The Journey Magazine - July 2015

JOURNEYthe

MAGAZINE

ImpactfulLiving Issue

Love & Family

Arts & Music

Mackey & OwensImpactful Living

VOL 2. ISS. 1

Meet The Kwasikpui’s

Generation 7 Mime Ministry & Demario Mr. Mime Carr

July 2015

The Journey Magazine was initially founded in 2012 as a project for my graduate degree; however, upon seeing the impact and enjoyment of the work, I thought to explore the option of longevity. In 2012, two issues were released. Since then, the magazine has taken a hiatus, however, it has been revised and revamped to offer a vibrant and fresh feel. This issue focuses on young people doing extraordinary things in the community. I sought out to find people who were seemingly making a difference in the community through the grace of God and their God-given gifts. I want to motivate and inspire the readers to walk towards their purpose. Hopefully showcasing these dynamic individuals will spark your desire to launch out and seek your purpose. Remember, we walk by faith. I hope to see you living a life of impact along your journey.

Shwanda J. WilliamsEditor-in-Chief

Volume 2 Issue 1 | July 2015Letter from the Editor

2 | The Journey Magazine | July 2015

Editor-in-ChiefDesign & LayoutShwanda Williams

Activism & PoliticsTaikein Cooper

Arts & MusicShwanda Williams

Beauty & FashionBrittney Cherry

Business & CareerChanel Tucker

Creative ExpressionsShwanda Williams

Love & FamilyShwanda Williams

Ministry MomentJonatta Harmon

Sports & RecreationTorrence Mourning

JTHE Table of ContentsARTICLES | JULY 2015

The Journey Magazine | July 2015 | 3

PAGE 5

LOVE

PAGE 8

COMMUNITY

PAGE 12

PRAISE PAGE 22

BEAUTY


Sponsored by:Planning for Perfection

~Leave the planning to Kristen ~

Kristen Speller Mackey252-814-6564

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The Kwasikpui’sMeet

Mr. and Mrs. Kwasikpui seated ontheir wedding day. Come along as wetake a journey with these hard-working, God-fearing newlyweds.

Love & Family

Living in Love

Tremaine,Porsha, Kaydence


An energetic visionary and a family-oriented school teacher have joined together as one flesh to motivate, inspire, and live life purposefully. I recently spoke with newlyweds Tremaine and Porsha Kwasikpui. They allowed me an exclusive look into their life of travel, parenting, bliss, and growth.

Tremaine, 29 and Porsha, 27 met at Elizabeth City State University while they were pursuing their undergraduate degrees. Although they dated briefly, it wasn’t until years later that they began courting to establish a future together. When I asked them about the positives of marriage, Porsha although yielding first to her husband, afterwards stated “You have to be real with people. It’s not the all glitz and glamour you think. It’s not like having a girlfriend or boyfriend; you’re dedicating your life to a person. It’s a friendship, it’s a network, a bond, a communication.” Tremaine, a recruiter and mentor at Roanoke Chowan Community College, stated “it’s serious, but it can be very fun…communication is key.”

I too am a newlywed and I found it amazing how we agreed on so many topics. When I work with couples or discuss with friends how to maintain a marriage, I always stress the importance of communication, yielding, and being the bigger person. If you have two people willing to communicate, submit, and be the bigger person, arguments will last 0.5 seconds, if that. You’re willing to please one another.

I asked them what’s some things they have learned while being married. Tremaine stated “happy wife, happy life.” Porsha, a special needs teacher in Hertford County explained “you can’t control the other person in marriage. I’ve had moments where I want things to be a certain way and I realized it’s okay to have a different set of opinions. I can only control myself. It can’t just work one way. Both people have to be willing to listen and have a plan set in motion.” And lots of prayer and communication.

The Kwasikpui’s both stressed having a relationship with God and how having that relationship is so important. I will stress that it’s important to understand that God is our source for everything. Our happiness, our finances, our sanity, our health, our protection, everything. My husband always states, “if a man don’t love God, he can’t love a woman.” I agree. And I’ll go an inch further and say too many women are accepting lust and not love. We have to begin to set a standard for ourselves and that means not allowing men to forfeit commitment and demand something greater out those we choose to lend our vessels too, of whom should only be our spouses.

Mr. Kwasikpui also had a special call to women, “Women can change the world but they won’t! And I don’t know why. Stop waiting on men and never let a situation dictate your future. Don’t take no mess.”

When dating someone, I think you can always tell if that person is suitable for marriage. If you date them long enough, they begin to show you their habits, their flaws, their highs and lows. Entering into a marriage will not cancel out what you see and experience before the vows are taken. If anything, the person may feel as though you should be more susceptible of these things, coining the popular colloquial, “you knew I was like this when you met me.”

“Women can changethe world.”


With that being said, take your time when dating and making a decision about marriage. The Kwasikpui’s expressed the same sentiments. “Take your time, no rush. When I approached Tremaine, I had found myself, I had found my routine. Sometimes you get so wrapped up in that person [when dating] and you lose your perspective. Get to know yourself. You have to be a whole person, you have to be a happy person.”

