ETM MAGAZINE (FEMALE EXCELLENCE &ENTREPRENEURSHIP EDITION) Expanding the Mind magazine this month recognizes successful, independent, vibrant, vivacious, classy, spiritual, social and diversified insights of entrepreneurial women. Lovely Big O-single woman with a vision- continue to make me laugh and represent the Upstate of Greenville, S.C., on 107.3 JAMZ.com. Sheba Foxx, Mrs. Feisty radio personality, your mothering spirit on the JAMZ box resonates around the Upstate woman of substance. Tori James, I always listen for (whom I call my favorite white girl) to play me something special, I’m always listening for you. Rhonda Rawlings, where do I start? Upstate Activist Diva- Traci Fant and you, I call you both women of all women. Know your worth. Leave a legacy for upcoming women to mimic. Vicky James, your voice is missing from the JAMZ studio, but not forgotten from me. Had a brother spellbound. Come back!! Mary D. Hines, my personal Editor and Vice President of Expanding the Mind Magazine. Where do I begin? I call you Royale-meaning Queen. You’ve been through so much, yet you’ve risen like a woman on a mission to help other women to overcome their storm and find meaning for their life's after the storm. I’m so proud of your courage. Cora Byers Nesbitt! Shhh……….Woman of destiny. You can make a dead man laugh (smile). Last! But not least! My exotic, pure, divine, loyal, dedicated gift from Heaven. Deidra Cade...Sacred. There are no words to express my gratitude to you adequately and for you. (Woman of Purity). My best friend, agent, accountability partner, business partner, wisdom and stability. “You’re the face of my success as a noted Author, Publisher, and Owner of this magazine. ~Robert Graham, Jr. a.k.a. Yahborn~ (3 x Prison Entrepreneur) My address: Robert Graham, Jr #178039 PCI F2B215T 430 Oaklawn Rd. Pelzer, SC 29669
ETM Magazine T-Shirts Check out Ms. Shatiya modeling our shirts. If you would like to purchase our shirts you can contact Cora Byers Nesbitt on our Facebook page @ETM Magazine Business Page for prices. Thanks to Double-A Kustoms for making the shirts.
Dreams and Visions My name is Mary D. Hines and I'm so glad that this magazine is celebrating Female Excellence and Entrepreneurship because it’s so many Phenomenal ladies that’s not always recognized. Now is the time for them to be recognized and be in the spotlight through ETM magazine. This magazine has given me the opportunity to bring my visions to life. With all my hard work and dedication, I have become the Senior Editor and VP of this magazine. I have a Facebook group named, “There is Life after the Storm”. It’s for Domestic Violence survivors and victims as well. It’s a group for ladies and men to share, get words of encouragement, and just to know that they are not alone in this storm. I’ve had the opportunity to be a voice for myself and others by telling my story and being the voice of the ones that have been silenced or are no longer around to tell their story at Domestic Violence events. This magazine has opened up so many doors for me to show my creativity, and to just take my vision and dreams and bring them to life for others to see that they can do anything. I write poetry because I love to use the thoughts of my mind and express it in words. I’ve always loved writing poetry and I will be sharing some of my poetry in this magazine. I look back over all the years when I thought I wouldn’t be able to accomplish bringing my visions to life. Now here I am, in 2020, in the midst of all the storms and I’m really making it happen. However, I know that it wouldn’t be possible without God and my family that have supported me through the good, bad, and the ugly. My daughter is my biggest motivation and cheerleader. She is the reason I go so hard. I always tell her, “If you believe it, you can achieve it!” So, when I started believing in myself, I started achieving everything. I want the next person to know that dreams do come true because mine are coming true right before my very eyes. So, to all the phenomenal, excellent women, don’t ever stop dreamin’! ~Mary D. Hines~
WHAT’S INSIDE: Featured Content I AM MORE (POETRY)- MARY D. HINES 7 PROMINENT ENTREPRENEURS OF TODAY 8 LADIES OF 107.3 JAMZ 17 INTRODUCING PASSION TO YOUR PURPOSE- YSANTE MCDOWELL 21 TRACI FANT- TRIBUTE 23 YOU CAN MAKE IT (POETRY) – MARY D HINES 24 SOUTH CAROLINAS’S SHOOTING STARS 25 SPOTLIGHT: AUTHOR VANESSA NAMI LYONS 35
Featured Content SPOTLIGHT: CASSANDRA GRAHAM 36 ARTICLE: EDUCATION IS THE CAREER- PATRICIA PERRY BEASON, PhD 37 ARTICLE: BECOMING YOUR OWN BOSS- CORA BYERS NESBIT 39 APPS THAT SLAP! (APPS FOR THE ENTREPRENEUR ON THE GO) 40 ETM CLASSIFIEDS 41 LIFE GOES ON (POETRY)- MARY D. HINES 45 DEDICATION (POETRY)- MARY D. HINES 46 Front Cover: Thanks to Creative Commons \"File:Stacey Abrams in May 2018 (1).png\" by The Circus is licensed with CC BY 3.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0
I am More I am more than you say I am, I am a conqueror and if I put my mind to it, I know I can. Be the greatest that I can be, And know that I’m worthy and beautiful and in my eyes that’s what I see. I have learned to love and encourage myself even when no one else will, Because when it seems like a storm is rising in my life I just begin to pray,” Peace Be Still.” You have to begin to speak life in your situation because I am so much more, God has a purpose for my life and it’s so much in store, Because I am more. Mary D. Hines
“Women, if the Soul Of the Nation Is to be SAVED, You must become Its SOUL.” – Coretta Scott King \"File:Stacey Abrams in May 2018 (1).png\" by The Circus is licensed with CC BY 3.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0 TAKE A PEEK INTO THE LIVES OF SOME OF THE MOST PROMINENT FEMALE PHENOMS THAT YOU MAY OR MAY NOT KNOW ARE ENTREPRENEURS. 8
