Huami Magazine Triad Sept./Oct. 2022 by Terry Watson

Sept./Oct. 2022 Vol. 8 Issue 9 TRIAD ® “Shifting” Pastor

Celebrating30 Years ofMinistry

Pastor Michael Thomas

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Monica Montgomery Writer

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With every ordeal or trying circumstance, there will always be more than one way to handle them. We can face them head-on, or we can turn away and avoid any form of an altercation. No matter what decision is made concerning the matter, the impact or effect of what we chose will most likely be waiting on the other side of our decision. That’s why I believe it’s vital to share our thoughts with God beforehand and confirm His viewpoint because God’s plan is greater than anything I can decide for myself.

I recently celebrated my birthday, and to be honest; I celebrated for the entire month. That was my choice because I love birthdays. I also used that time to reflect on where I am in life and where I’ve come from. I wanted to know what I am currently doing to get to where I ultimately want to be. What was revealed is my interests and efforts were possibly pointed in the wrong direction. I learned that while I am blessed, God is more concerned about those individuals He can reach beyond me, and when I don’t allow God to use me, He isn’t able to reach them through me. Being vulnerable and a cooperative vessel are attributes of real greatness; that’s what God spoke to me.

God has a plan and purpose for all of us, and His plan is far greater than anything we can imagine or think. I get excited when I think about everything God has prepared for me. His is greater, and all I have to do is trust His process and believe what He tells me.

A Letter From The Editor

Terry L. Watson

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Like most people, the thrill of victory is generally the reason why I compete or fight. Also, if you are anything like me, I understand that you may hate to lose, regardless of what is at stake. Yet, I am learning that I must do a better job choosing my battles because, for the most part, every battle is not mine to fight. God desires to fight for me, and He expects me to let go and allow Him to do His thing. I’ve learned that the car drives better when He controls the wheel.

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Living my life as a Christian and believer in God means that I must trust God. Even during the most difficult moments, if I just show up for the fight and trust God while I am fighting, I will then see Him move on my behalf. The things that I may be dealing with and determined to be unbearable may actually amount to nothing once it’s placed in God’s hand. How will I ever know if I don’t allow God to lead me?

God’s Plan Is Greater Than Me

Plan

SEPT./OCT. 2022TRIAD EDITIONCONTENTS Phoenix, Greensboro,Sanford,Charlotte,AZNCNCNCGreenville,SC Also Featured 20 473446224036 35 4226 30 8 Skin Care Products For Everyone Richard Steadwell T&M Barber College Michael Cheek Journey Adult Care Services Fanta JuliusTolbertDorley&AssociatesTolbertTheMoneyFriendKaraWhite It’s Better Buttah Meet the owner of Better Buttah Products and learn how her journey began. Iris Greensboro,ManganoNC Cutest Baby Photo She is a real cutey. Introducing Laney Williamson CutestHuamiGreensboro,ofNC.Magazine’sBaby

Pastor Michael Thomas Love and Faith Christian Fellowship

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The Cover

Honors Christina Sapusek & Keesha Sinclair

Christina Sapusek has worked in public education for the past 23 years serving multiple roles, including teaching Spanish, Business Education, and Information Technology. Currently she serves as CTE College and Career Manager for Guilford County Schools at Western Guilford High School. Christina holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education for Indiana University and a Masters of Arts in Contemporary Leadership Degree from Manchester University.

Christina was born and raised in Indiana and moved to North Carolina seven years ago with her husband, Mark, and their two children, Weston and Suzanna. In addition to her teaching career, she established a woman-owned business, Visionary Web Design, and maintained 15 employees. She served in the Wabash Area Chamber of Commerce as Chair of Leadership Development committee and did community outreach through a program called “Making Academics Count”. In her current role at Western Guilford High School, she works with students to ensure their success once they leave high school. Working with Guilford Apprenticeship Partners has provided students with life-changing career opportunities. Each student has a unique path, and her motivation is to see each student shine in their own path. In her personal life, Christina enjoys swimming, reading, and spending time with her family.

When Keesha learned of the program and what it could do, she was sold. Keesha is passionate about serving in any capacity. Her journey started in education nearly 20 years ago. Since then, she has been serving, mentoring, developing, leading, and educating students and staff. She believes that serving and educating students is the foundation for developing and contributing to respectful citizens in our society.

Keesha excelled in her recruitment; even after being injured and placed on medical leave for weeks, she persevered to keep moving forward for her students. This is a testament to her determination, drive, and passion for her school and students.

As the recipient of The Guilford Apprenticeship Partners Educator Advocate Award, Keesha’s plight continues. In her efforts to recruit students for this program, she has been able to influence students’ lives in a different way. This program has afforded many students guaranteed employment after high school, free books and tuition, and health benefits. The program has also allowed the students to be debt free after school. She shares the program has changed the trajectory of their lives forever.

Keesha Sinclair is a native of Fayetteville, NC. She obtained a Business Administration degree with a minor in Marketing from Fayetteville State University. In 2013, she received her Masters’ degree in Executive Leadership from Gardner Webb University.

Photos and Information Provided by Christina Sapusek and Keesha Sinclair

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“Shifting” Pastor Love and Faith Christian Fellowship

In the thirty-plus years that Love & Faith Christian Fellowship has been in operation, they have grown from a three-member fellowship to having over three-thousand members across two campuses. “We are one church in two locations. Our main campus is at 4344 Blackberry Road, Greensboro, North Carolina. Then there’s the other campus located at 521 Cinema Drive in Kernersville, North Carolina.”

Pastor Thomas says what he believes sets Love & Faith Christian Fellowship apart is that everything they do as a church body and as individuals is based on nine spiritual principles. These nine princiciples are what their church community is founded upon.

“I started Love & Faith Christian Fellowship on January 6th, 1991. It was the first Sunday of the new year. We started with three members: myself, my wife, and my daughter. Thirtytwo years later, God has just blessed our socks off.”

The life of a servant isn’t for everyone. Just ask Jesus. It takes a special kind of person and next-level faith to accept the commission of God to Shepherd, a church. Pastor Michael Thomas has been the senior pastor of Love & Faith Christian Fellowship for almost thirty-two years, and although his title is changing, he’s not slowing down. He’s just shifting gears.

“I’ve taught our church nine spiritual principles that I believe have revolutionized our church. These principles are not new to the body of Christ, but we teach them as foundational tools to strengthen families, directly affecting the community at large.”

The pandemic tested everyone. Many people were forced to put their faith into action during those lean times. Pastor Thomas says LFCF was no exception. But it was during our darkest hour that God’s faithfulness and truth shine brightest.