In addition to being newlyweds, they have one child and are expecting a baby boy! Now, I must admit, parenting is not in my repertoire so I had no problem lending an ear. “We do shelter Kaydence from negative things but we give her other exposure. It’s important to make an investment with your kids. As parents you can’t limit your kids by being afraid to step out of your comfort zone.” I concur. I remember growing up and my parents were much older and had less education than the parents of my peers, but they made it a point to invest in me. They sent me to summer enrichment camps, they purchased technology, they set me up for success because they saw something in me.

Even when they didn’t understand, they supported me. Until this day, I don’t really know if my parents understand what a typical four years of college was like or even what I do at my job, but even now they are still investing...their time, resources, but no longer money as they have given that duty to my husband.

I thoroughly enjoyed interviewing the Kwasikpui’s. They offered so much sound advice, although they are such a young couple. However, that can actually be a testimony as well that in spite of age, if you are God-fearing, God-focused, and seeking purpose, wisdom and happiness will seem to flow in abundance. Will it always be sunshine? No. But you will have the courage and faith, and trust in your Source to weather the storm. When asked about their legacy and their life together, they talked about Kingdom building. “I wake up a king, I go to bed a king” stated Tremaine, “and my wife is a queen.” “We have to stop using limitations as a crutch.” They spoke of having faith, being determined and not being fearful. I’m reminded of a scripture I’ve quoted a lot as of late and it is Matthew 6:33 which says But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. “It’s no way I can get through my day to day, much less being a wife and a mother, without God. He helps us keep our sanity. We’re so thankful. God is the reason we have everything. God is the head of your marriage.” Seek God today. If you are embarking on a new journey as a husband and wife, as boyfriend and girlfriend, as an entrepreneur, a student, or what have you; know God is our supplier and if we seek Him first, all the things we need will be supplied.

By: Shwanda WilliamsPhotography: Tierre Peterson

Closing Scripture:1 Corinthians 13:4-7 4 “Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.”


*phone vibrates* As I pull up to a secluded park in east Greenville, I receive a text message from my first subject of the hour. We’re ready to roll. Casey Owens, a 28-year-old former collegiate football player turned fitness expert and community leader was my first interviewee of the day. The lady of the hour was scheduled next. As Mr. Owens and I walked in the sweltering heat, we attempted to dodge the beaming sun rays to prevent persistent perspiration. “Let’s start over here.” Admittedly shy, after we began the photoshoot, the reluctant Owens became increasingly comfortable as I belted out corny jokes and showed glimpses of his pictures on my camera. “Nice!” stated Owens. After the photoshoot, we sat down under a shade tree in a breezy spot to beat the heat. We talked impact.

“To make a difference, it starts with you. I thoroughly enjoy giving back to the place where I came from”

said Casey. Former classmates, Casey and I attended the same high school, so I am all too familiar with the need to give back to the community. According to the 2014 report from the United States Census Bureau, Bertie County, NC boasts a population with just over 20,000 people with 23.4% of those people living below the poverty line versus the 17.5% for North Carolina as a whole. Only 10.6% of the people in the area have a bachelor’s degree or higher, and the county is largely African American, accounting for 61.6% of the population.

Although this is not a story about education or socioeconomic status; it’s a story about two young people living ordinary lives, attempting to help people live above their potential and realize the greatness that lives inside of them through healthy living, sports, beauty and wellness, entrepreneurship and especially the Christian faith.

Impactful LivingBy: Shwanda Williams

Photography: Shwanda Williams

Feature Story


By day, Kristen Speller Mackey is a two-time graduate holding a bachelor’s and master’s in business administration and works as a branch manager at a prominent bank in New Bern, NC. Mackey, also a Bertie High graduate has aimed to help young people and women live on purpose. Founder of Women Like You, Org and Planning for Perfection, Mackey has hosted events and initiated outreach projects that have given back to the girls and women of Bertie County.

As Kristen arrived, I captured a few shots of the two dynamic individuals together and individually before finding shade to keep Kristen’s and I hair and makeup in tact. Owens continued to hydrate, before leaving for another commitment.

Mackey and Owens both stated in their interview the need to “be the best and do it big.” They also cited family as playing a key role in their success and their drive to push the limits. “My mom is my motivation,” stated Casey.

“I don’t want her to stress or work for anything. I want to make sure my family is taken care of.” Mackey expressed similar sentiments, “Growing up, I watched my mom work multiple jobs and I always said this is not going to be me. I’ve always heard I don’t have any money. I don’t ever want to say those words.” And even though the two expressed wanting financial security for them and their family, they recognized that a lot of what they’re doing doesn’t yield a profit. Owens, initiator of the Healthy Living Campaign at the YMCA in Windsor, NC and founder of the Casey Owens Recreational Camps stated that all he does in the community, from the fitness classes, athletic camps, and so forth, the money earned mostly pays for the costs and expenses. As I sit here, I can only think that as we give out of our bosom, God continues to supply us which is why these two people seem to never be in lack. They’re finding ways to take care of the community by sowing seeds of motivation and joy.

Kristen Mackey, Founder of Women Like You Org


And they are operating out of overflow. Owens had to relocate to a different venue due to insufficient space because of the popularity of his camps, and Mackey recently gave away more than 160 prom dresses to local girls in need. Their efforts are seen and heard, and the people are receptive.

However, with any achievement there are fears or lessons to be learned. When I asked Owens what was the hardest thing he had to learn he stated, “accepting defeat.” “Everyone isn’t going to support what you do, but even if you fail, just find another route.” “I don’t want to give up and just exist; I want to be a role model. But it can be discouraging when people don’t support you,” said Mackey.

