirit presides over me every day. I am a woman of faith, and without God, none of what I do could be possible. I have a passion for innovation and creating newness in a space that I am not represented within a demographic where I have decided to establish roots. I want my guests to experience black culture and understand we are people of profound excellence, and the narrative is a positive one. I also like to empower my women-led staff with optimal knowledge that leads to their autonomy for an enriched career, and not just a job. I don’t put on heirs; being my authentic self is who I am. In order to thrive, one must be true to their own cause; you must believe in what you do and be respectful to all who have helped along your journey.” h
By Terry L. Watson
Photos Provided by Jessica Eason
Forever Young Spa: Where Luxury is Your Sanctuary Step into Forever Young Spa, an exquisite haven where pampering meets a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Their team of skilled estheticians and massage therapists is dedicated to providing their clients with an unparalleled experience. Their commitment to excellence ensures that every client leaves looking and feeling their absolute best. With a clear mission to elevate your wellness journey, they aspire to be the premier spa destination in Spartanburg, SC. Even more, their passion for client satisfaction drives everything they do.
Jessica Eason is the visionary for Forever Young Spa. She is a passionate, licensed esthetic instructor and entrepreneur. Her journey began two decades ago when she first fell in love with the art of beauty and wellness. The spa was originally founded by Yung, transitioning to new ownership when Misty Fant, the second owner, recognized Jessica’s exceptional potential in 2019. Under Jessica’s leadership, she transformed Forever Yung Day Spa into her own vision, rebranding it to Forever Young Spa in 2025.
Jessica’s educational background in esthetics and her family support have fueled her drive to succeed. Her commitment to nurturing both her clients and her dedicated staff creates a harmonious environment, making every visit a memorable one.
Located at 1400 Boiling Springs Rd, Spartanburg, South Carolina, Forever Young Spa is your sanctuary for rejuvenation. With operating hours from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday through Sunday, Forever Young Spa makes it easy for its clients to carve out time for self-care. “Once you experience our services, you’ll find it hard to leave the cozy, calming atmosphere we’ve created,” Jessica says. “What truly sets Forever Young Spa apart is the moment you walk through our doors. You’re greeted with a smile in a serene environment filled with soft spa music and the soothing scent of lavender candles. We take the time to understand your needs, customizing your experience to ensure you feel valued and treated like royalty.”
“There’s something incredibly rewarding about witnessing the transformation that takes place when a client steps through our doors. It’s not just about enhancing their physical appearance; it’s about nurturing their self-esteem and helping them reconnect with their inner beauty.”
Forever Young Spa offers a diverse array of services designed to provide pure bliss. Jessica and her team specialize in customized facials, rejuvenating skin treatments, anti-aging solutions, chemical peels, and relaxing and therapeutic massages. “Our waxing services and wellness options—including hot stone treatments, aromatherapy, cupping, reflexology, and couples massages—ensure a comprehensive approach to self-care. Our commitment to using only the finest professional products means that clients experience remarkable transformations during their visits. We are proud to offer high-quality products for home care, ensuring that the benefits of our treatments extend well beyond the spa,” she says.
Jessica draws inspiration from her clients, her dedicated team, and the transformative power of self-care. Along her journey, she has learned that navigating the complexities of the beauty industry and managing a growing business requires resilience and adaptability. Jessica has adapted by fostering a supportive team culture and continuously seeking to improve her services. Even more, navigating the challenges posed by the COVID-19 shutdown was a pivotal moment for Jessica Eason and Forever Young Spa. Like many businesses, the temporary closure forced her to reassess operations and adapt to a new reality. Jessica focused on developing a robust comeback plan, implementing enhanced safety protocols and reimagining the client experience to ensure comfort and confidence upon reopening. During the off-seasons when business was slow, she embraced creativity by offering seasonal promotions and wellness packages, encouraging clients to invest in self-care even during quieter months. Additionally, as a first-time business owner, Jessica faced the steep learning curve of managing a spa, from understanding financials to refining operational efficiencies. Each challenge became an opportunity for growth, allowing her to build resilience and foster a stronger connection with her clients and staff alike.
Building the brand of Forever Young Spa, Jessica shares has been profoundly guided by her faith in God. “I wholeheartedly believe that every step I take is a part of a greater plan, and this conviction inspires me to strive for excellence in all that I do. My family has been an unwavering source of support, providing love and encouragement during both the triumphs and challenges of entrepreneurship. My partner stands by my side, offering insights and motivation that push me to reach new heights. My partner has been an invaluable source of strength, consistently pushing me to challenge myself and explore new opportunities within the spa industry. Their insightful perspective and practical support have helped me navigate difficult decisions, allowing me to remain grounded and focused on my goals while nurturing our shared vision for a successful future. My best friend has been an incredible pillar of support throughout this journey, always ready to lend an ear or offer sage advice when I need it most. Their unwavering belief in my vision and relentless encouragement have not only motivated me to stay focused but have also reminded me of the importance of friendship and connection in achieving my dreams. Additionally, the friendships I’ve cultivated have created a network of inspiration and strength, reminding me that I am never alone in this journey. All together, these relationships fuel my determination and remind me of the importance of community. With their support and the guidance of my faith, I am empowered to overcome obstacles and pursue my dreams with passion and purpose, ensuring that Forever Young Spa is not just a business, but a reflection of my values and the love I have for those around me.”
When asked what she loves most about what she does, Jessica says it’s the profound impact she has on her clients’ well-being, both inside and out. She says, “There’s something incredibly rewarding about witnessing the transformation that takes place when a client steps through our doors. It’s not just about enhancing their physical appearance; it’s about nurturing their self-esteem and helping them reconnect with their inner beauty. Each facial, massage, and treatment is an opportunity to create a space where clients can unwind, feel valued, and embrace their uniqueness. I cherish the moments when they leave our spa with a renewed sense of confidence and radiance, knowing that I’ve played a part in their journey to self-love. Helping clients discover their own beauty, both in the mirror and in their hearts, is what fuels my passion for this industry and inspires me to strive for excellence every day.”
For those looking to follow in her footsteps, Jessica advises, “Stay true to your passion and always prioritize your clients’ needs. Build a team that shares your vision and values, and don’t be afraid to adapt and grow.” She believes that genuine care and commitment to quality will set any business apart.”
Looking to the future, Jessica envisions expanding Forever Young Spa’s offerings and continuing to elevate the client experience. With plans for innovative treatments and wellness programs, she remains committed to making Forever Young Spa the ultimate destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. “At Forever Young Spa, we offer more than just services; we provide an escape from the everyday hustle. Immerse yourself in relaxation and experience true delight. When it comes to the best spa services in the Upstate, Forever Young Spa is the place to be,” Jessica concludes.
60 min/$70 80min/$90
For me, real estate has never been about numbers or contracts; it’s about people. I chose this path because I know what it means to long for a safe place to call home. A place where you can exhale after a long day, where laughter fills the rooms, and where memories are made. That’s what drives me every time I help someone buy, sell, or invest.”
Kedrian J. Blackmon
Realtor® | Lifestyle International Realty
Phone: 919-737-4409
Email: kblackmon@lifestyleir.com
www.kedrianblackmon.lirnorthcarolina.com
www.newjc.org www.monumentofpraise.org
