Huami Magazine Arkansas Jan./Feb. 2024 by Terry Watson

ARKANSAS

Jan./Feb. 2024 Vol. 2 Issue 10

Arkansas - Jan./Feb. 2024

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Prayer Is More Effective A Letter From The Editor

Happy New Year! It is truly a blessing to continue to do what God has called me to do. I am so appreciative of what Huami Magazine was able to accomplish in 2023, and I am even more excited about the things that will happen ahead. I thank each supporter, and I promise that we will continue to allow God to be the vision and direction of this amazing publication. This year, Mykel Media Company LLC, the parent company that publishes Huami Magazine, is back at it. We are excited to relaunch Spunq Sports Magazine. We are also amping up the production of Huami For Kids Magazine, and with each publication that is produced by our company, a newly designed line of merchandise and apparel will accompany it. When I think about where we have come from over the previous seventeen years, my heart wells with emotion because I know we couldn’t have made it without the prayers of those who believe in what God purposed. I thank you for your prayers and for believing. My message is for those who are questioning what is happening in your life. God is working. Oftentimes, we can’t see His hand, but He is there. Even at our lowest of lowest moments, and we have exhausted the last granule of strength to move, God is working. We must believe that not everyone desires to see you fail. In the midst of onlookers, there are some who find comfort and strength in seeing the underdog win. Trophies are made for underdogs as well. What’s more beautiful to know is that true believers are strengthened by witnessing God work miracles in the lives of others, too! As disciples and believers in God, we must always seek ways to be an answered prayer for someone who needs it. Long before God assigned me a purpose, I was helped out of my pits by the selfless prayers of other believers. Believers who weren’t amused or entertained by my shortcomings or faults but were excited about seeing me blossom into my fullest potential. So they prayed for me. Prayer is the most effective thing we can do.

Terry L. Watson 4

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CONTENTS

JAN./FEB. 2024

ARKANSAS

Black & Educated Clothing

Montez Fifer

On The Cover

Junkyard Fitness Inc.

Natasha Houston

Author and Business Woman

Shana Crumbough

Gold Link Beard Co.

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Broderick Williams

Mecca Causey

Also Featured

Jazley Trouser Learn more about how she uses her experience of being a foster child to help other foster kids in her community. Detroit, MI

Adam Harris Life is all about the impression and impact you make on others along the way. Learn more about who he is. Detroit, MI

Denise Lee Meet the face and founder of Broom Brush Tea Co. Learn more about she uses her teas to help others. Phoenix, AZ

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Junkyard Fitness, Inc. By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Natasha Houston

While Natasha Houston resides in Little Rock, AR, her native home is undefined. Her stance is that she is not really from anywhere because she moved around a lot as a kid. After graduating high school, she joined the United States Air Force, and her nomadic conquest would continue. Now, as a Disabled Air Force Veteran, Natasha has found her footing as a successful physical fitness trainer, helping others obtain healthy lifestyles. Natasha is the owner of Junkyard Fitness, Inc. Her company is operated under two umbrellas: a coaching side with Junkyard Clinic and a health side with Junkyard Fitness. “Junkyard Fitness, Inc. is a holistic business that focuses on the whole person. We offer services and products that educate clients and customers on the benefit of a natural holistic transition of mind, body, and soul,” she says. Natasha offers a variety of coaching programs. One of them is Mindfulness & Stress Management, which teaches mindfulness techniques and strategies for managing stress. There is also Spiritual Coaching that helps individuals explore and enhance their spiritual beliefs, practices, and overall sense of purpose. Natasha also has Relationship Coaching that assists clients in improving their interpersonal relationships, whether they’re romantic, family, or friendship. With her Health & Wellness Coaching, she supports clients in improving their physical and mental health, often focusing on areas like nutrition, fitness, and stress management. Finally, Natasha provides Weight Loss & Holistic Nutrition, which focuses on nutrition and overall health, supporting dietary and lifestyle changes. Her clients can choose alternative medicine or general health supplements through plant-based solutions. Her Junkyard Herbal/Juice Solutions include Compound Capsulated Supplements filled with plant-based herbs. She also has Sea Moss Gel, Elderberry, Fresh Cold Pressed Juice, and all-natural fruit juices for detox, energy, and nutritional value. Her Natural Hair/Skin Products are Natural Soaps, Natural Hair Oil, and Natural Hair and Skin Body Moisturizer or Butter. Natasha has a Masters of Science degree in Organizational Leadership. She has served in fitness for six years, and in 2023, she incorporated wellness into her portfolio and began utilizing it in her healing journey. Junkyard Fitness, Inc. was launched on June 1st, 2018. Natasha says, “I opened a gym in North Little Rock, AR, and only provided fitness programs. As I started noticing and learning how health and weight loss worked, I started looking into other ways to help my clients to aid in their weight loss journey. That opened the door to me exploring and learning more than just fitness benefits, but whole-body benefits and about mind and spirit. My research also helped to gain an understanding of the current food industry and how people are impacted by it. It also involved understanding black culture and how African Americans, hundreds of years ago, relied on plants and plant-based lifestyles for improved health and healing.” In her business, Natasha says what she loves most about what she does is exposing the truth: the truth that everything isn’t fixed by medicine and that healing can happen naturally if you feed your body and mind to do so. “The more that I had expanded my knowledge on how the mind and body work, what it needs to heal, and the importance of physical strength, especially for the disabled, the more it has answered the one question I asked myself once I was medically discharged from the military; Was the body not meant to heal itself naturally? And if so, how?”