Amidst a lack of fanfare among some and a few disappointments, these two continue to push themselves to create a legacy and help others create their own. “I want to motivate people to believe they can commit to something and change their lifestyle,” said Casey. “I believe I was created for a purpose and I want others to know that it starts with you and stop saying you can’t and just do it,” exclaimed Mackey.

There’s a scripture that says, without faith it is impossible to please God. Casey and Kristen have stepped out on faith to impact their communities and families, and ultimately walk towards fulfilling their destiny. I challenge each reader to step out on faith and start living for impact. People are waiting on your gifts.

Casey Owens, Founder ofCasey Owens Recreational Camps

Matthew 6:33 “But seek ye first the

kingdom of God, and His righteousness;

and all these things shall be added

unto you.”

As the summer’s rain lightly coated my car, I peered through my windshield dodging the busy afternoon traffic on this dreary Wednesday afternoon. After making my way across town to the Eppes Recreation Center, I draped my petite frame with cam-eras, bags, and keys to grab a sneak peak of Generation 7 Mime Ministry’s next show. After being denied by several locked doors, I finally entered the building where I stumbled upon Demario Mr. Mime Carr and Generation 7 Mime practicing in a secluded back room of the complex. I walked in and immedi-ately drew the attention of Mr. Mime. We shook hands and embraced one another, “where do you want me to start?” I exclaimed. Demario humbly stated, “have your way.” As I felt a new wave of comfort, I unpacked and began to photograph the array of young people ministering for the Lord. I couldn’t

help but become engulfed by the spiritual gospel songs that filled the acoustic room. I had to keep shooting or a pos-sible spontaneous praise session would have commenced in a room full of strang-ers.

In the midst of photographing their practice session, I watched the young people, ranging in age from 7-26, mime, act, and interact with one another. Demario Carr, the founder of Generation 7 Mime Ministry began to coach and provide direction to the


Arts & Music

Generation 7 Mime & Demario Carr

Living toPraise

young people. They seemed willing and receptive of his direc-tion. After capturing the images, I sat down to talk with the talented ministry and although shy at first, they began to open up and speak about how their ministry aims to change lives.

Generation 7 Mime Ministry is a community ministry com-prised of various ministries that have been established through-out the Pitt County area. Generation 7 was founded by Carr. Whether ministering during their stage play or special perfor-mances, it is evident that they alter perspectives and shift the atmosphere regarding many forms of discrimination and bond-age. When asked if they knew of the magnitude to which they impact people through their ministering, there was a blank stare. Carr quickly stated, “I don’t think they know, but as I’m the one who filters most of the e-mails, it’s a big impact.”

Most recently they began to tour eastern NC, performing in Goldsboro, Elizabeth City and Ahoskie, NC to name a few. “The Boom Box Gospel Mime Stage Play Live” is a national fight against bullying. Although G7 was not founded with a basis of anti-bullying, the ministry has since taken on that concept with the development of the stage play. Many of the members are high school students and when asked if they see this as a long term goal,17 year old Tre’Von Smith admitted to wanting to dance professionally. “I never mimed, I just dance. But when I saw Demario mime, it was hot, I was like he’s nice.” Teosha Robinson also expressed interest in taking her gifts to a worldwide platform.

Although some want to take their gifts to the next level, most of the members just take it day to day and remain humble. “The stuff I’m doing, God is doing it through me,” stated 15-year-old Nai’Sa Howard.

As I wrapped up the interview, I thought about how talented this group was and how Demario exuded humility. As an award-winning mime artist, founder of Generation 7, amongst other things, he always recognized the group and was rather quiet during the interview, only chiming in when the young people were seemingly quiet. I hope and pray much success for this ministry and I look forward to the movement of their minis-try across the United States.

By: Shwanda WilliamsPhotography: Carrol Snugs, Xavier Whittington & Shwanda Williams

Data Source: http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/

states/37/37015.html

Psalm 150:6 “Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord.”


3 John 1:2 says “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” The greek word for health here is hugiés and it means to be sound, healthy, pure, or whole. Heart disease, diabetes, and stroke are a few infirmities that have inhibited the wholeness and health of many. During my younger years, I struggled with my weight and my ability to have self-control when eating. In middle school, I paid my doctor a visit and she mentioned that if I did not make a change I was at risk for an unhealthy future. I decided to change my mind and habits...regarding eating and fitness. I recently spoke with a young lady out of Charlotte who expressed the same sentiments. A visit to her doctor sparked her motivation, and well the results have been phenomenal.

Dana Mosley, a 28-year-old X-Ray Technician and Bertie County native discussed with me her journey to losing 70 lbs and dropping 8 pant sizes. “I exercise 5 days a week. One motivation is the fact that I don’t want to gain weight.” When asked how she balanced work, life, exercise, and the like, she said “I work a 60 hour work week but I love going to the gym. When I work out it gives me energy. You just have to make time.”

We also spoke about getting started and the changes she had to make. “Initially


Health & Fitness

LivingHealthy


the hardest thing to overcome was to get a hold of my eating habits, which I still struggle with now. It’s very hard to motivate yourself, but if people would give it 30 days and get control of their mind...whatever it is, even if it’s not fitness. Don’t do some-thing for 30 days. If they would just convince themselves.”

