"highlighting and promoting women in business doing extraordinary things"
Author: Chandra Gore
Integrity and hard-work have always been the hallmarks Chandra has used to build successful and profitable businesses through her consulting firm has worked with entrepreneurs to help them create foundations for success through her boutique consulting and public relations firm, Chandra Gore Consulting. Quietly making strides with placements for small businesses, entertainment, authors, therapists and motivational speaking clients on local and national news outlets she has been leaving her mark as a publicist in the industry. She is also an author, festival founder, producer and speaker on topics such as Business Strategies, Media Relations and Entrepreneurship. Launching Conversations with Chan - her personal brand that includes a podcast, YouTube channel and publication on Medium.com.
Martha Elmore of I’MarE Boutique is very familiar with the need for self-care as a business owner. In honor of Women’s History Month on March 23, 2024, she partnered with and curated a Spa Day at Camellia Alise for five female entrepreneurs to unwind and recharge. Through this heartfelt gesture she wanted to honor the resilience and achievements of fellow female entrepreneurs, especially given her own experience of having to rebuild after losing her business to a tornado in 2022.
Left to Right: Natalie Christopher, Hermika Profit, Martha E., Miracle Williams, Keshia Wells, Martha w/Chef Brandy Hinds-Boone
The honorees were Natalie Christopher of Hair by Natalie Michelle, Keshia Wells of Elite Spectrum ABA, Miracle Williams of Miracle’s Nail & Lash Bar, Chef Brandy Hinds-Boone of Consuela’s Kitchen, and Hermika Profit of JWYN Custom Designs.
The ladies enjoyed indulgent facials and massages, complemented by champagne, and delicious custom charcuterie purses courtesy of Chef Brandy Hinds-Boone’s Consuela’s Kitchen as they exchanged inspiring stories of entrepreneurship. The CEOs shared advice on overcoming challenges and discussed their visions for the future. The event truly celebrated self-care and community, leaving participants feeling refreshed and inspired to continue their journey as empowered businesswomen.
Washington, DC Native, Michelle Banks is an award-winning actress, writer, director, and producer. The Artistic Director and Co-Founder of Visionaries of the Creative Arts (VOCA). With an extensive professional acting career that includes appearances includes Girlfriends, Soul Food Series, and more. Directing shows such as Camellia for Camille (Def Spotlight’s Short Play Festival), Broadway’s For Colored Girls, and A Raisin in the Sun (Gallaudet University) to name a few.
Speaking with Michelle Banks via Q&A I was able to find out more about what inspired the founding of Visionaries of the Creative Arts (VOCA).
Can you share with us the inspiration behind founding Visionaries of the Creative Arts (VOCA)?
When I directed a play, A Raisin in the Sun with the Black Deaf cast, at Gallaudet University in 2018, I realized I had tapped into an incredible talent base in the Black Deaf community. I saw the critical need to continue supporting the creative work of the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing BIPOC artists after the production. I was inspired by the work of these talented artists and wanted to give something back to the community. These artists and so many other Deaf BIPOC artists were not getting the exposure they deserved. They needed access to resources to help advance their talents as performing artists. I shared this vision with Nayte Paxton, the director of voice performers in A Raisin in the Sun, and we eagerly agreed to make the vision come true – the fruition of Visionaries of the Creative Arts (VOCA) in 2019.
What motivated you to create opportunities specifically for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing BIPOC entertainers in the arts and culture sector?
The Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing BIPOC community, along with its exceptionally talented artists, has long endured a troubling lack of visibility both within mainstream society and even within the Deaf cultural sphere. This underrepresentation has not only been an unfortunate reality but a call to action. Experiencing this imbalance firsthand served as motivation for me to carve out a dedicated safe space within the arts landscape and increase the exposure of our profession to the arts community.
As a Deaf actress, writer, director, and producer, can you walk us through your personal journey in the entertainment industry?
I have been in the entertainment industry for over 35 years. I knew I wanted to be an actress when I first saw the movie Sounder, which the late Cicely Tyson was in. I was so intrigued by her strong presence in the film. Since then, I’ve been doing what I love – acting, directing, writing, and producing. I’ve acted onstage and onscreen, “Big River”, “For Colored Girls…”, ‘Girlfriends”, “Soul Food”, and “Compensation”. I also wrote and performed my one-woman show, “Reflections of a Black Deaf Woman”, and toured with it to various venues such as the Kennedy Center and The National Black Theater Festival. I’ve been directing more now and then. I actually enjoy the art of directing and working with creative artists, especially actors. In the past year, I worked as a Director of Artistic Director (DASL) for Olney Theatre Center’s “The Music Man” and for Broadway’s “For Colored Girls…”. The role of DASL involves sign language translations of the scripts and sharing knowledge of Deaf culture for stage, TV, and film. It is relatively new to the entertainment business.
