Huami Magazine Raleigh/Durham Nov./Dec. 2023 by Terry Watson

RALEIGH-DURHAM

Nov./Dec. 2023 Vol. 5 Issue 3

Antwan Short Family Vending Raleigh/Durham - Sept./Oct. 2023

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Get Your Copies Today!! “We looked like a wholesome, loving family on the outside, but on the inside, our house was a living hell. I had a controlling father, and my mother was his punching bag. I felt abandonment, fear, anxiety, and depression. I didn’t take care of my childhood trauma, so it showed up in my adult life. I wanted control, and the men in my life were victims of my wrath. My life came full circle when I met a man just like my father. It is time for my story to be told my way. My trauma. My triggers. My truth.” Dear Abuser…

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Your Voice is Your Ticket There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

A Letter From The Editor

Everything that will come to us in life is connected to our A Letter from the Editor voice. The word of God shares there is power in what we speak. We can speak about things that can change our outlook and circumstances: greatness,didn’t healing, abundance, prosperity, What if tomorrow arrive? All of your plans, hopes deliverance, victory, etc. With the same voice, we the and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on.have What if option to speak of detriment and destruction. everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never

happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy I day, am reminded of what my someone mother told as a young boy, “Be and you could spare theme trouble of making careful what you say”. When faced with adversity throughout promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired my life, the outcome has always been connected to what I said. today? What would you do? Whatever thought I allowed to reside in my mind about a situation, my actions wouldtold align with it. If Iseem believed I could win, I won; I’ve been that I often like Ithat do too much. if I thought I couldn’t, all came down to I’m what I spoke to Honestly, I feel likeI Idid amnot. notItdoing enough and a firm myself. believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me

that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would Imagine the challenges and accept adversity Brain Surgeons face within be if I chose to sit idle and what it presented to me. I their profession. They are asked to care for patients who have have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity suffered trauma to their head that involves bleeding, swelling, and is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge ultimately life-threatening conditions. The degree of difficulty in to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? their actions within the operating rooms is off the meter; still, they If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn must remain calm and complete their assignment. If the surgeons something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in spoke doubt and were unable to care for their patients, they would return acquire life. fail. They would fail if they allowed fear and disbelief to dictate their actions. Instead, they must speak with assurance, and by The best advice ever given to me happened when someone doing so, their confidence in their abilities will arise. It all comes told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so down to what they speak to themselves. I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between God speaks to us, and He doesn’t expect us to be quiet. what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with Whatever you want and need, open your mouth and speak. Your as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and body language should speak for you. How we treat others speaks when to be quiet, because for how we feel about ourselves. You will only go as far in life as someone may get it confused your voice will take you. with being arrogant. Your voice is your ticket to the Make you tomorrow greatness that God promises. Speak happen today, but most about what you expect to happen importantly make it count. in both moments of gaining and Life is but a whisper and relinquishing and giving and receiving, we must put ourselves in We a as the impact effect is the same. position to hear what it is must use the voices God gives us, as it us. we do. pleasestelling Him when

Terry TerryL.L.Watson Watson Editor/Founder 4

HuamiMagazine.com

November/December 2014

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L Watson

Publisher

www.huamimagazine.com Dorjae’ McClammey Editor In Chief Writer Terry L. Watson Writer Terry L. Watson Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Joy Rogers Writer Monica Montgomery Writer Writers

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HUAMI MAGAZINE is published quarterly by the Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any portion of this publication is prohibited without written permission from the publisher prior to doing so. Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility for statements made by individuals featured or advertisers. Comments concerning this publication may be submitted to the editor by E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com terry.editor@yahoo.com or to Mykel Media Company, LLC P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2014 All Rights Reserved

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CONTENTS

NOV./DEC. 2023

RALEIGH/DURHAM

Cammo Cleaning LLC

Cameron Woodard Littrell

On The Cover

The Man With A Pan

Antwan Short

A Legacy of Service

Percy B. Lawson

Tenacious Moments Consulting

Takiyah Henderson

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Autumn Thornton

Also Featured

Dr. Marty K. Casey The community of St. Louis has an advocate who is committed to making a positive impact. Learn more about her. St. Louis, MO

Monet Dyson She has created a fun space for everyone to splash paint. Learn more about her journey in business and life. Sacramento, CA

Monique Goddard Learn more about how she is putting her Caribbean influence on the housing market. She also happens to be physically fit for the task. Houston, TX

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Antwan Short Family Vending By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Antwan Short