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Natasha says she is inspired by the teachings of the late, great Dr. Sebi and learning how the body is able to heal itself. “As stated before, I am a disabled military veteran, and I have over 11 physical disabilities and four mental health challenges. I have relied on medication for help with chronic pain, inflammation, the physical limitations it caused, and the level of sadness that followed. The day that I decided to end my relationship with prescribed medication was the day that I prayed to God to help me find a solution to my agony. Within the next 24 hours, a married couple and longtime friends, Darnell and Soraya Stark, recommended that I watch a video on YouTube about Dr. Sebi. I got lost in studies and started my own journey to self-healing in order to naturally cope with my health challenges,” she says. There is Junkyard Fitness Inc. and the challenge of branding and building the brand. Natasha has tackled this head-on and realizes the benefits it has, as well as understands the different ways to incorporate it into her processes. “Marketing and branding strategist Sheenica Smiley of A Blind Vision Studios is currently coaching me. Sheenica is a photographer and has helped me make my brand more identifiable. We are currently working on putting processes in place to improve how I connect with current and future customers and clients,” she says. Additionally, Natasha is always looking for ways to educate her clients and others about the benefits of holistic lifestyle changes. A tool she has brought into the fold is a new podcast.

Personal development is also something Natasha focuses on. There is a level of confidence, faith, and tenacity she believes one must have to have as an entrepreneur. “The more I worked on myself and evolved into a newer version of myself, the better my business became. Working on myself looks like heavy mediation. It also looks like taking time by myself, tuning the world out, and checking in with my total self, mind, body, and soul,” she says. For someone interested in holistic health as a business, Natasha advises always to be true to yourself first, and everything else will fall into place. “The holistic lifestyle is a journey, and nothing is to be rushed. The more information you absorb about the benefits and how it can help others, the more likely you are to grow through your own process. Sometimes, that requires pulling away from the business and taking time for yourself mentally, physically, and spiritually. It may seem like financial suicide, but it will actually make your business stronger.” As she looks ahead, Natasha says she is finally ready to take her business outside of her local community of Little Rock, AR. “I have a lot of clients all over the world, and due to my connection to the military, I also have clients overseas. This has encouraged me to reach even further nationally and internationally by tapping into content sharing through podcasts, blogs, and speaking engagements. Personally, I am still working on myself. To whom much is given, much is required, and I want to be prepared mentally, physically, and spiritually to handle what is coming for me and Junkyard Fitness, Inc.” h

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Adam Harris By Sherry Rogers Photos Provided by Adam Harris Adam Harris walks the earth sowing seeds of kindness. Professionally, he is the director of the federally funded Trio Upward Bound program. The program is designed to assist and prepare students in underserved communities for college. Beyond his work life, Adam is a three-time published author, penning his first book, A Heart to Give: A Journal of Transformation, at age 21. Since then, he has written Adams L.A.W. Lessons Along the Way and One Michigan Moment in T.I.M.E. Adam is also a well-soughtafter motivational speaker and a community organizer. This servant leader is intentional in his pursuit to serve “the least of these”, a mantra he adapted from his father and a practice his parents consistently demonstrated. “Serving others is more than what I do. It is who I am.” Originally from Southfield, MI, Adam is the youngest child born to ministers Allen and Sylvia Harris. At the age of four, he served alongside his parents at their former church, The World Church of God Mission. The storefront church, located on Mack Avenue in downtown Detroit, operated as an empowerment zone for people to receive immediate assistance through donations or by connecting them to specific resources. Adam laughs as he recalls his family’s daily routine. “After school, my siblings and I would have about an hour to finish our homework, and then we left to go and serve. This was our daily schedule, not just what we did on Sundays but every day.” In addition to passing out clothing and serving hot meals to thousands in the Detroit area, their church provided a space where the community could be heard and families received prayer.

“After school, my siblings and I would have about an hour to finish our homework, and then we left to go and serve. This was our daily schedule, not just what we did on Sundays but every day.”