I can identify with Ms. Mosley as well. When I got past the initial shock of working out, after the initial few weeks of getting motivated, I never looked back. I asked Dana about her workout regimen, she disclosed that she did cardio every day for 30 min-utes a day and weight training three days a week. She also talked about taking dance classes which feels less like working out. In addition to working out her diet has changed, including more fish, lean meats, and vegetables. “I don’t even buy bad foods, and I read the labels now. I cook with olive oil and use more season-ing instead of pork, which is how I was used to seasoning food.”

Mosley, also a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, discussed her spiritual journey along with her fitness journey. About 6 years ago, Mosley took a leap of faith and moved to Charlotte to pursue her passion. She wasn’t sure about much but knowing that she is a woman of faith, I can assume that she was sure that God would make a way. I asked her to talk about her belief in God and how it has helped her on her journey to being whole physically and as a person. “I think believing has helped me especially being in college, figuring out life on your own. It was a pivotal time in my life. I had to trust and depend on Him for everything in my life. [Afterwards] I moved to Char-lotte on a whim, to live on loans. I didn’t know anybody in Char-lotte and I didn’t know if it was going to work out. I had a job as a Senior Center Manager in Raleigh, but had to trust God [in the move].”

As the interview drew to a close, I asked Mosley to give me a phrase that best describes her and she said “No excuses!” “I think it’s harder for women. If women don’t see results, they give up. But I make little notes in my phone that help keep me going, and create motivational moments. You have to make time for yourself, just like you wake up to go to work or church, you have to wake up to go to the gym. As age increases, health risks increase. Saying you don’t have time is no excuse or doing things that will make you have less time on earth possibly. Make time for life.

In 2013, the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation stated that 71.8% of adult males in North Carolina were overweight and 60.4%

of adult females were overweight. These are startling numbers and we understand we are given one vessel while we are sojourners on this earth. We should take care of that vessel.

By: Shwanda WilliamsPhotography: Dana MosleyData Source:

http://kff.org/other/state-indicator/adult-overweightobesity-

rate-by-gender/

Closing Scripture:1 Timothy 4:8 “Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.”



Sports & Recreation

Corey Cherry is a 5’9” rising junior running back for the infamous, Bertie Falcons. We all remember the days where the Falcons put fear in the hearts of their opponents. Boasting a wide array of talent from the 2000s. Although quietly kept, their dominance is hopefully again on the rise with the help of a few budding stars, including Mr. Cherry.

TM: How did you get into sports?CC: When I was younger, I began playing different sports like YMCA basketball, recreational baseball as well as pee-wee football

TM: Is this something you see yourself doing professionally?CC: Yes, one of my goals is to strive to be a professional football player

TM: Who has been a big influence on you as an athlete? As a person?CC: As a person, my entire family including my grandmother, my parents and my siblings have helped me pave the way to be successful. My dad Andre Cherry has been my biggest influence as an athlete with the rigorous training sessions and his

sacrifices with camps and making me a better athlete.

TM: What does the statement "becoming a man" mean to you?CC: Becoming a man means leadership and always being true to your word. ‘Can't’ is not in a man's vocabulary.

TM: Tell me a little bit about yourself? Your hobbies, your fears, your favorite food.CC: I love to cook. My favorite foods include chicken, meatloaf and pork chops. I fear having a devastating injury to end my football career.

TM: How does your faith in God help you excel as an athlete?CC: I can do all things in Christ who strengthens me.

Most recently Torrence Mourning, our new sports correspondent, sat down with two rising athletes. Mourning gives us the exclusive on these two premiere stars and how they view their future.

Q & A with Corey Cherry from Bertie High School in Windsor, NC and John Speller from South Creek High School in Robersonville, NC.

By: Torrence MourningPhotographs Courtesy of Facebook

Living on the Field


TM: Aside from athletics, what do you think about school?CC: School is an opportunity to actually use my God given ability, which is my brain, to excel in anything. My family makes sure I take full advantage of it.

TM: How do you want other kids your age to view you? What do you want your legacy to be?CC: I want kids to see me as a hero and not some folktale they heard about. Or an athlete from Bertie who didn't achieve greatness on and off the field. I want my legacy to be that I put in hard work and determination into everything I did.

TM: Where do you want to be 10 years from now?CC: I pray I will be in an NFL locker room suiting up on Sun-days or graduating college and pursing coaching opportunities as a college head football coach.

TM: If you could pick a word to describe yourself, what would that be?CC: Humble

TM: When you're in trouble, afraid, or nervous, who do you talk to? What do you do?CC: I pray to God first--always--and I always talk to my older sister when I have a problem. She always has my back.

TM: What's your favorite TV show?CC: Two and A Half Men. E:60 on ESPN

TM: Do you have anything you want to say or want to let the readers know that we haven't asked today?CC: My mindset is just take full advantage of every opportunity you have.

Up next, we have John Speller, a 6’3”, 210 lb rising Senior who plays the tight end and linebacker position. South Creek is a fairly new school, but they’re earning a name with the help of “Big” John Speller, according to online reports. Let’s talk with Mr. Speller.