Antwan Short is very passionate about anything he sets his sights on. He is the owner of Short Family Vending DBA The Man With A Pan, a Southern/Tex-Mex food truck that offers Tacos, Burritos, Chicken Wings, Stuffed Turkey Wings, Collard Green Eggrolls, and more. Antwan’s culinary approach is versatile, and he prides himself in having something for everyone. Antwan was born and raised in Greenville, NC, and grew up in the Colonial Trailer Park neighborhood. “We called it CTP. It was a rough area. Yet if you were from there, it was love,” he says. “I got my first job at 14, picking up trash around the neighborhood. I always tell anyone willing to listen that I was destined for greatness.” Antwan said he was the average student coming up, and as long as he passed, it was good enough. Since age 15, he worked at an Italian restaurant called Raggazzis, first as busing tables, and later moved up to dishwashing before graduating to cooking on the line. After proving himself in the kitchen, he moved to the bakery and began making pizzas in the restaurant’s imported Italian Brick oven. Due to Antwan’s work ethic, he was selected to be a waiter, a position he held until graduating from high school. Antwan shares all of his life he was told to go to college and get a good job, but college wasn’t on his mind. Still, he tried, enrolled at a local community college, and lasted only two semesters before returning to Ragazzis to work as their main cook. “The pay was $7.50 per hour, and I realized no greatness would be reached with that type of income, so I joined the United States Airforce. I was given what I needed: opportunity,” he says. Antwan stayed in the USAF for ten years and earned numerous awards, including an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science. He would later venture into the pharmaceutical industry as a Process Technician. “It was the most money I had made up to that period, and there was only one issue; I didn’t possess a formal education. So, I decided to take advantage of my educational benefits from the military, left that job, and went back to school at Wayne Community College and received an Associates of Arts Degree. I finished in December 2021 at Fayetteville State University and received my Bachelors Degree in Business Administration,” he says. The next stop for Antwan was entrepreneurship.

Antwan’s professional culinary journey came into form as he began to cook for himself. After the military, he was in search of a career path and realized that whatever he did it would require manpower and capital. “I initially was geared to trucking, but after thorough research, I realized the capital and resources needed were a bit much. I had cooked often while in school and posted pictures of my food on social media along with the hashtag (A Man With A Pan). That is how it all began.” What Antwan loves most about what he does is making his customers smile. He says, “I absolutely love seeing someone bite into my food and doing the happy dance. I also love the fact I get to do something I actually love. A lot of people can’t say that. It makes it a lot easier in the tougher times of business ownership. I don’t think I’d have the same perspective if it were just for a buck.” Antwan says losing his mother has inspired him to do more. She worked most of his childhood, including for the North Carolina ABC Board for 16 years. She had pinched nerve surgery twice during that time, and after the second one, Antwan’s mother filed for workers’ compensation and was let go. “She lost a lot, and I have never looked at any job the same way since,” he says. Soon, Antwan’s mother purchased a van and started selling lingerie and was doing well. He could tell she enjoyed it; however, sadly, she passed away a few years later after succumbing to a heart attack at age 48. “I was 22, and I lost my safety net. My whole concept of life changed.” He also finds inspiration in his children and says they didn’t ask to be here. The more I do today, the less they have to do in the future. With the right lessons instilled, they can take this thing even further. I want to establish generational wealth and offer my kids the same freedom I have to find the true meaning of living.” His advice to others considering a life of entrepreneurship is to understand that it’s not for everyone. “If it’s lots of money and time off you’re looking for, well, good luck. I had more time off as an employee. Don’t follow what others are doing; follow your heart and do what makes you happy. To lead effectively, you have to be a good follower. Also, you never know where you will land if you never take the leap,” he says. Presently, Antwan is looking for a physical location to give consumers the restaurant experience without the restaurant. He shares that the location would also allow other food truckers with an opportunity to get their footing in the business.” He also hopes to provide the same opportunity the military gave him to others. h

Raleigh/Durham - Sept./Oct. 2023

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Raleigh/Durham - Sept./Oct. 2023

Houston’s Realtor & Fitness Professional By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Monique Hoggard Monique Hoggard is a Caribbean Realtor representing the beautiful island of Trinidad and Tobago. Monique has worked as a mobile personal trainer since 2014. She has also worked as a travel agent for five years and wears many hats in business. Yet, her main goal is to help people and bridge the gap between the Caribbean Community and the African Diaspora. Monique is originally from Brooklyn, NY. Now firmly planted in the heart of Houston, TX, Monique shares she appreciates Houston’s Caribbean Community. Monique sits on the Executive Board of the Houston Caribbean Professionals Association. She is also a member of the Trinidad and Tobago Association of Texas, Grenada Houston Association, and Nigerian American Multicultural Council. Monique shares that she and her partner lender have been working to inform others about the free grant money available through Harris County. “Many of the black and brown communities aren’t aware because we’re the last to get the information. I am helping to change that. I’ve been partnering with churches, radio stations, television stations, festivals, and just talking to individuals. If I’m at dinner, getting my car serviced, setting up at mixers as a vendor, or sitting next to someone on the plane, I am sharing information. I’m a people person, so it doesn’t take much for me to speak to anyone, especially if there’s good energy present. As long as people are willing to listen, I’ll continue to find a way to be a resource,” she says. Raleigh/Durham - Sept./Oct. 2023

