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Contact: 1-857-990-3167 Lorem Ipsum

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Michee Diaz SALON OWNER MASTER HAIR STYLIST

4 QUEENSBERRY STREET FENWAY, BOSTON MA.

We Were Here All The Time Black women have made important contributions to the United States throughout its history. However, they are not always recognized for their efforts, with some remaining anonymous and others becoming famous for their achievements. In the face of gender and racial bias, Black women have broken barriers, challenged the status quo, and fought for equal rights for all. The accomplishments of Black female historical figures in politics, science, the arts, and more continue to impact society.

Rosa Louise McCauley Parks “Mother of the Modern Day Civil Rights Movement” Rosa Louise Parks was nationally recognized as the “mother of the modern day civil rights movement” in America. Her refusal to surrender her seat to a white male passenger on a Montgomery, Alabama bus, December 1, 1955, triggered a wave of protest December 5, 1955 that reverberated throughout the United States.

Maya Angelou Was an American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist. She published seven autobiographies, three books of essays, several books of poetry, and is credited with a list of plays, movies, and television shows spanning over 50 years. She received dozens of awards and more than 50 honorary degrees. Angelou is best known for her series of seven autobiographies, which focus on her childhood and early adult experiences. The first, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings (1969), tells of her life up to the age of 17 and brought her international recognition and acclaim.

Mary Kenner Mary received five patents in her lifetime for household items including the sanitary belt (maxi pads), the bathroom tissue holder, a back washer that mounted on the wall of the shower and the carrier attachment on walkers for disabled people. She worked as a florist and credited her father for encouraging her creativity during her childhood. Despite her major success, Mary maintained that she created these items because she enjoyed making life easier for people and it was never about the money.

Mahalia Jackson Was an American gospel singer, widely considered one of the most influential vocalists of the 20th century. With a career spanning 40 years, Jackson was integral to the development and spread of gospel blues in black churches throughout the U.S. During a time when racial segregation was pervasive in American society, she met considerable and unexpected success in a recording career, selling an estimated 22 million records and performing in front of integrated and secular audiences in concert halls around the world.

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My Angela, Master Hair and Weave Stylist

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BLC Black Like Crystal

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“Thank you for the magazine! Beautiful Women on the Cover.” Pastor C. Farrow, Providence, RI. Anointed Women of God

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Joyce Weston, Legendary Gospel Recording Artist “The Crayton Singers”

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“Looks Fabulous!!”

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Designer Dress by Lady Beverly White

Content

SPRING/SUMMER 2021

Phenomenal Women We Were Here All The Time

PG.53

Naya Barcelon Born and raised in Boston, MA, Naya Barcelona has always had an interest in the entertainment industry. After packing up and moving to Los Angeles, CA, her passion for make-up in particular grew...

PG.50

Quinn ConyersQuinn Conyers trains women in business how to turn conversations into cash so they maximize and monetize all speaking opportunities on behalf of their business! With over 14 years of speaking...

PG.41

Tanya Thomas Tanya Thomas resides in Boston and is of Native American and Jamaican descent. She belongs to the Natick Nipmuc Tribe who named her Fair Wind. She has served as president and secretary...

PG.68

Keisha Dreams Keisha Dreams has won several awards, appeared on television, and have been mentioned in newspapers and on the cover of magazines. Keisha Dreams has performed and made history...

PG.29

Juanita Grant Parent Mastermind creator and thought leader, Juanita Grant knows empowerment is key to making lasting change in people’s lives. Through her Inspire by Juanita platform she provides a safe space for...

PG.19

Pretty Poison PRETTY POISON my alter ego is “Amaryllis Belladonna” To say that awardwinning rapper, record label owner, model and business woman Pretty Poison has an Ear to the streets ...

PG.77

Lady Nike Shelton Lady Nike (knee-kay) Shelton hails from Boston, Massachusetts. She is the wife of Senior Pastor Eric Shelton of Living Elevated Church located in Brockton, MA, whom she loves dearly. She is...

Julia De Los Santos Julia De Los Santos was born in Dominican Republic and arrived in Boston, MA. at a young age. She graduated in fashion design studies at Bay College in 1994...

PG.64

WOCTM A trademark of Every Day People. All rights reserved.

MR. GBOS FOUNDER, PUBLISHER, EDITOR ___________________________ BUSINESS ADVISOR RON WALKER GRAPHIC DESIGNER CARLOS FERNANDES PHOTOGRAPHERS MICHAEL HAILEY CUBIAN LENS PHOTOGRAPHY BRAIN DIESCHER WOC MAGAZINE ADVERTISING/SALES/BOSTON, MA [email protected] 617-319-4864

SMSgt CYNTHIA A. CROPPER

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Space Force

SMSgt Cynthia A. Cropper works Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base, CA. Born to Rosalee and Leroy Cropper of Salisbury, MD, native of Roxbury, MA. She attended South Boston High, Fisk University, Air Force in 1988. Assigned 22nd Strategic Hospital, March AFB, CA, as Pharmacy Technician to Deputy Disbursing Officer, while earning Master’s in Finance. Retired April 2014, after 26 years. Supervisors with Dobbins Base, Department Homeland Security, now with Space Force, while serving St. Paul’s Church homeless community, Redondo Beach, CA.

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My SPare Time I Help At St. Paul’s Church Homeless Community

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | SPRING / SUMMER 2021 WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | |8 8 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

LOUISE E. MURRAY 95YEARSYOUNG- MR. GBOS’ MOTHER

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This page is dedicated to my mother Louise Elizabeth Murray who is one of the Mothers of Holy Tabernacle Church in Dorchester, MA. She loves giving gifts to family, church, friends, and even people on the street. On a cold day outside the church, a young lady was walking by with her child and my mother said “Would you like

A MOTHER’S LOVE

The Queen Mother

my scarf’’ and the young lady smiled and said “Yes” and my mother gave her the scarf and a big hug. For many years she has given to charitable organizations to help children in need around the World. I guess that’s where I and my siblings get our “giving” from.

. .. n a m o W l a n e m o n e h P r She is ou WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN |

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| SPRING / SUMMER 2021

Queen Connie Kirven Ms. Exquisite International 2020

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Boston born and raised motivational speaker, minister, and winner in the “ Ms. Division” of The Exquisite International Pageant 2020, Queen Connie Kirven is a woman who’s well known for her dynamic, high energy and impactful messages of redemption and hope through Christ Jesus geared towards woman who’ve been adversely affected by the trauma of separation and divorce. Having personally gone through this life altering experience Ms. Kirven suffered from depression and PTSD which caused her to lean on her faith.

Since then Connie began using her own traumatic experience as a platform to encourage other woman facing the same issues on how to overcome their own struggles through the word of God. Queen Connie currently serves on the board as part of the ministerial staff at Destiny Molder’s Church of Boston and is currently working on her biography titled “ Post-Divorce Warfare-The Aft ermath”.

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 10 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

MS. EXQUISITE

SONDRA HARDY S

Sondra Hardy was born and raised in West Haven, Connecticut. At the age of sixteen, Sondra’s grandmother entered her in the 1972 “Miss Black Teenage Connecticut Pageant”, a prerequisite to the “ Hal Jackson’s Miss Black Teenage America Pageant”. Sondra won the Connecticut title and represented Connecticut in the national pageant. Her final pageant took place in Baltimore Maryland’s “Exquisite International Pageant”. Where she won the national pageant and the following year in 2016 was crowned Lifetime Queen. Sondra’s platform is the “Diabetes Epidemic among women in the African American/Latino /Cape Verde Community”. Sondra is passionate about this platform because her father, Edward “Big Ed”, Hardy passed away from diabetes complications at the age of fifty. Sondra has just written her first novel entitled “ Pieces” , a period piece that starts in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1932 and ends in Harlem New York in 1956. The book will be released in 2021.

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 11 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

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Cassandra Thornton Lewis -aka- DJ Lady Grace has been a national Christian tour dj for over 10yrs for numerous Christian artists throughout the country. She has also deejayed at numerous Christian clubs and community outreaches all across the country, and does Christian hip-hop prison tours and Bible study in both adult and juvenile facilities in New England. Lady Grace has a passion to reach out to church leaders and ministers to teach them more about Christian hip-hop ministry and the necessity and usefulness of it to reach the lost and edify believers.

She does this through workshops and is the co-author of a book called The Black Church and Hip Hop Culture: Toward Bridging the Generational Divide, published by Scarecrow Press. She and the artists with whom she works use this vibrant and vital musical style to reach young people with the love of Christ. WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 12 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

Sister Releigh y d a L a o c Co S Sister Releigh, also known as the Cocoa Lady is a native Bostonian she began in the wellness field serving Boston’s leading health clubs and spa’s. She has co - founded Amon Re Inc. to her credits include Creation of healing techniques such as headache massage-yoga, original body wraps, Afro Chi, relaxation techniques, Hetep Healing Magnetic Therapy, is an artist, designer and food literacy educator. Also, Sister Re is the Curator for Bohemian Arts Boston and Beyond

now into its eight year which presents global artist works, as an annual Black History Month event. Currently the exhibit is on display at Eastern Bank in Central Square Cambridge, Ma. Until January 2022. Due to Covid - 19 Sister Re has designed “Da Homy Designer Head Wrap Combos Mask and Ascot’s” which are unisex. Gone Are The Bad Hair Days! Sister Re, can be contacted for consultations at [email protected]

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 13 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

Wanda Sutton

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Born in Boston Mass, I Wanda loved the Creative World, but Balls. I was trying to be a good Prevail. I finished College at ed into the National Deans List

Sutton at a very young age life threw me a lot of Curve single mom while, trying to the age 46, and being inductBook.

