Today's purpose woman sept mag

Today’s

PURPOSE WOMAN FALL 2017

CHERYL POLOTE

WILLIAMSON DETERMINED, COMPASSIONATE & EMPOWERING

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BRAND BUILDING TECHNIQUES YOU NEED TO USE EVERYDAY!

GIRL POWER!

WOMEN WHO EMPOWER GIRLS TO WALK IN THEIR PURPOSE

Dr. Shekina Farr Moore Dr. Estacy Porter & Shontavia Hornsby

YOUR WAIT ON THE LORD SHOULDN’T BE A WEIGHT ON YOU

BREAKING THE SILENCE ON DEPRESSION & SUICIDE

Today’s

PURP

EMPOWERING THE WOMEN OF TOMORROW TO LE

But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my pow

POSE

EAD WITH CONVICTION

WOMAN

wer and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth. Exodus 9:16

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CONTENTS FALL 2017

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MISSING PIECES

It’s time to lay the broken pieces at God’s feet.

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YOUR WAIT ON THE LORD...

Shouldn’t be a weight on you.

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CHERYL P. WILLIAMSON

Determined, Compassionate & Empowering

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GIRL POWER!

Women who empower girls to walk in their purpose.

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BRANDING

3 Brand-building techniques you need to use everyday

Contents

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We Live 10 |

BREAKING THE SILENCE Venessa breaks her silence on depression & suicide

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I’VE FALLEN AND I CAN’T GET UP. by Francia Noble

We Empower 24 |

#GIRL POWER SHONTAVIA HORNSBY

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#GIRL POWER DR. SHEKINA FARR MOORE

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#GIRL POWER DR. ESTACY PORTER

YOU NEED 30 | EVERYTHING TO KNOW ABOUT OVARIAN CANCER AND RISK REDUCING METHODS A Conversation with Dr. Colleta Orr

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BOOKS TO READ THIS FALL

Cover Credit: Photograph by: Kim Honora- Kim’s Photography Cover design: Promoting Purpose Media On the Cover: Cheryl P. Williamson

6 PUBLISHER’S LETTER

HERE’S TO

SUCCESS

W

Wow! I’m just in awe as to how Today’s Purpose Woman has grown within these past 2 years. I am humbled that God has chosen me to be the publisher of such an amazing publication. It is a joy to see Today’s Purpose Woman doing exactly what it is purposed to do and that’s to empower and inspire women to live a higher purpose - God’s purpose. Your testimonies of how God has used this publication to minister to your hearts, the notes that simply says thank you for the on-time words via social media and replies from our newsletter has encouraged me in so many ways.

It is because of your testimonies that when someone asks me if I believe that Today’s Purpose Woman is successful I don’t hesitate with responding back with a yes. I firmly believe that you or your business is successful when you or your business accomplishes what it was created to do.

This belief wasn’t always the case for me and I’ll be glad to share this story in another issue. But as of right now I want to encourage you to hold on to the promises of the Word of God. Don’t allow the enemy to take your words of encouragement or faith from you because it is yours. Trust God and never forget when God gives vision He also gives provision.

So let’s celebrate! Here’s to our 2nd anniversary issue, the transformation issue and here’s to your transformation and success in 2017.

Blessings,

SHERRELL VALDEZLOQUI Publisher, Editor in Chief CONTENT EDITOR Tiff’s Editing Cafe WRITING PARTNERS Brandi N. Jefferson-Motley Debbie Harris Francia Nobles GUEST WRITER Shade Y. Adu ART Graphic Design Promoting Purpose Media Cover Photographer Kim Honora- Kim’s Photography SOCIAL MEDIA Join our twitter following of 20k + Twitter Handler: @todayspurwoman

Sherrell Valdezloqui

TODAY’S PURPOSE WOMAN Vision: Empowering the women of tomorrow to lead with conviction Mission: We believe in walking in our purpose and sharing our successes. That’s why we’ve built an online community and print magazine with a global reach to help women everywhere feel inspired, motivated and supported by God. Through our dedication to encouraging belief and our passion for spreading God’s message, we remain committed to achieving our vision of empowering the women of tomorrow to lead with conviction.

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INSPIRATION WITH NO EXPIRATION

Your Soul’s Navigational GPS – Daily Encouragement for Your Journey through God’s Word, Personal Testimonies and Songs, is a new daily devotional by New York author, Brandi Jefferson-Motley, that is providing daily inspiration and encouragement in a way that it hasn’t been done previously.

Where most devotionals are “date-driven”, the hope with this book is that each person will allow their souls to guide them, like a compass, to the page(s) that they elect to read on a given day.

Buy It NOW! Book available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble online bookstores. www.brandinicolejm.wordpress.com

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It’s time to lay the broken pieces at His feet, and say, “God fix me wherever I’m broken.

Fix Me!

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We Live

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M i s s i n g

PIECES

by Debbie Harris

H

ave you ever felt like you were losing yourself? Have you ever felt so far removed from the person you wanted to be? If so, it’s time to reinvest your time and energy to discover things that really satisfy the hunger of your soul and not just provide temporary sensational bliss.

If you could complete this statement, “I am most happy when…” What would your response be?

Oftentimes we look outward to find happiness, when true happiness is found within Christ. We look for the perfect relationship.

We are on a fitness craze to find a Class-A physique. We even look for the right job to make us complete. When what we really seek is peace, joy, acceptance, forgiveness, and true contentment.

A lot of times we reject true happiness for a substitute of false images. Without clarity there will be confusion.

Spend time doing things you love. You do not have to be an artist to love drawing.

Maybe you enjoy sitting by yourself on a bench surrounded by nature’s beauty or maybe you love quiet moments of communion with God.

Sometimes what is missing is that you’ve become hardened by life, and you stopped dreaming, you stopped setting goals and you’ve stopped loving yourself. You look in the mirror and do not connect with the reflection you see. It’s time to get your life back, your joy back.

It’s time to lay the broken pieces at His feet, and say, “God fix me wherever I am broken.

Fix Me! God there are voids in me that only you can see. God fill me with more of You. I want true fulfillment. Use my broken pieces to be a bridge to others.”