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“When my clients get their keys and to see that smile on their face, it’s an amazing feeling for me. I know I was meant to be doing this.” Monique started her career in real estate a little over two and a half years ago. She credits her ex-husband, who is in the same business, for creating the spark. Additionally, she shares that helping families who thought home ownership wasn’t a possibility is what she loves most about her career. “When my clients get their keys and to see that smile on their face, it’s an amazing feeling for me. I know I was meant to be doing this.” One of the most interesting and impactful parts of Monique’s career, she says, is dealing with investors. “I’ve had my share of shady experiences.. So now I know how to approach investors and wholesalers. It’s funny because many don’t believe I understand the business until we really started talking.” Monique’s advice for others who may follow a similar path to her is to know that real estate isn’t always easy, but it can be rewarding. “Everyone has a niche; you just have to figure out what yours is and what works for you! Don’t chase the money. This is a people business, so you definitely have to be creative. Also, know that this business is going to take you out of your comfort zone, and being shy doesn’t get you far,” she says. Monique says that International business is in her near future. She is also looking to market for Belize and the Dominican Republic next year. With her savviness, it is no telling where Monique will be. h

www.makingmoveswithmonique.com Raleigh/Durham - Sept./Oct. 2023

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Percy B.A Legacy Lawson of Service By Terry L. Watson Photos provided by Demetris Lawson

When defining the life of Percy Lawson, there is actually one word that can accurately capture what it is: service. At 84 years of age, Percy is still quite sharp. His memory and ability to reference life’s experiences are quite impressive. He also dotes on his family whenever he gets the opportunity and shares his love for God without hesitation. In 1938, Percy was born in Caswell County, NC. As a child, he was raised with two brothers and one sister by his mother and father. Percy served in the United States Navy for 12 years, with four of them on active duty and the remaining serving in the Reserves. He was honorably discharged from his duties in December of 1968. He has been married to his wife, Syretha, for 65 years and recently celebrated their union in September of this year. Percy and Syretha have two children. Percy quit school in eleventh grade and joined the military against his mother’s will. He initially tried to join the Marine Corps, but that didn’t work out. Percy returned home, and his mother advised him to return to school. He stayed at home with his parents, but his father continued to encourage him to do something with life. Percy’s mind was set on the military, even though his first attempt at enlisting failed. In 1956, he successfully joined the US Navy and began serving his country. After leaving the US Navy, Percy returned to Greensboro and worked as an NC Mutual Life Insurance insurance agent. He also worked with the North Carolina Department of Corrections until he became unable to walk. Percy graduated from Rutledge College in Greensboro, NC, with an Associates Degree in Business Management in 1980. He continued his education by attending Greensboro College, majoring in Accounting, and graduated with honors. In 1982, he went into business and opened the Lawson Accounting Firm. His company provided accounting and bookkeeping services to churches and businesses in Greensboro for over 30 years. He has also worked for the Internal Revenue Service. Until 2021, Percy managed Lawson Accounting Firm, but due to his disabilities, he passed the responsibilities along to his daughters, and the name was changed to Lawson Accounting and Associates. Regarding accounting, Percy says it is a very technical field. “Most people believe you should be a mathematician to be an accountant. That part is true, but it’s not a requirement. I’ve had quite a bit of training in math, but being a mathematician isn’t required. You must also be sharp in business, have sharp morals, and be pretty exact,” he says. Percy admits that his accounting career and his career with the US Navy shaped his life.

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Family is very important to Percy. He has conducted extensive research on his family and found photos of his family members dating back to five and six generations from him. He has photos of his GreatGreat-Grandmother and Great-Great-Grandfather. “I had a strong father figure as a child. He instilled the importance of working for what we want in life. I feel like men have an obligation to set the trend for their families. Your family’s name is something that every man should be proud to carry on. In my 84 years of life, I have never been to prison, and I don’t intend to go now. I have also worked really hard to support my family,” he says. “I don’t have any sons, only three daughters. My only grandson was killed in Washington, DC, in 2002, and before he passed, I tried to instill things into his life that would be important to his survival. When I meet young men, I want to know what kind of work they do and what their interests are. My obligation is to let them know how important it is to have a job or find ways to support themselves. I pride my life on being honest with others,” he says.

“I had a strong father figure as a child. He instilled the importance of working for what we want in life. I feel like men have an obligation to set the trend for their families.”

Pictured above is a young, Percy B. Lawson. He served in the United States Navy for 12 years.

In addition to all of his other accomplishments in life, Percy is also an accomplished author, having written two published books, “From The Bottom To See, A Brand New Me” and the other “From Slavery to Ownership”. More than anything, Percy shares that he has loved the opportunities he’s had to serve his country and others through his business. While his journey has had many challenges, he shares that it has been all worth it. Percy’s advice to others is to live life to the fullest. “Never give up on life. Life isn’t over until it’s over,” he says. There is truth to what he said, as Percy is currently working on publishing his third book. h

Pictured with Percy B. Lawson are members of his family and wife of 65 years.