I made the Honor roll 3 times, Bachelors in Media Tech. while school at night. I then got into for Dedication and Hard Work, Radio and got into, PromoIcons with their Event’s, Colnating, etc.

receiving my Associates and working days and going to Radio, receiving many Awards wearing different hats. I left tions in which I helped local laborating, Hosting, Coordi-

In this field I got to Hob Knob Hollywood. I thank GOD for GBOS for the nomination. GOD

with Icons and Legends from these Opportunity’s and Mr. gives the Victory!

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 14 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

Wanda Sutton

AWARD WINNING MARKETING MANAGER

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“She’s one of the Best in the Business”

RADIO VOICEOVERS COMMERCIALS EVENTS COORDINATOR

SHOW HOST PROMOTIONS ARTIST INTERVIEWS ENTERTAINMENT SCOUT

E M A I L : WA N DA S U T T O N 5 8 3 @ YA H O O.C O M

CAROL LONEY Glamour Queen of Fashions

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Carol Loney worked as a Fashion Consultant, Make Up Artist, Model and Retail Manager for Thirty Years at many High End Stores in the Boston area. Graduate from Newbury junior college with an associate degree in Fashion Merchandising, and worked with Barbizon School of Modeling. She has also worked with for Cheryl Cummings, Laveau Look Production, and the Miss Caribbean American Beauty Pageant produced by Sharleen Givens. She also worked at the famous Liz Claiborne boutique for ten years. And was the top seller in the district. Carol attended FW Fashion Week in NYC where she felt right at home seeing all the designers of the World showcase their new collection. Carol is known as the “Glamour Queen of Fashions” as her friends at Prudential Center of Boston, MA calls her. Carol is a mother and proud grandmother and a friend to so many.

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 16 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

MASTER HAIR, +WEAVE AND +PLATFORM ARTIST

MY ANGELA

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My Angela is a 30 year seamstress and a 25 year licensed cosmetologist who loves counseling others. Welcomes you to her styles of beauty at Together We Can Hair Salon at 1198 Blue Hill Ave. Mattapan, Ma. As a motivational speaker she enjoys inspiring people to develop a forgiving spirit, create great relationships and how to live life to their full potential. She loves cutting, coloring, and styling hair. She is aware of and sensitive to the chal-

lenges of complicated hair, scalp, and life experiences, that women have. And can provide professional solutions to make you look fabulous and feel confident about yourself. My Angela is available during regular shop hours, at 9 am Tuesday through Saturday, for beautification and counseling. Her salon proudly uses Mizini products. One of her passions includes ballroom, step, and line dancing. My Angela is a Master Hair, Weave and Platform Artist.

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 17 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

Esteem Hair Beauty Is Our Business

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Esteem Hair is women certified, online, hair extensions & cranial prosthesis company, established in 2016. Esteem Hair is based out of Boston, Massachusetts and services consumers across the country. Dealing with and experiencing the adversities of hair loss, the founders Tiffany Goffer-Fitz and Sheritta Coleburn, were inspired to build a business that supports as well as bridges the medical wig gap for women, children and young adults who suffer from various hair loss conditions. In addition, Esteem Hair

-FRITZ

ER TIFFANY GOFF

BRINGS OUT THE BEAUTY IN YOU

also strives to promote community empowerment and self-love through community actions and initiatives. Esteem Hair has been featured in WOC, Women of Color magazine, was guest platform artist at MR. GBOS LIVE HAIR SHOW BOSTON, and featured on other community platforms. Esteem hair is on a mission to empower women’s self-esteem one bundle at a time worldwide. It is a company that cares, a company that gives back, and a company that empowers.

SHERRITTA COLEBURN

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 18 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

PRETTY POISON THE BAD GIRL OF RAP

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PRETTY POISON my alter ego is “Amaryllis Belladonna” To say that award-winning rapper, record label owner, model and business woman Pretty Poison has an Ear to the streets is an understatement. Pretty Poison grew up in the projects in Roxbury, one of Boston’s roughest neighborhoods, which forever connected her to real-life issues and gave birth to her relentless drive to succeed. Receiving such recognition as 2010 and 2013 New England Urban Music Awards “Best Rap Female “, she captivates audiences with a force and style all

her own -- blending rap with sounds that are undoubtedly pop and an attitude that is positive yet explosive. [OR positively explosive]. She has recently evolved into “Amaryllis Belladonna” and dropped her new grown and sexy single “Daddy” that can be found on all major platforms. Pretty Poison has also started two new adventures Mass Movement and Branding Boston where she connects with the community and creates music business webinars and more. Look for Pretty Poison on facebook. com/Amaryllis Belladonna or @Imarealist_Belladonna.

The Queen of l Hip Hop Sou

Amaryllis a n n o d a l l e B

Photos by: Brian Diescher Photography

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 19 SPRING/ /SUMMER SUMMER2021 2021 19 | |SPRING

BLC Black Like Crystal

CELEBRITY QUEEN OF THE SOCIAL SCENE

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Ms. Crystal L. Dodson; Aka; Black like Crystal Boston born actress, Celebrity hostess Black Like Crystal (BLC) is a business professional. Self-made, Independent Small Business Entrepreneur. Her expertise is in the field of Business management, Retail Fashion. BLC is a seller of fine fragrances, fashion jewelry accessories, hair and makeup. Black like Crystal (BLC) is a spoken word artist, where she has received numerous awards in the Arts.

She has appeared on the cable station; The Boston Neighborhood Network News (BNN) She performs in and around Boston; Black like Crystal is an accomplished actress where she plays one of the lead character’ role of the great Poet writer author (Zora Neale Hurston) with the long standing Oscar Micheaux Family Theater Project. To add to her list of talents, Crystal co-host for the hair and fashion shows of Every Day People. Black like Crystal is a staunch advocate for the communities of Boston.

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 20 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

Romona Cropper EDUCATOR FASHION SHOW PRODUCER

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Romona Cropper of Massachusetts with 2020, Blessed Successful adult children, grandchildren and a great-grandchild. I’m a woman with vision. I Pray with Supplication of World Peace, Love, Healing and Over Flowing Blessings!

Like my mother, I’m a Unique Resourceful Community Liaison Passionate for cultural exchanges. My Hobbies: Ball Dancing, Traveling, Movies, Spoken Word, Painting, sharing Talents and learning from my Elders.

I’m a Certified School Director. A Teacher of 30yrs in Education. I have Degrees in Liberal Arts/Sociology. Executive Producer of Love YourSelf Production Raising Awareness for MEDICALLY DIAGNOSED DISEASES, Producer for Plus-Size Models, Fashion Event Consultant, Specialist in Hair Care and Home Decor.

I’m never satisfied just existing! I encourage hope, forgiveness, Self-Love and Lifting up all women. I’m Passionate. Dedicated to completion of tasks. Truth and Transparency throughout my life. PROVERB 31.

“I Pray with Supplication of World Peace”

In loving memory of Leroy & Rosalee Cropper, Brian, Patricia Cropper.

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 21 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

BUSINESS WOMAN & COMMUNITY ACTIVIST

FRANCINE TYMES

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My name is Francine Tymes and I was born in Boston, MA and I am the business owner of Elegant Tymes which is a woman’s clothing line that’s called “ Popcorn Clothes” which it is a different and unique kind of clothes for women. These clothes are easy to wear and great for traveling. I also have a men’s collection of tie sets which includes ties, square pockets and matching cuff links.

I also have handmade products and one is a scarf that I received my pattern for which is a 2-way neck scarf. I received my pattern for this item on November 2018 and this Scarf has been favored by my customers. I have also been awarded in 2012 by GBOS for Business Woman of the Year and I was very honored to receive this award. Currently I am working on adding new things to my business. My website is www.eleganttymes.ws

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 22 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

Ms. Kathy Kakes

The Queen of Cakes

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Between my love of my grandpa’s homemade lemon cake and my easy bake oven, I found my passion to bake and create beautifully decorated cakes. It’s been well over 35 years I’ve been baking my customers happy in my home based business. Gone are the days of just names on cakes, now my customers young and old want big bold designs with lots of sparkle. I truly love baking, but what I love more is the end results, the design and watching my happy customers when they see their cake for the first time. Ms. Kathy Kakes

MS. KATHY KAKES [email protected] WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 23 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

SALON OWNER BUSINESS WOMEN SHOW PRODUCER

BLOSSOM PHILLIPS

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Rosetta Phillips (Hines) aka Blossom is the owner of Symmetrics Hair Salon in Mattapan, MA. Originally from Jamaica, she has three beautiful daughters, and a granddaughter. Blossom fulfilled her dream to own her own business and she has been a hair stylist for over 30 years. In May of 1998, God blessed her to open Symmetrics which has been in business for over 22 years now and is still going strong. Blossom has overcome many obstacles in her life and she credits her relationship with God for seeing her through.