Prayer: In John 4:10 Jesus answered her, (the woman of Samaria) “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.” So we ask, Lord fill the voids in our life. You are the living water that satisfies our soul. We ask for the living water that only you can provide, and we recognize that nothing else will satisfy the thirst or the longing of our soul. You know just how to satisfy our souls, and you bring forth beauty out of ashes. You do wonderful things with lives that are broken before you, and you can turn the missing pieces the broken pieces into a masterpiece. Complete the work that you have started in us, we praise you for your mighty power. Amen.

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VENESSA ABRAM

Breaking the Silence on Depression & Suicide

Venessa knows firsthand that being a child of God doesn’t exempt her from pain and storms. Just recently Venessa’s older brother, in whom she shared a special relationship, took his life. “My brother was a veteran and served in Operation Desert Storm. Upon his return, he was not the same. I can remember my mother always saying he had been affected by the war he fought in. And true enough, he had. My brother began a downhill spiral after the passing of my mother in 2010, and he never regained his momentum. My siblings and I sought out to help him by getting the proper veterans’ assistance that was available during that time.

To make a long story short, it was in September, 2016 that I received a call stating I needed to contact the County Medical Examiner about my brother. I, not knowing what that was, I just thought he was in the hospital injured or something. However, after making the contact with the medical examiner, she confirmed he perished by way of suicide.” Venessa recalls that day being the worst day of her life and it seemed to get worst day by day as she had to finalize his personal affairs for his veteran’s burial. “As God continues to heal and mend my brokenness, I have been asked to be on the Board for American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. I do not take my experience or my role lightly. I am very passionate about being a voice for those who don’t have a voice and for those who feel like all hope is lost.”

Venessa doesn’t hesitate to let others know that although she may have her moments and attacks from depression due to the loss of her brother; it is her faith, her belief in God that helps her move forward using her pain to propel her into her purpose. “My hope and faith in God is what keeps me day to day and moment to moment. Knowing by faith, God is with me to comfort me, provide me with rest, peace and strength for the journey is greater than having 100 people on my side.

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If God be for me, who can be against me?

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V

Venessa Abram is one of the most transparent prayer warriors we know. She is passionate about people walking in their God-given purpose and operating effectively in their gifts and talents. “I am passionate about others because there are so many lost souls in the world that don’t understand purpose, what it means to surrender to God and the respective purpose he has given to each of his children. I find myself at my best when I am being a servant to others. It is vital to my purpose that I aspire to inspire others to reach toward the high call of Jesus Christ and submit unto Him and His ways, by the rebirth and renewing of the mind.”

If God be for me, who can be against me?

I’ve learned I’d rather have Jesus than anyone else. He is the keeper of my soul.

Even during my toughest days, God always provides through someone else, a song, a prayer and He speaks to my heart and soul.”

Venessa also says the following scriptures have helped her on her journey: Psalms 23, Psalms 121, 2 Corinthians 1-311, 2 Corinthians 4:8-9,13-14, Romans 5:3-4, Psalm 119:28, Matthew 11:28-30, Romans 8:28, Romans 12:19, Psalm 42:11, James 1:2-4, 2 Timothy 1:7, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Psalm 30:5, Isaiah 40:29-31, 2 Timothy 4:7, 2 Corinthians 5:7 Some of the misconceptions Venessa feel others have as it pertains to a person dealing

We Live

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God is also using my pain to propel me to my purpose.

Venessa encourages those that are suffering from depression to seek help as soon as possible. “Depression is a silent killer if it is not under medical treatment. Seeking help, getting medicinal treatment and psychotherapy is key to becoming healthy. If you’re feeling suicidal please call 911, your nearest hospital or the Suicide Hotline 1-800-273-8255. If you’re coping with the lost of a loved one due to suicides as I cope with the loss of my brother, it is very difficult and complex.

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with depression or the thought of suicide is that many people think of it as a stigma and that people can get over it. “I personally have experienced firsthand those that are challenged mentally and not able to live a stable life, are those that lose all hope and faith in God and in people. Many people that are depressed are afraid to speak up simply because they don’t want to be labeled or it may make them look like they are weak. However, in reality, depression is equivalent to diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and the like. The only difference is depression includes issues of mental health! I have a sibling that wants to keep my brother’s suicide a family secret, but I refuse to!

My voice/our voice can be the voice of those that are unable to speak and seek the necessary mental health care necessary in order to function and live a life of normality. I also feel like the church does not focus on this topic enough to educate the people of the Kingdom Of God. People perish for a lack of knowledge.”

My story includes things I would not wish on my worst enemy. Therefore, I am in therapy, on prescribed medicines and under doctor’s care until further notice. Grief is a journey, not a destination.”

Just recently Venessa released a book from my pain. God birthed this book through me which is an Amazon Award Winner, It’s entitled, The Valley of Transfiguration: 40 Days with God in My Grief. Pain, Positioning and Purpose.

“God is also using my pain to propel me to my purpose. On November 12, 2017, I will host an event in honor of my brother, where a portion of proceeds with go to AFSP. Please feel free to donate or attend if you are in the Norcross, Georgia area. I will also use the platform that God gives me to speak on depression, mental illness and suicide. I aspire to inspire to help someone else live life abundantly and choosing not to take their own life.”

Here’s to a courageous woman who’s using her pain as a launching pad to bring awareness and empower others.

Visit Venessa at www.venessaabram. com

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I’VE FALLEN

And I Can’t Get Up

by Francia Nobles

“We have all had people to fail us; some of them family members.”

I

once had a male friend ask me why most females that he talked to would repeatedly say that they did not have many, if any, female friends.

The simplest answer that I could provide was that most of us, women, had been hurt by someone who professed to be our friend and after that betrayal, we chose to not allow anyone else to enter that special place again. We have all had people to fail us; some of them family members.

In 2012, my father suddenly took ill. Within a span of 30 days, he was on a ventilator fighting for his life. The difficult decision had to be made. I stood by his side as he took his last slow and labored breath at just past midnight. In those moments immediately after, as I made all the necessary phone calls, I entered a state of mind that I can only refer to as semi-catatonic. The family member who was with me during these moments was the complete opposite. This was the time they chose to voice their reason(s) why they had not visited before the final hours of my father’s life. Due to my state of mind, I did not want to hear them turn this tragic situation into a “feel bad for me” moment.

We were scheduled to return to Texas the next day.