WHEN IT WAS DOWN TO THE WIRE FOR THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY IN THE STATE OF GEORGIA, IT WAS STACEY ABRAMS WHO STEPPED UP AND TOOK CHARGE. STACEY ABRAMS Before running for governor, herself, Stacey Abrams founded the New Georgia Project — a voting rights nonprofit. With this organization, she and other like-minded groups successfully reregistered thousands of Georgians who were purged, and also registered hundreds of thousands of Georgia residents who had previously not voted. Abrams is famous for her portrayal in the realm of politics or her past as a tax attorney, but few speak of her entrepreneurial endeavors. Abrams was the co-founder of Nourish, which made formula-ready bottled water for babies and sippy-cups for toddlers. Unfortunately, the company was forced to close after a rather large company placed a major order for their product. Nourish would then need a loan to automate their equipment to fulfill the order, but it was 2008 during the Great Recession and they just couldn’t secure the funds they needed to survive. Instead of giving up, she used this as a learning lesson. She learned how having access to capital can be a saving grace to a small business, as well as how the lack thereof can kill the dreams of a budding entrepreneur. This is often the tale for many women and people of color who are typically left out of the conversations and meetings when it comes to funding. She saw a problem and decided to produce a solution that would have helped her when she was in business. Abrams and her co-founder Lara Hodgson collaborated with John Hayes in 2010 to start NOWaccount, which is a company that provides a payment system to small businesses and improves their cashflow to help them progress. Overall, they helped to create and retain over 2,000 jobs in the state of Georgia. As a potential candidate for the governor’s position, Abrams had planned to help more business founders to gain access to capital. Although, she did not win the governor’s seat in this election, she remains dedicated to her mission. 9
TARAJI P. HENSON Best known for her roles in such feature films as “Baby Boy”, “Hidden Figures”, and “Hustle and Flow”, Taraji P. Henson is a force to be reckoned with. Most recently, Taraji has shown the world that she is definitely more than just an actress. She’s embarked on a journey to bringing awareness and solutions to the issues surrounding mental health, particularly with the black community. Her non-profit, Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, named after her father, was started in 2018. The group went from just raising awareness about mental health in the community into facilitating it and in some cases covered the cost for applicants for up to five therapy sessions. If that’s not enough, Taraji has used this down time during the pandemic to brand and market her haircare line, TPH, which is sold through Target. She can be found on Instagram demonstrating how to use the products as well as providing styling options, which connects her right to her market of interest. Who doesn’t love a good hair tutorial? Taraji is ensuring that people have healthy brains and roots. She also is devoted to her craft as an actress. Her production company TPH Entertainment is developing a spinoff of her character from the hit TV show, Empire. Stay Tuned to see what else she has in store. SERENA WILLIAMS Serena is not just a force on the tennis court. She also plays just as hard in other realms of her life. Her clothing line “S” by Serena” caters to the smart, sexy, and sophisticated style for various sizes. #BeSeenBeHeard is the slogan for the sleek attire which can be found on her website serenawilliams.com. In addition to a clothing line, her firm Serena Ventures, proves her to be quite the savvy investor. The firm focuses on the startups founded by women and minorities, with an intention of being more inclusive. Some of the ventures the firm has invested in include: “Wave” (international money transfer app), “Teespring” (t-shirt selling site), and “Coin Tracker” (crypto portfolio and tax tracker). (Full portfolio can be found on serenaventures.com). Serena is definitely aiming to become the G.O.A.T., on and off the court. 10
MARY SPIO Silicon Valley – one of those places where diversity is a lingering issue. Companies often overlook black talent or handle them like a charity case. Mary Spio is a black tech entrepreneur looking to change the landscape and highlight black tech entrepreneurship. Her aim is to show that we don’t want to just get the job but provide them. Her accolades include game-changing tech for companies such as Boeing, Lucasfilm, Universal Music, and Microsoft X-box as well as successfully putting satellites into space. Today, she heads up her company, CEEK Virtual Reality, which is a streaming platform. She’s worked with DeWayne Wade, Lady Gaga, and Ringo Starr. Courtesy of Twitter In an industry where it is easier to raise capital with a white face than a black one, she remains resilient, in showing them that in today’s economy, racism is no longer just ignorant but costly. TYRA BANKS Tyra Banks is an icon in the modeling industry, but she’s also made a buzz in the acting and music world. Although she has long since left the runways and photo shoots in exotic places behind, she definitely left her mark, ensuring that she became a household name. After modeling, Tyra took all that she learned as a model and her business sense to launch her hit show America’s Next Top Model which ran for 24 seasons. She also went to Harvard to obtain her diploma from the Harvard University’s Executive Education Owner/President Manager Program, which is a program designed for “CEOs, COOs, presidents, and managing directors of companies with annual sales of at least $5 million. Some of her past ventures include Ty Ty Baby Productions, Bankable Productions, TypeF.com, TZONE, and her cosmetics line Tyra Beauty which was a direct sales business reminiscent of that for Mary Kay that was geared towards millennials. You can find Tyra currently on Dancing with the Stars. 11