Her favorite bible verse is Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me.” Blossom has built a strong clientele and would like to thank all of her faithful and wonderful clients for the support over the years and for their loyalty. “ With God All Things Are Possible.” Matthew 19:26

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 24 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

JOYCE CRAYTON WESTON

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GOSPEL SOLOIST EDUCATOR DEACONESS CHOIR DIRECTOR WOMEN'S FELLOWSHIP LEADER

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Joyce Crayton Weston is the youngest child of the late Reverend Huston Crayton Sr. and Evangelist Handsome Crayton. She was born and raised in Boston MA. Joyce started singing in church at age three with her brother and sister. Later, she was featured as a lead vocalist with her family group known as the Crayton Singers of Boston, MA. They have several recordings including Joyce’s signature song, “Two Wings” released in the 1960s. Joyce pursued her childhood dream of being an educator by graduating from Lesley University in 1975 with a B.S. in Elementary Education. During her 40 year successful teaching career, she earned a M.Ed. in Reading and became a Reading Specialist before retiring in 2015. Now happily married for 43 years with two children and two grandchildren, Joyce continues to serve the Lord as an ordained Deaconess, Soloist, Choir director and Women’s Fellowship Leader.

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 25 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

Donnetta

“Ladybos”

Andrews

+ MAGAZINE COVER MODEL + BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR CELEBRITY SHOWHOST

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She has been a member of WOC for 18 years. She has co-hosted the GBOS Image Award show since 2005. It has truly been an amazing journey. She has been featured on two covers of WOC. Ms. Andrews is retired from a communication company. She was also a director of a modeling school for 13 years. She currently is the judge’s liaison for the US United Pageant in Atlanta, GA., and awarded the title of Lifetime Queen. Currently she has her own Karaoke DJ business,

mainly entertaining seniors. Donnetta is very active in the community where she has volunteered at WGBH, and other non-profit companies. She has appeared in parades, appeared in commercial print work, and has modeled in over 100 fashion shows. She is a breast cancer survivor of 7 years. She is a member of St. Katharine Drexel Church for over 20 years.

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 26 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

IIiana Ramirez Beauty and Fabulous

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Meaningful Occasions provides all-in-one, high quality events for non-profit agencies and for-profit companies looking to empower vulnerable communities. We are a family run company consisting of Iliana Ramirez-Murrell, Criselda Ramirez, Elvis Ramirez and Jason Murrell. We offer comprehensive community relations programming guaranteed to be hassle-free, affordable, and enhancing of brand presence within the community. Additionally, we provide grants to support families in need. Each of our Meaningful Occasions sponsors one family facing financial struggle

with childcare services through the FLOAT (Families Leaping Over All Triumph) grant. Iliana Ramirez, born in the US, she is bilingual and well-educated, holding a Master’s Degree in Human Services from UMass Boston and a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication from Regis College. She is currently working as a Homeless Coordinator for the Commonwealth under the department of Housing and Community Development. At Meaningful Occasions, Iliana coordinates sponsors, funding, and marketing.

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 27 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

THE ENTREPRENEUR BOSS QUEEN

SHAUNA WILLIAMS

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Shauna Williams, Owner and Creative Director of SLR Events & Design, Wedding/Event Planning, Floral and Event Design boutique firm located in Brockton, MA. Born and raised in Boston, Shauna comes from a huge family of Entrepreneurs. Bitten by the entrepreneur bug at an early age from helping out in family businesses. From modeling to creating, Shauna has niche for designing.

After several years of hosting parties, planning wedding and events for family and friends, she decided to start her own Wedding and Event Company and have had much success for the last 15 years. Shauna enjoys working with people and embellishes the opportunity to be creative through every event planned.

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 28 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

Life Coach Educator Speaker Author

JUANITA GRANT

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Parent Mastermind creator and thought leader, Juanita Grant knows empowerment is key to making lasting change in people’s lives. Through her Inspire by Juanita platform she provides a safe space for parents to share resources, be better providers and nurturers for their children without losing their mind or their sanity. Over the last 20 years Juanita has fostered 37 children, two of which she went on to fully adopt. Hailing from Boston, MA, Juanita is a transformational

speaker and author, who champions suicide and substance abuse prevention. Her passion for parents and children led her to develop the Parent Mastermind intensive where participants do a deep dive into foundational practices of powerful parenting. Juanita’s other special interests includes Coaching, Vision Boarding, Financial Education, Urban Ministries and Theology. Currently a doctoral candidate at GECU and has a MS from SNHU.

Inspirebyjuanita.org [email protected]

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 29 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

ALEISHA HUDSON Flight Attendant Fashionista

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I was born in Abilene, TX to a family that emphasized a steadfast, immovable faith in Jesus Christ, the value of healthy friendships, and the importance of good character. I developed a love for traveling and a respect of different cultures from my experiences as a “military brat” and have lived in Italy and Portugal. In 1998, I began my career as a flight attendant at the age of 24 for Us Airways, now the new American. In 2019, I

traveled to Zanzibar, Africa for vacation and will visit Arusha for a safari in late 2021. In 2010, I birthed a bright, handsome son with a quick comical wit, a fascination for all things train related, and love of music and we reside on Cape, Cod. I would like to thank MR. GBOS and his staff, it is a privilege to be included in the 2021 100 Phenomenal Women WOC issue.

International World Traveler WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 30 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

DAWN JORDAN

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Dawn is a phenomenal woman of God who was born in Texas but spent most of her life overseas in Europe. She graduated high school in the Azores, Portugal then continued her education earning an Associate’s Degree in Graphic Design, a Bachelor’s Degree in Human-

ities and Social Sciences, and a Master’s Degree in Psychology with a Crisis Management and Response specialization. She has lived in Italy, Portugal, England, and Germany and visited numerous other countries during her life being part of an active duty military family. Dawn enjoys traveling to new places, cooking new pescetarian dishes, and entertaining. Her competitive nature is demonstrated when she plays volleyball about 3 times every week, playing in different leagues in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Though she has been playing advanced indoor volleyball for over 25+ years, she mostly enjoys spending quality time with her son and family. Dawn strives to not only dream dreams but to accomplish them.

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 31 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

Mother Master's Degree Queen of Volleyball

SINCEREE CLARK-DIEGO

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Sinceree Clarke-Diego, an entrepreneur and advocate for women and minorities; is the CEO & Founder of BreakFIT Wellness LLC. A company providing a healthy space for women to get stronger; physically and mentally. Utilizing her passion, education and 10+ years of experience, she helps women find their strength. As a mom of two active teenagers and wife of 15 years, Sinceree balances her family, business, faith, health and community. A Sunday School teacher of 8 years, she is currently teaching High School students how to apply religion to daily life. Additionally, she also shares her time serving as President of the METCO Needham Parent Council (4th year) providing support and a voice to METCO Needham families.

Wellness Health Educator Sunday School Teacher

She was part of a small team instrumental in initiating racial equity policies in Needham school district. With a background in Computer Science and Math, Sinceree craves knowledge and the betterment of herself.

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 32 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

DJ LADY LY R&B/Soul, Hip-Hop, Funk, Dancehall, Reggae, Downtempo, Afrobeats, House, Zouk

THE QUEEN OF DJ’S

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DJ Lady Ly has always been very passionate about music and dance. Growing in Belgium, DJ Lady Ly was introduced to various genres of music at an early age. In her 20’s, she became intrigued with the concept of spinning records and making crowds of people dance. She began to experiment with turntables and taught herself how to blend and mix tracks. She began DJ’ing at house parties and quickly earned the reputation for keeping the crowd dancing. DJ Lady Ly aims to please by feeding off the vibes, no matter the crowd or genre. Being from a multilin-

gual, multiethnic and multicultural family, Dj Lady Ly naturally embraces numerous genres of music like R&B/Soul, HipHop, Funk, Dancehall, Reggae, Downtempo, Afrobeats, House, Zouk, etc. DJ Lady Ly currently resides in Boston where she was the lead DJ on The whatzupboston show on WRBB 104.9fm. She is an active member of her local community.

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 33 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

Million Dollar Hair Boss

CHARLENE CARROLL Million Dollar Hair Boss

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Originally from Boston, Charlene Carroll has been in the world of hair design for over 40 years, yet continues to be a motivator, educator, and highly sought-after consultant. Her professional experiences include, being a salon owner for over 35 years and being recognized as consulting for major companies such as Revlon, American Beauty Products and Soft Sheen (L’Oréal).

In addition, Charlene is a member of the National Cosmetology Association and was selected as a member of Hair America, an elite group of educators in the N.C.A. She is a contributing author of Milady Standard textbook and has been featured in various publications including, Who’s Who in American Beauty, Black Hair, Shop Talk, Black Enterprise, and Essence.