Raleigh/Durham - Sept./Oct. 2023

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Raleigh/Durham - Sept./Oct. 2023

Dr. The UnGun Institute By Monica Montgomery - Photos Provided by Dr. Marty K. Casey Dr. Marty K. Casey is the founder of the UnGUN Institute. This trauma-informed company specializes in helping people recognize and work through trauma issues using the arts as their platform of choice. “I am a singer, actor, playwright, and producer. I am a wife, a mother, and a grandmother. I have been blessed to perform and speak all over the country and different parts of the world. But before Marty was any of that, she was a teenager who was struggling with unresolved childhood trauma,” Dr. Casey explains. As a child, she and her older brother were exposed to the toxic relationship between her birth parents. “It was a loving home, but it was also very dysfunctional and toxic,” Dr. Casey shares. “Our father was a violent alcoholic. There was physical and mental abuse taking place in front of us regularly. The last fight I remember happened in front of our grandparent’s house. The police were called, and I watched from the second-story window as they picked my father up and put him in the trunk of the squad car because he was so out of control.” As an adult, Dr. Casey acknowledges that exposure to so much rage seeded anger and rage in her. “We are all products of our environment,” Casey explained. “Watching my father planted a seed in me. Whether he knew it or not, he modeled how I should respond to stress or frustration. The injury or wound caused by what we saw became trauma. It didn’t just happen around us; it happened inside us.” The laws of nature dictate that whatever you plant will bear fruit after its own kind. The wounding Dr. Casey experienced manifested through anger and a short temper. “Because anger was sown into me, that’s what came out,” she shared. “I was quick to, as they say, ‘match energy!’ If I felt disrespected, then I gave disrespect. The painful part is that it wasn’t who I wanted to be. But because I was carrying someone else’s hurts, anger, and fear, I couldn’t see myself. I was bound by the toxic layers put upon me.”

“We are all products of our environment....Watching my father planted a seed in me. Whether he knew it or not, he modeled how I should respond to stress or frustration.”

Living in a violently toxic home gave way to Casey’s tendency to respond to violence with violence, which was second nature. “In eighth grade, a girl slapped me, and I responded with the full weight of my wrath. The level of offense didn’t matter. It was violent, and I responded violently,” Casey explained. “Then, in ninth grade, a P.E. teacher stepped on my hand, and when I pointed it out, she told me my hand should have been in her way. I punched her and was suspended for ninety days.” Regular discipline issues in school started to take their toll on Casey, and she wanted to drop out.

Dr. Casey’s mother, to whom she attributes her strength, faith, and love for community, stepped in and pushed her daughter in the direction that helped change her life forever. “When I told my mother I was dropping out of school, she told me she wouldn’t allow it. She pointed out that my brother had already dropped out of school, and somebody from their family was going to graduate from high school. She said in plain terms that it would be me,” Casey explained. Determined to ensure that her daughter completed high school, Casey’s mother moved the family to the Webster Groves area. “My mother had been remarried to my “Step-Up” father for two years, and the new house was closer to his job.” The issue with trauma is unless it is adequately dealt with, the triggers will yield the same response. Dr. Casey says, “I wasn’t at my new school thirty days before a young lady disrespected me. I beat her with my eyes closed, then ran home. By the time I arrived, the police were already there.” Not understanding that trauma is transferrable, Casey’s mother sought help for herself but couldn’t see the issues her children were having as a result of the violence they witnessed their mother going through.

A choir teacher at her new school recognized Casey’s talent and gave her some valuable advice. “She said, ‘You have a gift, and doors will open for you, but they will close just as quickly if you don’t change what is happening inside you.’ I was confused initially because I didn’t see the big picture. After thinking long and hard about it, I realized she was talking about my attitude. I had to stop responding to every provocation. I had to decide what was more important to me. Proving that I wasn’t going to take anybody’s crap or walk through some of those doors.” Casey wanted everyone in her new school to know that she wasn’t just a problem child but that she had a valuable gift. She wanted to be seen as different from all the other labels she’d worn before. “My choir teacher told me that if I stayed out of trouble until the Black History program, I could sing a solo. Finally, I had something to reach for. I wanted the school to hear me sing more than anything else. My principal made me a hall monitor to keep me focused and busy, and by February, I hadn’t gotten into trouble once.” Standing in front of her school, letting her gift speak for her, Casey had a revelation. “It was at that moment that I realized my true power. I didn’t have to fight with my fist to be seen or heard. I could fight with a microphone.”