KIMBERLY BRYANT With the world shifting to remote work, Kimberly Bryant and her non-profit is just the thing that young girls need. Black Girls Code introduces young girls of color to computer science. Kimberly and her organization have been nationally recognized for her work to increase opportunities for women and girls in the technology industry. She’s received numerous awards for her work and has been listed as Business Insiders’ “25 Most Influential African-Americans in Technology” and is featured on Ebony’s 2013 Power 100 list. Kimberly has spent more than 20 years in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries as an Engineering Manager in a series of technical leadership roles for various Fortune 100 companies, such as Genentech, Merck, and Pfizer. She is well-equipped and focused on closing the digital divide for girls. BEATRICE DIXON The 38-year-old entrepreneur took social media by storm. Her viral fame was embroiled in controversy after being featured in Target’s ad for “Founders We Believe In”. In the advertisement for her brand, The Honeypot Company, she stated: “The reason why it’s so important for Honey Pot to do well is so that the next black girl that comes up with a great idea, she can have a better opportunity,\" Dixon said at the end of the ad. \"That means a lot to me.\" Viewers of the video responded with racist vitriol, but her fellow entrepreneurs and users of her products rallied social media and the wrath of Black Twitter to combat those who trolled her. The controversy, although bittersweet, did help to catapult her visibility and sales. She has recently been featured in the video for the song “Entrepreneur” by rap artists’ Pharrell & Jay-Z. The inspiration for starting the company began with her own desire to treat her own health condition and a dream that included a visit from her late grandmother giving her the idea to create her own remedy. Since starting the business in 2012, Dixon has sold her products not only in Target but Whole Foods and Walgreens as well. She has made history by starting the first plant based feminine care line with a loan of $21,000. She is continuously focused on building her business with hopes to be able to sell in the future. 12
TAVONIA EVANS A mother of eight and 20-year tech veteran, Tavonia Evans is letting nothing hold her back. Her background includes being a Certified Bitcoin Professional & Cryptocurrency Evangelist plus an avid investor in women owned and black owned businesses. What she’s most known for is being the founder Guap Coin, a platform built to support the black ecosystem. The “About Us” section on the Guap homepage reads: “GUAP Coin is the first publicly launched, decentralized cryptocurrency that addresses the economic and financial concerns of the Global African Diaspora community. This primarily includes African-Americans, Afro-Latinx, Afro- Caribbean, and any other group or culture that identifies with having historical roots on the continent of Africa. We are unified by similar battles with our governing financial systems. We struggle with gentrification and poverty, as well as loss of ownership of our creative assets and inventions. In many cases we are rendered voiceless despite having such a great impact on society.” The mission of Guap is to provide a sound and revolutionary economic base for the underserved, underestimated, and financially uneducated minority community. They believe that cryptocurrency is best learned in practice rather than from the sidelines if aiming to build wealth. To get more information or download an electronic or paper wallet for Guapcoin, visit guapcoin.org. TASHA SMITH Tasha Smith is best known as an actress and recently as a director. Smith has played several roles and is best noted for her character, “Angela” in Tyler Perry’s “Why Did I Get Married” series. Smith made her first directorial debut in 2015 with a short film named “Boxed In” and has since gone on to direct, “When Love Kills: The Falicia Blakely Story (featuring Lance Gross, rapper Lil Mama) and the hit series, “P-Valley” which debuted this year. She is the creator of TSAW, an actor workshop that empowers and inspires performers at various stages in their careers and carries a major focus on black communities. In addition, she once owned a unisex fragrance and created a program with her husband known as the Speaking Bureau Institute. Tasha is out to show the world she is definitely a creator of many things. 13
MIKAILA ULMER At 15-years-old, Mikaila Ulmer has been in business for 10 years. She started her first lemonade stand in Kindergarten for a children’s business competition. That lemonade stand blossomed into something much bigger, landing her a slot on NBC’s “Shark Tank”, a meeting with Barack Obama and distribution into Whole Foods and Wegmans. Her company, Me & the Bees Lemonade, utilized her great grandmother’s flaxseed lemonade recipe to motivate many “beelievers” to join in the fight to save the honeybees. The family owned and operated company, donates a portion of sales to bee conservation. Mikaila’s non-profit, Healthy Hive Foundation, is on a mission to save all bees through education, research, and protection. It also aims to inspire social entrepreneurship. By raising and directing funds to support beekeepers and scientific research, they are helping to protect the bees and their habitats. Mikaila doesn’t believe that being a kid restricts you from being