Due to the lateness of the hour, I decided to spend

the night with a girlfriend. I awoke at my girlfriend’s place to find that this relative had returned to Texas without me. Why did he do this?

Had it been something that I said? Was it how they were dealing with grief? I had no answers.

All I knew was that I was stranded in another state with very little money and unsure why this had happened or how I would get home. With the help of 2 friends, I got home safe and sound within a matter of hours.

In the passage of scripture found in Job 19:14, Job has become ill and all of those around him are failing to provide the love and care for his ailing physical body that he so desperately needed. His own wife even ignored him. Yet he continued to praise and worship God, some say more reverently than before. He refused to give up on the promises of God. He refused to allow the negative ranting of others to persuade him to do anything different than what he had previously done. Praise and worship God; trust and believe that God can do all things if we trust and believe. Job understood that if he remained faithful to his life’s purpose, that God would openly reward him. He was successful because he had been living his life per the instructions given to him.

We Live 13

“ Nevertheless, for

me to be at peace, I had to forgive them.

“

I can count on one hand how many forced interactions I have had with this family member. I have tried to be the bigger person, reaching out to them during the illness of another family member, but my efforts were met with the same level of woe is me attitude. I can only do so much, right? Besides, the Word of God says that I must love them; it does not say that I must be their best friend. Nevertheless, for me to be at peace, I had to forgive them. I had to take all the hurt and anger and place it in a compact little cube and cast it into the sea of never looking back. It took me some time before I could forgive them. I am still not sure if I will ever forget. However, I will continue to praise and worship the Lord for all the blessings he has given me and my family.

What do you do when a relative or friend mistreats you? How do you praise God when those persons have failed you? Do you offer praise to God Almighty when you have failed yourself? What can you do when life has you overwhelmed? The only thing you can do, pray and ask God to guide you through each moment and each step, as you seek to forgive those who have failed you and to forgive yourself.

Be Blessed!

Francia

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YOUR WAIT ON THE

LORD,

SHOULDN’T BE A WEIGHT ON YOU!

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Dear Heavenly Father, during the times when we are called to wait on you, let us not view it as wasted time, but as an opportunity to be full of activity as we exercise our faith and praise you in advance before we ever see how it’s all going to come together. We will not be cloaked in garments of heaviness as we wait on you.

In Jesus’ name – Amen.

No matter which area of my life is facing uncertainty, I realize that there is more ahead for me and that I am just not capable of seeing at this time. Just because it can’t be seen, doesn’t mean that the work isn’t being done, the relationships aren’t being established, the positions aren’t being created and all the dots aren’t being connected on our behalf.

The enemy will try to mess up our faith, focus and footing so that we lose our future. But it is the Lord who knows what is best and that is why we must wait until He reveals His purpose for our lives.

Our faith has a story. It’s a love story that God wrote Himself. When we are called to wait, is not without a purpose. Trust and believe that anything that God has promised us is worth waiting for. When we lived in Maryland, our pastor gave us a meaning to each letter in the word “wait”.

The “W” stands for Weathering the storm, because whether we like it or not, tests and trials will come. What type of mindset will we have while in the midst of our storms?

The “A” stands for the Anchor that is needed.

There are some storms, especially unexpected ones that will be so strong that we will need an anchor. During those times, we must hold tight to Christ, the Solid Rock.

The “I” stands for the Inspiration that we must grab hold of. Always remember that He who has begun a good work in us will complete it and the word that He has spoken — will not fail to do what He planned for it; it will accomplish everything He sent it to do (Isaiah 55:11).

And lastly, the “T” stands for the Time given for God to move. The Lord may not come when we want Him, but He’s always right on time!!

I have come to learn that if something that I have been waiting on hasn’t occurred yet, it’s for one of two reasons; either it is not the right time or it’s not God’s will for my life.

I don’t desire anything before God wants me to have it nor do I want anything that is not in alignment with His purpose for me. I’ve been down that road before, thinking I needed to take the wheel and “help God out” (shaking my head). That wasn’t a good ride at all.

Oh, the drama, heartache and messes we’d avoid if we would just be obedient as we wait on Him. Time and time again, the Lord has shown me that regardless of what I may be facing, if I am patient, He will see me through.

Now, I find both power and peace in waiting on the Lord. My waiting is not coupled with worrying or anxiousness but with hope, confidence, bravery and a determined heart. I feel encouraged and empowered because I know that in trusting and waiting on the Lord, my faith grows stronger and my connection with Him grows deeper.

No matter what comes my way or how things may appear before me, I will continue to run to the Lord and wait with expectancy. Our God is a Sovereign God, who is still able. Absolutely nothing is too hard for Him. The restoration, deliverance, renewal, healing and freedom that we are seeking are closer than we think, if we can just wait!!

Focused on the realities of heaven we release the weight of worry and anxiety that the enemy would prefer to keep us burdened with; and instead are able to mount up and soar high above.

-by Brandi N. Jefferson-Motley

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2018 C A L E N D A RS

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“TODAY’S PURPOSE WOMAN”

CHERYL P. WILLIAMSON DETERMINED, COMPASSIONATE & EMPOWERING Written by- Sherrell Valdezloqui

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etermined, compassionate, courageous, honest and empowering are just a few words that best describe Cheryl Polote-Williamson. Before she was Cheryl Polote- Williamson, the brand, she owned 5 fitness clubs, ran businesses and had the opportunity to travel the world as the wife of a corporate executive. Cheryl recalls that after she published her first book, she realized that God had more for her to do.

Although she was a successful business owner, she was a woman comfortable playing small and hiding behind excuses. Cheryl’s excuses are one’s that many of us women use to avoid our purpose and dreams because our husband and/or children need us.

Eventually, Cheryl realized that it was fear holding her back not her family. “It was easier for me to blame other things as opposed to admitting that it was my own fear. I was not doing what God was telling me to do and there was no one else to blame for that other than me.” Cheryl says. During her journey, one of the biggest events she endured and that played a big role in her transformation was, enduring extremely devastating heartbreak and debilitating betrayal by people who were very close to her.

“When you experience what I did, you are faced with a decision. You can (1), decide to let that situation define you and wallow in your sadness allowing the enemy to constantly replay messages of negativity or (2), you can STAND on the promises of God. You can take your hurt to Him and let Him heal your heart.

