of Black History Month, Thee Mag. is celebrating by featuring O.guls making history every day. It al to present you with relevant nd stories from dynamic leaders to row in your journey of professional nt and advancement.
for your support and welcome to gul M.O.vement!
Sincerely, Michelle O'Kennard
How To Start On the Right Path The First Time
Deciding to start a business is the easy part of entrepreneurship! Knowing where and how to start building your empire is another story! Now that you ' ve taken a deep dive into ownership, below are some tips to help you along the way of navigating your new journey:
Before you get started, it is important to understand the market you are entering and the competition you are up against Understand how your products/services compare to others in your industry
Creating a plan before you begin is the best way to get off on the right foot to planning your business. This plan will also help you stay organized and focused on your goals, including milestones, marketing plans, revenue models, etc
Take this opportunity to know where you are on your path and be honest with yourself about it. Set realistic goals and expectations, believing you will achieve them It is important to have a plan and timeline for success, but make sure it is realistic If you need more time, give yourself wiggle room for flexibility in your timeline
Successful businesses are build on relationship and trust. People do business with people, not with businesses. Focus on establishing relationships within your sphere and learn what they need most and find a way to offer them a solution with your products or services
there is no fl
chair with confidence and belief in self, regardless of the flaws one may have
A mother and wife, Vickie centers her values around family and community, which she is both closely connected to. Her favorite quote comes from the Songs of Solomon, which states, “You are altogether beautiful my love, there is no flaw in you ” Vickie Bonita Artistry is a Chicago-based makeup artistry beauty company who is dedicated to helping women look and feel their best on their special day. Vickie Bonita Artistry offers a variety of makeup services that will give you the look of an expensive luxury makeup application.
To learn more about Vickie Dickson and Vickie Bonita Artistry, visit www.VickieBonitaArtistry.com or email Vickie directly at: Vickie@VickieBonitaArtistry.com .
The first day will be a virtual day focusing on personal development, mindset and wealth management followed by a series of LEGACY Talks throughout South Loop. Don't miss Day 2 in-person at the Marriott Marquis hotel where we anticipate over 500 entrepreneurs will attend in-person
Attendees will enjoy our Black Owned Business Vendor Showcase, powerful networking opportunities, Corporate Match-Making, complimentary breakfast and lunch, conference materials, power packed panel discussions, and workshop-style break out sessions.
Conference Details
Session #1: Thursday, February 23, 2023: Virtual/Online Session
Session #2: Friday, February 24, 2023 : In-Person Session at the Marriott Marquis Hotel, Chicago
In-Person Location
Friday, 2/24/23
Marriott Marquis Hotel
2121 S Prairie Ave, Chicago, IL
Registration
To register, visit: www.LegacyAwardsWeekend.com
Location Details
Saturday, 2/25/23, 6 PM - 11 PM
Soldier Field, United Club
1410 Special Olympics Dr. Chicago, IL 60605
Registration
To register, visit: www.LegacyAwardsWeekend.com
*Black Tie Attire requested
Youth. Our Youth award is a pitch competition between 3 young entrepreneurs and audience selected during the evening of the gala
If you are 25 years old or younger and own a business, visit: www.LegacyAwardsWeekend.com and click on the Young Entrepreneur tab to apply or nominate someone.
The deadline to apply is February 7, 2023.
access to a one-year mentoring program, through our BOSS Business University and gain additional support to help them become successful entrepreneurs. Our long-term focus is to assist Black female entrepreneurs in having a solid business model, that they can use to pitch for investor financing or business growth.
To apply for this grant opportunity, visit: https://www.bossimpactfund.com/
Commercial property owners with net worth up to $ 9 mil assets up to $500,000
Industrial businesses with up to 200 full-time employees
Residential projects are not eligible for SBIF grants
The application must be submitted to DPD’s program administrator, SomerCor. For additional program information or application assistance, visit the SomerCor website at www.somercor.com/sbif.
training provided by tradeswomen, and field trips to different Apprenticeship Training Centers.