and entrepreneur and being named one of Time’s 30 Most Influential Teenagers shows that she is just getting started. Mikaila’s book, “Bee Fearless: Dream Like A Kid”, can be found on Amazon and will undoubtedly serve as an inspirational read for kids today. VENUS WILLIAMS Venus Williams is a phenomenal tennis player like her younger sister, Serena. She doesn’t save her best moves for just on the court, she’s made some nice plays for her professional life. Williams and her sister Serena are both minority stakeholders in the Miami Dolphins. Like Serena, Venus has also ventured into the fashion industry with her sports/activewear line, “ELEVEN by Venus Williams” (elevenbyvenuswilliams.com). She doesn’t just stop there, Venus is the owner and CEO of V Starr Interiors, which focus on interior design. Her design firm has made a name for itself by working on projects that include condominiums, athletic facilities and stadiums. Last year, they partnered with Airbnb for a recently constructed apartment complex in the Kissimee, FL area. Venus applies the lessons she learns on the court to her business ventures making her a winner at what she does. 14
CASHMERE NICOLE Cashmere Nicole has has the entrepreneurial bug since the age of 9. Her spirit and tenacity from an early age will carry her through single motherhood and battling breast cancer all while maintaining her business she founded prior, Beauty Bakerie. The Beauty Bakerie cosmetics line is an ode to Cashmere’s sweet tooth combined with her love of creating. Her products have been adorned by artists such as Beyonce, whose website she has interviewed for and rapper Cardi B, just to name a few. She has been featured in Forbes and on Good Morning America. Her products are carried by cosmetics giant, Ulta (Beauty), and can be found in store as well as online. The company’s digital presence and sales in various countries made a major impression and helped to Nicole to acquire $3 million in funding from investors (for minority stake); Unilever Ventures is one of those investors. The Beauty Bakerie brand, much like its owner, shows no sign of stopping anytime soon. LALAH DELIA Lalah Delia is all about empowerment, affirmations and higher vibrations. As a spiritual writer, certified spiritual practitioner, wellness educator and the founder of Vibrate Higher Daily, Delia does just that. Vibrate Higher Daily is an online community and mentoring program. She has written books that help the reader seeking empowerment, and a return to their whole selves. Her work is a direct response to her journey and to the current vibrational state of the world we live in today. Delia delivers a Sacred Sunday Newsletter that she opens to those curious about resources, her writings and insights. Readers can subscribe to the mailing list at vibratehigherdaily.com 15
PINKY COLE Calling all plant lovers! Pinky Cole is one of ATL’s finest and brightest entrepreneurs on the vegan scene. She is the founder and owner of the company Slutty Vegan, which provides meat and dairy free burger options to the plant-based food lovers of the community. The burger joint has grown into a chain with multiple regional locations plus a food truck. Pinky is one who is known to be deeply involved in the community and it is her philanthropy that attracts a large number of her following. She also founded the Pinky Cole Foundation to empower budding entrepreneurs and bestow upon them the financial literacy that they would definitely need to survive the crisis brought upon the small business by the pandemic. The foundation even raised money to help other small businesses make. She is a class act and hopefully a mainstay in the plant-based space providing the community with healthier and appealing alternatives. TEYANA TAYLOR Teyana Taylor entered the scene by appearing on MTV’s “Sweet Sixteen”. From there she would go on to do music, choreograph and model in a number of fashion shows during her teenage years. She choreographed Beyonce’s “Ring the Alarm” music video at 15-years-old. Although her music is highly underrated, she has managed to stay steady and develop a solid fan base. Teyana is not letting anything or anyone get in the way of her creativity by taking full control of her music and career. She’s started several business ventures which includes a nail salon, a fitness program, and most recently, an all-female production company called “The Aunties”. She has produced a lot of her own videos as well as cinematic masterpieces for other artists such as NBA baller Iman Shumpert (her husband), Monica, Wale, T.I. and Lil Duval. She shows no signs of stopping soon. 16
Upstate Ladies Smokin’ up the Airwaves On 107.3 JMZ
Lovely Big O The Greenville native, Lovely Big O (real name Oneshia Edens) is a Christian comedian in the Upstate and a 107.3 JAMZ staple. One could find her hosting on a Saturday morning and on Sundays for Throwback Sundays. She has hosted many events in the Greenville and surrounding areas. Using her talents as an emcee and comedian, she opened for acts such as Cedric the Entertainer, Michael Blackson, and Small Fire. She released a comedy CD in 2017 titled “Laugh Until the Pain is Gone”. She infuses her brand of comedy in every space. Her new segment, “Catch Flava, Not Feelings” will bring the underground Master of Culinary Arts to the forefront and showcase a variety of food. This segment will air on Facebook Live on Wednesday nights at 8 pm. Sheba Foxx Courtesy of 107.3 JAMZ Foxx is the current News & Community Director for the Greenville Summit Media group which consists of Urban AC WJMZ (107.3 JAMZ), Top 40/Rhythmic WHZT (HOT 98.1), Alternative WJMZ-HD2 (X98.5) and Adult Hits WJMZ-HD3 (99.5 JACK FM). The Anderson, SC native has been with the station for more than a decade. She is known to easily connect with the community and has always kept them informed of the things they needed to know. Sheba even ventured out in 2016 to open her business “Foxxy Boutique” in the Anderson mall. 18