You can allow what you have been through to set you up for a BREAKTHROUGH. By the grace and mercy of God, I chose the latter. It is a choice that I make each and every day. It has not been an easy choice but I am still standing on God’s word and his promises. He did not allow me to endure heartbreak for me to remain broken. He called and graced me to experience heartbreak so that I could minister to others. That is what I do every day,” Cheryl says. She now see’s her storms and tribulations as her launch pad.

Cheryl is passionate about helping people transform their lives through forgiveness, self-care and taking full responsibility for pursuing their purpose. This is her passion because she says a transformed life is a life that will illuminate God’s plan and purpose.

“When people are transformed, they bring more people to Christ. They are more concerned about sharing light instead of darkness. They walk in abundance.

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God loves and adores you. He made you in His image and He said you were good!

He said you were beautiful! He said you were worthy! He said you were called for such a time as this!

It is time for you to walk in your calling.

“

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“Trust God to provide for the vision He has placed in your heart and called you to do.�

H Helping others transform is healing for me not just for the people I help. Every time I embrace a woman at an event where I’m speaking, a piece of my heart is mended. Every time I receive a message on social media, text, phone call or email from someone thanking me for sharing my story, I feel that all of the heartache was worth it,” she says.

For those Cheryl are purposed to reach, her message is helping the transformation process to living a higher purpose beginning with forgiving yourself. “It is crucial that you forgive yourself for your past mistakes. I have found that it is easier to forgive others than it is to forgive yourself. You must also forgive anyone that you feel has contributed to your pain. Let go and let God. You have to remove yourself from whatever it is that’s preventing you from living your best life. No matter who or what it is – you have to release it if you want to move forward.

There is no way around it; the only way is THROUGH it.

God loves and adores you. He made you in His image and He said you were good! He said you were beautiful! He said you were worthy! He said you were called for such a time as this! It is time for you to walk in your calling.”

What does Cheryl say to those of you who know God has given you a vision but you’re discouraged because you don’t see growth or see the resources? “Trust God to provide for the vision that He has placed in your heart and called you to do. “You can use Google and find so many resources. Google what you are looking for. The Small Business Administration offers assistance at no cost to you. Reach out to people who are experts in your field of interest. Seek a mentor. Whatever you do, just do not give up! You have to decide that you are not going to keep playing small and stay on the sidelines of your own life because of lack of resources. He will send the resources but you have to be willing to move forward and stay in prayer and expectation. You have to write out a plan and move forward. Don’t just talk about it, be about it,” she says.

The words given by Cheryl is an indication that if you’re sitting and talking with her you’re going to walk away feeling motivated, inspired, transformed, renewed, validated and understood.

Cheryl is also a multi best-selling author in the middle of a 22-city book tour for her book, Affirmed: 365 Days of Positive Thoughts and Actions to Start Your Day. “I am also currently working on the Soul Series which is a 4-part anthology. These anthologies are more than just books; this is a Soul Movement!

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This movement is centered on healing of mind, body and spirit. If you can renew your soul, you can get somewhere in this life. It’s a renewing movement of your mental, spiritual and emotional being. It’s about stirring your soul so that you will never be the same. The anthologies that have been released are Soul Talk: 20 Soul Stirring Stories of Women Who Let Go and Let God and Soul Bearer: 9 Soul Hearted Conversations from Men Sharing Their Unspoken Truths. The most recent one was released on July 1, 2017, and is titled, Soul Source: 23 Soulful Stories of Women Who Relied on God During Difficult Times.

“My goal with the Soul Series anthologies is to help 120 people share their stories, build their brands and enhance their visibility. The final installation of the series will be released next year. I am also in the process of planning the Soul Reborn summit that will be in the Bahamas next year.

I am working on producing a play that will be released in 2018 and pitching a talk show. As you can see, I have a lot going on right now! I love being in action and doing all that I can to be a blessing to as many people as I can. I can’t do that by sitting on my couch! I have to be a woman on the move. I am happy because my projects are directly impacting people’s lives. This is only the beginning! You will have to stay tuned!!” She says.

As we’ve been following Cheryl we’ve seen the hands of God and how he has opened doors and placed her on unbelievable platforms all over the country. God has allowed her to travel and experience people in a different way by using her books and the books she’s co-authored to speak to the hearts of His people. “I know God’s hands are in these experiences because doors have been opened that I couldn’t have opened on my own. HE has made me a believer! He has placed me before people and given me opportunities that have blessed others.

He constantly keeps and restores me. He always gives me a positive word to deliver to His people and it has transformed so many lives. I have received so many messages from people saying how my speech has blessed them. This is truly God at work – I know it is Him. I just want to continue to allow Him to use me,” she says.

So what does Today’s Purpose Woman tagline Living a Higher Purpose- God’s Purpose mean to Cheryl? “Living God’s purpose for my life means remaining a disciple of His word even through the storms. It also means being authentic and intentional in my journey. Whatever situation He has me in, I am making the best of it. Everything that leads up to me being with Him is my purpose. I believe it is every believer’s purpose to help lead others to Christ.”

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We Empower

Girl

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Power!

WOMEN OF FAITH WHO EMPOWER GIRLS TO WALK IN THEIR PURPOSE

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Raising A

Diamond Founder of Raising A Diamond Shontavia Hornsby tells us how she uses her #GirlPower to help young girls walk in their purpose.

side of Austin. She recalls as a young girl coming from very humble beginnings. “First child of a teenage mother and the oldest of 6 who eventually took on the role of matriarch.” Shontavia laughs and continues, “I was a tall, skinny, funny looking girl (at times…

LOL!). I dealt with bullying occasionally, but nothing that really broke me down and turned me into a distraught child. As far as I remember, life was good. In everything we lacked, we had love! I had my friends, sisters, brothers, cousins, aunts, uncles, mom, and Grandma~ Family Love. Nothing really mattered or bothered me as a young girl.” She continues, “Despite my humble beginnings, I was blessed to be the first to leave home, attend and graduate college. Many years later I obtained my Master’s degree. Who knew, this tall, skinny, funny looking, underprivileged girl would grow up to become the Phenomenal woman I am today?

“Reflecting over my life, I remembered my mother poured into me, and my aunts believed in me, my grandmother prayed for me, and Mrs. Alma Pitts Scholarship Foundation invested in me.