“We received many emails and phone calls with testimonies of how the nine spiritual principles helped them navigate through and survive during the worst parts of the Covid-19 pandemic. As I said, these principles are not new, but when applied to our daily walk, I have found that we can connect successfully with God and His promises for our lives and those aroundTheseus.”principles

have helped make Love & Faith Christian Fellowship a pillar in the Greensboro community. “Even before Covid, we fed our members every Wednesday so they could come to bible study without worrying about dinner. A professional chef would come in every week and prepare those meals. When Covid hit, we shifted from feeding the members to opening it up to the community. So now we feed anywhere from fourteen to fifteen hundred families every Wednesday. We prepare the food and put them on to-go plates. The people drive by and pick them up.”

“I started Love & Faith Christian Fellowship on January 6th, 1991. It was the first Sunday of the new year. We started with three members: myself, my wife, and my daughter. Thirty-two years later, God has just blessed our socks off,” Pastor Thomas explained humbly.

By Monica Montgomery Photos Provided by Still Shots Photography

“I don’t have a middle name, but I tell people my middle name is Abraham. The reason is that everywhere God has called me, I had to walk by faith. Just like with Abraham, God didn’t explain everything to me. But when God said go, I went, not quite sure of where I was going.”

“God has blessed LFCF beyond measure over the years. I’m not kidding when I say someone gives their life to Christ at our church every Sunday. We are debt free at both campuses as of 2020. We weren’t supposed to pay off the Kernersville location until 2027, but God moved, and we were able to pay it off during the pandemic!” Thomas explained with excitement. “And we did it all without begging for money. At no point have we ever had to have special offerings to meet any ministry need.

At LFCF, we are firm believers in tithing and giving. God has been so faithful to us that I wanted to help other pastors and churches.”Onemajor

issue that Pastor Thomas found was that misinformation concerning biblical doctrine and absolutes was the cause of many struggling churches. “I started by pastoring local pastors, then other pastors around the country. I felt a burden to help them achieve the ministry success possible when you teach the people God has entrusted you with to trust Him at his word. Good Shepherds is a non-denominational alliance of pastors coming together to strengthen local churches in the faith and build the Kingdom of God. We forego denominational restrictions and operate in concert with the local church’s autonomy. However, we believe that doctrinal agreement is key to organizational harmony and unity of the faith.” But God’s plans were much bigger than Thomas’s.

“We have members of our church from Ghana who sent copies of the message to their family and friends. We were already a Missions church, but due to the exposure, I was invited to come to Ghana. We’ve been in Ghana for ten years now. From that, we now have twenty nations that are part of Good Shepherd Fellowship International and thirteen more who have requested to join.”

Before founding LFCF, Pastor Thomas lived comfortably in San Antonio, TX, with his wife and daughter. When the Holy Spirit spoke to him about leaving Texas and moving to North Carlina, Thomas had to take a breath. “I was born and raised in North Carolina, but the thought of leaving a great job to come to North Carolina and build a church from scratch was scary. My walk with God has been scary. I tell people that walking by faith is like riding a rollercoaster. It’s exciting and scary at the same time.”After thirty-two years of building and preparing, God is shifting Pastor Thomas again.

Pastor Thomas has had the opportunity to travel and see God move in every corner of the globe.

Pastor Michael Thomas pictured with his grandson, August

“I’ll be honest; shifting has not been comfortable for me. After years of being here, the grace for pastoring a local congregation began to lift. God had been dealing with me for two years about starting Good Shepherd Fellowship International. Then one night in prayer, the Holy Spirit said, “Mike, the grace is about to lift for that. If you don’t move, I will give your assignment to somebody else. That’s when I surrendered.”

Originally Pastor Thomas was going to take on the title Pastor Emeritus, but God gave him clarity about whom he was

Pastor Michael Thomas Love and Faith Christian Fellowship 4344 Blackberry Road Greensboro, NC Kernersville,521336-632-020527406CinemaDriveNC27284336-993-8063 www.loveandfaith.org h

becoming.“Mostof

Many were disheartened to hear that Pastor Thomas was stepping down. As a beloved figure, he would be missed. Some assumed it was retirement, but Pastor Thomas wants to set the record straight. “I’m not retiring. I’m shifting. Shifting means moving from one assignment to another. I’ll be honest shifting has not been comfortable for me. After years of being here, the grace for pastoring a local congregation began to lift. I don’t ever want to be outside God’s will.”

“I went to China, and I walked into the underground church, and I could not believe what I saw. It shamed me. It was like walking in the book of Acts. We call it the Act of the Apostles, but it’s the Acts of the Holy Spirit. I had an amazing experience with God there. We’re doing all this stuff. We’re running and shouting and turning flips, but some of us don’t have the power of God. We have a form of godliness, but there, I saw the actual Power of God in action. I saw people willing to literally die for what they believed. China is a communist country with tight restrictions on what information they access. Still, without social media, television, radio, and podcasts, the largest move of God right now is taking place in China.” From His experience in China, Pastor Thomas wrote The 10 Essential Ingredients for ChristianSeeingLiving.thethirst

for God in countries like Ghana and China, Pastor Thomas understood that God was calling him higher. It was time for him to shift.

As for Pastor Thomas, he will have a new title. “My new position is head of Missions and Chairman of the Executive board. So, I’m still a Pastor. I’m just pastoring pastors now. In two weeks, I leave for India, then Malaysia and Dubai. I will still be at LFCF, but just not as visible.”

my friends who have stepped down as senior pastors have taken the title “Pastor Emeritus.” I was going to take on that definition, but the Holy Spirit told me I needed to look up the definition of emeritus. It was a fancy word for retiring. The Holy Spirit told me that I wasn’t retiring. He said, ‘I am taking you to a higher place of usefulness. Because of your faithfulness over your last assignment, I am going to use you in a greater manner.’ I’ve never been this way, so it’s scary and exciting simultaneously,” he says.

Although Pastor Thomas was a little afraid of the unknown, he has no worries about the future of Love & Faith Christian Fellowship. “I’ve been grooming a young man who has been at our church for thirty years. Pastor John Goins will be stepping up as the senior pastor, and I have every faith in him and his ability to lead LFCF to our next level.”

For those living within the Greensboro, NC community, the annual North Carolina A&T State University Homecoming can easily become a tradition. It is regarded as the Greatest Homecoming On Earth, or GHOE, and draws thousands to the Triad area, many of who are seeking to reconnect, engage, celebrate, and cheer for the Aggies . For La-Donia Alford-Jeffries, an A&T alumnus has created a couple of books, The HBCU Homecoming and the HBCU ABCs, and hopes they will educate and inform current and future HBCU students on the significance and history of the HBCU experience.

