Jill Carlton of Greensboro, NC, isn’t bashful about expressing her love for people and the black culture.  Originally from the foothills of North Carolina, Jill is the youngest of six siblings.  She is an alumnus of two Historically Black Colleges and Universities, North Carolina A&T State University in Greensboro and Livingstone College, which is located in Salisbury, NC.  At Livingstone College, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and at NC A&T, she received her Master of Science (M.S.) in Human Resource Agency Counseling.  Her additional leadership experience involves Church Leadership and international missionary work.  

     Jill is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC)- NC and Licensed Professional Counselor-SC and a National Certified Counselor (NCC).  She received a Reducing Racial Disparities in Healthcare Certificate from Harvard University Online.  Utilizing her education and experiences, Jill founded Jill Carlton Counseling Services, a privately owned and operated counseling [practice that focuses on assisting her clients build their inner strengths, through spiritual counseling, motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy utilizing a holistic approach.  She works on two counseling platforms: Headway and Sondermind.  These platforms allow Jill to serve clients throughout North Carolina and South Carolina.

More than anything else, Jill shares that God has impacted her career as a therapist.  “While at Livingstone College, I started out as a Biology major, but Chemistry told me “no”.  I knew I wanted to obtain a bachelor’s degree at the very least.  The holy spirit directed me to speak with Dr. Robert MacKinnon in the Psychology department, who was my mentor and advisor.  He told me I could start right into the Psychology major based on my academic accomplishments.  He told me to work and go to school so that after I finish school, I would be in a good position to succeed,” she says.  After Livingstone, Jill would set her sights on obtaining her master’s degree.  She attended NC A&T and was even able to land a paid internship while in school.  The advice she received from her mentor continued to pay dividends in her life.

Life has come with a few ups and downs for Jill.  To be honest, those challenges have helped to make her who she is.  “I have been emotionally and physically abused, as well as sexually abused.  I was part of a marriage that didn’t work.  What I had to realize was that I had to love myself first.  Having a foundation in a church home at Love and Faith Christian Fellowship helped me in more ways than I ever could have imagined.  I felt right at home there.  I became involved in the church, which allowed me to be more than a member.  I am in leadership and serve as a Deaconess. I am also one of the leaders for our greeters, and I sing in the Mass Choir.  Additionally, I have worked in the prison ministry, the hug and hot soup ministry, and the Healing and Restoration ministry.    Being a part of Love and Faith has blessed me.  Pastor John Goins and Bishop Michael Thomas are doing a great job of leading God’s people.  Knowing that people accept me for who I am and still love me regardless,” Jill shares.    

  Looking ahead, Jill is working on obtaining additional licenses and certifications.  She has also set her sights on working outside of North Carolina and South Carolina.  More than anything, Jill is excited about continuing the work that God has called her to do.  “I want to continue to work to break down the stigmas about therapy and mental health in the black and brown communities.  I am called to be the salt and light of the world.  Being a therapist and aligning my work from a spiritual perspective is why I am here,” Jill says.  

Jill Carlton, MS, LCMHC, LPC-SC, NCC

www.jillcarltonlcmhc.com

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"Proven"

While many accomplished individuals have accredited their success to that of pulling up their own bootstraps, that is not the case for Chimeaka White. Looking from the outside, it may appear that her ascension to becoming a prominent attorney came about from her following the traditional path that most lawyers do. Yet, that is far from Chimeaka’s reality. Her story expresses her faith in God, love and support from her family and friends, and an unwavering determination to win. More than anything, Chimeaka’s story is that of someone who is “Proven”. Chimeaka has proven not only to others but even to herself that regardless of what circumstances she may face, regardless of what life throws at her, nothing will stop her from reaching her goals.

Attorney Chimeaka White of Greensboro, NC, is the mother of two amazing adults, Harmony and Sincere. Chimeaka is a graduate of James B. Dudley High School. She also graduated from North Carolina A&T State University with a Bachelors Degree in Chemistry. She also received a Law Degree from North Carolina Central University. Today, she owns The White Law Firm, PLLC, located in High Point, NC, the first black female-owned and operated personal injury law firm in the Triad area. Her motto is “Justice4Pain”.

Chimeaka comes from a long list of strong women. She says that her success can be attributed to several key factors, including her upbringing, which instilled strong values in her, and the mentorship I received throughout her career. “I am inspired by my maternal great-grandmother, Evelyn Watson, who taught me the power of love and patience. She lived slowly and simply. My maternal grandmother, Margaret Hardy (Momo) taught me the importance of cultivating a spiritual practice. She has a strong relationship with God and taught me how to pray deep, strong prayers. My paternal grandmother, Lois White (Mama White), taught me not to have anything that I don’t plan on using. When you bring one thing into your house, remove three things from your house.”