TM: How did you get into sports?JS: I always enjoyed playing basketball and football, but I also enjoyed being in the band as well. Last season my coach, Grant-ley Mizelle, convinced me to play football after being in the school band since middle school.

TM: Is this something you see yourself doing professionally?JS: I could see myself doing this professionally, but it takes a lot of hard work and commitment.

TM: Who has been a big influence on you as an athlete? As a person?JS: My parents and my grandmother have raised me well and are always molding me to become a better person overall. Coach Thomas Bell is my linebacker coach and he's been my biggest influence since joining the football team. Because of my coaches, I have an opportunity to be a Division I football recruit.

TM: What does the statement "becoming a man" mean to you?JS: Becoming a man means being account-able for your actions and learning from your mistakes, and providing for your family.

TM: Tell me a little bit about yourself? Your hobbies, your fears, your favorite food.JS: I love playing drums, I love music. It's my passion. I'm a God fearing man but I don't have too many fears (says with a smile and laughs). My favorite food is chicken, pizza, and desserts.

TM: How does your faith in God help you excel as an athlete?JS: My dad is a pastor and he has instilled the mindset in me, if God is for me, who can be against me. I trust God with everything in me and he's blessing me with this possible football opportunity.

TM: Aside from athletics, what do you think about school?JS: School is cool. I've had my struggles with certain subjects like Math but I'm constantly studying and striving to reach my goals and make my parents proud. My GPA is improving tremendously.

TM: How do you want other kids your age to view you? What do you want your legacy to be?JS: I want kids to view me as a hard worker-someone who is dependable and can always get the job done. I want


my legacy to be that it doesn't matter where you start, it's how you finish. I was a band geek at 1st (says with a laugh) but because I worked hard and had 126 tackles in my 1st year of football, I'm a Division I football prospect.

TM: Where do you want to be 10 years from now?JS: Ten years from now I just want to be successful wherever God leads me. If I'm on the field somewhere, that's great; but if not, there are other opportunities to succeed.

TM: If you could pick a word to describe yourself, what would that be?JS: Ambitious

TM: When you're in trouble, afraid, or nervous, who do you talk to? What do you do?JS: I talk to my parents or my girlfriend when I have a problem. They always seem to know what to say. If they can't figure out a solution, I just put my trust in God to make everything alright

TM: What's your favorite TV show?JS: I flick channels so much I'm not sure if I have a favorite (laughs).

TM: Do you have anything you want to say or want to let the readers know that we haven't asked today?JS: I just want the readers to know God change your life in one moment. I'm the perfect example.

Corey Cherry#5

John Speller#3


Business & Career

The stereotype of a working woman is rarely attractive. Unbe-lievable you might say. It is said most leadership positions are held by men, so women don’t expect to achieve them, and that becomes one of the reasons they don’t. As a reference, Sheryl Sanberg’s, chief operating officer of Facebook, “Lean In” book gives a compelling sense of how women unintentionally hold themselves back in their career. Perhaps, there is a name for this syndrome. A social-psychological phenomenon called “stereo-type threat.” As a young professional in a dominant male world (IT-too many guy terminology-not enough lady power) I too have become acquainted with this for awhile. You’re probably thinking, “it is known for women in the workforce to be intimi-dated by a male leadership role.” How about, “men too become intimidated when there is a confident, strife, hard-working and passionate woman in the room.” Oftentimes, women do not credit themselves as they should, and we then become our worst enemy. Trust me, I know.

Transitioning into a new career after only two years of undergrad has made me not only smarter, but confidant to go beyond my fullest potential. Stepping into a room full of older, diverse men (some in the late 20’s-early 30’s) has made me love my job

more! It’s not because of all the testoster-one; however, when men see a dominant woman in the ranks it only urges him to get off his high horse and praise you for your professional achievement. With gratitude and disbelief, your competition demonstrates how men can benefit by supporting women in the workplace.

I like to think I count my blessings as they come along. This is just the beginning for me. I no longer have fear of making the wrong choices, fear of overreaching, and most importantly the fear of failure. You shouldn’t either. Without fear, you can pursue professional success and personal fulfillment. At my job, we work hard to create a culture where people are encour-aged to take risks. I spend all day closing opportunities for businesses who need more help than they think. I like to pull the teeth out of my clients just so

From NC to GA, Ms. Tucker talks making moves, new endeavors, and thriving as a big girl in what seemingly appears to the naked eye as a man’s world.

FYI Tucker also offers a literary synopsis of “Lean In.” She juxtaposes the contents of the book with her recent transition.

By: Chanel TuckerPhotographs by Chanel Tucker

Workplace Living


they can reply, “Yes, Chanel,” “I will love that,” “or my favorite, “Oh my, how did you know!...” As a result, management loves me--and that’s why I can toot my own horn, along with the other lady in my department. In any occupation, we need more portrayals of competent professionals--even better, like Michelle Obama.

Of course, many of you would assume that I can’t possibly be having all of this fun around a egotistical group of men. You’re exactly right. I would be playing myself if I considered everyday to be as jolly as the ghetto ice cream man! The irony is those egotistical men really do care more than you think; they’re actu-ally a savior when I tend to put a lot of pressure on myself. As the saying goes, “ your good days outweigh the bad.” Nonetheless, I keep my feet above water and continuously give a cheerful smile because we always have to remem-ber there will always be good and bad days. Success takes time.