To register, visit: https://cwit.org/trade-programs/register-informationsession
In honor of Black History
Month, Thee M.O.gul
Mag. is proud to highlight some of today's most influential M.O.guls making a difference in their respective industries.
We are grateful to be positioned to amplify the stories of these thought leaders and hope you take the time to connect with them.
BLACK HISTORY IN THE MAKING
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De'Andre Rucker CEO Partner
"I'd rather ask for forgiveness, never permission."
AboutMeet De’Andre Rucker- Author, Philanthropist, Entrepreneur, Motivational Speaker, Father, and the CEO Partner of Rucker & Rucker, a management company with a diversified portfolio of over 25 businesses and a net worth of over $25 million dollars. With advancement and empowerment at the forefront of his organization, Mr. Rucker has made it a priority to give back in multiple ways through his foundation, which contributes over $80,000 in scholarships, donations, educational advancement, and nutritional programs for local communities quarterly. Recently, Mr. Rucker has provided jobs and career opportunities for more than 2,500 individuals and has forged multiple partnerships with new entrepreneurs. His relentless commitment to support underserved communities and youth expand beyond just his financial contributions
Established in 2020, De’Andre founded Rucker Academy, a community organization that provides before and after care services, meals, tutoring sessions, mental health counseling, and peer engagement. The Millionaire Project, Rucker Academy’s staple community program, mentors and trains young adults via peer guidance to help participants attain their life and business goals. Due to the overwhelming success of The Millionaire Project, Mr. Rucker expanded this program in 2021 by opening Rucker Academy’s first physical location in Racine Courts, his childhood neighborhood. Because building communities is a passion of De’Andre’s, he manifested his desire to do more by supporting health and wellness efforts That’s when he decided to launch the Youth Rucker Fitness Academy division of Rucker Academy in 2022.
This 10,000 sq. foot fitness facility was created as a safe haven for local youth to escape the harshness of life and focus on developing their minds, bodies, and souls, in addition to group mentoring sessions that focus on creating positivity both in sports and at home
In addition to supporting community and youth, De'Andre’s business footprint ranges across diverse industries, including: hospitality, education, retail, information technology, automotive, construction, manufacturing, transportation, staffing, adult leisure, and real estate His specialties include: brand development, business management, consulting, fashion, engineering, investment planning, and real estate.
His philanthropic work has led to launching a new water brand called Rudiment H2O For the High Achievers, dedicated to rebuilding communities across the United States that suffer from inadequate plumbing and water supply. Available soon, Rudiment H20 For the High Achievers will be available at your local grocery and retail store locations.
With more than 20 years of entrepreneurship experience, DeAndre Rucker has only begun to scratch the surface of his infinite potential to elevate others and their communities.
While building his career as an entrepreneur and engineer by trade, his biggest challenge has been to find fellow African Americans in his field who have also found success. “ …I was always told that I would not make it. I was always looked down upon and told that being an engineer or business owner was far fetched for me. That people who look like me and came from where I came from would be able to be anything more than what I was allowed to become.”
“
…I was always told that I would not make it. I was always looked down upon and told that being an engineer or business owner was far fetched for me. That people who look like me and came from where I came from would be able to be anything more than what I was allowed to become.”
De’Andre used the doubt of others to fuel his dreams, catapulting him to success. He understood his worthiness for success, knowing that no thing or person could stop him from succeeding
He personally defines success as a chance to change the lives of others around you for the better, rather than just focusing on yourself and your own needs He is inspired by the late great political leader Malcolm X, because he shares the same values in standing up for your beliefs, your team, and to not be a follower of the crowds. Praising his team, De’Andre attributes his wild success to his dedicated staff who share his vision and values to help build and improve the quality of life of the communities he serves.
To learn more about De’Andre Rucker’s work and his business, Rucker & Rucker, visit: www.ruckerholdings.com and follow them on all social media platforms with the name @Rucker&Rucker.
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Founder & CEO
"After many failed attempts, I finally regained my strength and I never looked back."