It should come as no surprise that Chimeaka is an attorney. As a child, she wanted to become a prosecutor. While attending NC A&T, she thought about pursuing a career as a dentist. Prior to law school, she worked as a paralegal at a personal injury law firm.  She worked alongside experienced paralegal Teresa Burney, who taught her how to manage car accident cases from the intake process to closing the file. This is where she gained her passion for the law. 

Chimeaka says she made the decision to become an attorney because she genuinely loves to help people. “After being bullied in middle school, I learned how to stand up for myself and others.   I know how it feels to be voiceless, to endure pain due to being afraid of standing up for yourself. This is why I became an attorney to fight for the rights of others. I do not allow people to be taken advantage of. I am a voice for the people,” she says."

Attorney Chimeaka L. White

The White Law Firm, PLLC

2207 Eastchester Drive, Ste 101

High Point, NC 27265

336-884-7246

www.justice4pain.com

www.huamimagazine.com

Triad Cyber Solutions provides professional cybersecurity services and consulting to small and medium business, education, enterprise, and non-profit organizations. 

We offer top-rated protection with our managed security services. We audit your existing cyber security infrastructure to close any security gaps that may put your organization at risk for a cyber attack. 

In today’s business environment, technology is key to innovation, collaboration and growth. You need a managed service provider that understands your unique needs, plus has the practical experience necessary to implement solutions that set you up for success—today and tomorrow.

The mission of Triad Cyber Solutions is to safeguard the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information systems, identity, and data assets by providing proactive security expertise, creating and maintaining a resilient and secure infrastructure, and fostering a culture of security awareness to become the top Managed Service and Cyber Security Provider.

We deliver proactive flat-rate IT Managed Services for businesses around the world. Designed to reduce your costs, increase your profits, and mitigate your business risks, we partner with you as your Virtual IT Department, allowing you to focus on running your business, not your technology.

To learn more about Triad PC Solutions, please visit their website at www.triadpcsolutions.com

You may also view their feature in Huami Magazine by clicking on the link below.

https://issuu.com/terrywatson7/docs/triad2_f12f41223ae45c/6?fr=sYzM5NTcwMTgzMzg

To learn more about Huami Magazine, please visit our website at www.huamimagazine.com

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He has been called a dog whisperer.

     The familiar adage, dogs are a man’s best friend, rings true for over half a million households across the United States. According to the Forbes Advisor, 66% of Americans own pets, totaling nearly 89.6 million homes. Of that 89.6 million, 65.1 million are dog owners. (Information based on Pet Ownership Statistics 2024)

    The numbers mentioned are based on registered ownership of dogs; however, they don’t account for the countless number of people who have picked up strays or acquired a dog from a friend of a friend. Needless to say, owning a dog is a part of American culture, but what’s not typical is finding legitimate breeders who take pride in ensuring the animals they breed are worthy of their bloodline. Keith Siler is anything but typical.  

    Keith is a breeder of the Italian Cane Corso. “The Cane Corso is a large breed originally called Italian Mastiffs. They are a beautiful breed and intelligent protectors,” Keith explains.  

     The Cane Corso’s lineage goes back to ancient Roman times, and the breed’s name roughly translates from the Latin as ‘bodyguard-dog.’ Keith shares he was initially attracted to the Corso because of their beauty and their complex reputation. According to the American Kennel Club, the Cane Corso is smart, trainable, and of noble bearing. They also identify the breed as being assertive, confident, and fearless protectors.  

     Throughout Keith’s life, he has always loved dogs. “As a kid, I always loved animals. It didn’t matter if it was a stray mutt or not. I just loved dogs,” Keith explained. “When I was eleven, my mom bought me a pit bull terrier as a pet, and I’ve had a heart for the breed ever since.”

     Keith would begin his breeding journey with the American Pit Bull Terrier and shared that, like the Corse breed, American Pit Bulls are often misunderstood. “Pit Bulls are no more dangerous than any other breed. They require love like all dogs, but most importantly, you have to know how to train the animal.”

     In his late teens or early twenties, Keith started to study breeding, and he wanted to become an advocate for the pit bull terrier. “My goal wasn’t just to breed the dog but to help save the bloodline. I believed that with proper breeding, I could create a stronger breed of the terrier and help change its reputation,” he shares. The American Pit Bull Terrier was categorized as a fighting dog breed in 19th-century England for just that purpose. The American Kennel Club doesn’t recognize it as a distinct breed, but its cousin, the American Staffordshire Terrier, is. 