The normalcy of Adam’s childhood sadly ended when, at the age of 11, he experienced the death of his father. The loss caused him extreme grief. “Losing my dad at such an early age was traumatic. It made me view life through a different lens,” he shares. Arkansas - Jan./Feb. 2024

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As Adam continued to work through his grief, he was introduced to his band teacher, Mr. Randy Scott, who would become Adam’s very first African American male teacher. Adam and Mr. Scott would form a bond that would help Adam through some of the most pivotal moments in his life. After completing high school, Adam attended the University of Michigan-Dearborn. There, he played basketball and also managed to fuse his love for helping others with the game and organized basketball camps for the youth. Along with the help of his teammates, he combined skills training with college tours and motivational experiences. “We wanted to show the campers that although we were college athletes, we cared about their futures,” Adam says. During his senior year, Adam created the service organization “SWOT”, Students Working Onward Together. With the assistance of over 100 college students, he provided community outreach for individuals in the metro Detroit area. During this time, Adam also worked as an intern at United Way. In 2008, he brought the alternative spring break program to Detroit for outreach within marginalized communities. It was the first time that a service initiative was introduced to an area such as Detroit. This concept would eventually take on a life of its own and has since expanded all over the United States, thanks to Adam. With his heart to serve and love for people, Adam has inspired many others. He humbly contends that he is merely passing on what has been poured into him. In addition to his parents, Adam proudly speaks of the strong group of mentors who have encouraged him throughout his life journey. Besides Randy Scott, an international jazz recording artist, Adam’s circle of inspiration includes civil rights activist Dr. Gloria House, Dr. Glenn McIntosh, Senior VP & Chief Diversity Officer, and Dr. Tyrone Bledsoe, the founder of the Student African American Brotherhood. “They all continue the cultivation of who I am today. They spoke life within me and would not allow me to do anything in deviation of what they saw in me,’’ he says. Adam’s appreciation is genuine, and he has also publicly honored each one by presenting them with Guiding Light Awards.

www.iamadamharris.com

So what’s next for this young visionary? He says, “I am looking forward to marrying my fiance, Sharnese Marshall, in August. I am also working on several book projects and devoting time to working on my brother’s legacy, the late Abraham Harris. He served his community by adopting local elementary schools and providing toys for every student in those schools for the last seven years, and I want others to continue to benefit from his efforts”. A quote by Rober Schuller says, “Find the need and fill it. Find a hurt and heal it and find a problem and solve it.” This quote resonates with Adam, and he adds, “I just want to serve at a level that pleases God.” h

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Pastor

Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church “I See Ministry As An Opportunity to Impact The Lives of Members of My Community” By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Pastor Curtis L. Johnson Everyone has a story. Our lives are made of the roads we’ve traveled, many of which are full of twists and turns, with a few peaks and valleys. Some are littered with pitfalls and obstacles, strategically placed to slow our progress or ultimately stop us. For Greenville, SC, native Curtis Johnson, the story of his life is no different. As the pastor of Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church Baptist Church located in Pelzer, SC, Pastor Curtis Johnson says, his focus is to lead lost souls to God and make an impression on the world that is pleasing in the eyes of God. “I am a man with a genuine desire to please God who strives to uplift my people. I see ministry as an opportunity to impact the lives of members of my community. I give myself to make that happen in any capacity that I can,” he says. Currently residing in Mauldin, SC, Pastor Curtis Johnson graduated from JL Mann High School. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and served four years before returning home to fulfill his true calling. Pastor Johnson later attended Morris College School of Religion Greenville Extension, and North Grenville University. He earned his Master of Divinity Degree from the M. Christopher White School of Divinity at Gardner-Webb University. He has been married to Charla for 34 years, and they share two sons, Isiah and Joshua. He has served as Senior Pastor of the Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church Church since 1993. “Our vision is summed up in the acronym I.M.P.A.C.T., which stands for “Innovate Ministries for Personal and Community Transformation,” he says. “Our ministry is truly about life application. We help individuals advance socially, spiritually, financially, and economically, regardless of their stage of life.” He is also a former S.C. State Overseer for the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship. Pastor Johnson is a “Preacher’s Grandkid”. His father was his grandfather’s chairman of Deacons and his mother was the musician for the church. The church was birthed while sitting around his grandparents kitchen table in 1987. This happened around the time when Pastor Johnson was still in the Air Force, and while he was deciding to reenlist for another four years, he made the choice to come back to South Carolina and help his family with their ministry. “It was then, in 1990, that I felt the call into ministry and preached my first sermon on August 12th of that year,” he says. After preaching for a few years, Pastor Johnson says his grandfather was getting up in age, so he turned the ministry over to him in 1993, and in May of last year, he celebrated 30 years of preaching the gospel of God. Pastor Johnson says the journey of preaching over the last 30 years has given him an extensive perspective of what ministry could be about and its potential impact locally and internationally. His journey has also come with some things that Pastor Johnson didn’t see coming. In February of last year, he suffered a major heart attack and needed emergency heart surgery. “I didn’t know I was having a heart attack. I had been dealing with some intense heartburn for a few days and decided to visit an urgent care facility to get something to help with it. While there, they called the ambulance, and I was transported to a hospital. I was taken to pre-op and taken into emergency surgery. They told me I was actively having a heart attack, and I couldn’t believe it. The level of pain was not very severe, and I didn’t think it was that serious, yet it was. I now encourage men to visit their doctors and get regular checkups,” he says.