AboutMeet Chantelle Branch, Certified Domestic Violence and Abuse Specialist, Author, Mentor, DV Survivor, and Founder of the MFF Project - a social enterprise business offering mentorship programs and support groups for urban school age youth, building skills to improve self-confidence and self-esteem, improve decision-making skills, and heal from traumatic experiences, allowing them to thrive.
Born and raised in Chicago, Chantelle studied at Northern Illinois University and is a certified Domestic Violence Specialist, Sexual Assault Specialist, volunteer, and Founder & Creative Director of My Fearless Future Project (MFF Project).
In 2008, Chantelle made the risky decision to break free from an abusive relationship. After years of healing through faith, self-care, self-worth, and learning about healthy relationships, Branch created a new life of her own and is now on a mission to empower others exposed to domestic violence to do the same.
After transitioning from the victimization of domestic violence to survivorship, Chantelle's determination to share her personal experience, educate, and inspire others drove her to take action to share her message of resiliency and empowerment.
Completing her Domestic Violence Training program with The WINGS Program and earning a certification in Sexual Assault through SACIS, Chantelle created the Survivor Testimony & Monologues (S.T.A.M.), a theatrical production sharing monologues depicting various scenarios of domestic violence incidents. S.T.A.M. has been hailed as an exceptional communicative vehicle dispelling myths, challenging stigmas, and addresses unanswered questions surrounding the topic
Becoming the author of two books, "Decisions," a fictional tale of real life experiences in an abusive relationship, and "Chained by Boundaries," a self help e-book that addresses the challenges with “fight or flight”, traumas, and denials of toxic relationships, Chantelle discovered her voice and life’s work This endeavor enthralled her into entrepreneurship, beginning her journey as a CEO with a mission and purpose.
As a Black woman, Chantelle faced and overcame challenges as a new entrepreneur, navigating her way around overwhelming rejection of her knowledge, products, and experience. Despite her challenges, she discovered success in doing the actual work for the women who needed her help the most.
Chantelle’s perspective of a mogul as a powerful person that blazes a trail for others to follow, possessing the confidence needed to defy the odds, think outside the box, be innovative, and demonstrative in their area of expertise. She defines success as a discipline of self-mastery She believes that once you accept the journey and walk fully in your most authentic self, there's no turning back.
To ensure she continues on her personal path to success, she practices turning inward and practicing self-awareness daily, allowing her to see herself fully by moving past denial and practicing self-acceptance. This practice allows her the room to show up as her best self, and be the wife and mother she was meant to be. In addition to her DV outreach work, Chantelle is the Founder and Host of the Identity of A Woman Podcast, where she discusses Domestic Violence issues, stories of resilience, and tools to help listeners break free from the bondage DV trauma causes.
In honor of Black History Month, Chantelle admires the perseverance of Harriet Tubman, identifying with Tubman’s persistence to help the community and advocate for justice Tubman’s bravery in escaping death multiple times to defy what others said could not be done is what she’s inspired by most.
To connect with Chantelle Branch, you can find her in Linked In at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chantelle-branch-selflove-specialist/. She is also on Facebook at:https://www.facebook.com/nikkiluvejb.branch and on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/chantelle branch speaks/?hl=en .
“A mogul comes to disrupt what is and to shift the normal process. "
BLACK HISTORY IN THE MAKING BLACK HISTORY IN THE MAKING BLACK HISTORY IN THE MAKING Khalid
Scott Founder & CEO
"To be what we are, and to become what we are capable of becoming, is the only end of life."
-Robert Louis Stevenson
MSW, LCSW
.O.GUL
AboutMeet Khalid B. Scott, BS, MSW, LCSW, CADC, CODP-I, C-SWHC, CWEL, LPHA, an award-winning licensed therapist, clinical social worker, entrepreneur, private practice with International High Achievers, and the Founder and CEO of KBS ONE. Currently serving as the Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Specialist at the Department of Veterans Affairs, Khalid brings more than 28 years of knowledge, expertise, and experience.