    The love of the breed and seeing American Pit Bulls flourish is what has kept Keith going for almost thirty years. During this period, he was faced with the challenge of helping the American Pit Bull Terrier escape its image as a savage fighter. “As a kid, I didn’t know what I had. It was a pet, a friend, and a companion to me. It wasn’t until I became an adult that I learned what the Pit Bull breed was created for and why people wanted them. I felt like they were given a label because of how people chose to train and use them, not for what they were. For me, they were affectionate, protective, friendly, and playful, and I believed they could gain a different reputation with proper breeding. Yet, no matter what I did. I couldn’t seem to move the needle,” he says.

     Breeding and boarding animals is an expensive business that can yield big dividends. Still, buyers didn’t want to invest in the quality that Keith had poured his soul into. “The biggest issue I came across was that people wanted quality but didn’t want to pay for it. I had a good reputation, but because I was from the area, people assumed my dogs were subpar,” Keith explained. “In truth, I was able to achieve my goal of creating a stronger bloodline with the American Pit Bull Terrier, but no one was willing to pay for the quality of the animal.”

     A period of rest would settle upon Keith, and he took a ten-year break from the breeding business. As fate would have it, his love for dogs brought him back. “I was disappointed that in all that time, I hadn’t succeeded in helping change people’s perspective of the Pit Bull. I had to realize that I was only one person. I could only do so much.” Keith shared. “I wanted to give breeding another try because I loved what I did.” This time, he ensured everything would be in place to make his breeding business successful, which involved finding the right dog. 

     The time arrived when Keith was ready to resume breeding. He had a specific breed in mind. After investing so much into breeding the American Pit Bull and not getting a satisfying return on his investment, his focus changed to another breed of dog. “This time, I had done my research and set my sights on the Presa Canario,” he says.

     The Perro de Presa Canario is described as a strong-willed, confident, yet calm breed. It has an excellent reputation for being obedient and docile but suspicious of strangers. Keith says their nature offers a commercial appeal the average dog lover wants. Amazingly, in his effort to procure the Presa Canario, he was redirected when a friend introduced him to the Cane Corso. “I had a lead on a Presa Canario, but it fell through,” Keith explained, “Then, one of my friends, Allen Holmes, called me and enlightened me about the Cane Corso breed. He owned two of them, and he sent me a video, and I was sold.”

     Because of the strength and dominance the Cane Corso is born with, potential breeders are encouraged to do their homework. According to the American Kennel Club, at almost 28 inches tall and sometimes weighing more than one hundred pounds, the Corso, with their large heads and rippling muscles, project an imposing and intimidating image. The animal is said to look and think the way a bodyguard would. The breed is intelligent, loyal, and eager to please, yet it can be willful and leave the owner wondering who is the master. For this reason, it’s recommended that breeders and owners understand that it is essential to establish dominance early with regular training.  

     “I was told that if I was serious about breeding these dogs, I needed to do about two years of research and preparation,” Keith says. After completing his research, Keith knew he had found his breed. In 2020, he launched his new breeding business, Siler’s Cane Corso’s, and hasn’t looked back.

     Again, Keith loves all dogs, regardless of breed, and his love for the Corso is authentically genuine. He says, “Despite their reputation for being strong-willed and sensitive, these animals are so majestic and intelligent that training them is easy. I now have eight in my kennel, and people are amazed at how well-behaved they are.”

     Keith is taking steps to build the reputation needed to be seen as a serious contender in the Corso community. “I have secured my breeder’s license and Kennel number. I have also entered several dog shows to get our name out there. My ultimate goal is to make breeding the Corso my only source of income. That’s just how much I love working with these dogs,” Keith shares. He also plans to help potential owners by educating them about the importance of continuing and maintaining the lifelong training the Corso requires. “Right now, I breed them, but I plan to expand my Kennel’s services and assist people with training.”

     As a breeder, Keith must possess a great amount of attention to detail. “Because this breed is so exclusive, sometimes the cost for purchase can be prohibitive. So, I am careful about who I sell the dogs to. I need them to understand the investment they are making when they purchase one of my Cane Corsos,” he says. 

     As Keith continues to build the Siler Cane Corso brand, he is concerned about how his efforts will benefit the Cane Corso breed’s longevity. “Just like the American Pit Bull, I want to bring more awareness to the Cane Corso breed. I want to be intentional about breeding and create something that will continue its bloodline,” he says. These are the true words of a breeder and natural lover of all dogs.