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 34 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

CEO-The Village Creative

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Victoria Downes is a Brand and Profits Strategist with over 12 years’ experience in Small Business development, Brand Development & Human Resources management. Known for her savvy strategies and in-depth knowledge of systems & processes, Victoria is committed to helping WOC entrepreneurs scale their small businesses with vision-aligned branding and positioning to attract their

ideal customers, increase profit and build sustainable businesses so they can live life on their own terms. She is a Certified Professional Coach and the founder of The Village Creative, a Boston based Business Development firm specializing in Business coaching, Brand development, Project Management, and Training Development.

Master Brand Strategist Coach

VICTORIA DOWNES

She is also the founder and owner of The Broom Squad, a premier cleaning company in Boston and the host of The Village Talk podcast. Victoria was previously the National Senior HR manager for the Elizabeth Warren Presidential campaign. She currently lives in Boston with her husband and 3 amazing children.

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BARBARA MOORE

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“KOSMETIC FRAGRANCE DESIGNER, RADIO TALK HOST/CEO, ESTHETIC INSTRUCTORMASTER ESTHETICIAN, BUSINESS OWNER & ENTREPRENEUR.”

Barbara Moore aka “Mz. B” is a native of Boston Massachusetts. This Queen has become an entrepreneur and small business owner of THE COVERING KOSMETICS (a cosmetic fragrance designer specializing in GoatsMilk & Honey), THE BAKERY BOUTIQUE (CDB bakery owner), WRJR (radio talk host, 90 Seconds with Mz. B/ CEO), Master esthetician, esthetic instructor and future CEO of THE COVERING BEAUTY ACADEMY INC. (technical beauty academy trade school). Passion and commitment are the reasons Mz. B thrives in her businesses. Having the passion to help others, especially women to become great Queens, embrace their gift(s) and pass down a legacy to their Prince and princesses. What drives this Queen beyond success? Compassion, Motivation, her walk in Christ, and a steadfast mind to succeed.

d Honor an ice v great ser z.B is what My. lives b

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Ella Wiggins is the Creator of WINKTHOUGHTS. WINKTHOUGHTS Showcase is an extension of the WINKTHOUGHTS Greeting Card line. Ella created WT Greeting cards over 10 years ago. WT Greeting cards are based on people’s emotions and lives; it’s not that everyday card you see in the stores. My website www. winkthoughts.shop is up and running 2015 I started traveling throughout the Boston and South Shore area with my team, Hosting Winkthoughts open mic.events at different

venues. I go on stage and I promote my Winkthoughts Greeting cards which is similar to spoken words. I host this event where different poets, singers, anyone with talent came from all over to go on stage and compete for monetary gifts. Each contestant has 3 min or less to go on stage and each participant has to be 21 years of age, 2021 opening of Winkthoughts Lounge which I will have live entertainment such as Jazz, Comedy, Poetry, Art and Speed dating. I hope to see you all in 2021.

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Entertainment Business Woman of The Year

ELLA WIGGINS

Creating Musical Platforms for Local Artists, Musicians, and Bands

OLAWUMI AKINWUMI BOSTON

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With over ten years of experience in live entertainment, Olawumi is an event expert in management and public relations. She has organized events in the Boston metropolitan area, creating musical platforms for local artists, musicians, and bands for a small production company called AfroDesiaCity. She has resided at Hibernian Hall since 2015 where she fosters the celebration of the cultural heritage of the neighborhood through original quality theater productions created by local and regional artists and writers of color including original theater created by Hibernian Hall’s Playwrights in Residence.

Additionally, she is the Program Director of Hibernian Hall’s economic development program, where she oversees all programs and activities that bring a variety of art genres and civic events to Hibernian Hall as part of an initiative to revitalize Roxbury. Ola holds an M.S. in communications management from Simmons School of Management and a B.S. from the University of New Hampshire.

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Artisha “Tee” Bolding is a minister and certified life coach known as the Mindset Midwife. Through her coaching she motivates women and entrepreneurs to birth their business, book or brand. Artisha has spent the last decade providing relationship and spiritual advice to friends, clients and groups of teenagers. Her programs ensure individuals are no longer stuck in life but thriving in success that’s aligned with their purpose and passion. Since her early days at Howard University, positively impacting people has been a serious passion for this visionary.

From charter schools to City Hall and even a dusty construction site, Artisha has experienced a lot and has touched many lives. In fact she founded her company T Bold Media Group after hitting rock bottom and pushing past crises in her marriage and health. She knows God will do great things because we expect Him to. Artisha’s next project just might be your new favorite book!

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Motivating Friends Clients And Teenagers To Be The Very Best

ARTISHA TYSON BOLDING

JULIA MEJIA City Councilor, At-Large

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After a historic recount, Councilor Mejia won her seat by a single vote. Now, she is the first Afro-Latina to sit on the Boston City Council. Councilor Mejia is currently the Chair of the Committee on Civil Rights and the Committee of Small Business and Workforce Development. She is focused on influencing and inspiring constituents to be actively engaged in all areas of decision-making processes. Since assuming her role in January, Councilor Mejia has created a series of innovative COVID related projects in response to the need of Boston’s hardest hit constituents. She has created culturally responsive food access projects designed to support small businesses

and feed our most vulnerable, a COVID business ready to build capacity for Black/Brown immigrant owned barbers and hair salons, designed and implemented a community-centered civic engagement model to address city-wide quality of life concerns, and filed legislation to improve access and accountability in city government utilizing multimedia tools to inform and educate. Councilor Mejia was recently named Best City Politician 2020 in Boston Magazine.

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Tanya Thomas resides in Boston and is of Native American and Jamaican descent. She belongs to the Natick Nipmuc Tribe who named her Fair Wind. She has served as president and secretary and is a tribal council member.

She has traveled extensively as far as Dubai, Iceland, Egypt and Venezuela to name a few. She is always looking forward to a new destination. She has worked for the USPS for thirty seven years and is an OJI for window clerks.

She attended Weston Public Schools via the METCO program since pre school, and played field hockey and basketball. She graduated from UMass Boston with a double degree in Psychology and Sociology. She is currently on staff at Roxfilm as an outreach coordinator. She helps review films, plan events, and engages community members to be involved.

Her Post Office has a very diverse customer base. Her professionalism, patience, and kindness show in each customer transaction. Along with this and her warm personality, she has become a staple in the Fenway community.

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Outstanding Post Office Worker of the Year

TANYA THOMAS Fair Wind

The Game Changer Life Anthology

VIVIAN JONES

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Fearless leader and mentor, Vivian Jones made her debut as an author in 2019. Her story of overcoming a troubled upbringing while navigating motherhood at a young age unfolds powerfully in The Game Changer Life Anthology. That same year her heart for senior wellness brought new perspective, as her father became her client. Vivian’s passion for elderly care took on a new meaning in that season and she maintains that today as she provides high-quality in-home care for seniors requiring assistance with activities of daily living.

grow her business and expand her reach. She is positioned to serve families in the State of Nevada and beyond. One of Vivian’s favorite pastimes is sharing inspirational messages online. She is a loving sister and mother who is always eager to share her faith in service to others.

A native of Las Vegas, Vivian has worked with Kim Coles and other brilliant coaches to

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Gifted Author, Speaker, and Facilitator

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THE ANOINTED ONE

KENA DRUMGO

Kena Drumgo’s a gifted author, speaker and facilitator whose message of love has impacted lives from Boston to New Jersey, Tampa and Zimbabwe. The anointing on her book, “Beyond Religion…into Relationship with God,” embraces people as they are and ushers them into a safe, intimate and healing love relationship with G-d. Born on Juneteenth and called, “A force to be reckoned with!”, this spiritual activist daily exposes racism, oppression and human rights abuses, championing for the voiceless and marginalized in life and battling individual and systemic evil in prayer. A language artist and writing consultant, she’ll move you ForWords with your projects, visions and entrepreneurial goals. After years of confronting rare medical challenges and healthcare disparities, Kena now sits on a Healthcare Safety Taskforce to improve patient experiences and outcomes. Visit her website at: http://kenadrumgo.com and email her for info, autographed books and event scheduling at kena.drumgo@gmail. com. “Beyond,” is available at lulu.com. It’s all about relationship!

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LAW & ORDER

ISI EHIKHAMHEN

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Isi Ehikhamhen was born and raised in Boston, MA, and received her Juris Doctorate degree from Suffolk University Law School where she finished part of the top of her class and served as leader to many organizations, including serving as the President of the Black Law Students Association and Director of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee. Upon graduating law school, she worked for one year as an Associate at Conn Kavanaugh, a civil

litigation firm located in downtown Boston. Currently, she is the CEO and Founder of two upcoming businesses-- Reclaim Dignity, a brand company that inspires the oppressed to stand up for themselves and their rights, and Isi Decor, an event decorating and date night consultation company. Isi says without God, the confidence she has in herself, and the desire to make her family proud, she would not be as successful as she is today.