I’m forever grateful to these strong women; they saw in me what I never saw in myself.”

It wasn’t until 2015 Shontavia realized she had so much more to give in life. “I prayed and searched to understand what my purpose will be in life. I always knew my passion was mentoring young girls and eventually I realized my purpose was bigger than me. It was now my responsibility to pay it forward and be a blessing to all the young girls growing up like me. I wanted to tap into them at an early age so they could develop their potential to believe in themselves. Empower them to handle bullies, face and overcome self esteem issues and other challenges that could deter them from shining and become bright Diamonds!

As an adult Shontavia reflects back and now realizes the need for young girls to have positive role models in their lives to help achieve success by showing them what it takes to follow their dreams. “I would have loved to have had an opportunity to have a mentor as a young girl, to help me advance in areas that my mother’s teachings didn’t explore (education, financial, career, goals). Mentorship affords young girls the opportunity to create a brighter future for themselves. When a child is given the chance to succeed academically and socially, they begin to thrive above all means. Now, as a mentor, my mission is to provide young girls with all necessary tools to shape her future, and empower her to believe that she can change the world.”

So what’s’ the one thing that currently disappoints Shontavia about what girl are going through in today’s society yet motivates her to work even harder to empower girls? “One thing that disappoints me is the increasing statistics of young girls dealing with low self esteem. I believe social media has played a huge part in this rise. Young girls already feel a huge amount of pressure from peers and family. They worry constantly whether they are smart enough, pretty enough, thin enough, cool enough, etc.

Social media has become more of a detrimental influence. Issues of body image, self esteem and perfection lead to other self-destructive behaviors.

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Behind every successful woman is a tribe of other women who have her back.

“

S

Shontavia Hornsby was born in Taylor, Texas, a small town out-

We Empower

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One quote that inspires Shontavia is the one that says, “Behind every successful woman is a tribe of other women who have her back.” This is true on so many levels, says Shontavia. “It is the women who came before us who fought for our freedom and laid the groundwork that enables us to honor the truest expression of ourselves today. I believe as a woman, it is our responsibility to pay it forward by further paving the way for our young girls so that they too can dream without limits and achieve without resistance. “Raising a Diamond” is about encouraging, empowering and allowing every girl to know her worth.”

Shontavia says that many of the girls are very shy, self-conscious, not sociable, and followers when they first come in.

But after joining RAD and receiving encouragement and support, they begin to transform. “Many have blossomed into leaders in the youth community, living a happy and bold life and excited about their future and dreams. Mentoring matters and can make a huge difference in a young girl’s life. Results of our program have been proven as life-changing.”

This motivates me to work harder to empower our young girls and instill self-love. Empower them to see their own unique beauty as well as helping them recognize their strengths and weaknesses, helping them to develop their power within, and empowering them to overcome obstacles while educating and inspiring them to walk boldly into their future.”

This is what motivated Shontavia to start her organization Raising A Diamond. “My organization is Raising a Diamond.

Raising a Diamond Mentoring Program is a vital solution for encouraging and empowering young girls who struggle with low self-esteem, identity, insecurities, and family issues. RAD provides girls (8-18 years old) with the opportunity to fulfill their potential. Our program instills confidence in girls to face the challenges of daily life by working to overcome the issues that will cause them to be remarkable women of the next generation.

I was blessed with influential women in my life (family) that helped mold me into the woman I am today. However, it wasn’t until I was a young adult before someone poured into me on another level and empowered me to see the greatness and potential I had within me. It’s because of my guidance; I understand my purpose and responsibility to pay it forward.

As a result, Raising a Diamond was birthed.”

Shontavia credits her Girl Power to her faith and relationship with God. “I always pray to God for direction. Because God empowers me to empower young lives, I want to make sure I’m representing Christ, showing compassion and love,” she says.

So how does this Raising A Diamond leader say others can pay it forward and join in with empowering girls? “There are many ways to empower and make a big difference in the lives of our young girls.

Education- after-school programs, mentorship programs. Creating opportunities and engage with girls to learn about the issues they face, provide a safe place and allow them to be open about the issues and offer encouragement and suggestions on how to deal with the issues. Letting them know someone cares and being available.

Lift each other up- Together we are stronger! As women we must show compassion and love towards each other (our sisters). We are stronger together when we lift each other up and not competing or degrading one another. We must teach our young girls the importance of speaking life into each other and how to be our sister’s keeper.

Lead by example- In order to do this, you must start with yourself. You must be willing to be for yourself that person you want to inspire them to become. Our young girls are watching us; we must exhibit as a strong empowered woman they aspire to become.”

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Dr. Shekina Farr Moore

B2F Girls Founder of B2F Girls Dr. Shekina Farr Moore tells us how she uses her #GirlPower to help young girls walk in their purpose.

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Dr. Shekina Farr-Moore was born in North Carolina but lived most of her youth in Europe, Germany and Belgium. She graduated from high school in Mons, Belgium and moved back to the U.S. for college. Moore recalls as a young girl being introverted and withdrawn. “What inspires me most is making the little girl in me proud. Growing up, very introverted and withdrawn, I didn’t trust my voice and I learned to not be seen. When opportunities came, I would shun them. When I had valid points I would let others make me feel small or like my opinions didn’t matter.

“Because my self-esteem was in a low place, I second-guessed myself all the time, talking myself out of showing up and being great.” She continues, “I downplayed my strengths and it held me back. It wasn’t until I started taking on leadership roles (at the urging of my mother), excelling in school and playing sports that I began to come out of my shell and see the value I brought to my teams and organizations.”

Dr. Moore began to realize that empowering youth was part of her purpose when she started teaching in 1999. “In every school I have ever worked in, students would be drawn to me and call me their mentor. I have always had this effect on students. My own experiences with overcoming low self-esteem and playing small to appease others somehow made me relatable and magnetic. I love how things came full circle in that way.”

Being a mentor is one thing Dr. Moore enjoys and it comes natural to her. Having a mentor outside of the home was also something Dr. Moore felt like she needed as a young girl but didn’t have. “I didn’t have a mentor outside the home. Some things you can’t share with family. I needed that big sis or that cool auntie I could confide in and get sound feedback from. I second-guessed myself; my decisions and my worth a lot growing up.