    Please click on the link below to read the edition of Huami Magazine that Keith Siler is featured in.  You may also contact Keith Siler at

336-686-4201

https://issuu.com/terrywatson7/docs/triad2_f12f41223ae45c/18?fr=sZDljZjcwMDkyNTg

www.huamimagazine.com

   When it comes to maintaining beautiful and healthy skin, Jarie Chantell Ayala-Bullock knows something about it. The Orlando, FL, resident is an Esthetician licensed in Virginia, Maryland, and Florida. 

   Jarie enjoys a balanced and well-rounded lifestyle. She is married with four kids, having one son of her own and two bonus daughters and one bonus son. Besides being a savvy businesswoman, she has accomplished quite a bit professionally and personally in her life. Jarie is an Army Veteran and graduated with honors from American InterContinental University with a degree in Business Administration. She graduated from AVI Career Training as a Master Esthetician in 2013 and obtained her Acne Certification from Face Reality Skincare. Additionally, she has numerous Certificates of Completion for Herbal Medicine, Perfumery/ Artisan Perfumery, Makeup Application, and Makeup Artistry.

   The name of her business is Clear My Skin by JChantell. She shares how her journey in business began as a young girl who was impressed by the presence and sophistication of her mother. “I remember smelling my mom’s clothes in her closet. That was my first love of fragrance. I would watch her get ready to go out with her girlfriends, and she had her skincare and makeup application down to a science. First her skincare routine, followed by her makeup then her clothes selection and last, her perfume scent.  As a teenager, I had acne issues, and the first skincare product I used was Noxzema. No moisturizer, exfoliant, mask, or sunscreen - just noxema. It worked okay on my skin, and at the time, I didn’t know or understand I needed a routine rather than one product. It was then I developed my interest in skincare. The more I explored and experimented with different products, the more I wanted to know about skincare and skin health,” she says. Her interest would soon develop into a career involving skin care and Esthetics.

Jarie says if she could change anything about her journey in business, she would’ve been more confident about what she had to offer in her field and not be afraid to take more risks. "I was so cautious and wanted everything to be perfect rather than take chances and fail in order to learn," she says.  Moving forward, Jarie plans to continue to learn about skin health, herbalism, and perfumery and hopes to expand on being a Virtual Esthetician and getting her Eau de Parfums in stores.  She also wants to donate more of my services to nonprofit organizations. 

To learn more about Huami Magazine, please visit our website at www.huamimagazine.com

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The history of candles dates back many years, even centuries.  According to The National Candle Association, one of the earliest uses of candles can be traced to the Ancient Egyptians in 3,000 B.C. as a way to provide light.  Candles have also been central to worship and religious ceremonies thousands of years ago.  

Did you know that in the 1800s, candles were used by miners as a way to keep track of time?  The candles were marked with 12 lines, and when the wick burnt to a specific line, the miners would know it was time for a shift change.  Today, most people use candles to make their homes feel cozier.  They have become decorative pieces, proven to enhance one's mental vibe.  Greensboro, NC, resident Daria Via has made it her business to bring the art and culture of candle-making to the forefront. 

Daria is the owner and operator of Cozy + MeTime Candles.  Originally from Martinsville, VA, Daria understands the nuances of candles, how they complement an environment, and most of all, how impactful they can be in providing a feeling of peace and serenity to those who utilize them.  She attended the Art Institute of Charlotte, NC, and majored in fashion and marketing.  She also attended Guilford Technical Community College and received an associate degree in business administration and marketing. 

Daria shares, “For me, candles have always set a vibe in any space they’re in.  If you think about it, candles have been setting the vibe for well over 5,000 years.  Most people may not be aware of that.  You could be at a funeral, a birthday party, or a celebration; when you light that candle, you set the emotional vibe at that moment.  I need to have positive energy around me; that's very important," she says.

For avid candle lovers, candles are an integral part of their personal downtime.  Whether relaxing at home in a hot bath with a scented candle or simply sitting in your favorite chair enjoying your quiet time, candles help to set the mood.  According to Daria, “During my "MeTime" I can relax, clear my head, and focus on what I need to do next.  Clarity is important; if you’re burning candles to relax, you don’t want candles with chemicals and unnecessary additives.  Those things can lead to health issues.  My candles are all-natural soy candles, a safer and healthier product to burn.  I truly believe that’s why they sell so well, especially at the farmer's market.  When I first started selling them there, I would sell out every time.  Then I thought, if they’re selling really well here, let me see if I can get my candles in a boutique.  So, I started going into the different shops in Greensboro and Kernersville, introducing myself and my product, and asked if I could leave a few candles there," she says.  The answer was yes.  "Doing that leg work allowed me to become familiar with the surrounding communities and the different establishments inside of them." 