My journey has facilitated my personal and professional growth as an artist. It has been instrumental in breaking barriers and paving the way for other Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing BIPOC artists in the entertainment industry.
How have your experiences shaped the mission and vision of VOCA?
My experiences in performing arts and running a previous theatre company in New York City, Onyx Theatre Company, have helped me prepare for a huge undertaking by establishing VOCA for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing BIPOC community. My experiences working with the artists have allowed me to witness inequitable access to work opportunities and resources in the industry. Therefore, the mission for VOCA was established to remove barriers to artistic excellence by providing an accessible visual platform for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (HoH) Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BlPOC) to create, collaborate, and showcase our culturally distinct works through various forms of artistic and linguistic expression. VOCA’s vision is to be a global leader in providing equitable access and opportunities for Deaf and HoH BIPOC artists in the creative and performing arts arena.
Can you share some specific challenges you’ve encountered and overcome in establishing VOCA?
We experienced some challenges during the first two years of VOCA’s inception when the COVID-19 pandemic emerged in early 2020. Our first professional production, A Raisin in the Sun, was shut down in April 2020 and we couldn’t perform. Hence, we had to make necessary changes in our program by transitioning our live performance to virtual performance and panel discussions during the pandemic. It was a very successful turnout because VOCA unexpectedly received over 30,000 viewers. During the post-pandemic, we had our first live performance of ISM in December 2021 and we brought back the production of A Raisin in the Sun this summer 2023. Indeed, as VOCA continues to expand, we always need donors to help support the programming. We are seeking big donors to support our mission and be part of the vision. VOCA is now in its fifth season, and we are thriving more than ever!
Looking back at your journey and the impact of VOCA, what legacy do you hope to leave in the realm of Deaf representation in the arts?
My aspiration is to establish a lasting legacy as a trailblazer, someone who has fearlessly cleared pathways for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing BIPOC artists to not only thrive in their respective industry professions but to become the vanguards of the next generation of Deaf leaders in the realm of entertainment arts. By breaking through these barriers, the goal is to create an enduring impact that extends far beyond my individual journey. Through my endeavors, I hope to inspire a paradigm shift, where Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing BIPOC artists are not anomalies but integral contributors and leaders in the evolution of entertainment arts. This legacy is about laying down a foundation upon which future generations can build, ensuring a more diverse, inclusive, and dynamic future for the world of entertainment.
About Visionaries of the Creative Arts (VOCA) was founded in 2019 with a mission to support and uplift Deaf and hard-of-hearing BIPOC artists who have long been underrepresented in mainstream and Deaf culture. Through their various productions and initiatives, VOCA aims to address social injustices and provide a platform for these artists to share their powerful stories.
Hearing a melody or a dream Singer, Songwriter Maurette Brown Clark finds inspiration from varied places. She is known as the “Princess of Praise & Worship” a title that fits her perfectly. Her welcoming spirit showed as we discussed her new project and what inspired the title track, “He Loves Me”.
Her voice is one that will make you smile without you realizing it. Debuting her album, “How I Feel” in 1998 the single “Breaking of Day” earned her a Stellar Award for Best New Artist in 2000. Citing Donnie McClurkin as one of her singing inspirations. Fittingly, with Marvin Sapp, Daryl Coley, and Helen Baylor, Maurette received a Dove nomination for her participation on the 2008 remake of McClurkin’s “Stand.”
After Verity, Maurette signed with Atlanta International Records (AIR), where she released By His Grace (2002), The Dream (2007), and The Sound of Victory (2011). By His Grace received a Gospel Music Workshop of America Gospel Excellence Award and earned for her a Stellar Award nomination. The Dream was a landmark live recording. First, it produced the gospel radio hits “One God” and “It Ain’t Over (Until God Says It’s Over).” Second, it handed Maurette her second Stellar Award, for Praise & Worship CD of the Year, in 2009. Third, her daughter Jada earned a Stellar that same year for her performance of “I Am What God Says I Am,” also from The Dream. Subsequent singles “King Oh King” (2015) and “I Want God” (2019) garnered top Gospel single success as well.
Maurette states that, “I began this project with the intent of doing one song,” she said, “then it turned into an EP, and then an album of eight tracks.”
Check out the full interview below:
“My ultimate purpose is to reach somebody,” Maurette Brown Clark says. “If I can’t do that, I told God I’ll sit down and be quiet. I want to do whatever it is He wants me to do to touch people’s lives.”