Khalid earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Corrections and Criminal Justice from Chicago State University and a Master’s of Social Work from The University of Illinois, Chicago, Jane Addams’ College of Social Work. Over the span of his professional career, he has been awarded over 22 Social Work-related honors and prominent awards like The Chicago Defender’s Men of Excellence Award, Bashir Foundation Mentor of the Year (twice), Omega Psi Phi Citizen of the Year, Tasc, Inc. Employee of the Year, The Department of Veterans Affairs Social Worker of the Year (finalist), and beyond.
In addition to serving veterans, a veteran himself, Khalid is a 10 time award-winning veteran, serving more than 9 years of combined service for the Illinois Army National Guard and the US Army A contractual psycho-social individual, family, and marriage therapist with CLO Psychologicals, Khalid serves as a trainer and lecturer at multiple higher education institutions, including: Adler School of Psychology, Columbia, CSU, Malcolm X, Governors State, UIC, Moraine Valley and DePaul University With his active social work career, he has perfected his gift for motivational speaking at various forums and self-empowerment events as a mental health trainer and clinical panelist.
A published author of 7 books, Khalid has made several appearances on TV talk shows as a featured guest clinician, appeared on multiple radio talk shows, and has been featured in major publications including The Chicago Sun-times and Ebony-Jet Magazine. When he is not teaching or speaking, he is an engaged member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., providing social work-based workshops and mentors both adults and youth.
He decided to establish his clinical practice, KBS ONE during the pandemic in response to an overwhelming rate of clinical inquiries for counseling and life coaching support. With the start of this journey, he learned the uniqueness of his offerings as a Black male clinician, carving him out as a ‘unicorn’ who is highly sought after. Because of this, he has a long waiting list of clients (over 1 year wait time), composed mostly of men seeking life coaching and mentorship guidance.
Khalid defines success knowing that every day he wakes and sleeps, he’s used his gifts and talents as a social worker to increase the value of the overall quality of life for his clients. He’s fueled by his passion for parenthood, focusing on setting a positive example for his daughter Anayah.
Inspired by leaders Whitney M. Young, and Former President Barack Obama, Khalid emulates a similar work ethic and dedication Whitney M. Young gave as a social worker and the mentorship Obama offers. He believes M.O.guls are individuals with razor beam focus, discipline, Godgifted talent, and a strong work ethic, making them great leaders and entrepreneurs
To learn more about Khalid Scott, his services, and KBS ONE, visit his clinical website at: https://www psychologytoday com/us/therapists/khalid-scott-south-holland-il/466781 You can also follow him on all social platforms @KhalidScott(LSW) .
" ... I’ve had a waitlist for over a year with mostly male referrals which is outstanding and refreshing. "
Michelle Thames Founder & CEO
"If you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life."
Meet Michelle Thames, an award-winning blogger turned Online Business & Marketing Strategist, and CEO of Thames Media Solutions. Thames has helped catapult companies, like multi-million dollar beauty brand MIELLE Organics, from a startup to becoming a household name, leveraging organic social media and digital marketing strategies to boost her client’s businesses.
She is the host of the top-rated global podcast Social Media Decoded, which aims to simplify social media so that businesses can thrive online She teaches creative entrepreneurs how to get their businesses visible, how to attract more clients, and how to monetize by leveraging organic marketing and social media.
With more than 13 years of social media influencer and content creation experience, Michelle has had opportunities to work with big brands like Olay, Subway, Toyota, Culver’s, Choose Chicago, Stitch Fix, Lexus, Southwest, and more.
The power of social media sparked her interest in beginning her own brand that helps others to leverage its power. After being fired from her last employer due to blatant racism, a lawyer reached out to her after the incident took place, confirming the racism she already knew in her gut as the reason. Instead of allowing this incident to defeat and cripple her confidence, she decided to let it be a building block to show that no matter what people do to her, she will still rise. Successfully using that anger from injustice as fuel, her determination drives her daily to scale and grow her business.
She has not looked back since, and has been successful in building her brand and podcast, reaching 100k downloads recently and has been recognized as a top marketing expert to watch this year.