As a graduate of North Carolina A&T State University and Fort Valley State University, La-Donia continues to advocate for HBCUs. After having children, La-Donia was inspired to share her family’s experience of attending HBCU Homecomings with families around the world. Additionally, she is a former Adjunct Professor at A&T, and currently serves as the Chief of Staff for the National Organization for Women and advocates for equality.

Meet The Author of The HBCU Homecoming

By Terry L. Watson

Photos Provided by La-Donia Alford-Jefferies

At a young age, she was taught the importance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities by her mother and father, and has attended HBCU Homecomings regularly since the age of three. Her mother worked for 40 years as a full-time professor at an HBCU, and her father is an alum of A&T. She recalls how she attended A&T football games with her father and continues to sit in his lifetime stadium seats.

La-Donia says she decided to write her books in 2015, but the first book was eventually published in 2019. The HBCU ABCs was self-published in 2022. “When I was pregnant with my first child, I began looking for a children’s book that would help me explain homecoming and the HBCU culture to my children. There were some HBCU children’s books, but none specifically talked about homecoming. So I decided to write one. With the success of the homecoming book, I wanted to continue the story and highlight HBCU culture for children. I then wrote and published the HBCU ABCs to tell the story of what happens after homecoming. I wanted to explain the different aspects of college for children and highlight why HBCU’s are far from inferior institutions,” she says.

La-Donia’s parents have played a huge role in her life as they have been a part of the Greensboro community for over 20 years. They have made an impact through education, community leadership, and service and have not only supported La-Donia and her brother on their HBCU journey’s, but they have helped others attend college and have always talked about the importance of attending an HBCU.

The response to her books has been wonderful. Essence magazine listed her book as one of the 50 “must read” Black Children’s and Young Adult books of the past 50 years. The production, Because of Them We Can, featured the HBCU Homecoming book, calling it “If “A Different World” had a children’s book, this would be it.”

In the future, La-Donia says she plans to continue to share her stories and encourage all children to be confident. She also plans to help children learn about the opportunities available through higher education. To learn more about La-Donia and her books, please visit her website. www.thehbcuhomecomingbook.com h

La-Donia says what she loves most about sharing her books is showing children what it’s like to attend an HBCU, even if they have never been on a college campus. “I’ve seen children light up when I’ve read both books. They become full of questions that lead to a discussion of higher education,” she shares.

In memory of Pastor Charlie Adams, III

The Drummer Would Start His Soft Roll And Sweet Music Would Fill Every Soul, Then We Would Open Our Mouths and Sing, Giving All Praise to Our Savior and King.

It Seemed That on Every Sunday Morn When Charlie Would Softly Play His Horn, That It Was More Than Just Playing with Love For We Were Hearing from Angels Above.

Charlie’s Horn

By John Johnson

PhotographyShotsStillbyProvidedPhotos

Stay strong in your faith From it never depart. Let the truth, God’s word Live in your heart.

John Johnson of Greensboro, NC, is retired from the U.S. Army and the U.S.Postal Service. He was born and raised in Baltimore, MD. His father passed away when he was only four years old. His mother passed away 12 years later. Though he only had his mother for 16 years, she made a lasting impression on him. He remembers her singing songs and reciting poetry around the house and believes that is where his love for singing and writing began.

There is so much going on In the world, today, We are running and worrying, And forgetting to pray.

We can’t be caught up In what we hear, When the truth of God Is always so near.

By John Johnson

Stay Strong in Your Faith

But God has not changed From his original plan When he sent his son, Jesus To save sinful man.

John has been married to Vera for 60 years. Their union produced two daughters, Yvonne, who passed away in 2013, and Yulonda. John continues to write and sing and credits God for inspiring every word and melody.

Richard’s mother gave him two options, the military or trade school. Due to health issues, the military wasn’t a good fit, so Richard went to the Earl C. Clemmons Job Corps center in Morganfield, Ky. “My mother drove me to the center because she was serious about me not sitting up in her house without a job or trade of any kind. She said if I was going to be grown, I had to make a way for myself,” he says.

“Of all the questions I expected to be asked, that was the one I wasn’t prepared for,” Richard explained, smiling and nervous while rubbing his cold, clammy hands. It was clear that Richard was nervous, but he slipped easily into his element as he explained his plight.

While in Job Corp, Richard took several certification classes, including a business course. The one thing he stayed away from was getting his G.E.D. “If I had been wise and not so worried about failing, I would have just gotten my G.E.D. while in Job Corps. Things would have been a lot easier for me, and I would be farther than I am today. But, what can I say? I was young and didn’t want to listen to anybody,” Richard explains with a laugh.

Richard Steadwell Kingzi Royal Skincare Collection

“I had been going to this same guy for over ten years, and I considered him a friend, but what he told me blew me away. He told me it was too old and it would be too hard for me to build up clientele at this point. I couldn’t believe my ears,” Richard said; still a little put off by the experience.

Richard was born in North Carolina but was raised in California. In the tenth grade, he decided school wasn’t for him. He shares, “I was struggling and getting into trouble a lot. I had convinced myself that they were teaching me the things I wanted to know. Deep down, part of my reasoning was I felt like I was an embarrassment to my mother, and I didn’t want to keep putting her through that, so I quit.” Richard explained. “My mother wasn’t happy about it, but my mind was made up.”

The first question asked of Richard was, “Who is Richard Steadwell?” The look on his face was priceless.

By Monica Montgomery Photos Provided by Todd Youngblood

“I was like, wow. I was not expecting that at all. When I left the shop, I kept thinking about him telling me it was too late for me. The more I thought about it, the more I was determined to prove him wrong.”

Although Richard has always possessed the creative spirit of an entrepreneur, there were limitations he says he had to overcome before he could realize his dream. “I’ve always been good with my hands. I love being creative and using my imagination. I always knew that using those natural talents would make me happy.” Richard called himself a kitchen barber because he’s been cutting hair since he was a teenager, but he never thought of it as a career.

After years of going from one unfulfilling job to another, Richard decided he wanted something more. One day, not long after his fortieth birthday, Richard was sitting in his barber’s chair and shared his idea of going to barber college. The response he received was surprising.

In his lifetime, Richard has done just about every laborious job there is. He was a self-proclaimed jack of all trades and master of none. “Wow… I can’t even begin to name all the different jobs I’ve had in my life. I’ve done everything from working fast food to construction. And

at no time did I ever feel like I was doing the job I was meant for. I wouldn’t say I like working for other people. Plus, because I didn’t have a high school diploma or G.E.D. I couldn’t go any higher than entry-level work. It was frustrating,” Richard states.

Richard Steadwell is living his dream of being a self-employed entrepreneur. He owns and operates Kingzi Barbers Lounge in Concord, N.C., and the Kingzi Men’s Skincare Collection.