Latoya Rideout-Mills, the creative force behind Luna Cereal Bar, has been on a mission to redefine dessert experiences since the launch of her dessert shop in July 2022. With an undeniable passion for all things sweet, Latoya embarked on this culinary journey to share her unique vision with the Berkeley County community and beyond.
Luna Cereal Bar isn’t just another dessert destination; it’s a delightful fusion of nostalgia and sweetness. Latoya’s personal “sweet tooth” fetish serves as the driving force behind the innovative creations that grace the menu. Her aim is clear: to transport each customer back to the blissful days of childhood, all while indulging in the delectable world of their favorite cereal brands.
As the founder of Luna Cereal Bar, Latoya Rideout-Mills is not just providing desserts; she’s curating an experience that bridges the gap between fond memories and irresistible flavors. With a commitment to expansion within the Berkeley County area, Latoya’s dream is to continue bringing smiles, joy, and culinary creativity to her loyal patrons.
Luna Cereal Bar is more than a dessert shop; it’s a manifestation of Latoya Rideout-Mills’ passion for sweets and her desire to share that passion with the world. Join her on this delectable journey, where you can savor the best of both worlds – the sweetness of desserts and a trip down memory lane, all courtesy of Luna Cereal Bar.
I spoke to Latoya via Q&A and she shared with me her experience and what her business is doing to ensure she stands out in the industry and well as providing excellent customer service.
What experience and expertise does the Mills Family bring to the food and hospitality industry, and how does it benefit Luna Cereal Bar?
I grew up learning that food brings people together, though I’m not a professional baker, I still enjoy making and preparing dishes for my loved ones. Luna’s was able to benefit from this because now I’m able to allow others to take pleasure in the delectable treats that Luna’s has to offer. When guests come to the Mills residence they always leave with an experience of entertainment and refreshments. With the same concept, I believe my customers would be able to leave with the same satisfaction as our friends and family.
How does Luna Cereal Bar plan to stand out in a competitive dessert and snack market, and what are your strategies for attracting and retaining customers? Lunas Cereal Bar INC. Prices are higher/lower than the competitors with which we are in direct competition. Queen Bee’s Entertainment & Sweets LLC is a local entertainment and dessert company that provides bounce houses, party planning, entertainment & custom cakes and treats. Because there is no cereal bar within a 60-minutes, there is no direct competition in the Berkeley County Region or Eastern Panhandle, West Virginia. The two closest cereal bars to Lunas Cereal Bar are Day & Night Cereal Bar located in Washington, DC; Springfield, VA, Charlotte, NC, Rockville, NC, Morgantown, WV (a location that is temporarily closed), and Clarksburg, Maryland. This franchise is not in direct competition with Lunas Cereal Bar INC. because the company sells milkshakes, “go-bars,” and actual bowls of cereal that the consumer can sit and eat. Luna’s is not competing against local dessert shops, we will be offering a twist to their typical treat of choice which includes cakes, milkshakes, and Rice Krispie treats. The prices from Day & Night Cereal Bar and Lunas Cereal Bar INC. are different in pricing structure as the two companies are providing their consumers with different goods and experiences for their decadent treats. Luna’s pricing beats competitors by a couple of dollars though we offer the same delectable delights. What sets Luna aside from the other dessert shops is the amount of love along with attention to detail that is made with all treats.
Could you tell us more about the values and principles that guide Luna Cereal Bar’s operations and customer service?
Our company’s Mission is to constantly provide outstanding customer service and believe that customer satisfaction is our ultimate goal. We are dedicated to providing our employees with a respectful and positive work environment that will move onward to Luna’s consumers. Luna’s values include respecting our customers and having our customers and employees in a positive as well as uplifting atmosphere. These values will be attainable by actions with provide above-average customer service. Lunas Cereal Bar INC. seeks to appease and appeal to its peers in the community while enjoying delectable treats that are cereal-infused.
Our vision is to become Berkeley County’s most customer-centric cereal infuses dessert shop eventually expanding to multiple locations. Currently, we are selling 40 assorted treats weekly in hopes of selling double within the coming months. With being able to reach 10k individuals through social media, the dessert shop will be able to meet our target goal of being able to serve the masses within the surrounding area. Luna’s will be a place where customers can come to find and discover their inner child while enjoying their favorite cereal with their dessert of choice.
Lunas’ operational plan will maintain quality control by utilizing the same recipes, same products, and same batch measurements. In the case that a main vendor is unable to supply Lunas with our typical materials for our baking needs (Sam’s Club), Lunas can order the same pertinent supplies from either Amazon or Walmart. Maintaining consistency in the service to the customers will occur through Lunas’ establishing a new hire process that covers interpersonal service skills with all employees that join the Lunas Cereal Bar INC. team. These employees will be expected to provide service that is courteous and consistent in attentiveness to the consumer when approached to order with Lunas Cereal Bar.