Tori James Tori James is the host of The Quiet Storm on 107.3 JAMZ. She is also active in the community and hosts various events for beneficial organizations. James is also a talented graphic designer, and the owner of Queen Bee Graphic Designs. Rhonda Rawlings Rhonda preceded Sheba Foxx as the News & Community Affairs Director for Summit Media- Greenville. She held that position for over a decade until she was assigned to presidential hopeful, Cori Booker’s SC campaign staff in the year of 2019. Rhonda is a New York native and studied communications at Temple University before coming to the upstate to serve as a radio personality. These days Rawlings also hosts a podcast and Youtube Vlog titled “Uplift Upstate” to keep the people of the Upstate connected to the community and be uplifted during these times. Her first episode features “Maranatha Farms” who provide low cost, organic food options, education on growing food and nutrition. “Girl Up Greenville” is featured in the second episode. They’re sure to spark the minds of a lot of young females for the future. Rhonda is making it her personal mission to keep the community connected and informed. 19
FORMER 107.3 JAMZ RADIO HOST: Vicky James Courtesy of Facebook Although you’ve moved on, you will always be remembered. 20
Introducing Your Passion to Purpose Passion is a strong and barely controllable emotion. There is said to be 7 passions: unity, wisdom, creativity, love, power, joy, and peace. Passion can be the driving force to success. Whatever it is that you are passionate about will always lead you to your purpose. Purpose is the reason which something is done or created or for which something exists. So now we see how the two go hand in hand, introducing your passion to your purpose. So, you ask yourself, what is it that I love to do? What motivates me? What is my passion? When you are passionate about something, it is something that you JUST DO. You don’t think twice. No accolades, no praises, no show and tell, no pat on the back, you just do it. It becomes second nature. Your passion is your enjoyment. You enjoy what you do with no strings attached. As the world is evolving and so many changes are taking place, find your passion. What ignites your fire? What pushes you to keep going? What is your why? Work your passion and you are sure to find your purpose. There is a seed of greatness that already lies in you. It just needs to be watered. Your passion will give you the water you need to flourish in your purpose. Whatever it is that you have been purposed to do, do it. Don’t procrastinate. Don’t hold back. Don’t wonder who will support you and who won’t. Stop creating scenarios in your mind of reasons why you think it will not work. Don’t be defeated before you get started. Take a leap of faith and introduce your passion to your purpose. - Ysante McDowell 21
Continue to Pursue Your Dreams By Any Means Necessary 22
Traci Fant Community Activist Freedom Fighter Thank you, Traci for all your hard work and efforts you put in on the frontlines and behind the scenes. The people are lucky to have someone like you fighting against injustices. 23
You Can Make It Even though it may seem like you’re never gonna get ahead, Seem like you’re always gonna be down instead. Always strive to have the best. Always try to rise above the rest. Never walk with your head hanging down, You’ll always have someone around. Around to always be there for you, So, hold your head up and stop being so sad and blue. Because you can make it. Mary D. Hines 24
South Carolina’s Shooting Stars
AMBER RAY OF DOUBLE-A KUSTOMS Double-A Kustoms is my pride and joy. The “Double- A” stands for Amber & Amelia that’s me and my younger sister. The “K” in Kustoms represent both our children's middle initial. Opening up my business and having full creativity over it has been a dream of mine since I was in high school. In 2004, I took a Commercial Graphics course at Swofford and received a certificate, and I developed a passion for creating anything from scratch in high school. I sacrificed my dreams of starting my business because I was stuck working in a plant for nine years. I have my old supervisor to thank for helping me to realize my worth. He told me \"These people don’t have options because they don’t have a degree.” I looked at him and smiled, because little did he know, I took that personally. Amber Ray After hearing that, I knew it was time for a change. Here I am, in 2019, breaking down my body to make someone else rich, who wouldn't have a problem replacing me with just one call. I put my faith in God and realized that nine years was past my season and it was time for me to part ways with that company and move on. I did just that and enrolled in college courses at Strayer University to earn a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. I learned all the skills about my business in high school, but I learned about the business part while taking my college courses. I put the two together and created something amazing with the help of God and my support system. Double-A Kustoms has grown and will continue growing because the customer gets what the customer wants! You name it: shirts, decals, cups - we got you covered. Also, thanks to ETM magazine for trusting my company with making their shirts I really appreciate the opportunity. ~Amber Ray~ Owner of Double-A Kustoms Double-A Kustoms Logo 26