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MARIA MCKNIGHT

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Grew up in Greater Boston. diligently serves at risk She strongly believes in She attended Hampton families on a daily basis. commitment to communiand studies early childShe helps others through ty engagement and leaving hood at Bunker Hill and encouragement and infora ‘legacy’. A member of Quincy College. She has a mation sharing of housing Roxbury Innovation CenVirtual Crafts & Playdates: Dorchester/Roxbury ht passion to share life expe& emergency assistance. ter, Boston CWE, UJIMA When: January 2020 eater Boston. She attended Hampton and studies rience, especially with Project; Dorchester Arts od at Bunker Hill and Quincy College. She has a are life experience, especially with families in crisis families in crisis or unProject, Creative Crafting d communities. Maria worked as an executive communities. and Udemy Art Therapy. 1 years and shifted gearsderserved to focus on supporting orhoods. In 2018, she founded 2 Birds No Stones, Maria as an exShe participated in traina play space that will offer familyworked healing; fun, reative playtime. ecutive assistant for 21 ings for children’s health ly serves at risk families on a daily basis. She helps years and shifted gears with Boston Basics, h encouragement and information sharing of to focus on supporting BOKS Reebok Foundaergency assistance. She strongly believes in to community engagement and leaving a urban neighborhoods. tion, Massachusetts EEC, Epiphany ELC and Life Is Roxbury Innovation Center, Boston CWE, UJIMA hester Art Project, Creative Crafting and Udemy In 2018, she founded 2 Good Foundation. he participated in trainings for children’s health Birds No Stones, LLC, asics, BOKS Reebok Foundation, Massachusetts y ELC and Life Is Good Foundation. which is a play space that will offer family healing; fun, active, and creative playtime. Maria

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NYELL JEUDY

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Nyell Jeudy is a Boston native. Studied at Barry University in Miami Florida and Connecticut School of Broadcasting where she majored in Communications, Journalism and Broadcasting. 2009 Nyell’s professional path began in broadcast journalism and national pageants. The past decade, Nyell has lost several friends and family members due to gun violence in her community. This caused a career shift, focusing on trauma response work with youth as a Violence Interrupter for the City of Boston MA. An educator working in the local school’s community centers and com-

munity spaces. Sharing the importance of incorporating Mindful practices into daily life. ​ Nyell is certified mindfulness and meditation teacher through the Inner Strength Foundation teen school-based teacher program based out of Philadelphia and certified as a Trauma Response specialist through Day Seven Wellness Center in Stoughton MA. She also is certified through Healing Arts Institute Mindfulness-based facilitation training for social transformation. A Certified Yoga teacher through Breathe For Change and a Certified Wellness coach. She is a trained Sound Healing practitioner.

WEALTH HEALTH & HEALING OF THE SOUL

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LOVE YOUR MENES

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Bria Gadsden, MS is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Love Your Menses, Inc. She is also the Co-Founder of Merrimack Valley Black and Brown Voices, Inc. She is a social entrepreneur, health educator, and menstrual equity leader who is passionate about creating social impact community based health promotion programs that promote health equity in Black and Brown communities.

Bria received her master’s degree in Community Health Education from Merrimack College and her bachelor’s degree in Nutrition from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She has experience working in education, government, nonprofit, and the private sector. Bria was born and raised in Boston, MA and is a graduate of Boston Public Schools.

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BLACK & BROWN VOICES

BRIA GADSDEN

CRISELDA RAMIREZ Legendary Hair Stylist

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An Aruba native, Criselda came to America in 1984 in hopes of fulfilling her entrepreneurial dreams of becoming a hairstylist. She completed cosmetology school and preceded to land her first job at a prestigious Salon in the Back Bay Area then called “Danny’s His & Hers”. Later, she opened her own hair salon five nights a week. Now, 26 years later, Criselda is the supervisor of the Tufts transport department and is the brains of the operation at Meaningful Occasions.

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The Bakery Boutique, (TBB) is a black owned business that bakes CBD Edibles Products (cookies, brownies, cheesecakes, gummies, caramel chews, hard candies, lollipops, chocolate truffles, and CBD Jell-O-shots just to name a few. The Bakery Boutique was established in 2019 in Boston, Massachusetts by the Founder Barbara Ann Moore and her daughter co-founder Jessica Moore. In 2020 two more co-owners were added Jacqueline Ashley and her daughter Jocelyn Ashley.

“RISING ABOVE THE REST”

JACQUELINE ASHLEY

Together these Queens are “RISING ABOVE THE REST”. They decided to form the best edibles in town by helping others. That is their primary goal with the Bakery Boutique, to promote healing in the land, “Genesis 9:3 Every moving thing that lives shall be food for you. And as I give you the green plants, I give you everything.” To service people from insomnia to cancer, The Bakery Boutique is on a mission to bring healing.

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The

Queen

of Talk Cash

QUINN M. CONYERS Q Quinn Conyers trains women in business how to turn conversations into cash so they maximize and monetize all speaking opportunities on behalf of their business! With over 14 years of speaking experience, Quinn has trained hundreds of speakers, entrepreneurs and students how to polish their presentation & sharpen their speaking skills. Quinn has won $77,000 speaking about her company in business pitch competitions. Quinn’s accomplishments include features in Black Enterprise, Essence,

Speakers, So Empowered and Young Money Magazines. In 2020, featured on the cover of Vision and Purpose magazine. She’s made it to the 2nd round of Shark Tank auditions 4X, appeared on Entrepreneurs Elevator Pitch TV Show and pitched her products to the Home Shopping Network (HSN). She hosts Speak Black Woman podcast, on the board of the Global Black Women Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bureau. Quinn’s mission is to give women their voice back.

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DR. LINDA EDMONDS TURNER Education Is the Key to Success

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Dr. Linda Edmonds Turner was appointed Massachusetts’ Director of Industrial Accidents 2015 - 2019. She previously served as Interim President of Roxbury Community College, President of Urban College of Boston, and Vice President of Marketing at Dean College in Franklin, Massachusetts. Additionally, Dr. Turner held senior marketing executive positions at DuPont Company, Whirlpool Corporation, and Polaroid Corporation. In 2009 Dr. Turner received the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce “Excellence in

Arts & Education Pinnacle Award” and in 2013 GBOS honored her at their 44th Community Awards Ceremony. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for both the Emerald Necklace Conservancy and the Justice Resource Institute. Dr. Turner received a Ph.D. MBA, and B.S. from Virginia Tech. She also received a M.S. from Michigan State University. Additionally, she completed the Administrative Fellows Program and the Seminar for New Presidents, both at Harvard University.

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CHARMAINE KING King's Life Masterpiece

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Charmaine I. King owner of Royalty Life coaching. A vision of inspiration is how to describe Charmaine’s life. At an early age, she had to experience how harsh, cruel and frightening this world is. A devoted, hardworking and dedicated Mother at an early age. No matter how high the cards stacked against her, Charmaine never stopped, she kept pushing forward. Presently, our Sister is a successful Blacked Owned Business Woman, A prominent figure in our Community, a

Life Coach, and a certified Doula who works in nursing at one the top trauma ED’s in Boston. Charmaine encapsulate what is to hold vision, to push oneself and to never give up. Charmaine summed it all up in one of her interviews. “I took the hand life dealt me and sculpt it into my masterpiece. I am here to break the generational curse that plagues our people through my life story”.

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Beauty & NAYA Special FX BARCELONA Make-Up

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Born and raised in Boston, MA, Naya Barcelona has always had an interest in the entertainment industry. After packing up and moving to Los Angeles, CA, her passion for make-up in particular grew.

Artist

She knew that she wanted to do both beauty and special FX make-up. She now successfully runs her own cosmetics business, Naya Barcelona Beauty and works as a beauty influencer @NAYASWORLDDD, on instagram. She hopes to encourage women and bring a new definition to the meaning of beauty.

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Work Your Body

KAYLA WOODS iss Fit M

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Born and raised in Roxbury, Massachusetts, Kayla “Miss Fit” Woods graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology and minors in Nutrition and Spanish. Reflecting on her personal and professional experiences, she realized fitness was more than just physical change, it’s healing. Kayla redefined the term “misfit” by creating Misfit Fitness LLC to empower individuals through their journey to stand out and create their own definition of beauty, health and success. As an active member in her community who provides

customized training while donating her services to local events. As the Community Outreach Coordinator, she has worked to recruit and support over 200 African American and Latina women of the Boston community to take control of their diabetes through education, nutrition, fitness and mindfulness. With her social media platform (Instagram: Missfitwoods and Website: www. missfitwoods.com), Kayla continues to promote fitness, and offers an educational approach to her programs to build a healthier community.

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SILVER FOX

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Jackie Givens Jackson aka Silver Fox, born in Sanderson, Florida. Now lives in Boston, MA. Daughter of the late Minister Mitchell Givens and the late Minnie Givens. She comes from a family of 13 siblings. And has been living in Boston for the last 37 years.

Blessed and Highly Favored

Silver Fox has been a fashion model with the DIVAS of WOC, Women of Color magazine. From the stage to the runway she has modeled for the past 15 years with the group of sophisticated ladies that are known to bringing people from their Seat to their Feet.

sist of over 200 family members from over 10 states. She is the mother of 2 daughters, Miesha, Tykesha and has 3 granddaughters, Ebony, Tyjonae, J’yel. 2 grandsons, Alec and John Allen Jr. She attended Macedonia Baptist Church under the leadership of her brother (Rev. Willie Givens) after which she attended Warren Street Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. Irvin Whitlow, Rev Floyd Williams and Rev. Carolyn McGee.