Immediately Richard looked into starting barber college at Park West Barber College in Greensboro, N.C. As he read the requirements, the first thing that stopped him in his tracks was the requirement of a high school diploma or equivalent.

After receiving his G.E.D, Richard started at Park West Barber College in Greensboro, N.C. From there, he became an apprentice barber, but he knew that he had to relocate to grow.

Richard enrolled in YouTube university and learned all he could about creating beard balms and lotions specifically for men. Once he had the know-how, Richard started making small batched in his home and trying them on his clients.

“My clients were willing and honest test subjects. I gave away free samples, and they would let me know what worked and what didn’t. Before I knew it, word got out, and it’s gained momentum from there.” Putting what he learned about sales and marketing in Job Corps, Richard is preparing to put the Kingzi Men’s Skincare Collection on the shelves of major shopping centers all over the country. But for now, the skincare line can be purchased locally at Kingzi Barber’s Lounge.

Richard intends to continue growing his business, including lotions, skin conditioning oils for women, and a Kingzi clothing line. He concludes by saying, “If I could say one thing to my younger self, it would be this: Don’t let fear and other people’s opinions of you hold you back. You can achieve anything you set your mind to if you are willing to fail at it first. When you fall, you got know where to go but up!” h

Richard enrolled at Gilford Technical Community College, Jamestown, N.C., and started working towards his G.E.D. He transferred and finished the program at Alamance Community College in Graham, NC. School was never easy for Richard, but his desire to achieve his goals was stronger than his fear of failure. “It was hard, working and going to school at the same time, but I finally knew what I was working towards. It was all going to be worth it in the end.”

On the fourth try, Richard passed and received his G.E.D. “I can’t tell you how much that meant to me. My family came and celebrated with me, and I made my mother proud. I made myself proud. I proved that I could do anything if I didn’t give up,” he said.

“After job corp I moved back to Greensboro, and later moved to Durham, NC. to finish barber school. But after barber college, I wanted to go to an area where I could start fresh and have room to grow. Barbering in Durham and Greensboro was a crowded market. I thought about Jacksonville, Florida, or Georgia but settled on Charlotte, NC.”

As Richard worked as an apprentice barber, he was free to explore his creativity. Barbering isn’t just about cutting hair. Men trust their barbers and seek their advice about looking and feeling their best. Richard noticed a small selection of beard and skin grooming products for men. The scents were basic and didn’t represent all men, especially black men. Hence Kingzi Men’s Skincare Collection was born. He says, “I didn’t like that most beard balms smelled like the great outdoors,” Richard said with a laugh. “Never have you heard a woman say she loves the smell of citrus on her man. So, I started experimenting with fragrances that I liked and ones that didn’t make my customers smell like car air fresheners.”

“There I was again. Every time I tried to move forward, I found myself coming back to the same roadblock. All these years later, my decision to drop out of high school was still haunting me. I sat there thinking about what I wanted and the time I had wasted. I have to admit I was terrified of going back to school, but I decided I couldn’t spend one more day letting fear hold me back.”

After completing the program, Richard had to take the G.E.D. Test. Most people struggle with standardized testing. Richard’s past traditional education experiences and test anxiety didn’t make things easy. He says, “I will be honest and say I didn’t do well initially on the G.E.D. Test. I failed it three times!” he said, shaking his head. “I couldn’t believe it! I had worked so hard. Before I knew it, I felt like I was back in high school. I didn’t think I was smart enough to pass the test. I was struggling and embarrassed. Then I remembered that I wasn’t in high school anymore, and my dreams were just on the other side of that test. I couldn’t let it stop me again.”

Richard was an apprentice barber at Bennett’s Barber Shop in Charlotte for four years. “You usually do one year as an apprentice before you can take your master barber’s licensure test, but I did four years because I felt I had so much to learn.”

This was his reply when asked what the future looked like for Richard. “The future is bright. Brighter than I thought possible at this point in my life. I was stuck for forty years because I didn’t think I was smart enough to pass a high school equivalency test. But when I faced my fears and pushed past them, the world opened up to me. Things are happing so fast I am having trouble keeping up,” Richard said, smiling proudly. “But I guess that’s a good problem to have.”

Kimberlynext.Perkins

It’s that time of the year again. With the wedding season concluding, there is a shift happening in events taking place. With the changing of the colors of the leaves, and as the sun begins to rest a few hours earlier in the day, the opportunities for planned events and occasions are plentiful. And there is a company that is well prepared for the shift and capable of meeting the demands of what’s

of Greensboro, NC, has a creative eye for design. She is the owner of Kreative Designs By Kim, LLC an event décor and design company for all occasions. Their services include free event consultation, fresh and silk arrangements, premium draping, balloon garland, and event favors. They also offer Engagement Decor, Bridal Shower Decor, Wedding Reception and Ceremony Decor, Baby Shower Decor, Birthday Decor, Milestone Celebrations Décor, Balloon Garland & Arch Décor, and Premium Draping and Design Decor.

By Terry L. Watson

Photos Provided by Still Shots Photography

Kimberly PerkinsKreative Designs by Kim, LLC

looks bright and promising, Kimberly plans to offer larger-scale events, bolder floral designs, and efficient and inspiring events. She will also be showing and launching packages for small-scale events. To learn more about Kreative Designs by Kim, or to book a service, please visit their website or contact them directly.

Kim Perkins Kreative Designs By Kim, LLC www.kreativebykim.com336.587.8886 h

Kimberly creates a comprehensive outline with her wedding planning services that offer wedding coordination and event planning. She says this gives her time to completely orchestrate what her clients want to include in their event and an opportunity to illustrate how she will make it happen.

Assays.herfuture

Kimberly strives to match her customers’ desired creative look and feel with each event. Kreative Designs by Kim focuses on event design and event décor. They offer affordable packages while creating memorable experiences that are unique and tailored for each

Kimberlyclient.shares

Kimberly has over 16 years of experience in coordinating and event planning. “I am your ideal designer. I have spent endless moments committing my time to making your dreams a reality. Now, I work to bless others with a one-of-a-kind event. With each production, I apply inspiration, creativity, and imagination to ensure the events come out unique,” she says. Kimberly’s eye for detail and her ability to fully comprehend her clients’ needs and desires help keep her booked.

that her company began in 2005, simply by word of mouth. “My focus has always been assisting with weddings, birthday parties, customized gift baskets, and floral designs. I guess word got around, and soon my business took off,” she says.

Kimberly shares that she loves the opportunity to create cutting-edge events for all occasions. “I’m inspired by the opportunity to work closely with my clients to develop and construct the entire decor and make sure that everything is in its place using my ideal imagination. I desire to create a memorable atmosphere uniquely created for each client,” she

ProfessionalWilliamsonB.LicensedMassage

“I was intrigued in high school. I used to dance and because it’s so physical, I learned how to massage myself and even the other dancers and that’s how I got into it. So over the years, I set plans and goals and it has come to pass,” Jackie says.