“I am a man with a genuine desire to please God who strives to uplift my people.” With therapy and treatment, Pastor Johnson would fully recover from the heart attack he suffered in February. However, life would continue to happen for him. In July of last year, he was diagnosed with Aggressive Prostate Cancer and was told that he needed to have surgery immediately. In August, the surgery was successfully performed, and all of the cancer cells were removed. “Had I not had myself checked out, I very well have missed what was going on with me, but I paid attention, and by the grace of God, I am still here,” he says. “Not only have I fully recovered from my heart attack, I am 100% cancer-free. I am absolutely blessed. Being able to be here with my family, I give God all of the glory and praise for that.” Pastor Johnson is known as a Change Agent in his community and shares that he feels his ministry can make life better for others. “I am a problem solver. I love making a difference and helping people. I also love creating a different culture and environment in our community,” he says. Pastor Johnson is a Community Activist, Social Justice Advocate, and is a contracted NonViolence365 employee for King Center for Nonviolent Social Change in Atlanta, GA, under the leadership of Dr Bernice King. He has been a strategic partner in establishing long term relationships between The King Center and both the NFL, and the American Red Cross. He is an active member of the Disaster Services Department of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International, under the leadership of Bishop LaTresa Jester. Additionally, Pastor Johnson has produced projects in the Upstate Community to address social issues that relate to race, violence, diversity, and more. Pastor Johnson credits his grandfather with shaping his life into what it is today. He also credits the late Dr Myles Munroe for helping him understand the kingdom of God. When Pastor Johnson became a part of the Full Gospel Baptist Fellowship, he became connected with the late Bishop Eddie Long, and Pastor Johnson credits him for helping him to see what the church could do more beyond their walls. He also appreciates the ministry of Bishop TD Jakes of The Potter’s House Church in Dallas, TX, and Bishop Joseph Walker, the presiding Bishop for Full Gospel Baptist Fellowship, for having incredible ministries and programs that have impacted millions of lives. “Now, at age 56, what keeps me going are the solid relationships I have with other pastors and the people we serve. I don’t seek to duplicate other pastors, but instead learn from them,” he says. As the future unfolds, Pastor Johnson plans to continue to be a willing vessel for God. When Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church came about in 1987, they were in a small building that held about 100 people. In 1993, he took over as pastor, and in 1999, the church bought 25 acres of land to build a new church, and it successfully opened its doors of their bigger facility in 2001. It currently seats between 800 - 1000 people, while only utilizing 10 acres of the land that was purchased. As the shepherd and visionary of Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church, he is leading the way in building a multi-unit housing development on 10 of the remaining available acres. “I want to get families out of the streets and create solutions to homelessness.” To learn more about Pastor Curtis Johnson and Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church Baptist Church, please visit their website. h

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“Pretty Girl You Can Do Hard Things” By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Shana Crumbough

When creativity meets drive, you meet Shana Crumbough. The 39-year-old Decatur, AL, native is huge on family and describes herself as a helper and a do-er at heart. She also loves music and dancing and shares that everyone around her must feel loved, heard, and cared for. Shana obtained her Bachelor of Sociology degree from The University of North Alabama, a Master of Social Work from the University of Alabama, and is currently pursuing her second Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis from the University of West Florida. Shana is a member of the Central North Alabama Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., and devotes her life to helping and serving others. At the focal point of Shana’s life is God. Without Him, Shana confesses that she wouldn’t be who she is. Having several professional and personal accomplishments, Shana is a licensed, board-certified behavior analyst and Satori Alternatives to Managing Aggression (SAMA) facilitator. In her role, she teaches safely de-escalating situations using verbal and, if needed, physical containment to individuals to help them and others they serve be safe. Four years ago, Shana opened one of two (hers being the only black-owned) behavioral intervention and de-escalation companies for children with special needs and disruptive behaviors in the classroom. She also successfully secured a contract with a local school system.

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Today, she is the owner of Every Step ABA Services, LLC, and Shana Dawn Books. Her company teaches classroom readiness, potty training, and increasing effective communication skills. In addition to de-escalating disruptive and sometimes aggressive behaviors, she works with other professionals to eliminate barriers that prohibit students from engaging appropriately in a typical learning environment. Additionally, Shana serves as a fitness instructor and encourages health, movement, and fun for people of all ages in her community. She has performed the opening act to start The Thrive Run in Indiana, The Alzheimer’s Walk, and The Color Vibe Run in Huntsville and Decatur. Shana became a published poet at the age of ten. Over the previous four years, she has authored four books, and throughout her college career, she performed as a member of a spoken word group. Philosophies she lives by are “Find The Silver Lining, You May Have To Dig, But It’s Always There” and “Do It Scared”. As an author, some of the books that she has published are: Maybe I Can Too, Maybe I Can Too Coloring Book, Affirmations and Actions for Those with Fibromyalgia and Other Invisible Illnesses, and PaPa Tim and His Favorite Hat. The PaPa Tim series was released in memory of her father, Tim Crumbough.