Today, Dr. Casey teaches people how to heal through the arts. “I use the arts to help people locate their power so that they can heal on the inside. We call it UnGun because we say that trauma bullets cause wounds. I help people remove and resolve those trauma bullets and heal those wounds using their God-given power, gifts, and talents.” Dr. Casey, a St. Louis, Missouri native, is passionate about helping people heal from and deal with the traumas we all have encountered at some level. Although her doctorate is honorary, she has more than earned a Ph.D. in life studies through her personal experiences. “I’ve lived all of the St. Louis area. I often tell people that by the time I’d made it to the ninth grade, I had attended ten different schools,” Casey shares. After graduating high school, she earned a full scholarship to Missouri Baptist College to study music. Music was an integral part of Dr. Casey’s life as a teen. Her voice was a gift from God that would usher on to platforms worldwide, including activism. “I was the first African American female to be awarded a full music scholarship to Missouri Baptist College. I was also the first African American to become freshman class president there,” Casey shared proudly. “I went from being voted class clown in high school to class president in college,” Casey laughs. In January 1990, Dr. Casey’s leadership skills were tested, and her activism emerged. “I was upset when I discovered that Mo Bap didn’t recognize Dr. King’s birthday as a national holiday. I couldn’t understand that. As the freshman class president, I felt like it was a discussion that needed to be had,” she explained. “I decided I would rally the students.” Casey persuaded the students not to attend class in protest of the school not acknowledging Dr. King’s holiday. To prepare the troops, she did what she did best. She taught them to sing. “I taught them every song I could think of. This Little Light of Mine, We Shall Overcome, Stevie Wonders’ Happy Birthday (Dr. King), and just about anything else I could think of. We marched from the dorms to the classrooms and back, but we didn’t go to class,” Casey said. But her activism came at a price. “We marched, sang, and made our position known. Then the dean of students called me in and said, ‘If you don’t get everyone back to class, you will lose your scholarship.’ I told him I couldn’t lose something I’d never had.” Dr. Casey chose to stand her ground. Years later, when the Michael Brown unrest occurred, God showed Dr. Casey how to combine all she had learned through trauma recovery, entertainment, leadership, and activism and channel it into helping others. “After the Michael Brown incident, God told me to do the same thing I did in college. He told me to be a leader and a voice for the people,” Casey explains. “What happened was inhumane and wrong. That was the wound that rioters were angry about. We witnessed what happens when people are tired of being stripped of their humanity and told it’s their fault and what they deserve. Everyone deserves to be treated with basic human respect. It doesn’t matter where you live, who you are, how much money or education you have; everyone should give and receive human decency.”

“After the Michael Brown incident, God told me to do the same thing I did in college. He told me to be a leader and a voice for the people.” Answer the call to arms, Dr. Casey used the tools she had at her disposal and founded her 501c3 organization, Show Me Arts Academy, in 2014. The Academy worked with local community centers, churches, and schools. They aimed to help children find their voice and value through the arts. “The Show Me Arts Academy serviced over three thousand youth and children. We formed a choir of twenty students called the Spreading the Love Singers, and we traveled around the country doing pop-up concerts,” Casey exclaimed. “I felt it was important to let people know that genuine love and kindness still existed. My favorite concert was on the steps of the Dr. King Memorial. My activism started with wanting to honor Dr. King and all he stood for, so it was fitting that we sang there, where it all began.” Continuing to listen to the voice of God and follow her passion for helping youth find themselves through the arts, the UnGun program was born. “I was working with the Academy when God spoke again and told me that, while the Arts Academy was great, what about those whose living conditions and situations didn’t allow them the opportunity to take part in the Academy? So, I came up with the program UnGun.” The UnGun program took Dr. Casey behind the walls of the juvenile detention center. “I had the opportunity to work with eight boys assigned to me by the center. Their charges ranged from petty theft to murder and everything in between,” Casey explained. As Casey helped the young men focus on what they liked and loved about themselves, their talents surfaced, and they came alive. “With support and encouragement, they became DJs, rappers, and dancers. All while having the time of their lives! They were no longer just a description of their past deeds and poor decisions. I no longer saw their problems; I saw their purpose.” The UnGun program was eight weeks long. The students would prepare for seven weeks, then perform in the eighth week in front of their parents, staff, and inmates. 2017 was a crucial turning point for the program. “In 2017, a few days before the student showcase, I arrived at the facility and was told that one of the group leaders would not be able to perform due to a technicality. He had aged out of the juvenile system and was waiting to go before the court. He was so depressed about not being able to perform with the other team members that he stopped eating and speaking for three days. My heart was broken. They asked me to speak with him to see if I could get him to talk,” Casey explained. “The first thing I did was remind him of the tools and techniques we teach in UnGun. One is that the mind, body, and spirit collectively work together. There must be a balance. Then, I shared with him the most important component of that teaching. I told him they could lock up his body, but only he could lock up his mind. Set your mind free so that your body will follow. Then, be grateful to God for the life you have. I don’t know how much more time you will be given as an adult or if you will receive any additional time. I know that you will be a free man if you choose life. In that instant, I saw him move.” As a result of the interaction with that young man, Dr. Casey decided to incorporate UnGun and make it a business in 2020. “Guns kill, but UnGun heals.” Dr. Casey’s UnGun Initiative and curriculum are now in St. Louis city public schools and other organizations. The UnGun tools and techniques are taught by people with first-hand experience with Trauma and what it takes to be free of it. The presenters often start the conversation with their testimonies. “We do that because it does two things. It gives us credibility in the space and helps students by modeling how to have those difficult conversations with their peers.” The purpose of UnGun is to help identify the trauma first and then unpack it so the individual can heal. “Because trauma triggers are different for everyone, this is not a one-size-fits-all system,” Casey shares. “The U in UnGun is the individual.” When God seeded the idea of UnGun, Dr. Casey didn’t know how it would grow or become such a powerful tool for so many. “I have to admit, I was so surprised at the effectiveness of the UnGun Institute. We have had the honor and privilege to touch so many lives, but I believe much more work must be done.” h