DAMETRIS LANEY: CEO & FOUNDER OF DEMODESTY’S ALL-NATURAL SKINCARE PRODUCTS she’s not putting in any work, I’m teaching my one-year-old how to be a BOSS. I hand make all my products. Even if I don’t sale but one product a day, I’m building up my own brand, versus doing something I don’t like doing. It takes a lot of time and patience. I have to humble myself and let my hard work pave the way. My goal with my product is to help every person love the skin that they’re in. From the younger generation to the older wiser generation. Dametris and daughter, Demodesty L-R: Company Logo, Demodesty Hi. I am Dametris Laney. A 26-year-old I created Motty Patch kids for boys and Black Entrepreneur from Spartanburg, S.C. girls. It’s a Beautiful three-layered Body The founder and CEO of Demodesty’s All- Scrub. Shea butter, one of the ingredients, Natural Skincare Products and the founder has anti-inflammatory and healing and CEO of Red Bread Entertainment, since properties. Using shea butter on your body, 2018. I have experience with management, especially your face, can condition, tone, modeling, hosting, and as radio personnel. I and soothe your skin. Turmeric contains started studying Cosmetics in 2017. I was antioxidants and anti-inflammatory inspired by my sister Destiny Laney to start components as well. cosmetics. She has bad eczema and complains about her skin. So, I decided to These characteristics may provide glow and find a SOLUTION to solve my sister’s luster to the skin. Turmeric may also revive problem. I was not able to launch my your skin by bringing out its natural glow, product till 2020, but I used my own Aloe can help treat burns, acne and dry skin. products on myself and my daughter to test The scrub works best on the surface of the out my all-natural products. Since I have skin. It has a wonderful smell and nice launched my cosmetics, my customer base colors for a kids’ satisfaction. The exfoliants has increased. I named my business after my help to remove dead skin. All ingredients daughter Demodesty Laney. The company’s logo is a picture I took of my baby right before she started crying..lol. Even though 27
combined help to reduce skin acne, relieve moisture to help repair cracked damage Irritation, and moisturize the skin while feet. leaving your child’s skin feeling silky smooth. Demodesty’s All-Natural Rice Water. Reduces split ends, prevents hair breakage. PRODUCTS AVAILABLE It’s a protectant that relieves dandruff & dry scalp. Leaves hair silky & shiny! Demodesty’s All-Natural Turmeric Aloe Face Scrub. Turmeric contains antioxidants Demodesty’s Shea Butter. Available in and anti-inflammatory components. These Strawberry Lemonade, Apple, Coconut characteristics may provide glow and luster Watermelon, Bergamot, Passion, Cherry, to the skin. Turmeric may also revive your and many other fragrances. REMOVES skin by bringing out its natural glow. Aloe DARK SPOTS, ACNE SCARS, cis known to help treat burns, acne and dry MOISTURIZER SKIN, EVENING OUT skin. Works best on a superficial surface. SKIN TONE, HELPS RELIEVES DEEP CLEANS PORES REMOVING IRRITATED SKIN, GOOD FOR ECZEMA PIMPLES, DARK SPOTS, ACNE SCARS, & HELPS WITH STRETCH MARKS. & EVENS OUT SKIN TONE. Apply a small amount to each body part. It Directions: Wash your face. Apply the will not hurt to apply the amount that you product. Repeat twice a day for 30 minutes. desire. Rinse with warm water. Do this seven days a week for best results and soft, glowing Demodesty’s Pink Lemonade Lip Scrub. skin. Removes dead skin. Leaves your lips soft, pink, and plumped. Demodesty’s Three Layered Goat Milk, Oatmeal, and Honey Soap. The Goat Milk If you are allergic to sweet almond oil or repairs the skin barrier, reduce acne, other natural oils, don’t worry, orders can be prevents fine lines and wrinkles, and customized. Allergies should be specified moisturizes the skin. Oatmeal soaks up the when the order is placed. As a company, we excess oils on your skin and helps treat acne. don’t want to leave anyone out. It treats dry skin and removes dead skin cells. Oats also contain compounds called PROMISE YOU WILL NOT BE saponins, a natural cleanser that unclog the DISAPPOINTED! pores and exfoliate the skin. Honey speeds up your skin cells’ healing processes. If you FOR ORDERS OR INFORMATION: have blemishes or an eczema outbreak, honey that’s unpasteurized could speed FB: Demodesty Laney, healing, reduce inflammation and help IG: Demodesty’s Skincare Products, balance the bacteria on your skin. Great for Gmail: [email protected] eczema and baby safe. Contact Number: 828-395-3859 Demodesty’s All-Natural White Currant Foot Scrubs. Removes dead skin. Locks in 28
TIMEKA PORTER: MENA NICOLE’S KITCHEN Mena Nicole and food from her restaurant I am honored to be asked to partake in such Food sales of a variety of orders from good a wonderful experience of recognizing old soul food, to various pastas, crab boils, female excellence and entrepreneurs. Cooking, honestly begun for pound cakes, cheesecakes, or as simple as me because I love to eat. I have always, sub sandwiches and salads begun to take off. even from a young age, enjoyed a variety of I was beginning to be asked to cater events delicious foods. It was also an inescapable or cook for dinner parties. My fear and small route in my family to be able to cook, thinking of believing that my food is just starting from my grandmothers and my “ok” had to be replaced with confidence that father. As I got older, and started a family, it my food is great, as I had been told for was more economically wiser for me to years. The leap of faith led to more catering cook versus eating at restaurants often. events, more requests to sponsor dinner parties, or weekly requests for soul food My children and I share the love of food. So, scratch made everything, was a must. There Sundays. Sauces I had created for certain were many phone calls to my grandmother, dishes became a regular requested item, so I Ethel, to inquire about recipes or times I had was able to jar them for profit. The takeoff to reflect to my memory of my late father, of Mena Nicole’s Kitchen led to silent Matthew’s cooking. What started as a love investors, inquiries of the next level for to eat, blossomed into a business Mena Nicole’s Kitchen and great plans to opportunity when I was feeding friends and takeoff within the future. I am currently family regularly for free and was often told enrolled in a business academy to sharpen “you need to sale these plates”. my skills before moving forward with solidifying my business on the next level. Please continue to watch out for greater things coming from Mena Nicole’s Kitchen 29