I believe having a mentor would have changed the game for me a lot sooner. It all worked out…but I was late to bloom, that’s for sure.” Now, she’s dedicated her life to being that advocate and mentor to young women and girls and she equips other women to do the same through her organization, B2F Girls.

One of the things that disappoints Dr. Moore about what girls are going through in society today yet motivates her is the fact that girls do not see a lot of women in upper management and leadership. “Only 34 women have ever served as governors compared to 2319 men (Center for American Women and Politics). Contrast this with the fact that 74% of girls say they are under pressure to please everyone (Girls Inc, The Supergirl Dilemma) and you have a real bleak look at the state of girls right now.” She continues, “Just imagine… 1 in 4 girls today fall into a clinical diagnosis – depression, eating disorders, cutting, and other mental/emotional disorders. On top of these, many more report being constantly anxious, sleep deprived, and under significant pressure. (The Triple Bind, Steven Hinshaw).

“Statistics like these make me want to work with greater fervor to equip women to empower girls,” she says.

So with all of this information what exactly does Dr. Moore’s organization do? “B2F Girls offers a girls’ empowerment certification program that equips women with skills and strategies needed to run a successful girls empowerment program. The Girls Empowerment Coach program is a licensed program available for women with a calling to mentor and train girls specifically. The bonus is having a network of industry insiders with whom to collaborate and to share ideas, methods and innovation. We initially started as an organization that offered free workshops for girls ages 10-17 that addressed the areas of self-worth, body image and leadership.

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So with all of this information what exactly does Dr. Moore’s organization do? “B2F Girls offers a girls’ empowerment certification program that equips women with skills and strategies needed to run a successful girls empowerment program. The Girls Empowerment Coach program is a licensed program available for women with a calling to mentor and train girls specifically.

The bonus is having a network of industry insiders with whom to collaborate and to share ideas, methods and innovation. We initially started as an organization that offered free workshops for girls ages 10-17 that addressed the areas of self-worth, body image and leadership.

After our first successful year we had an influx of calls, messages, inboxes and emails from women from various parts of the country asking how they could implement a similar program for the girls in their communities.” Dr. Moore continues. “It was then that we realized that this need required a systematic and accessible way of providing the training we were already offering. Women were seeking to give back and mentor girls but didn’t know where to begin or how to launch. They wanted me to mentor and guide them in how to implement a successful program, but I was busy running my own. Fast-forward, another six months went by and the requests to train women from all around the country continued to come in. In June 2015, I acquiesced and Tween Style Power became B2F Girls!™, a certification platform that equips women to launch their own girls empowerment programs across the country. In essence, the mission stayed the same; only the ‘how’ changed. We have network affiliate companies in many states now.”

Dr. Moore says that many of the young women who come through the network come with baggage, weight and sometimes no sense of self or direction. “As they go through the program you see a spark, a change, an ah-ha moment that makes it all worth it. What’s interesting is that not all girls come to us broken or lost. Some come knowing exactly what they want but understanding they cannot get there alone. So, the mentoring programs we offer benefit young women from all walks of life. And it is a very rewarding work for the women who lead the girls’ empowerment programs.”

Faith and a relationship with God play a very important role in the lives of women like Dr. Moore. “God is so awesome. He doesn’t make mistakes. The very insecurities and flaws that made me who I am is what drive me to empower young women and girls. My pain is my purpose and I have God to thank for that. I call the work I do with B2F Girls, my ministry and I don’t take it lightly. God is a God of multiplication; a principle I also take seriously. So, stay tuned for more to come from this ministry.”

Dr. Moore says women can pay it forward and empower girls by getting certified and launching their own girls’ empowerment company. “Today’s girl is inundated with messaging that her worth lies in her body.

She is told over and over again that she can’t do this and that she can’t do that. (It is more impactful when example or have different wording when writers use the ‘this and that’ phrase… but I will have you make the final decision) She is in trouble and needs your sisterly advice, your guidance, your know-how and your presence.” She says.

So what’s next for this Girl Power leader? “Wow, I have a lot to be thankful for. This fall my husband and I are launching our print publication, Black Reins Magazine, highlighting the experiences of black cowboys and horse enthusiasts. Concurrently, I am also preparing for the release of my new anthology project, Black Girls Hear: Untold Stories of the Marginalized, Unsafe & Unwelcomed, that addresses the quagmire of intersectionality (the intersection of race and gender) and how it plays out in the lives of brown women. The anthology will share stories of women from around the world in hopes to shed light on the ways in which brown women are left out.

With the recent health journey, I started journaling about my shift. For years I guided women from blah to fierce…and I will continue to do so. But there is now a sector of women who are ready to shift from Fierce to Formidable—the title of my next book and challenge, to be released in 2018.

Lastly, I am speaking at several major national conferences in 2018 and gearing up for my 2nd Annual ZOOM CON in March.

ZOOM CON is a major conference held in Atlanta to inspire girls to accelerate into leadership.”

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Jewel In

His Eyes Founder of Jewel In His Eyes Dr. Estacy Porter tells us how she uses her #GirlPower to help young girls walk in their purpose.

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Born and raised in Bronx, New York Dr. Estacy Porter recalls being a young girl raised in a conservative Catholic home by Garifuna parents from Honduras. “There were great moments and lots of family celebrations. Garifunas celebrate everything!!

Then there were moments that left me feeling hopeless and anxious. This shift happened during my teen years that brought about many issues of low self-esteem. My primary goal was to be complete with high school so I could encounter life in a different way.

I think I also went through a period of an identity crisis. Here I am, a black girl who spoke Spanish who was too black to be considered Latina or I just wasn’t black because I was raised speaking Spanish and had an accent. I was black but spoke Spanish. Spanish is my first language because my parents were born in Central America and this is what I was taught.”

Dr. Porter believes that the lack of encouragement and empowerment in certain phases of her life pushed her to be a person who enjoyed empowering others. “As a teen, I would have friends and cousins seek me for advice and consultation on their relationships. These conversations would leave me fulfilled and desiring to pour out even more. Back in 2000-2001, while I was living in Germany, I would host ladies night at my house that consisted of 6 or 7 of us getting together, watching Juanita Bynum videos, having discussion and prayer. These moments empowered us to grow in our relationship with the Lord,” she recalls.