By Terry L. Watson

A great massage can do the body good. Jackie B. Williamson, a Professional Licensed Massage and Bodywork Therapist, clearly understands its significance and has enjoyed a lasting career, even starting a private practice of her own. “My services are important as they benefit an individual’s mental and physical health. Addi tionally, research shows it improves stress, anxiety, and depression and helps with chronic pain, limited range of motion, blood pressure, and more,” she says.

Jackie is not one to cut any corners in her business. She is licensed, insured, certified, and skilled in many bodywork techniques. Her services include Deep Tissue, Swedish (relaxation) Massage, Trigger Point Therapy, Hot Stones, Sports Massage, Prenatal, Myofascial Release, Hydrotherapy/Reflexology, Cupping, Hands and Foot Scrubs, Lymphatic Drainage Massage, and ROM (Range of Motion).

Having worked in the banking industry for more than 28 years, it would seem logical that if Jackie ever wanted to expand her own brand into another area, she would branch out into the same field. But that’s just not her style. Logic isn’t the only thing that drives her actions. She is just as sensitive and led by her passions. Jackie’s true passion is helping others feel better, mainly through massage.

Photos Provided by Skip Alston Jr.

Jackie

Jackie Williamson Professional Licensed Massage and Bodywork Therapist 336-541-2453 h

Jackie is a dedicated, persistent self-worker whose line of work helps better clients’ physi cal and mental health. Married with a son and two grandchildren, she consistently stays on top of her work and mental health, as well as takes time out for those she loves, such as her family and friends. She graduated from North Carolina A&T State University with her Bachelor of Science in 2001, going on later to graduate with her Master of Health Adminis tration from the University of Phoenix in 2013. She gained her Certificate of Massage Therapy from Kneaded Energy a year later.

“Helping my clients get to a place of stress-free and body wellness is what I hope to reach every day when they step into my room. Being able to give an active desire to alleviate another’s suffering gives me the hope that others can reach a place of comfort and peace.”

forward, Jackie has plans to travel around the world, explore different countries, and see the diverse techniques and body works used. “These benefit not only me in experiencing the many cultures and meth ods used, but also my clients as the different techniques help open them in many ways they may have never experienced. We both not only learn new self-care methods but also get more in touch with other countries and their way of living,” she says.

Please contact her directly to learn more about Jackie Williamson’s services.

Jackie says what she loves most about what she does is seeing the improvement and betterment of her clients. This includes seeing them take control of their lives and find happiness within. “Helping my clients get to a place of stress-free and body wellness is what I hope to reach every day when they step into my room. Being able to give an active desire to alleviate another’s suffering gives me the hope that others can reach a place of comfort and peace.”Moving

34 HuamiMagazine.com Triad - Sept./Oct. 2022

Fanta says owning a business can be tough, but they love their new agency. She states that most facilities charge 400% more than they do, making it unaffordable to those needing it the most. She wants to provide a service that people who need it, will have access to. “We love to see the clients walk through the doors of our center, excited to get their day started. No matter the age or level of ability, everyone has wants, wishes, and desires to achieve. At the center, we provide an environment to achieve those daily goals. Seeing the client’s face and hearing a deep felt “thank you” from the family member makes things all worth it,” she shares.

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Fanta Dorley and the Journey Adult Day Center, Inc team are putting their personal touch on the adult care services industry. JADC is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides adult care services in a safe environment during the day. Their clients’ day consists of cognitive development activities, socialization, and personal development. They have partnered with community agencies to bring their expertise to its clients, with the intent to increase their value system and life skills.

“As caregivers and healthcare workers, we saw many things happening in the industry that we did not like due to the distressing care of clients. We vowed to not just talk about it but do something about it.”

community college to establish a fast-track certification program so that these individuals could get paid a living wage. Next, we saw that it was helpful for them to have some form of group interaction, so we established the day center. This is how we began, and as we move forward, we will continue to add services that will revolve around wholistic care for our clients and employees,” she says.

In 2017, Fanta met with her existing team to discuss what they’ve witnessed in the healthcare industry. “As caregivers and healthcare workers, we saw many things happening in the industry that we did not like due to the distressing care of clients. We vowed to not just talk about it but do something about it. Our response was to form a conglomerate of a continuum of care model. We started off doing in-home care and saw that many of the aides were in a tough economical state. Next, we developed a partnership with the local

JADC services are designed to address the increase in elder abuse that occurred during the COVID 19 pandemic shutdown. Fanta shares that many clients were required to move in with family caregivers, who were not equipped to care for them. This transition resulted in a 78% increase of cases of accidents, abuse and neglect. This is where Fanta and her team stepped in. “We provide a safe environment for those adults 18+ who cannot/should not be at home by themselves,” she says.

Moving forward, Fanta and the JADC plan to establish at least five more centers within the next three years. Every community has a proven need for their type of service, and they are preparing to meet these needs.

Information and Photos Provided by Journey Adult Day Center

Cutest Baby

Laney Williamson

The daughter of Elise Blackmon and Dante Williamson

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

MAGAZINE

By Monica Montgomery Photos Provided by Julius Tolbert

Growing up, Julius says his grandparents were his biggest influence. “Being the oldest grandchild, although we all were exposed to that enterprising spirit to some degree, I would say I had a little more first-hand experience.” When Julius was fourteen, he moved in with his grandparents, whom he credits as the center of their family’s business prowess.

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For Julius Tolbert, entrepreneurship is in his DNA. As the oldest of four, he grew up in a family of business-minded people. “I come from a family of entrepreneurs. My granddaddy was in the logistics industry. He owned his own trucking company. My mother was an interior designer, my uncle had his own trucking business, and my grandmother was the family bookkeeper. So, I understood from an early age what entrepreneurship meant. Everything wasn’t always peaches and cream. I was exposed to the good, the bad, and the ugly when it came to growing businesses as a minority in the south,” Julius explains. “The most important lesson I learned was that falling is part of succeeding. Just as long as you fall forward.”

Watching my grandmother made me realize there was more to being a business owner than selling a product or providing a service. I think that’s why I focus on the behind the scenes work. The business behind the business.

putting the lessons he learned as a child to good use. He has two consulting companies: Tolbert Consulting Group and Cornbread Consulting Firm and co-founder of Black Economic Mobility Coalition. “Tolbert Consulting Group is a nationally recognized business credit and funding company. We help entrepreneurs that are serious about getting their business started the right way the first time. We help with everything from business coaching, business funding, payroll, and bookkeeping. Our goal is to give business owners the support they need to succeed. Cornbread Consulting Firm work specifically with small business owners that are in the hospitality industry. We assist restaurant, food truck, catering company owners get in business, turnaround existing business, and/ or franchise concepts. Then there is the Black Economic Mobility Coalition which is very similar to a chamber of commerce. Our mission is to identify, address and remove barriers to economic prosperity for black business owners. All three companies were birthed from the experiences and challenges he faced along the way.