Dr. Marty K. Casey www.drmartykcasey.com 20

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Tenacious Moments

Wellness Coaching

By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Takiyah Henderson Takiyah “Coach Kia” Henderson, also known as “Thee Tenacious One!” is the face and founder of Tenacious Moments Wellness Coaching. Her company’s services and programs give busy moms and working women the tools to achieve mind, body, soul, and spiritual wellness and live purposefully to prevent such terminal illnesses. Her experiences in life have inspired her to be where she is now. Takiyah says life got real for her when she became a mother at 15 years old. “It was the scariest time of my life. I was ashamed and embarrassed, but I accepted my responsibility. The hardest part was dealing with people talking stuff behind my back, the baby daddy acting up, tears and loneliness at night when I was alone, and smiling like everything was okay during the daytime. Looking back, I know God had His hand on me. The Tenacious One that I know today was born right along with my beautiful baby boy in August of 1997. At 15 years old and a junior in high school, I had to become “Superwoman.” I juggled a baby, sleepless nights, school work, a job, relationship issues, socializing, and the mental and emotional stress of my new normal. It was exhausting and I was all over the place but I did it. I stayed on the Honor Roll, was inducted into the National Honor Society, and graduated as one of the top 10 students in my class and on time. I accomplished those things by the grace of God, and I promised myself I would not allow my status to define me.” “As a Holistic Wellness Coach, I help busy moms and working women suffering from “superwoman syndrome.” You know, the women who neglect themselves to the point of stress and burnout while trying to be everything to everybody. I empower and support their journey to prioritizing their well-being and creating a happy, healthy, and purposeful lifestyle,” Takiyah says. “Stress is detrimental to our health, and so many women, and men too, are suffering in silence trying to hold it all together. It is a silent killer and affects every area of our lives. It causes anxiety, depression, panic attacks, emotional breakdowns, and other stress-related illnesses like high blood pressure, kidney failure, strokes, and heart attacks. That is why it is so important for busy moms and working women to recognize when they’re shutting down mentally, physically, and emotionally. My focus is to help these women achieve and maintain a well-balanced lifestyle without feeling guilty about prioritizing their self-care.” Raleigh/Durham - Sept./Oct. 2023

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Tenacious Moments Wellness Coaching started as a business without a name. Takiyah says it has been a part of her lifelong journey. “When I was a young girl, as far back as I can remember, people of all ages would tell me their stories. I mean detailed information that a little girl probably should not have known. But I would sit and listen intently to what they were talking about with no judgment and a smile. I had no life experience or advice to help them at the time. All I could offer was a listening ear and a calming spirit,” she says. “Listening to stories has become my norm over the years. If I’m sitting somewhere long enough, a stranger will find me and tell me about their life’s events without hesitation. And guess what? I absolutely love hearing them! Not because I’m nosey or a gossip; I actually have decades of stories and secrets locked in my “secret vault.” The truth is that I am intrigued by people for who they are, what they do, and how they became.”

“I believe in the power of transformation and purposeful living. I’m a ball of intuition. I see, hear, feel, and sense what’s unclear and unsaid when I’m completely grounded and standing in my power.”