One of the things Dr. Porter felt like she needed as a young girl but did not have it and now find herself providing for girls was being shown and told she was loved. “I needed to be shown and told I was loved by empowering me through positive words.

I walked around having to be “perfect”. With my Young Jewels who Rock, I share how they are a jewel in GOD’s eyes and how they need to see themselves as GOD sees them. When I facilitate and host seminars or workshops with the older women, love is shown by my focusing on all aspects of their health.”

So what’s the one thing that disappoints Dr. Porter about what girls are going through in society today yet at the same time motivates her to work even harder to empower? “It frustrated my soul to see young girls believing that they have no value and at a young age having to commit to plastic surgery to feel or be beautiful. Statistics showed that about 64,000 teens get plastic surgery each year.

This was unheard of when I was growing up. The seed of empowering them to see that they are loved, live a healthy life has to be sown when they are young,” she says.

It was a vision and conversation with the Lord that would change Dr. Porter’s life and those she’s purposed to reach. The founder of Jewel in His Eyes with excitement tells us about her organization.

“Jewel in His Eyes is my baby!! The vision for the organization was started in 2012. It began when the Lord gave me a word concerning a dear friend who had died. In the vision and conversation I had with her and the Lord, GOD said, You are a Jewel in His Eyes, there is nothing you have to do to yourself to have my love. These words spoke to me because I was in a space where my confidence, self-esteem, self-love and identity were slowly drifting away. Our first Jewel in His Eyes initiative was a prayer empowerment line where a Jewel could call in to have conversations with GOD. The next initiative was volunteering my skills and time as a Zumba instructor to a home for sexually abused girls’ ages 5-19 and sometimes 21 years of age.

When I arrived to New York, Jewel in His Eyes initiated a brunch to bring women in the community together for fellowship, -

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“

I would not be here whole and healed if it wasn’t for my relationship with God.

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As girls and women we have a lot of things in common but live in a divided world. What is involved in our Jewel in His Eyes events? You will see girls and women from all races and socioeconomic backgrounds come together under one atmosphere. It breaks barriers, biases and mindsets that keep Jewels from being Healed, Whole and Healthy within and with others.

In one of my Events, I had a young lady send me a message that she was shy and had a low confidence level. After attending one of my programs, she expressed that it helped her interact with others and give her confidence in public speaking. Jewel in His Eyes event encouraged my daughters to be confident in speaking in front of others, as well as the motivation and drive to create Young Jewels Who Rock.”

On June 14, 2016, Jewel in His Eyes was nominated and selected to attend the first annual White House Summit on the United State of Women. “We had the honor of being in the presence of over 5,000 girls and women who are making strides to make the world a more gender equitable place and make a powerful difference in our collective future.

The summit focused on Economic development, Health& Wellness, Educational opportunity, Violence Against Women, Entrepreneurship & Innovation and Leadership & Civic Engagement.”

How does Dr. Porter’s faith and relationship with God impact how she guides and empower others? I would not be here whole and healed if it wasn’t for my relationship with GOD. God is my source and inspiration to keep aspiring to fulfill his will,” she says.

community engagement and ways to make an impact with girls in the community. The event brought together 23 women who left motivated, inspired and empowered. Many who have experienced a Jewel in His Eyes event have gained confidence to create their own initiatives, stay on course with their existing projects, empowered to be physically healthy and most importantly establish and grow a relationship with GOD.

Dr. Porter believes that we can pay it forward and join in with empowering our girls by getting involved in our community. “Connect with the schools, afterschool programs and local organizations that service girls. We women as a whole have to see the bigger picture…We have young girls who see us and desire to emulate our every move. Let’s get together, collaborate and build healthy relationships amongst one another and use our skills, time and energy to raise a generation of whole and healed Jewels.”

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DR. COLLETTA ORR ON EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT OVARIAN CANCER AND RISK-REDUCING MEASURES

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September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness month, a month that’s very important and should be taken seriously. At the present time, only one-fourth of patients with stage 1 or 2 of ovarian cancer are being detected. Late diagnosis of ovarian cancer is a major issue for women with ovarian cancer and their families. Dr. Colletta Orr, a Breast and Ovarian Research Scientist knows firsthand the impact ovarian cancer can have on families. “My maternal grandmother was diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer at the age of 67 years old. She died from the disease 11 months later after her diagnoses.” Dr. Orr says.

After the death of her maternal grandmother Dr. Orr became passionate about educating women to inform them about the early diagnosis and how they can minimize the potential impact of breast and ovarian cancers on their lives. “Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month gives us all an opportunity to come together to make women and their physicians more aware of the symptoms and the vital importance of early diagnosis. One of the key reasons that awareness of ovarian cancer is so important is that there is no standard screening test for the disease. A physician will likely perform a pelvic exam if a patient reports symptoms that may be indicative of ovarian cancer. Those symptoms include vaginal bleeding or discharge, back pain or pain the pelvic area, bloating and a feeling of fullness while eating, and frequent urination, constipation or diarrhea.

If ovarian cancer is detected in its early stages, treatment is more likely to be effective and less invasive,” Dr. Orr says.

One of the goals over the last 20 years has been to develop better early detection. “There is currently a trial at (MD Anderson) not sure what this is…readers may wonder too- where the disease is detected in stage 1 or 2 through CA-125 testing, which measures the amount of cancer antigen in the blood.

When that goes up, an ultrasound or another imaging test is done and if that appears abnormal, then surgery is performed. An estimated 22,440 American women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2017, according to the American Cancer Society, and about 14,080 will die of the disease.

When factoring in all stages of diagnosis, about 45% of women with ovarian cancer survive five years after being diagnosed. The survival rate drops as the stage of the cancer increases, with a 17% five-year survival rate in women whose cancer has spread beyond the abdomen. Younger women (below age 65) have a better five-year survival rate than older women.” Below Dr. Orr provides sound advice that will help ease your mind as well as educate you on how to take charge of your health by ways of reducing the risk of ovarian cancer.

Misconceptions Women Have Concerning Ovarian Cancer

An annual pap test will detect ovarian cancer.

• Actually, a pap test only screens for cervical cancer, NOT ovarian cancer.

The HPV vaccine will prevent ovarian cancer.

• The HPV vaccine will help to reduce the risk of cervical cancer, but not ovarian cancer.

You don’t have a family history of ovarian cancer, so you’re not at risk of getting ovarian cancer.