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“Falling Forward”

The expectation was that Julius would grow up and work in the family business, but he had plans of his own. “Watching my grandmother made me realize there was more to being a business owner than selling a product or providing a service. I think that’s why I focus on the behind the scenes work. The business behind the business.”Juliusis

The unfortunate side of life in black communities is that it may be hard to do anything but worry about surviving. Julius decided he couldn’t live with the status quo. When he returned home, he was full of dreams and plans for the kind of world he wanted to live in and contribute to, but his ideas weren’t met with the excitement and support he was hoping for. He says, “After having the opportunity to experience other cultures and communities, my creative juices were overflowing. I wanted to push the boundaries and show my community that we don’t have to travel the world to experience it. However, I was met with a lot of resistance and close-mindedness. I kept hearing, “Aye, bro, ain’t nobody gonna come to that around here…” Thankfully, Julius wasn’t easily dissuaded.

Julius has always known who and what he wanted to be in life. He just had to carve his own path. Not one to take the traditional route, Julius decided the military was the best path forward. “After high school, I joined the Navy. During my time, I went through two six-month deployments. I gained knowledge and exposure I couldn’t have gotten anywhere else during my travels. I saw myself and Black America from a different perspective. I have to say it definitely affected me,” he shares.

Tolbert Consulting Group

His journey has had its significant highs and lows, but now he wants to help others fall forward.

“My grandparents ran a fully functioning business. My grandfather was also a driver, so he was away often. I spent most of the time with my grandmother, who ran the day-to-day operations that make or break a business,” he says.

As someone who already had plans, he says his time abroad helped shape and define his vision for the future. “When you live in the same place around the same people all the time, it’s hard to imagine a different kind of life. My time away allowed me to open my mind to the possibilities of what could be.”

“I struggled with self-doubt and depression when the restaurant closed. That experience taught me a critical lesson. Success isn’t how great the business is doing right now. Real success is how well the business will be doing ten and twenty years down the road.”

“My first leap into the deep end of entrepreneurship was when a partner and I opened Cornbread to Caviar Catering, which later became a fully operational restaurant,” he says.

Like most chain restaurants, the employees seldom met or had a relationship with the owners. Julius and the chef of the restaurant he was overseeing decided they were done training people to become their boss or compete for their jobs, so they struck out on their own and opened Cornbread to Caviar. He shares, “Our concept was a southern-inspired menu presented with a touch of elegance and creativity. So that’s what we did, or at least where we started. We kicked off our catering company with networking events like First Fridays.” These events weren’t just for the locals. Julius and his partner had a targeted audience. “We were intentional with our invitations. We invited corporate department heads, University chairs, and others we knew had influence with their companies. As a result, we were awarded their catering contracts.”

Along with his time in the military, another important factor that pushed him to think about the longevity of a business was the loss of his grandfather. “My grandfather stepped in during a crucial time in my life. He took on the role of father and mentor. He taught me about business etiquette and how to dress and be addressed. He taught me how to conduct myself in professional settings, and even how to talk and handle business in meetings,” Tolbert explains. “He taught me to make sure I do everything in excellence. People will remember you if you take pride in everything you do.”

To say he landed on his feet is an understatement. One of the reasons Julius started his restaurant consulting business that caters to small companies is because, after twenty years in the hospitality industry, he learned what the mom and pops need to know. “I have essentially taken all my years of experience with corporate restaurant chains and made it available to the little man. I share all the processes and tools the big boys use to maintain continued growth with my clients. I never want anyone to find themselves in the position I did.”

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From there, Cornbread to Caviar grew into a full-service restaurant, and Julius did well for a while. The restaurant earned Best New Restaurant 2009 and at a tender age of twenty-five, he was part owner and operator of a restaurant making over seven figures per year. Then the effects of the recession hit. We went from doing $1.5 million a year in sales to $750,000, but I was operating as if we were still making $1.5 million. At this point, I realized there were areas of running a business that I didn’t know. I was running way above cost and bleeding money.”

In 2008, Julius lost his grandfather and mentor. So, it was a fatality of the economic recession without any guidance on how to make the adjustments needed to keep the restaurant above water.

It doesn’t matter what your business is; knowledge is power. Julius and his associates are here to make sure you have the power to live your entrepreneurial dreams successfully. He can’t guarantee you won’t fall, but he will help you use the momentum to fall forward.

Using his grandfather’s wisdom, Julius went from an entry level position in restaurant all the way to the corporate offices. “It was never my intention to build a career. I wanted to build knowledge. I took advantage of every opportunity to learn a new skill. I worked at several restaurants as I continued to climb the ladder. That’s how I worked my way out of the kitchen to become a corporate manager overseeing a region of restaurants.” Julius was being paid to learn how to flip, manage, and maintain a restaurant successfully. He was learning restaurant hospitality from the inside out.

On top of being able to help others, Kara also loves that she doesn’t have to conform to anything. Whether it’s her money world or dance world, she’s able to be personable while working at the same time. She also loves being able to work with a team of great people.

As life moves forward for Kara, she expects to be involved in more endeavors and hopes to launch an event planning business. She also plans to expand her brand, Kara’s Wealth Consultant, and continue spreading financial advice in her community. Additionally, plans to continue to promote and grow Live Love Dance Incorporated. Their signature gala fundraiser is coming up in October, with proceeds going towards dance scholarships.

While Phoenix, AZ, is widely known for its often sweltering climate, someone else is blazing their own path in the black business community and helping others succeed along the way. Her name is Kara White.

Kara shares she has always had a passion for dance. “When I was 11 years old, my first job was as a dance assistant. I quickly rose in rank from an assistant to teaching my own class. I’m disciplined in all seven dance forms, with contemporary dance being my favorite. I favor this style more because it incorporates the basics such as ballet and the freeing movement fundamentals of jazz and modern dance,” she says.

Kara’s genuine love to see others succeed is an attribute that comes into play in her personal and professional life. “I am committed to helping others, and my business endeavors must positively impact my community. The different experiences I’ve gained have allowed me to not only help others, but I’ve benefited from those that I serve, pouring back into me,” she says.

By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Kara White

Real Estate, Finance, and Dance....... I Do A Lot

For anyone looking to follow in Kara’s footsteps, her number one piece of advice is this; no one is going to be better at being you than you. She says, “Don’t try to be me, be better than me, be better at being you than me.”