Some of the flavors of candles Daria offers are Watermelon Sugar, Coconut Lime, and Jamaica Me Crazy.  There is also a Men's Perspective line with scents like Black Ice, Kentucky Bourbon, and Cool Water.

Under Daria's direction, Cozy + MeTime Candles is set to change the way people enjoy the art of candle burning.  For companies who are interested in taking team-building exercises to the next level, she is ready to help.  Daria also is available to provide her unique candle-making experience for church meetings and assist with building closer relationships during "girl's nights out" events.  

To learn more about Daria Via and Cozy + MeTime Candles, you may visit their website at www.cozymetime.com

To learn more about Huami Magazine, please visit our website at www.huamimagazine.com

You may also follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine, or This Is Who I Am Podcast in your search box.

To learn more about Michelle Coleman and Wellness Consulting Group LLC, please visit their website at www.startcreditjourneynow.com or call 614-687-2759

To learn more about Erika Burnett and Erika Nicole LLC Reliable Virtual Assistants, please visit their website at www.erikanicholllc.com or 215-376-4807

Americans are among the most morbidly obese globally. Still, we spend more than any country per capita on weight loss gimmicks. Melody McClellan is a wife, mother, and former pharmaceutical sales rep, and eleven years ago, she would have never imagined herself helping others in physical health and wellness. Today, she can’t imagine doing anything else. As her clients call her, Coach Melody is an outstanding Health and Wellness transformation strategist with twenty-plus years of experience. “After years as a pharmaceutical sales rep, I realized there is a huge lack of education around nutrition and wellness,” Melody explained. “I saw the bags of medication growing, but nobody was actually getting better.”

In October 2013, Unwrap You was born. “I was at a turning point in my life. My kids were older, and I started to feel like I wanted to do something more with my life,” Melody shares. “I studied wellness and nutrition and started trying to show people that there was a better, long-term solution to a healthier way of life. When I started as ‘Coach Melody,’ I thought it was just about helping people lose weight. But I quickly learned that there is a lot more to this process. It’s about the individual’s mindset. You have to consider what people have been through, what mental baggage they may be carrying, and overall be willing to meet people where they are on their journey.”  

Melody was born in St. Louis, Missouri, but moved with her mother and brother to Los Angeles when she was about ten. The fitness and body image bug didn’t hit her until age sixteen. “I wasn’t the healthiest kid growing up. What I mean is I wasn’t into sports and athletics. I think it was around sixteen that I got into health and nutrition,” Melody admitted. “I started watching what I ate and changing some habits. When I saw the results, it motivated me to continue exploring what a healthier me looked like. Like most people, I tried different fad diets and meal plans. But that’s how things started for me.”

Coach Melody’s health and wellness platform has caught on in a big way. Five years ago, she left pharmaceutical sales and went full-time as a health and wellness coach. Make no mistake, this wasn’t just a good idea. Melody wanted to make sure she was adequately prepared to succeed at changing how people viewed their personal health and wellness.

“When I started, I wanted to be as informed as possible because you only have one chance to make a good impression. The last thing you want is to be uninformed about the root cause of the illnesses you are trying to prevent,” she shares. “As a pharmaceutical sales rep, you are well-trained on the latest drugs and their uses. Having that foundational knowledge of the different diseases a healthier lifestyle would be combating was helpful. When I started the business, I went back to school to get the certification in nutrition to complete the package.”'

When it’s all said and done, Coach Melody’s goal is to allow everyone to live better. “I pride myself on ensuring everyone has the most amazing experience! If you enjoy the experience, you will keep doing it. A healthy lifestyle increases productivity, makes you feel better, and improves mobility. It is not about a number on a scale. It’s about the nonverbals and the things that we sometimes don’t consider until we see those things change. For example, walking up a flight of steps without being out of breath, your clothes fit better, which builds confidence and improves your mood. I could go on and on because there are so many benefits to creating a healthier lifestyle.”

To learn more about Coach Melody McClellan, please visit her website at www.unwrapyou.com

You may also call her directly at 314-740-3285

To learn more about Huami Magazine, please visit our website at www.huamimagazine.com

You may also follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine, or This Is Who I Am Podcast in your search box.

To learn more about Michelle Coleman and Wellness Consulting Group LLC, please visit their website at www.startcreditjourneynow.com or call 614-687-2759

To learn more about Erika Burnett and Erika Nicole LLC Reliable Virtual Assistants, please visit their website at www.erikanicholllc.com or 215-376-4807

     Without question, Jensine Reeder is a lover of all people. The Greenville, SC, resident has a reputation for giving and pouring into others. She has intentionally made limitless connections across the beauty, technology, and nonprofit sectors and provided hope and opportunities while doing so.  