• Only 10-15% of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer have a family history of this disease.

Ovarian cancer is always deadly and you won’t survive.

• A diagnosis of ovarian cancer is very serious, but it’s not always fatal. Having a gynecologic oncologist perform your surgery increases your survival, along with the combination of chemotherapy drugs that can help to improve survival and prevent recurrences, especially in women with late stage ovarian cancer.

Awareness Questions You Should Ask Your Doctor If You Are Concerned About Ovarian Cancer Ask your doctor for an ovarian cancer risk assessment.

What prevention and screening plan do you recommend for me based on my personal risk?

What lifestyle changes could I make to reduce my risk for developing ovarian cancer?

Risk Reducing Measures There is no known way to prevent ovarian cancer, but these things are associated with a lower chance of getting ovarian cancer.

• Having used birth control pills for five or more years.

• Having had a tubal ligation (getting your tubes tied), both ovaries removed, or a hysterectomy (an operation in which the uterus and sometimes the cervix are removed).

• Having given birth.

• Breastfeeding. Some studies suggest that women who breastfeed for a year or more may have a modestly reduced risk of ovarian cancer.

While these things may help reduce the chance of getting ovarian cancer, they are not recommended for everybody, and risks and benefits are associated with each. Avoiding risk factors may lower your risk, but it does not mean that you will not get cancer. Talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk.

Spirituality Spirituality can offer a sense of personal growth at the time when someone is dealing with an ovarian cancer diagnosis, as well as during cancer treatment, and even as a cancer survivor. Spiritual practices can help with adjustment to the effects of cancer and its treatment. In fact, patients who rely on their faith or spirituality tend to experience increased hope and optimism, higher satisfaction with life and feelings of inner peace. They also tend to be more compliant with treatment and live a healthier lifestyle.

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Dr. Orr uses varies platforms to educate women all across the U.S. She hosts The Pink & Teal Experience in cities throughout the United States. “The event is a very special day dedicated to learning, sharing, and communicating with others in our community whose lives have been impacted by breast cancer or ovarian cancer or those who want to learn more about how to protect themselves from these diseases. This event gives everyone the knowledge that is so very necessary to reduce the risk of developing these diseases and that it also empowers us with the strength needed to go through this journey.

The Pink & Teal Experience: Atlanta will be held on September 9th. The Pink & Teal Experience: Washington, DC will be held on October 14th. The Pink & Teal Experience: Los Angeles will be held on November 18th. Houston and Chicago will be held in early 2018.”

Dr. Orr is also the author of Cancer Doesn’t Always Win: A Comprehensive Guide to Beating Breast & Ovarian Cancer.

The book discusses prevention strategies for prevention for breast & ovarian cancer, life after cancer, and personal stories of triumph from survivors. The book can be purchased at Barnes & Noble, Walmart, Books-a-Million, Amazon, and www.CollettaOrr.com.

Dr. Colletta ends in prayer: Father God, we humbly pray for all those who are fighting cancer. Give them the hope and courage they need each day. Comfort them in their pain and bless them with healing. Strengthen their family, friends, and caregivers. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Brand-Building Techniques You Need To Use

Everyday To be a successful brand builder, entrepreneur, or an overall successful person in life, here are 3 things you need to be doing on a daily basis.

Focus on income-generating activities.

If an activity isn’t making or helping you make money, you need to let somebody else handle it. Income-generating activities are activities directly related to you getting a client or bringing in income, and these are what you should always focus on when trying to be a successful business owner. Many entrepreneurs earn lower than they should be earning because they spend time focusing on the non-income generating activities, which could easily be delegated to someone else. Think about what you can do every day or at least the majority of your days, to have income coming into your business every single day. To be a full-time entrepreneur, you need to have money coming

in consistently. It is important to realize that someone needs to be working on your behalf, helping you find opportunities and carrying out the less important tasks, while you focus on the important income-generating tasks.

Always follow up.

Always know that the money is in the ‘’follow up’’, so it is important that you always follow up. Following up with clients and customers can be one of the most important business activities an entrepreneur can do. There might be people who wouldn’t want to work with you right away, but would in the future, and it is no surprise that most deals happen on the 8th connection. Get on the phone and call people, get on the computer and send out e-mails. Once you implement a regular

follow-up routine into their business, this will lead to opportunities for repeat business which will earn you more income.

Stay connected.

To be a successful business person, it is imperative that you connect and network with people on a regular basis. Relationships play a huge part in success, and people are more likely to execute business with people they are connected to and can trust. Connecting with people virtually online is important as well. As busy as you may be, you should be able to reach out, respond to people on social media, and build that connection. As scary as it may be sometimes to make these connections, you always have to do it.

Learn to always do things that scare you, and you will be able to withstand the things you never thought you were capable of, and that is when you’ll begin to see changes.

by Shade Y. Adu- Personal Brand Strategist.

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Books To Read This Quarter

When God Says Go

by Velma Trayham

This new guide will show you how to survive and thrive in business and forge a path toward success in every area of life.

Your Soul’s Navigational GPS

by Brandi N. Jefferson-Motley

You will find 365 different Bible verses, daily reflections and suggested songs of meditation; that are aimed to encourage you as you navigate the course that God has set before you .

Power and Promise

by Wanda L. Scott Living Your Life with power fulfilling God’s promises on Purpose!

Life and Love

by Wanda L. Scott For Life and Love you have to know what you are in agreement with

Soul Talk

Jesus Loves You!

Twenty soul-stirring stories of women who let go and let God.

God’s only son, Jesus, wants you to know that He loves you.

He loves you more than you can ever imagine.

by Cheryl P. Williamson & Co-Author Siobhan Davenport

I’m Expensive

by Schenell Boyd

This book is a prophetic announcement that God is about to bring the pieces of your life back together, so that the inside matches the outside. God wants you to know... you are expensive!

by Christine Topjian

Stop Asking For Permission & Give Notice

by Charron Monaye

This book offers provocative lessons, actionable tools, real-life situations, and coaching questions to help you accept responsibility, own your lessons, and begin the journey to live

a life you desire today.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,� declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

NOTES

Fall 2017

GOD WILL TAKE YOUR BROKEN PIECES AND CREATE A MASTERPIECE! #TODAYSPURPOSEWOMAN

Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.