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The young and ambitious entrepreneur wears many hats, including that of a real estate agent, financial planner, dance instructor, and director of a nonprofit organization.

While she has demonstrated an astute business understanding, Kara’s talents expand beyond the entrepreneurial sector. She is the former Miss Arizona International. Her platform and influence were carried over into her nonprofit organization, Live Love Dance Inc. Its focus is to empower youth and lead them to live healthy, strong, and fulfilled lives via the performing arts. It also provides workshops, empowerment sessions, galas, fundraising, private lessons, and community service events.

Due to the ever-changing real estate market, Kara had to reinvent herself. That’s how one of her products, Kara’s Wealth Consultant, was developed, which spawned another product, Get the Money Friend. In this brand, “F.R.I.E.N.D.” is an acronym for “Financial Consultation, Real Estate, Investments, Planning, Notary Public Services, and Debt Elimination. She also offers credit consultation with services that include Credit Report Review, a Credit Repair DIY Kit Guide, and Income Protection and Budget Review.

Kara was born and raised in Chicago, IL. In 2002, she decided to make the cross-country trek to the Desert Valley in search of a new start. That same year, she received her real estate license and followed that by becoming a licensed broker in 2009. She shares how her journey began, an experience wrapped in surprise and purpose. “While on a trip with my mother, I talked with an owner of a real estate agency. They offered me a job and even offered to cover the cost of my real estate license. However, as soon as I received the license, I left the resort gracefully and began building my clientele,” she says.

The life of an entrepreneur can present unique challenges, and Kara has also experienced her share. She says that times can get complicated, but during those moments, she has to search deep within and find a way to stay positive and keep moving. “Despite my challenges, I am committed to living in the moment. I try to live and be present because time is whatever you think it is and whatever you create. I often tell others not to dwell on the past or focus too much on the future because they don’t know what will or might happen. We must live in the moment,” she says.

Please visit her website to learn more about Kara White and her great endeavors.

One of Coach Trudi’s brands, Fortify | The Business Launch Firm, was birthed out of the need to help her clients secure a life of abundance via the avenues of business, relationships, spirituality, and politics. “Securing your life from the inside out where external factors don’t determine the kind of life you want to live, I help others understand that you control that,” she says.

She is Coach Trudi B. Parson. Marketplace Minister, educator, generational debt eraser, generational wealth builder, business launch coach extraordinaire, CEO and Founder of Fortify | The Business Launch Firm, and International Empowerment Speaker. Trudi B. Parson seamlessly does it

has been a business owner for over 24 years and a full-time entrepreneur for eight years. She currently resides in Greensboro, NC, but is a native of the small town of Ramseur, NC. Coach Trudi attended Liberty University and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Religion and Criminal Justice and a Masters in Human Services with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy. Now back in school, her goal is to receive her doctorate in Business with a concentration in Organizational Leadership at North Central University.

Coachall.Trudi

“I Have One Goal...... To Get The Job Done”

Fortify | The Business Launch Firm is a comprehensive coaching firm offering everything a business owner needs. They provide business tax preparation and planning, and group business coaching, grant discovery and writing, alternative business funding, business conferences, retreats, masterclasses and mastercourses.

By DorJae’ McClammey Photos Provided by Luguzy Adkins of L.A. Photography

Each business that Coach Trudi has created has experienced sustainable success. While each company is unique, three of them partner under the umbrella of Fortify | The Business Launch Firm, a strategy she implemented to ensure clients had access to all the resources needed to make their business sustainable.

Trudi B. Parson

Like many other new businesses, Fortify | The Business Launch Firm officially launched during the Covid pandemic. Coach Trudi shares she became aware of how business owners were panicking due to the pandemic’s effect and impact. In her response, she developed solutions that taught business owners how to remain successful and helped several launch new businesses. “I taught them how to pivot into a continuation of the revenue they normally would make, yet in a different way,” she says.

More than anything, Coach Trudi loves seeing the success of other people and seeing them take control of their lives. “I love seeing other people create the life that they love,” she says. She also loves knowing that she is a part of helping them take accountability for creating their financial freedom and being ok with accepting the responsibility and courage to do so.

Fortify | The Business Launch Firm also offers five different master classes. One of them, #Buildit, is a 30-day program that helps develop an idea and connect its purpose to serve while creating a high level of monetization simultaneously. #LaunchU is Coach Trudi’s original threeday masterclass filled with foundational information that she believes businesses need when facing the challenges of a “brick wall”. #Fundit is all about the money and focuses on getting businesses adequate funding. This includes helping to find loans, obtain grants, gain government contracts, and more. Finally, the #LaunchU52 component is a year-long coaching subscription for established or aspiring entrepreneurs ready to start or expand their businesses. “When you enroll in #LaunchU 52, I will take you under my wing and teach, advise, and coach you based on what I’ve learned as an entrepreneur,” she

says.As

In the future, Coach Trudi says she expects to expand internationally as an empowerment speaker and business launch coach and corporate consultant. She shares that these expansions will take place in countries with a lack and need for such services. In addition, she plans to establish global business incubators. As for Fortify, Coach Trudi is looking to start more retreat-based master courses that will minimize time but maximize the monetization of services by engaging more with groups of people, small businesses, and corporate leaders. In 2023, she hopes to share her Fortify strategies for success with churches. Her last piece of advice is aimed at the savvy and determined business owner. “When opportunities fail to present themselves, you must be willing to create your own opportunities.”

To learn more about Trudi B. Parson, please visit her website.

www.trudibparson.com

previously stated, Coach Trudi believes everyone hits a brick wall, and she is no different. Before starting Fortify, Coach Trudi helped her mother run her tax business. When her mother passed, she took over the company full-time. This was a difficult moment in Coach Trudi’s life. She shares that while everything was going fine, she began to feel like she was settling. “The business had plenty of clients, but times were changing. Realizing that I had hit my wall by failing to pivot the company into a new age, I overcame that struggle by deciding to no longer be stuck and let the growth happen,” she says.

Coach Trudi’s shares that she finds inspiration in understanding her purpose in life. “The good, bad, and ugly all work together for my good. Knowing my purpose has kept me from falling into the distraction of disappointment. If you’re not careful, you can let your distraction be your main attraction, and your disappointment will distract you if you settle in it,” she shares. “When you walk in your life’s purpose, sometimes it will cost you everything, but it will be so worth it when you understand that your life is not your own, and what you experience is not for your purpose, it’s for God’s purpose.”

Before owning T&M Barber College, Michael worked in about eleven schools as a director or instructor, including the Harnett Correctional barber program. He also worked as an instructor at a high school. While there, his instructor from Sanford passed away. That transition would open a new door for Michael as he began running the program. He says that experience became his wake-up call to start his barber college.