everystepaba@gmail.com www.everystepaba.com So how did Shana get started? She shares, “Every Step ABA Services is the fulfillment of a dream. I began in June 2019 with a friend and Soror, Alicia L. Jackson. We worked together previously, and we wanted to be the first women who looked like us to own a company that serviced children with Autism. Our paths led us in different ways briefly, but we stayed in contact and were always willing to share treatment ideas. We knew we could change lives around us, and I believed that having a partner you can trust and exchange ideas with is genuinely beneficial.” In 2019, Shana called Alicia and asked her if she was ready for the new school year. Thankfully, she was. “I worked on the ground, and Alicia worked behind the scenes while working another job and being a new mom. We made it work,” Shana says. Alicia is no longer with Shana’s company. However, she continues to do amazing things and change lives, all while keeping the relationship with Shana intact.

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As a black woman, I am constantly judged for the way I wear my hair. Whether it is microaggression or openly blatant racism, it is still around. I wanted little girls coming after me to know they are capable beyond measure.” Arkansas - Jan./Feb. 2024

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It is obvious that Shana is walking in her purpose. The vision for both companies is connected to her faith in God. With writing, Shana says, “I have always loved writing and have had an active imagination. As a black woman, I am constantly judged for the way I wear my hair. Whether it is microaggression or openly blatant racism, it is still around. I wanted little girls coming after me to know they are capable beyond measure. That is the reason behind my first book. The fourth book, PaPa Tim and His Favorite Hat, is the first book in the PaPa Tim series and is produced in memory of my dad, who passed away in July 2022. My dad absolutely loved his hats, and this series is close to my heart.” Shana says she loves utilizing her skills to help change the lives of children, their parents, and teachers. “I have the opportunity to change the trajectory of someone’s life. It is worth it if I can make a task easier and allow the child or the family to succeed. Seeing children succeed makes my heart happy! It is the why,” she says. As an independent author, Shana shares that exposure is the biggest challenge she faces. “Of course, I would love to walk into large bookstores and see my books or be one of the authors discussed on national television. Until that moment happens, I will continue to work locally to get my books in the hands of as many children as possible.” Moving forward, Shana plans to continue to find ways to serve and help others. Whether it be within her business or some other capacity, she will remain in a loving and giving posture. She is currently hiring hiring local RBTs and Behavior Therapist Her advice to others who may be sitting on a vision and waiting for clarity on what to do next is simple. “Don’t be afraid to step out! Don’t let not knowing how to do something stop you from doing it. Believe in yourself and God’s plan for you,” she says. “When it is something I want to do, there is no amount of “no’s” that will stop me!” h

Shana Crumbough

crumboughbooks@gmail.com Shanadawnbooks.com 22

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Denise Lee Broom Brush Tea Co. By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Denise Lee

Denise Lee of Phoenix, AZ, knew as a young girl what her purpose in life would involve: Teas. She says, “Teas were my purpose all along; I just didn’t know. As a young girl, my mom had her garden, and I loved rushing home from school to see what was growing. I have always loved plants, and when my hands are in the dirt, it’s a connection that feels right.” Denise is the daughter of Carrie Hamilton (Parker) and was given a gift from an ancestor to create herbal medicine. As a child, she attended Jorgenson Elementary and grew up in South Phoenix. In her mother’s garden, Denise developed a love of plants and teas. Today, Denise is the owner of Broom Brush Teas. “The name Broom Bush is mentioned in Ezekiel in the bible. If you read Bush Medicine of the Bahamas, you will learn about this bush. Another name for this herb in the Bahamas is seaside thyme. They use the leafy stems or the entire plant. The Broom Bush is used to cure jaundice and failed liver. It also must be administered by a Bush Doctor,” she says. “I don’t use this in any of my teas, but my dream is to become a master Bush Doctor and work with this bush. It’s very powerful.”

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With her company, Denise offers consultations regarding herbal teas to aid in the body’s ability to heal itself from different alignments. She also sells herbal teas for individuals who choose a holistic lifestyle. “The first tea that I created was the Khealing Tea. It was during the onset of Covid 19. It was very effective and sought after during that period mainly due to the 43 immunity-boosting herbs it possesses,” she says.

Building her business has been challenging, and having the capital to sustain its growth is one that Denise has faced head-on. Still, she is resilient and committed to helping others with her teas. Her advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs is to start by structuring your business properly, studying long and hard, and ensuring you are committed to your work. Even when the money isn’t there, you have to love what you’re doing.