One thing I can say about my career is it’s a growing process--an evolution of individual growth which means I get to recount my own decisions, mistakes and daily struggles. I’m me and only can be myself. I’m continually setting boundar-ies because I know I can do it too. All of this she hero, feeling powerful, and trying to master the art of feeling confi-dent arose when a past manager of mine, Jamie DeClerck, went out of her way to purchase Sheryl Sanberg’s “Lean In” as a gift for my accomplishments.

Inside was a small, yet heartwarming, “ may your talents take you great places.” I didn’t understand when Jamie first said to me, “you’re just like me.” Over the course of time, I realized that she was actually doing me a favor only because we had the same mindset, and teachings that led to us

to want to be successful. She saw my hunger and destiny to be great, plus she likes one of my favorite musicians.

So, to all of my professional people who are making a difference in this chaotic world, I first salute you. Secondly, I want to give you tips from the #1 National Bestseller “Lean In” which is to always be encouraged. Seek challenges. Take risks. Pursue goals. Be the giant in the room. Lead the way without permission. Believe in yourself. Be your own support system. Don’t be a Debbie Downer. Seek and speak your mind. Leave your mark.

Well, you get it now. Go get your blessing!

Closing Scripture: Joshua 1: 8 “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.”

adventurous. One thing about life is it’s going to hand everyone his or her fair share of ups and downs. Regardless of what comes my way, I will press through. Nothing will stop me from achieving what I intend to do. Being resilient necessitates being resourceful. If all the things I desired were at the end of a straight path, that would be great. However, that’s not the case. Often, I find myself being creative to work around obstacles and hardships to get to the end goal. Lastly, I find that I am adventurous because I don’t mind exploring new places and ideas even if it means taking a risk. I do not believe living completely cautious is living. I have several goals, but my most important objective is to leave people I come in contact with in a better position than theywere before I met them. I never know what someone may have endured before cross paths, and I don't need to know.


Beauty & Fashion

I first met Shanita Palmer sophomore year at Bertie High School. It wasn’t until we learned we were attending N.C. Central that our friendship blossomed. During our time at NCCU, we both grew academically and personally, we realized we had so much in common. We both loved eating food (sometimes cooking the food); shopping; finding new hairstyles or make-up tips on YouTube; finding different topics to read, and ironically, joining some of the same campus organizations. Nonetheless, I saw she impacted people even when she wasn’t aware of it. Rather it was making time to help people start their fitness journey, striving to have the best grades, taking a leap of faith on opportunities, standing up for what she believed, or creating initiatives for a safer campus life for students; she always had a plan and she always stuck to it no matter the obstacle! After graduating from NCCU in 2014, she packed her life to start her journey at Moritz College of Law at Ohio University. With her busy schedule and life, I wanted to know exactly how does she do it all, and here are her answers.

Brittney: Who are you and what are your future goals?Shanita: I am Shanita Palmer, and if had to describe who I am in three words, I would say I am resilient, resourceful, and

Ms. Brittney Cherry sits down with long time friend Shanita Palmer to talk life, legalities, fashion, and beauty.

BIO Brittney thanks God for her passion for beauty, fashion, and social media. Her passion helped her build The Board, which is a social media marketing company for small business owners in the beauty and fashion industry. She loves mentoring young girls, writing, reading and traveling!

By: Brittney CherryPhotographs by Brittney Cherry

Beautiful Living


I refuse to remind them of it or make them feel worse. Somesmall goals I have to help achieve this is: (1) let a smile greet people before my words; (2) stop being so critical and judgmental of others; (3) be positive at all times; and (4) never pass up an opportunity to be a blessing to someone else.

Brittney: Do you believe you have impacted others in a positive way? Shanita: Yes. Thankfully, making an impact does not always require hard labor. Many people have told me that I have motivated or encouraged them in some capacity, whether it was giving a kind word, a smile, money or time.

Brittney: What are a few of your hobbies and how have they helped you make an impact on others? Shanita: A few of my hobbies are exercising, volunteering, and reading personal development books. Exercising is the manner in which I relieve stress and allow happy endorphins to flow. Anything I do, I do it better when I am happy. I can’t have a positive impact on people if I am always in a bad mood, and no one desires to know me. As it relates to volunteering, I thrive on giving back and serving others because I would not be where I am today if someone did not help me along the way. Volunteering is a way to interact and connect with so many people that you may not otherwise have the opportunity to get to know. Lastly, when giving someone something, I want to give that person the very best of whatever it is. Reading personal-development books has enhanced many areas of my life and has helped me grow personally and professionally. The more aware I become of self-imposed setbacks and how to overcome them,

I am better equipped to assist someone else with similar issues they may face.

Brittney: Define impactful living. Shanita: Impactful living is leading a purpose-filled life that engenders change. Whether you change one person's life, mood, or attitude--you change the world, it is all about making a difference.

Brittney: What’s the beauty behind living your life, but still being able to aside time to help people become better? Shanita: Simply put, you reap what you sow.

Brittney: What’s the secret behind impactful living? Shanita: The secret behind impactful living is being genuine. Don't do things for the wrong reason, such as having ulterior motives or evil intentions, but make a difference because you genuinely care.