As for the future of T&M Barber College, they are working on starting their FASFA process to help students receive financial aid. In the short term, he plans to build his staff and add a night class. Michael is also collaborating with the local public school system to put a barber program in one of its schools.

In addition to preparing its students to become tomorrow’s top barbers, T&M Barber college offers a complete education of barber school products. “Before graduating, our students are prepared to take and pass the school board exam. We also provide training on the theory and practical training portion of the exam required by the state,” he says. T&M services include but are not limited to, are haircuts, hot towel shaves, and facials. They service ladies, including eyebrow arches, tapers, cuts, trims, shampoos, and chemical services. They also offer various services to walk-in clients, a service that helps their students with the practical portion.

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Michael Cheek of T&M Barber College can help get the process started and completed for anyone looking to start their career as a barber.Michael

Michael likes to teach his students they will not experience real success without failure, and he continues to push them just like his mentors did for him. His testimony is never to say you can’t do something. “With God and faith, all things are made possible through him, and you have to believe in yourself and your skill set and achieve your goals,” he states.

Located in Sanford, NC, T&M Barber College officially opened its doors in February 2022. Michael’s wife Tonita, the T in T&M, has played an intricate part in the school’s success. With her background in accounting, she controls most of the administrative side of things. “Without her persistence, I would have continued to put everything on hold,” Michael says.

high school, Michael began “bootleg barbering,” meaning he was cutting hair without a license. One day another mentor, who founded the Sanford Barber College, wanted Michael to be one of his first students. He told Michael he would call the state board on him if he didn’t. Michael knew it was a joke, but it pushed him to enroll. Over time his skills continued to improve to that of a master barber level, which confirms that he can do any style on all hair types. His favorite is a fade which he has mastered so well that he can complete it in under five minutes.

Michael Cheek Opens T&M Barber College

His final message is quite direct and straightforward. “I encourage everyone who is not pursuing their dreams to pursue them. If your dream is to become a barber, then check out T&M Barber College.”

AfterCarolina.graduating

T&M currently has 14 students enrolled, with three graduating last month. Since Michael is the only instructor at the college, he is allowed 20 students at a time. Theyalso have open enrollment meaning aspiring students can enroll at any time. Their enrollment process includes an interview with Micahel and his wife with a breakdown of everything, including tuition costs and payment arrangements. Most of his students reside within North Carolina and travel from Wilmington, Raleigh, and Greensboro. He also just enrolled a student from New York.

is from Chatham County, which governs the small town of Goldston, North Carolina. There, he’s been cutting hair since he was only 13 years old. He shares that there was only one barber shop, and the owner took it upon himself to train and teach him everything he needed to know. “Otis Headen pushed me to be more than just a barber. He would tell me not to stop at being only a barber. He wanted me to go all the way and pursue the profession in more depth, such as an instructor, owning a barbershop, and ultimately a barber school,” Michael says. Otis’ encouragement pushed Michael to become one of the most successful barbers in North

Michael stated his students are his biggest motivating factor. “Seeing their growth firsthand and knowing I had a part in that means a lot to me. Having a student eager to learn and earn 1,528 hours of class time and grow into their profession does it for me,” he says. “Along with my students’ success, their drive is my inspiration. I always tell my students that I’m inspired by success or failure. One minute a student could be ready to give up, but the next minute they are all in and prepared to earn their license.”

You can learn more about Michael Cheek and his school at T&M Barber College on Facebook.

In the fall of 2019, Iris Mangano found herself at a crossroads. She had just left her job at a local HBCU to begin working at her “dream job” with a local Engineering & Technical Consulting firm. There she worked in Human Resources; however, on April 1, 2020, she was let go due to the onset of the Covid 19 pandemic. Discouraged and upset, but still a woman of strong faith, she began to pray, asking God for a new job. There was a sense of urgency in her request because Iris had bills that needed to be paid soon. She applied for at least 15 positions online within one week but got no response. Still, Iris kept praying and believing.

Beauty Buttah Skincare, LLC is a black woman-owned skin and body care products company based in Greensboro, NC. They offer handmade premium self-care products that are healthy, effective, natural, and organic. Their products are made with quality natural plant-based butters and essential oils. They also offer a wide variety of body butters, body scrubs (sugar/salt/foaming), body oils, handmade soaps, body washes, facial care products, feminine hygiene products, men’s grooming care products, and natural hair care products.

Running her business has a lot of things attached to it. “I am doing this for my kids. I do what I do with the hope of building a legacy they can participate in and be proud of,” she says. And with her kids’ assistance, she is able to keep her business running. She shares who they help with packing and shipping and are often present at pop-up shops and events.

A few weeks later, Iris had a dream one night. Her dream involved an unrecognizable man appearing as a security guard at her door. She says that with a knock on the door, she received a revelation that would change the trajectory of her life. “The dream I had encouraged me to be confident within my own abilities. The message in my dream reminded me that I’ve always had the keys to unlock my success. I woke up the next morning and knew what I was supposed to do,” she says.

The dream that Iris had led to the birth of Beauty Butttah Skincare, LLC. Though her company didn’t officially launch until May 2020, Iris says her journey began a long time before then. “I had already begun practicing natural skincare production during my natural hair journey in 2009, making my own hair oils and butters. I also made Skin Butters from Shea Butters purchased at local beauty supply stores in an effort to solve my dry skin concerns,” she says.

It Started With A Dream Iris Mangano

www.beautybuttah.com h

By Terry L. Watson Photo Provided by Iris Mangano

Being an entrepreneur is something that Iris says she loves. She also appreciates the positive feedback from her clients who share how well her products work.

The future is encouraging and broad for the BBS brand. “We are currently on Walmart Marketplace Faire and soon to be Amazon. I want to continue to broaden my customer reach all around the globe. You will see BBS products on the shelves of Walmart, Target, Marshall’s, and many local beauty stores and spas in 2023. We are entertaining a location to be used as a showroom and as a pick-up site for local residents to gain access to our products,” she says.

PrivateWeddingsPartiesSpecialEvents 2100 E Wendover Ave. Greensboro,336.458.8422NC www.thedynaconeventcenter.com

400 East Wendover Avenue Greensboro, NC BeforeBefore AfterAfterRyan Cherri& Cherri Cherri.TheDixonGroup@gmail.com336.500.4187DixonRyanDixon253.414.3785Ryan.TheDixonGroup@gmail.com Personal One on One Attention Stress Free CageHandlingGentleFree 336-509-2704 Styled by Shea Fuller

Huami Magazine Triad Sept./Oct. 2022

Articles inside

Jackie Williamson - Taking Care of Your Body With Massages

Pastor Michael Thomas - "Shifting"