Michelle defines success as being able to make a difference in other people’s lives, knowing that at the end of her work day, she has helped someone else’s business grow in the right direction.
Her passion to help creators monetize their passions and provide value to her clients is what drives her to keep going and growing.
In honor of Black History month, Michelle is most inspired by Oprah Winfery, agreeing that it's never too late to follow your dreams. Being fired at 30 and learning how to pivot and start over is something she shares in common with Oprah, and is encouraged daily to remember that your age does not determine your success. Success can be found at any age if you want it badly enough.
To reach Michelle Thames and Thames Media Solutions, you can reach her via email at: info@thamesmediasolutions.com, visit her website at www.ThamesMediaSolutions.com and follow her on all social media platforms with username @MichelleLThames. Michelle Thames is proud to share her upcoming online event March 10-12, 2023 titled, The CEO Summit 2023. To learn more, email Thames Media Solutions at: info@ThamesMediaSolutions.com.
"If I know that at the end of the day my work has helped someone, I feel amazing and it fuels me to keep going!"
"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy."
- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
- Alderman
AboutMeet Ricardo D. Spivey, Alderman of the 4th Ward of Country Club Hills, IL and Mayoral Candidate. Growing up in the Evanston/Rogers Park area as a young child, Ricardo was exposed to a neighborhood filled with thriving park districts, academically rigorous schools, safe spaces to play in and the feeling that he and his family were deserving.
Although life was not always perfect, his parents worked hard and were able to be proud of the life they provided for their children. Learning from his parent’s leadership instilled in him the value of hard work, love for community, and the belief that residents deserve great neighborhoods to raise their families in.
Moving to Country Club Hills in 2001, Ricardo saw the promise of the city and what it could be. To ensure that his family, and the people of Country Club Hills have access to the same community experiences he had as a child, Ricardo has served as Alderman of the 4th Ward of Country Club Hills for 8 years, fighting for a better community and supporting the concerns of his fellow residents.
As Alderman of the 4th Ward, he has worked hard to create and cultivate an environment that promotes community improvement, teamwork, and open communication to achieve trust and accountability. His commitment to the residents of his community has been a catalyst to major city improvements and he has taken note of all that can be accomplished.
“I find it comforting to know when the residents talk to me about a new business that they see going up or a particular ordinance that’s being enforced to keep the community feeling safe. I'm very proud of that.”"
He attributes a significant part of his success to an ability to listen to the voice of the people with a strong belief that this is the main ingredient to any community’s progression “I find it comforting to know when the residents talk to me about a new business that they see going up or a particular ordinance that’s being enforced to keep the community feeling safe I'm very proud of that ”
Ricardo is an active member of Omega Psi Phi, Inc., a mentor for The 100 Black Men of Chicago Mentoring Program, a leader for The Chicago Assembly, and a member of New Faith Baptist Church International.An award-winning civic leader, Ricardo has received honors that include The Alpha Phi Alpha Impact Award and The Chicago Defender Men of Excellence Award in recognition for outstanding service to the community.
Ricardo mentions his biggest challenge in his political career is the ability to go outside of one’s comfort zone to achieve success. Connection to community is his secret sauce for his political success, and understands the importance of resolving concerns of the community. He defines success simply as stable family bonds, good health, and a strong connection to one’s faith He is most passionate about strengthening familial bonds via quality time and family travel.
In honor of Black History Month, Ricardo is most influenced by political leaders that include Dr Martin Luther King, Jr , Malcolm X, and our nation’s very first Black President, Barack Obama for their fearless leadership in times of uncertainty and despair.
You may reach Alderman Ricardo D Spivey by visiting his website at: www.RicardoSpivey.com.
"Plug into your community. Light up your brand."
-Shanetta Davis
Shanetta Davis Founder & CEO
AboutMeet Shanetta Davis, Wife, Mother of 4, and the Founder & Chief Experience Officer of The Davis Connect, an experiential marketing agency based in Chicago’s Southland. Coined the “Marketing Genius” by her peers and clients, Shanetta has dedicated over 15 years helping schools, companies, and organizations develop and implement marketing, branding, recruitment, and retention strategies.