Brittney: What do you do to encourage and motivate yourself to strive for your goals?Shanita: I read my bible and give myself pep talks. It is not easy to always stay strong and motivated, so my faith has to be firmly rooted so I do not give up.

Brittney: What encouraging words would you give to young people working towards a goal and may feel discouraged?Shanita: If your goals don’t make you nervous, then they are probably too small and you should set some new goals. The greatest rewards are awaiting you right outside of your comfort zone. The road won’t always be easy, but it will teach you valuable lessons to prepare you for what is ahead.

Brittney: How do you plan on continu-ing to make an impact on other’s lives?Shanita: By being genuine, keeping God first, remaining positive, and putting others before me.


Activism & Politics

On Wednesday, June 17, 2015, 21 year old Dylann Roof entered Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina and participated in Bible Study for nearly an hour, before assassinat-ing nine people: Pastor Clementa Pinckney, Sharonda Coleman-Singleton, Tywanza Sanders, Ethel Lance, Susie Jackson, Cynthia Hurd, Myra Thompson, Daniel Simmons Sr. and DePayne Middleton Doctor. While perusing my social media platforms, I saw many people say , “prayer is the only way to fix the ails of the world.” Yes, prayer is important, but it’s only the first step.

As James so eloquently taught us, “faith without works is dead.” However,many Believers are reluctant to put their faith in action. I call this the double dichotomy of faith: while God will do the impossible, we have to do the possible. Let’s use my friend Tony (this name has been changed to protect his privacy) for example. Tony talked for months about how much he resented going to work, how he felt underappreciated and he deserved so much better. Tony was faithful and he continued to tell me God would give him a breakthrough and his blessing would come.

Eventually, I asked Tony to send me his resume because I had come across an opportunity I would be willing to refer him as a candidate. It took nearly a week to receive his resume and it did not char-acterize Tony well at all. While Tony had a tremendous amount of faith, he was not prepared to be used by God for his next assignment. After we worked together to revamp his resume, James received mul-tiple interview requests and subsequent job offers. The moral? You must prepare yourself before going to the next level. The same principal applies throughout life; we cannot just have faith without action and expect results because it always ends in tragedy.

On March 13, 1964, at a little after 3AM, a 28-year-old bar manager named Kitty Genovese, was returning home from her shift at work.

Activist, political candidate, motivational speaker, and

current president of 2nd Half Consulting, Taikein Cooper has trailblazed throughout the state of Virginia and has a mind and goal to inspire young men and

women to live for impact.

By: Taikein CooperPhotograph by Taikein Cooper

Living: Faith to Action


Closing Scripture:Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.”

Closing Scripture:James 2:17 “Even so faith, if it hath not works,is dead, being alone.”

She parked her car in her normal parking space, turned off the lights, locked her door and began walking to her apartment. As she began walking, a man snatched her. As she began to scream, he stabbed her. She began to cry for help and awakened some of her neighbors. One of them hollered down “let that girl alone!” The man took off running to a car down the street, expecting the arrival of police. A few moments later, all of the lights were off in the apartment building and the assailant returned to Ms. Geno-vese, stabbing her again. He proceeded to rape her and took the $49 that she had in her pocket.

She was found in the hallway, by one of her neighbors, who called the police.She died en route to the hospital. The legend is that 38 people saw or heard Ms. Genovese cry and fight for her life.

38 people who thought that it was not their business.

38 people who figured that it wasn’t their duty to stop the assail-ant. One man even said, “I just didn’t want to get involved.”

38 people who went back to sleep or retreated to their bubble, while Kitty Genovese begged for her life between and during two attacks, from the same man. So many of us, witness traves-ties and we return to life as normal. So many of us refuse to speak out or do anything because “prayer answers things.” So many of us are “sleep though!”

Sociologists began to study the murder of Kitty Genovese. They wanted to know how and why 38 people would witness something so tragic and do nothing. They named this phenomenon the diffusion of responsibility. In short, it says that while in groups, we either expect or wait for someone else to stand up. They concluded most of humans are indeed followers. God created you and I to be bold. He made us in His image. Did Jesus just pray for the people or did He do the work as well?

Stop being a sideline Christian. Stop waiting for someone else. Do more thanpray. Pray for preparation. Go walk in your destiny. Dr. King once told us, “faith is taking the first step even when you can’t see the whole staircase.” Dr. King understood the importance of prayer, faith and action. He understood they are not mutually exclusive. To truly let our proverbial light shine, we must pray, be faithful and take action: that’s the new recipe for success. If we don’t do all three, we are doing the world a disservice.


Psalm 139:13-15Having heard David’s declaration of who He was, in his plea for God to conduct a search of his heart quoted numerous times, and even after quoting it myself, my perspective still was tainted and for years I didn’t believe that I was included in the fearfully and wonderfully made flock. I say I’m a believer, so how could that be? My childhood and adolescent years were filled with many great moments of love shared and shown towards me. I had friends I thought I’d have forever and I was brought up in a strong Christian family that loved me dearly. However, with all these things and great people to share them with, something still was missing. That something was a genuine relationship with Jesus Christ. I knew about Him, but I hadn’t come to know Him for myself.

At the age of 16, I gave my life to Christ and no I didn’t suddenly grasp what it meant to be fearfully and wonderfully made at that time.