All Staff Members of Lunas Cereal Bar INC. must maintain the following key interpersonal skills:
Customer service experience, Time management: staying on task, focused, and to accept constructive criticism.
What roles and job opportunities are available at Luna Cereal Bar, and what qualities do you look for in potential team members?
Luna’s personnel staff consists of an Operational Manager, Operational Assistance, Kitchen Prep, and Kitchen Dishwasher/Cleaning Staff. All hired staff will be required to have a high school education or proper state-required documents if working under the age of 18.All of Luna’s employees must have experience with customer service and be able to take direction from their superiors. Each employee will receive additional training onsite that will be by the Berkeley-Morgan County Health Department Division of the Food Safety Program.
Getting a massage will add an extra layer to your self-care regimen. As entrepreneurs, we are always either thinking or moving so scheduling and getting a massage will allow you to decompress as well as take a moment to just breathe.
During the downtime, while receiving a massage, the relaxation can help facilitate solutions to problems, or if like me as a Publicist and consultant, I am able to create better strategic plans, as well as different angles for pitches for my clients.
As stressful as entrepreneurship can become, taking that time to clear your mind, and to also disconnect from the daily grind, will help you to recover as well as heal.
Keep in mind also that local massage parlors are small businesses that you can possibly connect with who understand exactly what the stressors and also the journey of entrepreneurship can be.
This is a great way to also connect with your community and show your support by ways of patronizing their business. A small business, such as yourself working with another small business will also help to facilitate a nurturing and caring relationship because as they get to know you, you’re getting to know them, so this can become a great support system.
Adding the physical touch as well as the sensory aspects of a massage, can really reset your mind, body, and soul especially if you’re working out and are in a high-stress situation this can help you to achieve your goals, faster as well as a way to keep your emotions and your mental and check so that you can be the best version of yourself.
The benefits of massages as an entrepreneur are great so my word of advice is to find a great local massage parlor and before booking chat with the massage therapist about what you have going on so that you can receive the best experience possible.
The saying “A cluttered space reflects a cluttered mind” has been proven by a 2009 study that existing in a cluttered environment will increase your cortisol levels that lead to anxiety and depression disorders. Here are 5 ways you can declutter your office so that you are creating a productive and healthy space to thrive and maintain a healthy mental state.
Go though old items that are not being used and discard them. For example that stack of post it notes that you have already transferred the information from. Or old mail that should be shredded.
Remove unused items from your desk – seeing the availability of space can assist with the reorganization of your desk that you may need. The slight movement of a lamp can possibly make a huge difference in your mood.
After you have gone through the items that are not being used or documents that need to be shredded. Remove everything from your desk or if needed your entire office space. Look at your storage options and how they are being used.
Map out how you would like your office to flow – Do you have a window that allows you to have lots of natural light? Consider this as you point of reference when bringing your items back into your office.
End your day with putting your items away and doing a light cleaning. This will help you when you go back the next day. You will feel as if you are starting with a clean slate for your day.
Note that not every step may apply to you but use which ones that will help you to feel more confident in work and have a stress free environment. Always remember to do what you feel is best for mental health.
Chicago Native Songstress Yvonne Gage is an experienced jazz singer who has been performing since the tender age of 14. Having worked alongside well-known artists such as Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Celine Dion, and Michael McDonald. Growing up encapsulated by music – pure jazz and soulful R&B she was influenced by greats such as Sarah Vaughan, Phyllis Hyman, and Minnie Riperton. She shares that “At the very top of the list was Sarah Vaughan. That is who I grew up listening to. Sarah Vaughan was just a stand-alone in my heart.” As time went on she fell in love with the music of Phyllis Hyman and Minnie Riperton. “With Phyllis, she just melts my heart. She speaks to me. We are kindred spirits. She approaches melodies and lyrics the way that I would.” She adds, “With Minnie Riperton, it is her range, all the sensual qualities that she had. To me she is boundless.” Music has the ability to bring joy and happiness – Yvonne’s voice does just that.
Check out the interview below:
Her new single “Feel Love” invokes feelings of love and the joy that comes with all levels of love. With her hard work and patience, she has been recently added to the IHeartRadio R&B Digital Integration program.
Speech Language Pathologist and founder of Pediatric Speech Lab and Speech Lab University (SLU) Quintina Briscoe shares 3 reasons she is a woman who hustles.