Employed by Children’s Hospital of Boston for 23 years. Jackie is very family oriented. The family (Big G Club of Boston) includes cousins, nieces, and nephews who has been meeting every 1st Saturday of the month for family meetings since the early 70’s. The family also meets every two years for Arthur and Rosie Givens Family Reunion, which con-

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EBONEY MCCLAIN Wife Mother Entrepreneur

House of Bundles

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Eboney McClain, entrepreneur, wife, mother. At a young age had a passion for fashion, hair, and make-up. Growing up she overcame many obstacles. But never lost the dream of owning her own salon. 2014 Eboney realized she had to make it happen. She went to cosmology school with the help of the Gregory family from La Newton’s Hair School. She accomplished this goal while raising 3 daughters. Finishing hair school in 2016 she opened her salon in 2018. She wanted to give up feeling like she wasn’t good enough and didn’t have support.

Throughout Ebony’s journey she realized her dream and wanted it more than anyone else. Perusing her dream, Eboney continued building her empire realizing the risk was worth the reward. She has expanded into hair & health care products. With no guidance and no experience, constantly re-inventing her dream. Which lead “her to big rewards of knowing she can leave a legacy for my children and grandson”.

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MELODY MANNING

The PowHer Circle

She uses her positive attitude to educate and encourage her clients and the women of her empowerment organization to succeed. In her free time, Melody enjoys reading, watching documentaries and making memories with family and friends. She has learned to value moments. Also in her downtime you can find Melody along side the women of The PowHer Circle giving back in the community. The women give back through The Hygiene Closet, which Melody founded. Her motto is Faith it till you make it.

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Faith It Till You Make It

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Melody Manning is a Certified Life Coach, specializing in mental health, transformation and spiritual coaching. Melody’s coaching practice is Inspired by Melody. She founded of The PowHer Circle, a women’s business empowerment group. Melody believes that having faith is not about pretending your problems don’t exist; it is about facing them with confidence because you see the miracle working power of God. Faith is an action word.

Boston’s First Zero Waste and Eco-Friendly Product Store

Founder, CEO of Uvida Shop

MARIA VASCO

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Maria Vasco is the founder and CEO of Uvida Shop, Boston’s First Zero Waste and Eco-Friendly Product Store. The North End storefront is located in the Lewis Wharf and offers online orders, curbside pick-up, and in-person shopping. The store’s zero waste products are better for individuals and the environment as they are made of natural ingredients and carry 0% plastic packaging. The business is aimed at raising awareness towards the plastic pollution problem while helping individuals reduce their single-use plastic waste. Maria is 22 years old and a 2020 UMass Boston undergraduate student who went straight into building her business after graduation.

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There is no greater knowledge than the knowledge of self! My name is Nougye, and the owner of Reinvent and Empower Yourself LLC. MR GBOS, thank you for continuing to empower women of color highlighting our unique individualities and the service we bring through our businesses.

Identifying my purpose was a blessing and using them to make a difference in the life of others is sheer bliss! I am a Spiritually Conscious Empowerment Coach, Nurse Practitioner, Nurse/Patient Equality Advocate, and Entrepreneur. I often say when the last breath comes let it find you living on purpose! So, master your mind, and master your reality! If you are feeling STUCK, it is time to journey within and connect with your higher power. Shut out all the noise and connect with me at Reyempower.com and Let us help to EMPOWER YOU! Nougye Mutungi Mukoma RN-BC, BSN, APRN, FNP-BC, Empowerment Coach, Mentor, Advocate

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Spiritually Conscious Empowerment Coach

NOUGYE MUTUGI - MUKOMO

The Most Talked About Doll In The World

WIDLINE

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My name is Widline, I’m originally from Haiti. When I was back home I didn’t have dolls that looked like me. I use to want my hair to be different. When I moved to the US as I got older and started to embrace myself Fusion Dolls was born in the process. A graduate of Salem State College with Psychology for undergraduate and a minor in Sociology. A few years later I went to graduate school at Wheelock University for Masters in Social Work.

The Queen of Afrocentric Dolls

I graduated in 2015 it was during my diversity class at Wheelock. They were showing us the doll experiment when everything came back to me about when I was young and the lack of diversity I had in the toys I had. Our Mission is to spread diversity awareness and encourage our kids to love themselves inside and out. We do that with our beautiful Afrocentric Dolls.

at a time. Thank you for giving me a space to share my story. One interesting thing about me I have five sisters one brother and six nieces and Nephews. I believe that everyone has a calling. It’s better to try and fail than to live your life in regrets. “ If At first you don’t succeed get up and try again”.

I’m on a mission to change to world one doll

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Maritza Vazquez rto Rico With Love

From Pue

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Maritza Vazquez is a beautiful Latina soul and entrepreneur. Born in Puerto Rico and growing up in the north side of Chicago, Maritza is no stranger to poverty as being a single mom and homeless. As time went by she decided to make a change by doing something to help the homeless people. Not to go through what she endured. She founded Urban Helping Hands. Maritza and team jointly donate money to make meals, essential bags, provide resources and donate clothing. While working with family and children in shelters.

Every Christmas she networks with the community to gather gifts and donations for the children who are less fortunate. Maritza a producer/manager in the music industry for Rey Royale R&B Star. As well as mentoring local artist. Music is her life. Her motto is; Never stop caring for those in need, everyone is human you never know when it can happen to you.

TO DONATE CALL 857-251-1795

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HELPING FAMILIES & COMMUNITIES

CHERYL WHITAKER f DayCare

The Queen O

S

Cheryl Whitaker Woman of the Year Growing up as an African American girl, I was fortunate enough to travel within the United States, as well as, Internationally, due to the fact that my mother’s spouse was an active member of the military. This gave me the opportunity to broaden my horizons and allowed me to venture outside of Boston, Massachusetts. One of my favorite places I can remember living in, as a child, was Germany in 1965. After relocating from

Germany, we as a family travelled on to Washington, D.C. then continued to Virginia, moving downward to Georgia. Only to end up, in my teenage years, returning back to Boston, Massachusetts. My first job was as a babysitter for the children in the neighborhood. Years later, that job grew into a career of thirty years called “Auntie Cheryl’s Daycare.” As an essential worker, I take great pride in helping the families of our communities.

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91 YEARSYOUNG

“

“I believe my greatest joy was working with seniors, mentally and physically disable clients”

M

Looking Good In The Neighborhood

CORA WELCH REID

My name is Cora Welch Reid, I am a retired Registered Nurse with a B. S. in Science. I started out as a nursing assistance in Boston MA. This is when I realized that I enjoyed caring for people who were ill. I decided to become a nurse, this was in the 1950s. I applied to Massachusetts General Hospital not knowing that they did not accept married women into their program. I then applied to the license Particle Nursing program on Newbury St. Boston (Sheppard & Gill). After working many years as an L.P. N. and raising a family I enrolled at Boston State College School of Nursing and earned my degree. I have enjoyed working in a variety of venues in the Nursing field. I believe my greatest joy was working with seniors, mentally and physically disable clients. I also spent time serving in Church and Community choirs, School Boards and other Community activities.

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A Touch of Quality in Every Stitch

JULIA DE LOS SANTOS

International Couture Designer

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Julia De Los Santos was born in Dominican Republic and arrived in Boston, MA. at a young age. She graduated in fashion design studies at Bay College in 1994. She has been an entrepreneur since she was 9 years old. Who made clothes for dolls and she sold them to her friends at school. Julia is the 4th of 6 siblings. She was educated only by her mother who was widowed when Julia was 5 years old. She claims to have inherited from her mother, the determination and ambition to get ahead. Julia lives in Dorchester

where she also operates her own business JDLS COUTURE for the last three years. In late March she was almost forced to close due to Covid-19 pandemic as she watched her business almost disappear overnight. Due to order cancelations in weddings, proms and, etc. What does a creative person do in a time of crisis?? Julia volunteers in making face masks for healthcare workers. Her design and comfort gain both love and appreciation by her customers. She decided to pivot in her business. Through the support of many friends,

customers and groups including COMPASS WORKING CAPITAL, Boston City Councilor Andrea Campbell and others. Julia transitioned in making much needed face masks for children and adults. Her masks are being distributed across the city for residents whom needed it the most. Throughout her career with her passion to quality with which she does her work. She has again become highly sought after by her clients. This is her passion providing a touch of quality in every stitch.

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Julia DeLos Santos

LOCATED AT: 923 WASHINGTON STREET DORCHESTER, MA. 02124 | 617-533-7763

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Health and Wellness Guru of Fitness

SHARI CAMPBELL AWARDWINNING ACECERTIFIEDPERSONALTRAINER

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Shari is a fitness professional turned consultant whose mission is to reverse the curse of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and chronic illness among Black women. She founded BUILD by LadyFIT in 2016 to help women lose weight by building a sustainable fitness lifestyle. In 4 years she amassed a steady following of over 10,000 individuals and has helped more than 100 women lose the weight for good. In 2020 she made a pivot to coach and mentor Black professionals in the greater Boston area to grow their fitness businesses in an effort to reach more people. She currently and humbly serves as the Regional Health and Wellness Director for the YMCA of Greater Boston and plays a vital role in strategizing how to involve more people of color in wellness programming. You can still find her offering free advice, online workout videos, and AfroSoca classes in her beloved communities of Dorchester and Roxbury.