     Jensine’s story reflects the life of someone who has refused to be denied or misled. She shares, “Family has always been important to me. I grew up in Greenville, SC, as the oldest of five siblings, and Southern Baptist ideals shaped my adolescent identity. While the church offered community, support, and love, it also led me to believe that money, specifically desiring money, is bad. I scraped by for years to make ends meet. I hoarded basic supplies like toilet paper and worked tirelessly for less than minimum wage to feed myself and my family. My efforts kept us fed, and we were alive but not truly living. I knew deep in my bones that I was capable of more, and we deserved more.”

     Jensine says her career and entrepreneurship journeys taught her that wealth is not inherently evil. “I learned that money is neither good nor bad but simply a tool. What matters is how you use it. Money provides stability and offers opportunities. I wanted to allow my children to pursue their education, dreams, and passions and access the best care and resources money could buy. Furthermore, I never wanted my children to feel the suffocating fear of living paycheck to paycheck. So, I carved out a new career path for myself and climbed from minimum wage jobs to a salaried position,” she says. However, little did she know her journey out of poverty had only begun.

     Today, Jensine owns Source Unlimited LLC, a consulting firm dedicated to connecting small businesses, nonprofit organizations, and corporations with the resources necessary to thrive professionally. “We offer nonprofit IT consulting services to ensure data collection procedures are efficient and accompanied by effective workflow processes,” Jensine says. “That enhanced efficiency better positions organizations for additional funding opportunities and enables organizations to tell their stories.”  

     One of the services offered by The Source Unlimited is Professional Nonprofit IT Consulting. Her goal is to ensure data collection software and procedures are efficient and accompanied by effective workflow processes. “This positions the organization for additional funding opportunities,” she says. Another product offered is Elevation Coaching™, designed for small business professionals, which offers small business establishment for Limited Liability Corporation (LLC), Incorporation (Inc), Sole Proprietorship, and Nonprofit (501(c)(3) establishment. Additionally, they offer coaching with a phased approach to growing their clients’ businesses.

     Another product offered, which is designed for individuals, is Elevation Coaching™. Jensine asks, “Are you ready for your elevation journey? We offer a process to tap into your highest self and elevate your thinking about yourself, your purpose, and your life!  My services are for anyone with a vision to start or expand their business and who needs guidance, support, and accountability.”       Jensine’s creative side is displayed with Goddess Wraps by Jensine™, which was launched in 2021. She hand-makes vibrant satin-lined headwraps with 100% Cotton Ankara fabric lined with high-quality satin. She says the line resulted from her doing some soul-searching and learning what her life’s purpose was. Annually, a portion of their sales are donated to organizations that focus on raising awareness about breast cancer and alopecia.  Additionally, Jensine provides virtual and in-person wrap services for photoshoots, date nights, weddings, birthday celebrations, anniversary events, and more. 

     Jensine says her journey in poverty began in 2012 while working as a paralegal at a private law firm. She overheard a conversation between the attorneys about a client who didn’t understand their life of poverty. At that moment, Jensine learned there was a difference between being poor and being in poverty. “I was in shock because, according to my family and friends, I was doing well for myself because I had a good job, a car, and was renting a home. I then researched what career I could transition to in order to increase my income to make enough money to be above the federal poverty line,” she says.

     Her next move was returning to college to get her degree in Computer Technology at Greenville Technical College. While being a full-time student, she worked on campus in the Engineering and Technology computer lab, an experience that allowed her to sharpen her skills and gain professional experience. Jensine shares that with the support of her family, friends, and church members, she graduated with honors in 2014 with a degree in Computer Technology.

     Continuing her educational journey as a working mother required great personal sacrifice, Jensine confesses, but she was ready to pursue a career in technology. She soon started her consulting business, The Source Unlimited. In no time, doors began to open in her favor. Jensine says, “The United Way of Greenville County was searching for a Database Administrator. I applied and got the contract, and that seven-year opportunity helped me find my niche within the technology field. I also assisted over 222 Greenville County nonprofits with acquiring over $4 million in grant funding.” She was off and running, and The Source Unlimited LLC was birthed in 2014.

     Jensine’s new career helped her purchase her first home in 2015. “My children and I were so happy to have a place to call home,” she says. Her children also inspired her to share her story with others and pursue public speaking engagements throughout the Upstate community.  

When asked what she loves most about her journey in business, Jensine says it’s the opportunities she has to mentor entrepreneurs, business owners, executives, and professionals. She enjoys transforming their lives, careers, and mindsets through the power of radical self-discovery, self-care, and self-love. “I also love the opportunity to honor my Afro-Indigenous heritage with Goddess Wraps by Jensine.”