Takiyah “Coach Kia” Henderson www.TenaciousMoments.com 704-909-6203

Takiyah is the wife of Ryan, the mother of Isaiah, Andre, Jael, and Xavier; the mother-in-love of Malazea; and grandmother of Zaylin, Zyheir, Zacari, and Zyan. Her parents Gina and Steve, surrounded Takiyah with her siblings David, Braheem, Brandon, Kendrick, Bernard, Terri, and Sophia. She has a Bachelor’s degree in African Studies that she received from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and a Master’s degree in Human Services Counseling, Life Coaching & Community Care acquired from Liberty University. Takiyah is also the 2001 National Winner of the Health Occupations Students of America “Medical Spelling” competition. Takiyah shares that she has been called a healer. “I believe in the power of transformation and purposeful living. I’m a ball of intuition. I see, hear, feel, and sense what’s unclear and unsaid when I’m completely grounded and standing in my power. I believe that endings are opportunities for mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual rebirth and alignment,” she said. This experience cemented Takiyah’s purpose to help others. She says a few years ago, she listened to someone’s story, and it baffled her. “I couldn’t understand it. I didn’t know how to come to terms with it, and as much as I wanted to help, I didn’t know how. I wanted to understand because I truly valued this person, but I reached my plateau of knowledge for these types of situations. So, I did what I do best. Allowing my curiosity to guide me on my next journey, I went back to school to learn. I enrolled in the Human Services Counseling, Life Coaching & Community Care master’s degree program at Liberty University. I learned the information that I needed to listen to those stories, dissect, and reframe them based on the many different factors of a person’s life experiences.” Takiyah says she loves helping women enhance their lives while simultaneously owning the power to show up in integrity and as her authentic self. “I facilitate healing for my tenacious ladies using my natural, God-given gifts and skills to support them in creating awareness around who they are, their purpose, and how to use those things to achieve the life they desire. I also appreciate the opportunity to listen and remain curious about their stories,” she shares. Looking ahead, Takiyah plans to continue to enhance her brand and assist as many people who seek her services. “I am in awe of the power of transformation. I want to continue encouraging my Tenacious Ones to live happy, healthy lifestyles and get in alignment with their purpose. In February 2024, I am launching my Design Your Life for Wellness Challenge. This will be a live group coaching program designed to support my clients in prioritizing their health and happiness and creating the lifestyle they truly desire. Also, I’ll be writing more personal development and purpose-driven articles and blogging about holistic wellness,” she says. Overall, I want to stay open, in love, and in alignment with what God has for me.” h

Raleigh/Durham - Sept./Oct. 2023

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Splat Studio By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Monet Dyson Monèt Dyson of Sacramento, CA, is a young and vibrant entrepreneur. At just 25, she has formed a business that is making waves and splashes in the heart of Old Sacramento’s business sector. It is called Dipped N Color Splat Studio. A mother of a five-year-old and an employee of the State of California, Monèt shares the vision for the company was revealed to her after a lifechanging experience of being struck by a drunk driver in 2019. “I was reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. This awakening prompted me to set aside my career and embrace the role of a stay-at-home mom, caring for my then 10-month-old child.” While the prospect of being home with her child, she says, was beautiful, it also brought to the forefront the challenges of her personal healing journey. Monèt grappled with anxiety, trying to connect with her child while simultaneously dealing with the physical, mental, and emotional toll of her recovery. Upon returning to work, she found herself caught in a balancing act, juggling motherhood, a full-time job, and the dream of building a business. The demanding schedule left little time for self-care, and the guilt of spending precious moments away from her son weighed heavily on Monèt. “In an effort to spend more quality time with my child, we began painting together. These creative experiences not only provided an outlet for reducing my stress and anxiety but also forged a profound connection with him,” Monèt says.

“Becoming a mom allowed me to return to my inner child and see life through his lens.”

Monèt really enjoys the privilege of being a mother to her son. She says, “Without him, I would not have embarked on this journey. Becoming a mom allowed me to return to my inner child and see life through his lens. How he has so much wonder about the small things around him and how excited he gets. As I grew older, I forgot how much the small things around us matter, and I want other families to experience the joy and excitement together through art.”

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It was during one of these painting sessions that inspiration struck. Monèt envisioned creating pop-up paint events for other families to share the joy of art together. The success of her first painting event, which sold out, validated Monèt’s belief that she was on the right path. After organizing several successful pop-up family paint events and emerging victorious in the 2023 ‘Calling All Dreamers’ competition, Monèt seized the chance to establish a unique storefront. Rather than opting for a conventional art studio, Monèt created Dipped N Color Splat Studio, which welcomes individuals of all ages and skill levels. Dipped N Color Splat Studio is a place where messy or experimental art, such as splatter painting or unconventional techniques, is practiced. “Our mission is to inspire every parent and child to connect deeply and create freely. Their vision is to empower parents and children to embrace their individuality and celebrate diversity, allowing them to be their most creative and authentic selves. We focus on bringing people together while fostering a sense of community. We also provide a safe space for individuals to explore and express their artistic talents, which can be therapeutic and stress-relieving, something that is especially important in today’s fast-paced world,” Monèt said. What started as a simple idea born from a traumatic accident has now blossomed into a forward-thinking, creative brand and business.” Monèt says some of the challenges she has faced in business is managing it and wearing multiple hats, from operating the business, taking phone calls, emails, and responding to inquiries. “Those tasks are absolutely amazing but can become overwhelming at times. I’ve managed them by outsourcing, asking for help, and having boundaries.”