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LADY LINDA GAINES Summers Donna late the of Sister WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 67 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021 WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 67 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

KEISHA DREAMS

K Life Restored

Keisha Dreams has won several awards, appeared on television, and have been mentioned in newspapers and on the cover of magazines. Keisha Dreams has performed and made history being the first female rapper to perform at Boston Symphony Orchestra. Keisha Dreams made appearances at a few Pre-Stellar award shows, the Bobby Jones Gospel Showcase airing on the Word Network, The Merge Summit 2011, and BET Music Matters in Los Angeles, California sharing the stage with artist like, Kirk Franklin, Deitrick Haddon, and more.

*Keisha Dreams will be releasing her new album, “ Life Restored” May 2021. Available on all digital outlets.

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First Lady at Destiny Life Center International Church

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Compassionate. Global visionary. Selfless educator. Patricia Cooper was born with a heart for serving. She was born in the Caribbean; from the beautiful island of Trinidad and Tobago. Patricia is also a popular leader among women esteem building ministries. She is the mother of four beautiful children and seven delightful grandchildren. She is happily married to Roland Cooper, and has been for 40 strong years. In and throughout Boston, Patricia has been heavily involved in hosting international students from around the world for over 21 years. In 2014,

My Vision Is All About People

LADY PATRICIA COOPER

she launched a successful business in 2015 called Shekinah’s Boutique. In her spare time, she volunteers in Grandparents program of Boston which helps other grandparents learn new technology skills and parenting skills to better raise their grandkids.

PASTOR ROLAND COOPER & FIRST LADY PATRICIA COOPER

Patricia Cooper is the First Lady at Destiny Life Center International Church where she constantly provides counsel and support to married couples, families, and youth. “My vision is all about people. I strongly believe that outreach is the way to help others improve their lives. This is my life vision and my goal for the community.”

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 69 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

LEGIA ALTAGRACIA TAVERAS The Sewing Diva

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Excellent couture dressmaker. She is also the mother of three children. Leiby, Ariel, and Judith who sadly died at her tender 21 years. Legia is a very hard-working woman and passionately dedicated to her career, that began at a very young age in her native Dominican Republic. Although she did not go to school to learn that trade. She says “It is a gift from God” that she has perfected through the years of work.

That is why she is recognized and respected by her clients calling her affectionately; “The Sewing Diva”. In her country, she had the opportunity to dress artists and ladies of society, brides and businesswomen. But three years ago, she left her country and came to Boston to be part of the JDLS COUTURE team. Where she also shows her talent and professionalism by playing the position of master tailor. Legia really is an amazing Seamstress and a PHENOMENAL WOMAN.

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Helping Others to Succeed In Life

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Born in the Dominican Republic, and raised in New York City she graduated from the City College of New York in 1995 with a degree in Business Administration. Following her dreams she later moved to the city of Boston. She is married to Juan Chávez, also an entrepreneur and a small business owner. Proud mother of three young women (one which is an active member in the US Navy).

cially homeless children. She then founded Fundación Latidos De Amor “Heartbeats of Love Foundation.” A non-profit organization that advocates for the less fortunate families in the Dominican Republic. She hosts an annual white gala event which helps fundraise money used for a specific cause, whether it is building a home, a school or supplying a year’s worth of food to a nursing home etc.

Alongside being a proud business owner, Ana found her passion a few years ago, helping others, espe-

She has been recognized many times by the City of Boston, for her hard work and participation in the

LatinX community. For organizations such as Lulac Evolution Boston, Semana Cultural y Festival Dominicano, among many others.

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FUNDACIÓN LATIDOS DE AMOR “Heartbeats of Love Foundation”

ANA LIZ CHAVEZ

Through Trials, Tribulations, Sickness and Health. God has Been Good to Me

BJB

The Diva Queen of the Fashion Scene

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Barbara Jeanne Belcher, born in Atlanta, GA. An only child growing up with her parents and surrounded by aunts and grandparents learned fast how to become independent. She was taught how to cook and bake by watching family members prepare Sunday dinner on Saturday afternoons. Going to school and attending college she than moved to Boston, MA. After joining the church BJB met the love of her life and they were married and had four children. Today, she is a proud mother,

grandmother, great-grandmother and god mother. And is loved by all. BJB later joined WOC, magazine’s The DIVAS a group of women which modeled for countless numbers of people on stage and runway. One of the highlights of her modeling career is when the late Mayor Thomas M. Menio honored her with the “Lifetime Achievement Award” as the “Afrocentric Queen”. “Through trials and tribulations sickness and health God has been good to me”.

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 72 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

50th Year

Celebration

DR. ANGLEA PAIGE COOK

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Dr. Angela Paige Brooks Cook, affectionately known as Sister Angela Paige, was born in the confederate state of Richmond, VA, and grew up in the inner city of Washington D.C. She has had four children (Ahmed, Israel, Ashé and Paige) who have all proudly graduated from Historically Black Colleges. They have used those experiences to help to grow Paige Academy. Sister Angela and her college sweetheart, Rev. Joe Cook, met at Fisk Univer-

sity and later co-founded Paige Academy with six other founders. Paige Academy is a culturally resonant Nursery and Elementary School located near Nubian Square in Roxbury, MA. Dr. Cook received her Doctoral Degree from UMass Boston, her Master’s Degree from Wheelock College, now Boston University/Wheelock, and her Bachelor’s Degree from Fisk University, her beloved Historically Black institution.

Dr. Cook is a gardener, theater and music director and performer, avid reader, cook and writer who believes passionately in community development and human rights. Her dedication to building Paige Academy has been her life’s passion–to educate and support thousands of students from birth to 12 years, over the past 50 years. She is also a college professor and lecturer.

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Founder and CEO of Jakeebre's Inc

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As the founder and CEO of Jakeebre’s Inc., Mindy finds joy in helping her community by providing resources to underserved and homeless individuals in the city of Boston. A mother of 6 and grandmother of 3, Mindy is an experienced money manager and budgeter. A resourceful and skilled entrepreneur and licensed esthetician, she has taken all of her gifts to develop and master course work on extreme couponing and

‘managing more with less’ in order to provide basic needs for her family as well as to give back to her community with through education and organized giving. Born and raised in Boston, Mindy has taken her gifts and returned them to Boston 3-fold partnering with the Boston Police Department, Department of Children and Families, and various community-based organizations to make

An Entrepreneur Spirit Giving Back to the Community

MINDY BUTTS

basic toiletries and other needs available to the homeless and displaced. Her tireless work has also been recognized and supported by the New England Patriots Organization and various other local companies and radio syndicates. When she isn’t teaching a couponing class or making baskets for a family in need, Mindy is spending time with her children or learning new tricks in the hair care trade!

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At forty, I to returned to school and obtained a High School Diploma

PATRICIA ANN JORDAN CARRINGTON Others To Succeed Helping

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I am Patricia Ann Jordan Carrington - 63 years young! I lost my parents before the age of 15 and was on my own working several jobs. I mothered 5 children and instilled education as being vital. At forty, I to returned to school and obtained a High School Diploma graduating in 1998 from the External Diploma Program (EDP) offered at the Jamaica Plain Community Centers Adult Learning Program (JPCCALP). After graduating I wanted to give back to the place that

believed in me – JPCCALP – I have worked at JPCCALP for over 21 years. I was a Computer Laboratory Assistant, obtained A+ and MCSE from Microsoft, became the Assistant Computer Instructor, promoted to Computer Instructor, promoted to Program Assistant/Intake and Data Entry and am currently the Program Assistant/Volunteer Coordinator. I love that I now help other people that are in the same position I was in so many years ago.

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KHEISHA REID Certified Life Coach Helping Others see A Way of Lyfe

and Astrologist

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Kheisha is a Certified Life Coach with a BA in Group Therapy. She has been a career coach for 10 years. She facilitated groups in prison, wrote action plans, and provided resources for inmates as they released from prison. Kheisha worked as a consultant to further help people released from prison find careers and businesses. That was the beginning of A Way of Lyfe, LLC. She later expanded her knowledge in astrology. Combining career coaching with astrology. She has been doing astrology professionally for 1 year. Kheisha is a single mother of 2 young men. She enjoys building a financial future for her children, uplifting her community, and helping others find careers and businesses they can be proud of. Her mission is to help people see they don’t have to live in the box that was given to them. They can simply create their own path. Join Us www.awayoflyfe.net

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2022 Inspirational Voice of the Year

LADY NIKE SHELTON

B.A.D (BOLD, ANOINTED, DELIVERED)

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Lady Nike (knee-kay) Shelton hails from Boston, Massachusetts. She is the wife of Senior Pastor Eric Shelton of Living Elevated Church located in Brockton, MA, whom she loves dearly. She is the mother of one daughter, Willow-Symone. She is the daughter to two loving parents and a mother-in-love, a sister to five other siblings by blood and four others by marriage, and she is an entrepreneur as she runs her own law practice. She is the visionary of B.A.D (BOLD ANOINTED DELIVERED) Girls 4 Christ

(#BG4C), teaching women to walk in boldness, under the anointing and with complete deliverance, as one cannot be “BAD” without it! She serves as the President of the Business and Professional Women’s Chapter for the Massachusetts First Jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ and serves nationally as the Parliamentarian of the Business and Professional Women’s Organization. More recently she gave birth to the now Lady Nike Ministries and has been assigned as God’s Girl 4 Every Goliath! Thru this

ministry she gave birth to the sermon series and radio broadcast, What’s In Your Belly and is set to publish her first book, Where is My Money, in the upcoming weeks. But above all she loves to spread the truth of His word and believes that she can only do so through the anointing of God. She considers herself shy and thereby accredits everything that she does to God, for it is in Him that she lives, moves, and has her being!