The journey of starting her company began for Denise many years ago. It was in 2014 and was during that time that her mother passed away. Denise and her siblings were cleaning out her mom’s home when they came across a book filled with herbs. Denise chose to read it. “When COVID hit, something told me to get that book. I took all the herbs that support immunity and created the Khealing Tea. I passed this tea out to family and friends. A family member had a friend get sick, and she dropped the tea at the doorstep of their home. The family took the tea and was over COVID in four days. They later called me because their aunt ended up in the hospital with COVID. They took the tea to the hospital and gave it to her daily, and she was home by the end of the week. Later, someone posted my address on Facebook, calling my tea the COVID Killer, and people started coming to my house for it. I later asked if they could take my address down and meet me at the Laveen Farmers Market to get the tea. At this point, I didn’t have a business; I was only selling the Khealing Tea for $15. I didn’t understand that making it cost me more than $15, so I was losing money. The tea was selling so fast, and I called my sister and asked her for money. She wanted to know if what I was doing was a hobby or a business. If I would make it a business, she would help, and that is how I started Broom Bush Tea,” Denise says.

Looking ahead, Denise dreams of making her teas accessible to others in stores such as Sprouts. “I have a dream to get my teas in Sprouts, even if it’s just the Sprouts in my neighborhood,” she says. “I would also like to get my teas in other stores such as AJ’s, Walgreens, and CVS. More than anything, I plan to continue to listen to my community and provide highquality products to support a healthy lifestyle,” she says.

Denise shares that her teas are designed for the person who is sick of the adverse side effects of medicine and is willing to lose weight, eat better, exercise, and drink herbal teas. “My teas are created to inspire the healing journey, giving the power back to the person and the earth,” she says. When asked what she loves most about what she does, Denise says it is being available for her customers. “I love it when my customers visit the Farmers Market and share their healing stories with me after taking my teas. Sometimes, I am amazed by how fast they work. I recall one customer whose husband previously had testicle cancer. She had been trying to have another baby with her husband for years without success. The doctors said her husband’s sperm count was low and IVF would be the route path to take. I sold them my “His All Nighter Tea” and “IVF Tea”. The customer came back to the market three months later and shared they were expecting. I was in shock that the teas worked that fast. God gives us plants that have been on the Earth longer than man. Plants heal and they heal quickly. Like a dying plant, if you give it water and sunlight, it will sprout a green leaf out of nowhere, healing itself and bringing new leaves quickly,” Denise says.

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Broom Brush Tea Co. www.broombushtea.com 602-250-0177

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Jazley Trosuser Equipping Youth With Tools To Succeed By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Jazzley Trouser

While the city of Detroit, MI, is well known for being an automobile powerhouse and for having a community of resilient and determined citizens, there are some other things happening that are worthy of sharing. Meet Jazley Trouser. Jazley Trouser, a Detroit native, is the pioneer and organizer behind Life After Care (L.A.C.), a nonprofit organization that focuses on meeting the needs of foster youth by providing fundamental abilities to develop versatile properties and support. Through a 26week educational program on central life skills, students have significantly improved in financial literacy, character, professional engagement, culinary expressions/well-being/cleanliness, mental care, and social skills. Jazley says, “If a youngster has a rich and varied foundation from varying backgrounds joined with proficient encounters, a kid is knowledgeable in context and capacity.” The vision for Life After Care (L.A.C.) was birthed after Jazley encountered direct holes in the childcare framework. “I committed to utilizing my encounters to execute a program that would everlastingly steer youth improvement. The ‘L.A.C.’ program was established in 2021 in light of my expert information as a young, trained professional with previous cultivated care encounters. I chose to create a program with volunteers from the local area, a component that helped me thrive as a kid.” For the most part, Jazley has constructed her life around serving others. Her love and commitment to serving are connected to her upbringing, and L.A.C. gives her a platform to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Arkansas - Jan./Feb. 2024

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“My insight as a mother and the unconditional love I have for others has permitted me to fulfill the neglected areas many foster youth experience.”

She says, “In the wake of losing my mom to cancer early on, I lived with a drugdependent father during probably the most crucial seasons of young adolescence. The unbelievable conditions prompted me to experience childhood in the foster care framework. Throughout many transitional years, a village of people who wanted to see me succeed supported me as best they could. I earned an associate’s degree in business administration and gained experience in various fields. After having my daughter and recognizing the holes foster care presented me in my upbringing, I knew it was a matter of time before my passion, experience, and will to make an impact would align. My insight as a mother and the unconditional love I have for others has permitted me to fulfill the neglected areas many foster youth experience. My lived and shared encounters have birthed an unquestionable association that separates me from anybody in the field of educating and supporting foster youth. Inside a defective framework, I saw a chance to give others the fundamental abilities I frantically needed while in foster care. Now, I battle for change in how foster youth are considered, educated, supported, acknowledged, and loved.” Jazley says she loves teaching and pushing for foster youth who need a voice and a stage. She does this utilizing the assets and comprehension of the Detroit community. Through her work, youth are heard, seen, and outfitted with what they need to survive and ensure they are not anchored to their conditions and traumas. Helping others isn’t a simple task. To be quite honest, it can be quite challenging. Jazley says that intruding on any framework with change accompanies a couple of knocks here and there. She adds that Life After Care, a ‘framework transformer,’ is entrusted with distinguishing tricky regions and positively affecting all angels. In doing so, her organization is challenged with informing its students and setting a solid foundation for their future. L.A.C. has managed these challenges by remaining focused and standing firm regarding the needs of those it serves.