Dipped N Color Splat Studio 122 I Street Sacramento, CA 95814 www.dippedncolorsplatstudio.com 916-312-1912

What Monèt loves most about what she does is the smiles on families’ faces when they learn about Splat Studio. “When they come and actually experience it, how much laughter I hear, playing, singing, and families bonding through art, really makes me happy,” she says. In addition to being inspired by her son, Monèt says she enjoys seeing families laugh together and get silly together at Dipped N Color Splat Studio. “We often forget to laugh, due to the daily hustle and bustle of life. Our space was created to provide a space to laugh and connect.” While there have been some tough moments along her way, Monèt says she wouldn’t change anything. “All the ups and downs and mistakes have brought me to where I am today,” she shares. Her advice to others who may follow in her footsteps is to just get started. “Stop second-guessing yourself and worrying about what others will say about you. At the end of the day, it is your life.” Moving forward, she plans to continue to grow her business, spreading joy, laughter, and creativity. If you are in the Sacramento, CA, area and looking for a new and exciting way to engage and have fun with your family and friends, please stop by Dipped N Color Splat Studio. You may learn more about them by visiting their website. h

Raleigh/Durham - Sept./Oct. 2023

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Raleigh/Durham - Sept./Oct. 2023

Cameron Woodard L ittrell Cammo Cleaning LLC By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Cammo Cleaning LLC Cameron Woodard-Littrell was born in Detroit, MI, but was raised in Atlanta, GA. Today, he resides in Little Rock, AR, along with his wife and daughter, and manages Cammo Cleaning LLC. He graduated from Little Rock Central High School and later attended and graduated from Henderson State University. Cameron founded Cammo Cleaning LLC on the fourth day of January 2021 in an unrehearsed or nontraditional manner. He says, “I did not research about starting a business, specifically a cleaning business. I obtained my business license from the Secretary of State, obtained my EIN, and began inquiring about a business logo. My next move was to set up a website, email address, and social media pages for my new business. Once I obtained the company logo, I started to advertise, and with the film content obtained from the jobs we booked, we produced a professional commercial, and the rest of the story is history,” he says. Cammo Cleaning has been recognized as a Best of Northwest Arkansas award-winning Black-Owned cleaning business. Excellence and exceeding every expectation in business are rooted in Cameron’s DNA. He says, “I come from a family of Black entrepreneurs, and I am here to continue the legacy. My mother was the first entrepreneur that I knew. She owned a daycare in Atlanta, Ga, and I saw the drive and passion from her daily. She bet on herself and it paid off,” he said. While Cameron may have launched his company without any script at his disposal, his intentions have always been clear. “I created this business to provide high-quality residential and commercial cleaning services to Northwest Arkansas. One of my main focuses is to bring clean and positive energy to people’s homes and businesses. I call it “Clean Therapy”. Another focus is to show minorities and children in our community that you can create, own, and accomplish anything you put your mind to.” Furthermore, Cameron’s drive is connected to wanting to provide his daughter and other minority youth with the entrepreneurial mindset that was shown to him.

“My mother was the first entrepreneur that I knew. She owned a daycare in Atlanta, Ga, and I saw the drive and passion from her daily. She bet on herself and it paid off.”

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I can grow this business and take the business as far as I want. There is no limit to our success, and I am always willing to provide opportunities for others and show them anything is possible.”

Pictured with Cameron are his daughter, Amy, and wife, Donna Giving back and networking with the Northwest Arkansas community is very important to Cameron and Cammo Cleaning LLC. He has partnered with Walmart and Sam’s Club to advertise their business and expose HBCU students to entrepreneurial passion and mindset. They are a part of the Black-Owned Northwest Arkansas group that displays Black-Owned Businesses locally and via social media. Additionally, they’ve donated cleaning services to help local elementary schools build new playgrounds. Cameron has also mentored other Black-Owned and minority business owners. What he loves most about being a business owner, Cameron shares, is being in control of his destiny. “I can grow this business and take the business as far as I want. There is no limit to our success, and I am always willing to provide opportunities for others and show them anything is possible.” There is always a challenge when a person starts a business, especially a first-time business owner., and that also applies to Cammo Cleaning LLC. Cameron shares, “I’ve had to continuously learn the ins and outs of how to run a business, including hiring people that will treat business the way I expect them to. Along with managing the company’s finances and advertising, it’s been a hard but enjoyable process. The more you learn, the more you grow, and the more opportunities are presented to you and your company.” Cameron says there’s absolutely nothing he would change about being a business owner. The process and growth have been a blessing, and I have learned there are no shortcuts to success. “I appreciate all the ups and downs. Those things make you and your business stronger,” he says.

Cameron shares that in the future, his company is working towards becoming the #1 residential and commercial cleaning company in Northwest Arkansas. They’ve also started a podcast called “Clean Therapy, A Podcast By Cammo” where he provides information about the daily operations of a business and business owner. He also interviews other entrepreneurs and provides business coaching on the podcast. He is also working on starting an all-purpose cleaning product line, with an expected launch date in 2024. In closing, Cameron shares a message that he hopes will resonate with other entrepreneurs, specifically Black business owners. “The world is fueled by people making a positive impact. Black people have positively impacted the world from the beginning of time and will continue to make a positive impact. Black inventors and entrepreneurs have laid the foundation for today’s world. I want to continue to be a part of that legacy and motivate the next generation.”

www.cammocleaningllc.com Raleigh/Durham - Sept./Oct. 2023

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Autumn Thornton The daughter of

Armani Thornton and Gregory (Feva) Bonds

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