However, as I developed in Christ and grew to know Him, which came by having personal encounters with Him and the reading of His word, I started to have a renewed perspective of myself. I started seeing myself as the masterpiece He created me to be. We as Christians must take time to view ourselves, life and others through the eyes of God. The right image was chosen to model and make us in the Master’s likeness. Genesis 1:27 – “So God created man in His own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female He created them.” Each one of us was formed with a purpose and it was predestined that we would complete the work He so thoughtfully began in us. God crafted us with special care, therefore, we are made to be set apart and unique.

Ministry Moment

Living in Ministry

...To be Fearfully and Wonderfully Made


We don’t have to look to be like our sister or brother or desire to walk in the calling God has specifically designed for them. We each are given a measure of faith and we are expected to use it to reach our destiny. 2 Corinthians 4:7 – “But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.” We are called to carry out the works of our Lord and we have been equipped in our making processes, natural and spiritual births, to do so. The heart of the matter, lies in the matter of the heart and my heart had to be turned to one of flesh to understand my value in Him. Our hearts house our deepest desires and they are important to our relationships with God. Our desires either draws us closer in righteousness to Him or pull us further away. Luke 6:45 – “The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.” As the ever so popular phrase states, “only God knows our hearts” and He knows them for what they are truly worth. The more we spend one-on-one time with Him we will be granted access to better understand His thoughts towards us.

God tests the motives of our hearts to see what our true inten-tions show. Jeremiah 17:10 – “ I the Lord search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, accord-ing to the fruit of his deeds.” After coming to the understanding that no matter what I do God seeks to find out why I did it and will know the truth of it all, my heart was forever changed. It is highly important for us to spend time with God because He longs for times when He gets to be intimate with us and share His truths so we can better understand our purpose for being created.

Prayer:Lord,

Help us to see ourselves as you see us. Give us each a sharper sense of spiritual discernment to know when we or the forces against us are belittling our value, so that we can fight back with the power of your Word. Help us oh God to know when to have a heart-check and to seek to align our wills to yours. For we know that we are fearfully and wonderfully made in your image and we want, with your anointing, to live the unique lives afforded to us by You.

We ask this and many more blessings in Jesus’ name.

Amen.

By spending time with God daily, reading His Holy Word, laying at the feet of His son Jesus, praying to Him and doing the deeds He desires of us, the more our motives will begin to align with His will for our lives. You will gain a better under-standing of who you are in Him by being selfless and by having a much needed heart-search, it is then that you will be able to grasp what it is you need to accom-plish His will. Your thought processes will begin to be directed to seek after the things that will be the needed resources to carry out your calling, ultimately reaching your God-ordained destiny.

By: Minister Jonatta HarmonPhotography: Designs by JK



Creative Expressions

It’s funny, no pun intended, when you have a celebrity relative. Everyone waits for that moment to be able to say, “yea, that dude on TV, that’s my aunt’s, husband’s nephew’s son.” I have the privilege of using this terminology. Fresh off the set of the Roland Martin show, “NewsOne Now” my cousin Cletus Kassady sat down to do a phone interview with me for the Creative Expressions section of this issue. “What’s up Mrs. Bertie?!” All love and bellows, we commenced the interview.

The first time I heard Cletus (whose real name is Nicholas) was at the family reunion in 2014. After his set, I was in tears. “I’m blessed to do what I do. I don’t mind giving back and being versatile. You have to be versatile.” From family reunions to talk shows, Kassady has also done work for former NBA All-Star Allen Iverson, opened for Mike Epps, and even won the 2014 McDonald’s Gospelfest Comedian Award.

But he’s not content. “I’m not content. I’m content, but I’m not content. I’m still waiting on that moment.”

Residing in Portsmouth, Virginia, a father, devoted son and alumnus of Norfolk State University, Cletus is always on the go. Kassady travels all over the world and often brings his daughter into the action. “It’s good to give her [daughter] exposure. I often take her with me to sets.” “Is she funny too?” I exclaimed. “She thinks she’s funny,” Cletus said with a laugh.

As an undergraduate physical education major at NSU, Kassady started doing radio with another gentleman and he never thought he would end up in this place. Almost twelve years later, he’s here.

By: Shwanda WilliamsPhotography: Lo Mills, Elements of Class Photography


“It’s surreal. I’m so grateful and thankful for everything.”

When asked about his transition into being a full-time comedian, he said, “it was a faith thing.” “I’m big on seeking wise counsel. A friend of mine is a pastor and he asked me if I believed God wanted me to do this. I said yes.” It all started from there.

Kassady is inspiring because he is not only successful, but he

does clean standup. In a world that defines our success or how we should reach it, Kassady has defied the stereotype and garnered much success. I applaud and celebrate him. As we continued to chat, I couldn’t help but take notice to his humility and relatable demeanor. Kassady knows exactly who he is and isn’t afraid to share the wealth of his gift and personality. “You have to use your God-given gifts.”

A man of simplicity, from choosing his standup name to his life’s motto, he stated “it’s nothing deep.” Quoting a popular kid’s movie, Kassady states that everyday is the present and it’s a gift. That’s how he lives life. He understands everything he is, he doesn’t have to be, but he’s so grateful for all the blessings God has bestowed. Step out on faith like Kassady; use your gifts!

Contact Cletus:E-Mail: [email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CletusComedy


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The Journey Magazine - July 2015