     Jensine emphasizes that external success cannot exist without internal success, and when she reflects on the fear, anger, and grief that consumed her at the beginning of her journey, she’s overwhelmed with joy. “I cherish and appreciate the peace, prosperity, and stability my family knows now. I am also humbled by the blessings God placed in my life,” she said.

     Jensine thanks the members of her community for their constant support. She also thanks her mother for always breathing life into her vision. “Thank you, Mom, for being the wind beneath my wings!”  Her advice to others who may follow in her footsteps is simple. “Life will never be without trials and tribulations, but we are strong, creative, and gifted enough to turn those trials and tribulations into something more. Whether it takes a year, a decade, or multiple decades, you can transform your life. You have everything you need within you to start and succeed.”

     The future looks very bright for this savvy businesswoman. Jensine’s businesses and brands are growing, and soon she will launch a new men’s line at the beginning of 2024.

To learn more about The Source Unlimited LLC, please visit their website at www.source864.com

To learn more about Huami Magazine, please visit our website at www.huamimagazine.com  You may also follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine in your searchbox.  T

     Angel Johnson is sort of a world traveler. Her feet have touched down in many places, such as Kuwait, Qatar, and Afghanistan. However, she is still a true Southern girl.  

     Originally from Charleston, SC, she attended the Citadel Military College there and is one of the first one hundred black women to graduate from there in its 150 year history. Her next move, she was commissioned into the United States Air Force as a Second Lieutenant and enjoyed an eight-year career there, obtaining the rank of Captain while, of course, traveling abroad.  

     All of her experiences have shaped Angel into the person she is. Today, she resides in Denver, CO, and owns ICONI. “I consider myself a start-up founder that likes leggings,” Angel says. Her company offers products for men and women, such as leggings, sports bras, shirts, shorts, and tops. Angel adds, “ICONI activewear delivers motivation and empowerment, and we guarantee to safeguard and support our customers’ bodies. More importantly, we aim to ensure our customers can focus on their workouts instead of see-through, non-supportive, low-quality, and boring activewear.”

     ICONI is an acronym for “I Can Overcome, Nothing Is Impossible”.”The ICONI logo represents power, strength, and versatility. The base is a power button representing your power to accomplish your goals. The overlay is the Adinkra symbol for strength and versatility. It takes all these elements to control your total wellness, especially when starting a fitness journey.”

     While still in the military, Angel started her company. The idea came about in October 2019, but the company was launched in January 2020. Angel says, “I got tired of spending so much money on activewear. I never understood why women’s activewear was see-through, and I wanted to change that. I also learned that other women shared the same concern, as well as others regarding active wear.”

     To build the ICONI brand, Angel utilized the power of social media. “I asked questions about the issue other women had about activewear. One thing I learned was the issue they had with leggings falling down. I thought to myself, well, I need to ensure that leggings will not fall while my clients work out. I need to make sure they are not see-through and have compression. I used social media and the feedback from my friends to help create the best products.”

     In addition to finding ICONI products on their website, they can be purchased from their Amazon store. Their goal is also to have them available in five to seven boutique stores and gyms by the end of 2023. “We are moving slowly with distribution because gyms will reach out to us to have our products available in their business, but they are not an inclusive environment. We only want to work with inclusive environments because our customer base is very diverse.”

     Angel credits her mother, Pearl, with having the most considerable influence on her life. “She has always taught me the value of having a hard work ethic. She taught me the value of working hard at some things and keep going,” Angel said.  

     After launching her brand, Angel faced the challenge of the Covid 19 pandemic. She had an activewear line, and her original marketing goal was to go into the gyms, but most gyms across the country were closed. She overcame this challenge by networking and applying to various databases and even hired a marketing company to assist with her marketing needs—those challenges Angel shares have only made her a stronger and wiser businesswoman.

     There have been some highs and lows with running her company.  One high was when it was listed as one of Oprah Winfrey’s favorite things in November 2020. Angel says that experience turned her side hustle mentality into a fully-fledged business. Since its inception, they have done over half a million dollars in sales. Now, with the assistance of outside investors and a marketing company, the projections look promising.  

     Looking ahead, Angel says she hopes to give back and mentor other aspiring entrepreneurs. She also wants to expand their size range and incorporate more fabric technologies into their clothing. 

     To learn more about ICONI, please visit their website at www.iconi.com  

You may also follow them on Facebook and Instagram by putting "ICONI" in your search box.