I’m resilient: Despite all of the obstacles that come with being a minority business owner, particularly in the medical field with minimal providers, I have been able to bounce back from setbacks, surprises, opposition, etc. Every time I bounce back I come back stronger and more motivated!
I’m Determined: I know that my life is purposeful. I am extremely determined to fulfill the purpose of my life. I am an extremely motivated person, even when I do not feel like it, my subconscious pushes me! I’m determined to achieve my goals and I am extremely motivated to fulfill my God-given purpose.
I’m God Centered: I literally cannot do anything without God. I consult God in all decision-making in my life. If I didn’t, I would be hustling backward! If it’s not in his will, he is not obligated to pay the bill! I would never do any of this without him!
About Quintina Briscoe –
As a Speech and Language Pathologist and Private Practice Owner, Quintina Briscoe, her entrepreneurship journey consist of two business models. She is the owner of the Pediatric Speech Lab offering multi-disciplined services such as Behavioral Health (ABA), Speech Therapy, and Occupational Therapy to the pediatric population, ages 0-21, and clients with more severe disabilities, ranging in age from 21-35.
She is also the CEO of Speech Lab University, an ASHA-approved, CEU professional development company within Pediatric Speech Lab. SLU primarily focuses on continuing education for other speech and language professionals. In addition, SLU strives to educate families through courses, engagement, and interaction for the betterment of their children. Ultimately helping families to understand and cope with their child’s diagnosis.
Learn more about Quintina by visiting her website and following her on social media.
Ma’Sheka Thomas, like most of us, became more focused on self-care after experiencing a series of personal healthcare events in 2018. Stress was the cause of extreme hives and breakouts that Ma’Sheka was suffering for. After being prescribed various medicines she was inspired to take an alternative holistic approach to treat her conditions. On her journey to wellness, she found yoga was a great benefit as it has helped her with anxiety and managing stress. She quickly fell in love with the practice and wanted to share its benefits with others. Feeling that she had found her true purpose she became a licensed yoga instructor teaching in Prince George’s County, MD.
Her wellness journey led her to create The Ultimate Self-Care Sunday. A full-day event that will provide adults with tools and resources to help individuals address, improve and prioritize their whole health and wellness journey. Ma’Sheka believes that an individual’s whole health is composed of both their physical health, as well as their mental, emotional and spiritual health.
Speaking with Ma’Sheka she shared with me the definition of whole health and what attendees can expect at her inagural event.
Define Whole health.
I use this term interchangeably with holistic health, which approaches health and wellness in a way that includes the physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual factors of an individual’s health.
At A Healthier You, we consider all of these components as part of our strategy and approach to improving one’s health. We believe that health is much more than just the physical. Mental, emotional and spiritual well-being is just as important. Everyone deserves to be well and feel happy. Ironically, these things can also even impact our physical health as well if left neglected.
What can participants expect from Ultimate Self-Care Sunday?
Attendees can expect a full day of learning, new experiences, self-care, networking, quality vendors, brunch, and fun! The Ultimate Self Care Sunday will provide attendees with the necessary tools and resources to address, improve and prioritize holistic health, including physical, mental, spiritual and emotional aspects of their well-being. Attendees will receive expert insight and services from professionals across the health diaspora, including guided physical mindfulness sessions, yoga, meditation, group sound healing, acupuncture sessions and individual reiki massages. Mental and emotional health professionals will teach attendees how to properly connect with their emotions via journaling, implement healthy lifestyle tips on stress, anxiety and depression management, and create more positive outcomes. Full brunch and snacks will be provided; vendors and giveaways will also be available.
Learn more about Ma’Sheka Thomas and her organization A Healthier You, Inc by clicking here.
Dr. Shanna B. Van Ness is a Certified Business, Executive, and Life Coach. Also known as the Committed Action Queen specializing in personal growth, relationship, career, business, and executive coaching. Dr. Shanna maintains a private practice in Brooklyn, New York, and Atlanta, GA.
Serving as a private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. In addition to being a professional Coach, she’s also presented nationally to general audiences speaking on the topics of Leadership Success, The Art of Mastering Relationships, Organizational Strategy, and many other areas.
Photo Credit: Slingshots Atlanta
What are 3 Ways You are a Pretty Woman who Hustle?
Dr. Shanna shares Three ways why she is a Pretty Woman Who Hustle
I believe in the law of reciprocity. As I give I shall receive and as I result, I LIFT AS I CLIMB.
Success looks different for everyone and my success formula is: FOCUS + DISCIPLINE x PERSEVERANCE = SUCCESS
I SAY X and DO X that’s why I am known as the COMMITTED ACTION QUEEN
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