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Moving forward, Jazley desires to continue to build a program that will persevere. “To accomplish this, we must mix the organization with crucial standards of ethics and values. By focusing on integrity in all we do, I am confident our program will flourish while influencing and cultivating youth long into the future,” she says. h

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By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Gold Link Beard Co. Emery Sumberlin III and Broderick Williams have made it their purpose to make an impression in the grooming and beard care industry for men. These ambitious, business-savvy entrepreneurs reign from Fort Worth, TX, and are the founders of Gold Link Beard Co. Gold Link Beard Company started in 2018 with an online store and opened its first location during the summer of 2023 in the Parks Mall in Arlington, TX. Today, the company offers a wide range of men’s grooming products for beard and hair care. Some products and services they provide are beard oils, beard balms, lotions, beard kits, natural woodcombs and brushes, handmade candles, and jewelry. Overall, Gold Link Beard Co. provides a comprehensive range of men’s grooming products and accessories crafted with care and designed to enhance the grooming experience while promoting healthy and stylish beards and hair. Emery is a native of Fort Worth, Texas, and currently resides in Mansfield, Texas, with his wife and three children. He attended the University of North Texas, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology. Emery furthered his education at Amberton University, obtaining a Masters Degree in Human Relations and Business. With over 18 years of experience in Criminal Justice, Education, and Youth Development, Emery has made a significant impact in these fields. He has worked diligently to create positive change and provide opportunities for individuals within these sectors. Emery is not only dedicated to his professional endeavors but is also an ambitious entrepreneur. He started his own carpet cleaning business, which gained recognition for its exceptional service and customer satisfaction. Eventually, he established himself as a top real estate agent in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, helping clients find their dream homes and navigate the real estate market. Emery’s diverse background and extensive experience have shaped him into a well-rounded individual who is passionate about making a difference in his community. He continues to strive for excellence in all his endeavors and is committed to providing exceptional service and opportunities for others. Gold Link Beard Co.’s co-founder, Broderick, is a multifaceted individual who has made significant contributions as an entrepreneur, educator, and community activist. Born and raised on the SouthSide Side of Fort Worth, Broderick is a proud graduate of Texas Wesleyan University. He has always been passionate about making a positive impact in his community, which led him to serve as a zoning commissioner in District 6 of Fort Worth. He is also a dedicated member of the esteemed Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., actively participating in various initiatives to empower and uplift his community. Broderick has played a pivotal role in fostering entrepreneurship and providing opportunities for aspiring business owners and community groups in his role as co-founder. In addition to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Broderick is deeply committed to social causes. He is also the co-founder of Survive and Thrive Education, a non-profit organization that focuses on supporting student support services from high school through college. Through this initiative, Broderick aims to ensure that every student has access to the resources and guidance they need to succeed academically and professionally. With a strong belief in the power of education, Broderick has founded several educational programs aimed at providing comprehensive support to students.

Gold Link Beard Co. products are specifically made for men who take pride in their appearance and hygiene. These products are also designed to cater to the needs of men who have facial hair, whether it’s a full beard, mustache, or stubble. The company understands that men’s grooming needs and accessories are unique and different from women’s, and they have created a line of products that address these specific needs. Gold Link’s beard oils are specially formulated to moisturize and nourish their client’s beard and skin underneath. These oils help to soften the beard, reduce itchiness, and promote healthy beard growth. They are made with natural ingredients and come in different scents to suit individual preferences. Their beard balms are similar to beard oils but have a thicker consistency. They state their beard balms provide additional hold and control for shaping and styling the beard. They also provide moisture and nourishment to keep the beard healthy and manageable.

Broderick Williams

The lotions offered by Gold Link Beard Co. are specifically designed for men’s grooming needs. These lotions are lightweight and non-greasy, providing hydration and nourishment to the skin without leaving a heavy residue. They can be used on the face, beard, and body and assist with keeping the skin moisturized and smooth. Their beard kits include a combination of beard oils, balms, and other grooming essentials and are perfect for those who want a complete set of products for their beard care routine. The Natural WoodCombs and Brushes are highquality combs and brushes made from natural wood. They are designed to detangle and style the beard without causing any damage, help distribute their products evenly, and promote healthy beard growth. For those interested in creating a relaxing and inviting atmosphere while enjoying their grooming routine, the Handmade Candles they offer will help achieve that experience. Their candles are made with natural ingredients and come in various scents. Their selection of handmade jewelry, including bracelets, necklaces, and rings, is made with high-quality materials and complements the modern man’s style. Emery and Broderick share they love providing a product and service that caters to men’s personal appearance. “We believe that men should take care of themselves, so they can continue to be pillars in the community and in their family. Gold Link Beard Co. encourages men to pay attention to the small details, from the hair on their faces to their smell or an accessory that may bring out a favorite outfit or suit,” they said.