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     Bridgette Williams is an entrepreneur who allows divine inspiration to guide her, and it hasn’t steered her wrong yet. Currently, she owns two thriving businesses. Bridgette’s latest product of divine intervention is Demhaj Poetry Lounge, located in High Point, NC. 

     The name Demhaj is significant for many reasons. “When I first conceived the idea of the coffee shop, I remember thinking about how much love and joy my son brought me so that I would name the business after him. I wanted people to feel what I felt in a way.  My son’s name is Jahmed, so I said I would name the shop Demhaj (Dem-hage),” Bridgette said with a little lift. 

     “The first time the idea about a poetry lounge and coffee shop came to me, I was a young mother and met a woman named Teresa at the social services department,” Bridgette shared. “I was sitting in the waiting room, and there was this older woman staring at me. So, I smiled and introduced myself. We started talking, and she told me she was a poet.” This intrigued Bridgette because she had been writing poetry since she was thirteen years old. 

     “Writing was a therapeutic outlet for me. I have drawers full of poems I’ve written over the years.” As a result of Bridgette’s passion for poetry, she and Teresa found an instant kinship that exists to this day. “Teresa was one of the first people I shared my vision about the poetry lounge with. I told her I wanted to create a space where people could come together and express themselves while enjoying each other’s company. I asked myself, ‘What brings people together? Coffee.’” The idea came to Bridgette in 2003, but it would be eighteen years before she would see it come to life. 

     “It’s funny how you plan to do something, and God redirects you,” Bridget laughed. “In middle school, I was part of a mentorship program. A young lady from North Carolina A&T State University came, and she had such a positive effect on me. She made me want to do something with my life. I was so inspired by her that I wanted to become a mentor.”

     After graduating high school, Bridgette started at Winston-Salem State University in Winston-Salem, NC. Still very passionate about helping others through mentorship, she enrolled in a program to become a certified mentor. “Rebuilding the Walls of Hope was the name of the faith-based mentorship training program I attended. Marie Carter led it,” Bridgette explained. Her goal was to start her own mentorship program for troubled teens eventually. But when she started planning, Bridgette was led in a different direction. 

     “When I say led, I mean God literally redirected me to something completely different from what I thought I wanted to do. I was playing around with names for the mentorship program, and God started dealing with me about a home health care agency,” Bridgette said, laughing as she remembered the unexpected and confusing shift. “Before I knew it, God had given me a name and a plan on how to start a home healthcare agency. I knew it was God because I had no idea how to start or run this kind of business.”

     In 2006 Faithful Nurses Healthcare Inc. was born.  It’s been seventeen years since Bridgette followed God and launched her first business, and it’s still going strong. After starting the home healthcare agency, Bridgette switched her degree to nursing. But the demands of being a young wife and mother caused her to leave college a year short of graduating. 

     “Life was very demanding during that time. Anyone who knew me before then knew the “happy, fun-loving, and easy-going” Bridgette, but I think somewhere along the way, I lost my spark,” Bridgette admits.

     In 2021 Bridgette found herself as a single parent. Bridgette was living life with no net or restraints for the first time in over twenty years. Over the years, she continued to share with her family and friends her vision for the poetry and coffee shop.

     Newly single, with her only son in college, Bridgette was in unfamiliar territory. “Everything was different. I was on my own, my son was independent, and for the first time in twenty-one years, I could think about what I wanted and what would make me happy. I won’t say it was easy,” Bridgette admitted. “I had to overcome the fear of failing. This would be the first time I did something like this alone. After what I’d gone through, I wasn’t ready to have one of my lifelong dreams fail.”

     Bridgette decided to step out on faith, putting everything she had behind her new business venture. Since her son had heard her say for years that she would open this café, he didn’t take her seriously initially, but after seeing the energy she was putting out, he soon got on board. 

     “It seemed as if as soon as I chose to trust God with my dream, he put everything into place,” Bridgette shared. “Since opening the Demhaj Poetry Lounge, I have my smile back. The spark that made me, me, is back, and I’m grateful. From the moment a customer walks in, I pray they can feel the love, peace, and genuine joy I feel daily. Demhaj is not just a place to get great coffee. It’s a place where people from every walk of life can come and feel comfortable expressing themselves, meet new people, and enjoy being part of something beautiful.”

To learn more about Demhaj Poetry Lounge, you may visit their website at www.demhajpoetrylounge.com  You may also call them directly at 336-307-4105

To learn more about Faithful Nurses Health Care, you may visit their website at www.faithfulnurse.com or by calling them directly at 1-888-598-1882 ext 2, or by calling 704-598-1882 ext 2

To learn more about Huami Magazine, please visit our website at www.huamimagazine.com

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