ARIALLE KENNEDY: FOUNDER OF MAGNOLIA MOMMIES LLC Arialle Kennedy As a member of the National Black Doula Association for South Carolina (Boiling Springs), Arialle Kennedy, is the co-founder of Momma Magnolia, LLC under which she practices as a certified childbirth doula to women on one of the most monumental journeys of their lives. She is also an adjunct professor at a local college, an Au pair, as well as owner of a dance studio for children aged 3-18 years old. She has used her talents and abilities for care-giving to nurture people and their families. She offers her services both virtually and in-person. Magnolia Mommies LLC can be found on Facebook Email: [email protected] MAGNOLIA MOMMIES LLC 30
DEIDRA CADE: Co-Owner of GrahamR Writings LLC, International Partner Deidra Cade did that, but not before becoming a teenage mother first. Having a child that I can say that as I sit to write this article, I you have to care for and you’re willing to have a bit of writer’s block. I have so do anything for, just to not give them the much to say but yet the words escape me. life you had, brings a whole new element Let me start by saying that, I have a deep into the equation. It makes you strive to appreciation for the grind and the hustle achieve the impossible. that a lot of budding entrepreneurs experience trying to get their businesses I would go on to college and get my off the ground. It is to be commended and degree in ceramic engineering. During those around them need to support their this time, I would develop a love for efforts more. It is not easy to go against research through summer internships. the grain and do something different than I’m currently a research scientist and the majority of people around you. There have held that position for over a decade. will be long nights, early mornings, and However, when I entered the work force, things you sacrifice in hopes that it will all all I ever wanted to be was free – to have be worth it in the end. more ownership of my time but to make the same or more money. I love my job, or Some have several ventures before they should I say I love science and finally find the right one. That’s okay! You investigating to discover and create new show a spirit of resilience that can only be things, as well as solve problems. My rewarded in the end, granted you are favorite projects are those involving picking up key lessons along the way. In personal care (cosmetics, hair care) and I elementary school, all I ever wanted was like to make my own products at home to go to college and become a scientist. I when time allows. However, it is the corporate structure of the 9-5 and the office politics that I can do without. Plus, when someone gives you something, they can always take it away. Having your own source (s) of income is imperative in these times. I have had the “leave the rat race” mentality for quite a long while, and even more after reading Kiyosaki’s “Rich Dad, Poor Dad. I want to build my own dreams just as much as I help to build someone else’s. After all, my son would not be able to inherit my job and I don’t get paid without giving up my time. So, for me, it started with the desire to create residual 31
or passive income then escalated into the My second venture is the progress I’m desire to have ownership of something making in becoming an agri-preneur (an that can be passed down. entrepreneur in the agriculture realm). This project is in collaboration with I have experienced network marketing Hizgreis Nigeria Ltd. These days in the through various MLM’s but those really pandemic has taught me it is best to have become just another job and unless you more control over your food supply and started it yourself, you still do not own it. the need for traditional farmers. Living in Although, they can teach you some America has taught me that you should valuable tools that you can use for your build something in other places too not benefit. just here (if possible). So far, we’ve managed to turn two plots of land into My first official venture was GrahamR gated farmland complete with housing Writings LLC. I am co-owner of the unit and a section specifically for the publishing company since 2015. We’ve animals to roam, and feed. There is still published books for a number of work to be done, and eventually we incarcerated authors. Our mission was to would like to open up an avenue for more give a voice to those who dare to use it. Africans in the diaspora to be able to There are many things in life that seek to invest as entrepreneurs into land to set cage us in or “lock us down” but having up housing and other establishments. the courage to rise above these circumstances is something to take notice For now, people can find GrahamR of. We have published books in many Writings on Facebook (@GrahamRSeries), genres as well as two books from a Instagram (@GrahamRbookseries) and Nigerian author in the Yoruba language. you can email us at: The publishing company was the [email protected]. beginning for me, but definitely not the end. I have performed some freelance Best wishes to all my fellow budding ghostwriting for a few projects, and I plan entrepreneurs. May we level up in our to eventually start a business dedicated to own style and succeed in our own way. that since the projects that I’ve worked on have done really well. “The difference in who you are and who you want to be….is what you do.” – Public Myth (clothing brand) International Partner 32