Emery Sumberlin III

The duo also says they are inspired by serving their community. “Growing up in an area that did not afford many opportunities, we have been blessed to receive love and support from those in our local community. This support has kept our businesses afloat and provided us opportunities to give back to them through Survive and Thrive Education,” they shared. Like most businesses, Emery and Broderick have faced some challenges. Having a limited budget and not seeing a significant return on their investment has been one. “Another challenge is that the grooming industry is highly competitive, with many established brands already catering to the market. Standing out and differentiating from competitors is challenging,” they said. Marketing can be costly for small businesses, but it’s a must-have, and Emery and Broderick have been creative and resourceful to stay ahead of the game, utilizing their marketing dollars very wisely. Gold Link Beard Co. has partnered with the program, Partner to Empower, which gives them the opportunity to expand their business into other malls across the country. “Our goal for 2024 is to open up another location in Texas and to also increase our online presence. We also plan to expand by getting our products in stores such as Macy’s, Dillards, or Target,” they shared. h

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“Twant me, ‘twas the Lord. I always told him, ‘I trust to you. I don’t know where to go or what to do, but I expect you to lead me,’ and He always did.”

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Mecca Causey The son of Ryan Causey and Nijalon Jackson-Causey

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FIFER

Black & Educated By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Montez Fifer From FBI to Fashion icon, Memphis, TN, native Montez Fifer is no stranger to style. Born and raised in the Whitehaven area of Memphis, TN, Montez Fifer got involved with fashion, particularly fashion design, at a young age. Montez was always curious about how he could style different pieces to make it his own, and that curiosity would continue to follow him throughout his young life. Montez graduated from Southwind High School in Memphis. His next move was to attend the University of Memphis, where he received his undergraduate degree in criminal justice. After college, Montez says he originally planned to join the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). He shares, “I handled the programs at the FBI academy with ease, performed well on all my interviews, and was ready to get started. That was until I had to take a lie detector test. I stood true to my morals and told them the truth about being a part of a drug transaction earlier in life,” Montez’s honesty caused officials to stop the whole process and, ultimately, ended his chance at being a part of the FBI. That experience really changed the trajectory of Montez’s goals for life. Eventually, he worked at a warehouse, making a good living, but he wanted more. Today, Montez is the face and visionary of Black and Educated, a fashion line he created to express his viewpoint and creativity on life. Montez shared that the uptick of police brutality and the death of young black men motivated his brand, taking note of Trayvon Martin’s death and how he was labeled suspicious for walking around with a black hoodie, he shares, “I always thought what if his black hoodie had a message on it?” Then in November of 2015, Montez and his cousin drew up the first official logo: a baby wearing glasses and holding a book. In the beginning, just a few of his family and friends wore his brand, but as more people saw it, the interest in purchasing it grew. With his passion for fashion and his drive for bettering the black community, Montez took his brand full throttle in 2019.

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As the brand grew, so did the designs. Montez always wanted to keep his audience engaged, to the point of switching his logo every two months. However, he did some research and decided it would be best to have one primary logo, and four sublogos, all giving the perfect representation of Black and Educated. Although, Montez made it clear his brand is for everyone in the community, not just those who went to school. “I tell people all the time, you don’t need a degree to be B & E, Black and Educated. It’s all about life, you can learn from books, experiences, and even other people. I want others to feel empowered in the different ways.” Now if you’re looking for a nice, chill brand with a big message, you’ll get that through Black and Educated. Montez notes that his style is very simple and incorporates his message into his work. He avoids flashy designs and chooses to let the meaning of the brand shine more than the clothes. “Let your clothes do the talking. I’m all about a subtle flex. If they know they know, if they don’t, well then they’ll ask and find out.”

“Let your clothes do the talking. I’m all about a subtle flex. If they know they know, if they don’t, well then they’ll ask and find out.” Just like any business, Montez faced some challenges while growing his brand, and the main one was marketing. He is more of a homebody and doesn’t go out much to promote his work. He has also been challenged with finding brand ambassadors that care more about the brand than the money. Yet, he is grateful for having a strong group of friends who pick up the slack and support him to the fullest. Even more, during HBCU’s homecoming season, Montez makes sure to pop out and show out for his brand. Every year you can catch him at the Southern Heritage Classic, as well as many other HBCU events. Montez says he loves the opportunities and freedoms that come with building his brand. He says, “For as long as I’ve been doing this, I still get excited to press, design, and see the reactions from my supporters and customers. It gives me a sense of fulfillment to know that I did that.” As for the future of the Black and Educated brand, you can expect a few new pieces to hit the market soon. Montez also hopes to branch out and be a part of more vendor events across the nation, including the Essence Festival in New Orleans and events in Las Vegas. The ultimate goal, Montez says, is to build the brand larger, acquire a distribution deal, and have Black and Educated available at least 10 HBCU bookstores.

As for future designers, Montez says to wear your brand, try new things, and don’t get discouraged. Remember that your losses are lessons, and most importantly, if you really love your brand and believe in your brand, that’s all that matters. To learn more about Black and Educated, please visit their website. h

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