Earning a Master’s degree in Marketing & International Business, Shanetta is a Board Member of South Holland Business Association, Executive Board Member of South Holland's political organization, is a proud and active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., is a member of the St. Francis deSales’ High School Alumni Association, and a leader with The Village of South Holland’s Youth Sport Teams A dedicated Heartprenuer, Shanetta is a branding visionary, servant leader, and connector in her community. A Black business advocate, Shanetta started the Connected2BLK Initiative, a movement that promotes economic progress within the Black Business Community by promoting their brands to her followers on social media and other platforms.
Shanetta pivoted her journey with The Davis Connect in 2018 after an unsuccessful business partnership deteriorated. Creating a new vision that shifted her business model for the better, she discovered a unique service that combined her love for elevating brands and capturing special moments. Today, Beyond the Booths has taken on its own identity under The Davis Connect Group, offering a variety of event experiences that include photo booths, 360 video booths, and virtual photo booth rentals for in-person, remote, and hybrid events. This innovative technology allows brands to engage with their community, increase social engagement and enhance their brand experience.
The Davis Connect has partnered with Black Owned brands like Sip & Savor, WDB Marketing, Success Junkie, Project sWish Chicago as well as corporations including Home Depot, Chicago Public Schools, Discover, and Blue Cross Blue Shield.
As a child, Shanetta was always intrigued by owning her own business, gaining inspiration to take the plunge from respected family members she looked up to. “From childhood, I watched family members run their own businesses. It was more about their work ethic and being the decision maker than controlling their schedule and the money they made. The grit, perseverance, and leadership qualities are in my blood.”
“... I watched family members run their own businesses…the grit, perseverance, and leadership qualities are in my blood.”
As a fellow Black business owner advocating for other Black owned businesses, Shanetta has overcome challenges and barriers, despite the exclusion of opportunities and access to resources she’s experienced
Staying consistent by showcasing her skills and making it clear that her unique perspective is valid and adds value, is what has led her to her path of success. Shanetta believes it’s important to be unapologetically great at all times even when no one is watching, demand respect by being an industry expert, and remain humble enough to nurture your influence and the relationships that it gives birth to.
When asked how she defines success, Shanetta believes success is defined as doing what she and her family loves in a meaningful and impactful way while also creating freedom and the best lifestyle she can offer them . Her focus is to own a respected business where community leaders look to her for guidance and perspective, and build a legacy that creates generational wealth When it comes to her passions, aside from helping Black businesses grow, Shanetta prides herself in being the voice for the voiceless, the motivation for the unmotivated, and uplifting and celebrating others
In honor of Black History Month, Shanetta admires the business icon, Kandi Burruss, who has continued to shatter glass ceilings showing us that the unthinkable can be done
Burruss has built an empire through her work as a singer, songwriter, television personality, actress, producer, influencer, and business woman with several entrepreneurial ventures including her chain of restaurants in Georgia If she thinks about it or dreams about it, she activates efforts toward achieving it Hers and others’ lifestyle choices and business moves influence Shanetta to dream bigger and help her see her life through a different lens
Shanetta is an active business owner with upcoming events that include:
Plug & Light Event Series: curated events that bring communities together in an interactive and memorable way.
Connect2BLK Initiative: Experiential marketing campaign that promotes economic progress within the Black Business Community Be on the lookout for our upcoming Black Business Cash Mob and Trolley Tour.
T.I.T.T.S. (Taking It To The Streets): an initiative to increase awareness and resource availability for people of color, especially women, who are impacted by Breast Cancer.
T I T T S hosts an annual walk in October and this year will be adding workshops to educate, encourage, and provide a safe space for those fighting, survivors, and caregivers.
To connect with Shanetta and The Davis Connect, like and follow them on social media using handles @thedavisconnect on Facebook and Instagram or visit their website at: www.thedavisconnect.com.
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