Ysante C McDowell: Ed’s All-Purpose Seasoning & Rub LLC Ysante McDowell and husband, Ed McDowell Ysante C McDowell has been writing and another poem as part of Spartanburg inspiring others with her faith-based poetry Community College’s Honor of Excellence and song writings for more than a decade. Award. Her poetry always encourages others who are having unpleasant experiences and have Her first self-published book was titled, lost hope of coming out of their trials and “Time to Face Spirituality”, which was more tribulations. Mrs. McDowell started a of a pamphlet given to church members in newsletter called The Breath of Life for the Hattiesburg, MS in 2003.She is the Co-Chief local church that she attended in 2007. The Executive Officer (Co-CEO) of Ed's All- newsletters reached both inside and outside Purpose Seasoning and Rub LLC alongside of the church even somehow finding its way her husband Ed McDowell (Co-CEO) They into prisons and doctor offices. In 2008, are recent graduates of their local area Ysante won an award for the Spartanburg Minority Business Accelerated (Class Of Community College Library Poetry Contest 2018). They have 2 children Shyheim, 23 (1st place) for one of her poems. She went and Danielle age 20. Her writings are sure to on in 2009, to be awarded 2nd place for bring encouragement to all that read them. 33
Javonna Wilkins: Independent Rep (Paparazzi) . Javonna Wilkins As a young girl I always wanted to be a day my pastor reminded me of who I was. nurse. I always was a helper. In August of That day was a game changer for me. Since 1999, I graduated from Spartanburg I am more confident in myself, my business Technical College as a LPN. In my 20 years has started being more than an added of nursing, I have worked in many different income. aspects of nursing from Pediatrics to Geriatrics. Three years ago, I was introduced I have seen so many happy faces when to the Paparazzi Accessories. At first, I my clients receive their jewelry or send me doubted being able to sell anything to pictures wearing them. It all goes back to anyone. Then I thought about how wearing helping people feel good about themselves. jewelry adds to your look and how it makes However, first I had to learn that myself. My you feel good when you look good. Starting focus as a jewelry consultant is customer my business made me understand that you centered, accepting people where they are in get out of it what you put in it. I was afraid a caring manner. I believe in working with to approach people to tell them that I sold each customer to achieve the look they want. jewelry. So, for two years my business was a It brings me great joy to be of service to my hit or miss. I always feared going live customers and having them looking like a thinking I didn’t look good enough and one million bucks! 34
SPOTLIGHT: VANESSA NAOMI LYONS Self-published Author of: Relationship Wisdom Keys Order your copy TODAY! https://payhip.com/authorvanessanaomilyons
SPOTLIGHT: CASSANDRA GRAHAM Cassandra Graham is the daughter of Robert Graham, Jr., CEO of ETM magazine. She is a mother of one awesome little boy and is also enrolled in school for Criminal Justice. She is a phenomenal woman striving for greatness for herself, as an example for her son, Maurice, and to honor the memory of her sister, Christy Graham, who departed earlier this year. 36
Education Is the Career Patricia Perry Beason, Ph.D. Assistant Superintendent for Student Services Spartanburg School District 1 The year: 1979. The place: Spartanburg was not my intention to become a teacher. I School District 3 Clifdale Elementary. This wanted to be a psychologist. Converse’s young, naive 22-year-old entered her first psychology department taught me how to classroom as THE TEACHER. I had a class train a rat to press a bar for food and water. of 4th, 5th, and 6th grade special education After I trained that rat, I knew this was not students. Was I ready? Absolutely what I wanted to do. I wanted to make a not. Was I scared? For sure. However, I difference in the lives of people. What better approached this unknown opportunity the way to do that then to be a teacher? way I do all things. I embrace the moment. I admit and learn from my Children coming through my classroom in mistakes. I give my best. This is how what Spartanburg 3 came from all walks of has become a 41-year professional career life. Some were affluent and some were began for me. As a graduate of Converse impoverished. Regardless of their social College, there was a certain expectation that status, the thing that sticks out in my mind is was a given. If you graduated from relationships. Knowing my students and Converse, you were prepared for whatever their families was the difference maker for career path you chose. Many say today, me in my classroom. It wasn’t about the their college classes do not prepare them for content. It wasn’t about delivering the the real world of the classroom. That is not content. It was about it meaning something my testimony. to the students to take them to their next level. I transitioned from Clifdale to Converse College was and is the premier Broome High School and I will say that was teacher preparation college in South probably the greatest year for the books. At Carolina. I will segway and say initially it Broome High School I served as a job 37
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