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Love, Peace, Encouragement and Empowerment

CLARISSA FOSTER Entrepreneur, Founder and Owner of Charmed By Riss, LLC

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Clarissa Foster is a Full Time Entrepreneur, Founder and Owner of Charmed By Riss, LLC; a Custom Gift & Jewelry Boutique located in Dayton, Ohio. Known for their Top Sellers from the Gemstone Stretch Beaded Bracelets Collection, CBR also has 3d laser printing and cutting services; giving many options for customization of jewelry along with other gift items. Inspired by the need of Self-Love and Self-Care, Clarissa wants her Brand to be recognized as more than just a Custom Gift & Jewelry Boutique, but

an organization of love, peace, encouragement and empowerment. Her goal is to purposely connect with like-minded individuals spiritually and in business, with goals of empowering, mentoring and inspiring others positively. Clarissa has an Associate of Arts, a Bachelor of Science; both in Accounting and a former career in full cycle Accounting. She has also freelanced as a Bookkeeper, Travel Agent and Tax Professional.

WOC PHENOMENAL WOMEN | 78 | SPRING / SUMMER 2021

DELLANE SADE VALREY D'Swank Crz Dealz

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I Enjoy Time with Family Making Tik Tok Videos

Dellane Sade Valrey is the sole proprietor of D’Swank Crz Dealz located in Fresno, CA, where she provides affordable, comfortable and fashionable sleepwear for women and young ladies. With 10+ years of experience in customer service, ranging from retail to call center positions Dellane uses that experience to inspire and motivate others through her social media platforms. Being a mother to three children which includes 2 boys and 1 girl, Dellane is very grounded and is considered to be the “comedian” of the family and when she is not hugging trees or making tik tok videos with her children she does enjoy mentoring other upcoming entrepreneurs. Dellane’s goal is to be a successful business owner all while providing exceptional customer service. Dellane is very active on Instagram and Facebook via search D’swank Crz, where she inspires through quotes and fashion. Love & Light, Dellane Sade Valrey

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sulations Congbo ON BEING NAMED

REGIONAL DIRECTOR OF ACN

SWANNIE BRAY OUTSTANDING BUSINESS WOMAN

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Swannie Bray Is from Kinston, N.C. she’s been in Massachusetts for 57 years,she’s a mother of 3 children, 7 grandchildren, she resides in Stoughton, MA. She’s been an entrepreneur for 30 plus years. She’s now presently the executive team leader with ACN, she’s a member of the Holy Tabernacle Church of Randolph, Mass.

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TV TALK SHOW HOST

CYNTHIA STRONG

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As a teenager and young adult, I have always been involved in the performing arts. I have also appeared in some “A list” movies as an extra, such as “Ghost Busters: Answer the Call” and “What’s the Worst Thing That Could Happen” starring Martin Lawrence and Danny Devito. I have even worked with local theatre production companies, such as The Fenway Players. Furthermore, I became a guest host on the Boston Neighbor-

hood Network (BNN) television station in the fall of 2000 and a certified talk show host on the same television network in 2001. In this capacity, I function as a producer, director, and talk show host of eight television programs, and they include: The Cynthia Strong Show, Boston’s Next Top Model, The Cynthia Strong Late Night Show, Teen Talk, Soul Sisters (sitcom), Got Brains (game show for kids), The Black Female Perspective, and The Peoples Perspective.

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“SHE’S YOUR BEST GIRLFRIEND TO TAKE SHOPPING”

LA TONYA SMITH WINSTON B. Royal Boutique

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La Tonya Smith-Winston, is the founder and CEO of B. Royal Boutique, an online women’s fashion boutique committed to curating unique, bold styles that are size-inclusive and confident boosting! She’s your best girlfriend to take shopping, having styled countless women and clearing closets she also brings over twenty years of corporate sales leadership experience with her.

She’s the ultimate Mompreneur, having nurtured two under two while birthing her business soup to nuts website included. For over 4 years Tonya has enjoyed empowering women across the Commonwealth and beyond curating styles they never dared to wear until their chance meeting.

Mentors Program of Boston and the Roxbury Innovation Launch Program. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Purdue University and currently resides in Cambridge, MA with her husband and two children.

A participant of the City of Cambridge Entrepreneurship Program, Start-up

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JESSICA SMITH

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Jessica Smith is the founder of WATCH. WAIT. SEE. 356 and truly a walking miracle. A native of South Carolina, Jessica is a mother of two with an iron will. After suffering a traumatizing fall and becoming an above knee amputee, she dealt with bouts of depression along with doubts of herself and God. Life as she knew it was no more- first being placed on 24 hour oxygen support and then being relegated to a wheelchair, Jessica seemed to have more questions than answers. Yet, through her toughest times she found encouragement in scripture. After waking up from a coma at the start of a brand new year (2014) Jessica had renewed vision and purpose. The third chapter of the book of Proverbs particularly stuck with her over time and WATCH. WAIT. SEE. 356 was born in 2020. Her mission is to encourage, strengthen and motivate individuals dealing with grief, illness or low self-worth never to give up.

God Is Truly Amazing

I'm A Walking Mircle

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MATTIE DEED

Educator Manager Supervisor and Counselor

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Accomplished leader with extensive experience in non-profits; assisted in the creation and development of the first One-Stop Career Center (The Work Place, 1995); the Roxbury Resource Center (1998) and the Allston/Brighton Resource Center (2006); demonstrated success and expertise in program management, capacity building, community partnership, career coaching/ counseling/ job development; strong belief in collaboration and coordination; skilled manager; financial coaching/career specializing skills; problem solver and team player!

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Exceptional team player that is focused, creative, organized and detail-oriented with excellent follow-through skills, demonstrated strength in achieving and maintaining the goals and standards established by all major funding source.

COMMITTED TO FAMILY CHURCH AND THE NUBIAN COMMUNITY

Effective and efficient manager, supervisor, counselor with individuals at all levels; excellent communication, problem solving, negotiation and interpersonal skills. Exceptional trainer in multi-cultural and cross-cultural assessment and mindfulness training. Committed worker dedicated to continuous quality improvement and skills development, MS Word – Excel – Internet Research – Email – Basic PowerPoint / Notary Public – Facebook – Twitter ZOOM, GOOGLE MEET, GO TO WEBINAR.

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Hi! My name is Shalandas Rice, but most people call me Shay. I am the owner and operator of Journey with a Purpose ETI LLC where I impact and empower the lives of others. My business was founded on a word my pastor, Bishop Hezekiah Pressley Jr told me. He said “Be the best you because everyone else is taken. Enjoy you! To be someone else is to be a cheap copy, be original, be unique, and be exactly what God made you”.

I absolutely LOVE planning, coordinating, and decorating memorable occasions. Fun Fact: I planned my first event when I was just 11-years old! In addition to Event planning and Wedding Coordinating, I am also a Travel Agent and a Motivational Speaker. I enjoy creating and facilitating life’s most charitable moments and memories that will last a lifetime. Igniting someone’s passion is my purpose. Shalandas “Shay” Rice

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Bishop Hezekiah Pressley Jr

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"Be the best you because everyone else is taken"

SHALANDAS RICE

Greater Resource of Women Networks

Alina Lopez-Thomas

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Alina Lopez Thomas founded the Greater Resource of Women Networks a business to help women between the ages of 35 and above to take their transferable skills to become entrepreneurs through business planning and marketing. Alina holds an undergraduate degree in Business Management, and she has years of experience in quality assurance/control and compliance She also has a Business Planning Certificate from the Center of Women and Enterprise (CWE); and she has a thorough knowledge of the policies and practices in the Child Care and Early Education fields. The producer/host of Grown Talk highlighting the success and challenges of diverse women entrepreneurs.

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NURSEPRENEUR

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Shauna Worrell-Waldron is a Registered Nurse in the state of Massachusetts. Shauna was born and raised in Boston, MA. She holds a B.A. in Sociology and Health Science from Boston College and a B.S. in Nursing from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions.

Shauna has worked most of her nursing career in two Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Units caring for premature babies and their families.

Helping Families in times of Need

SHAUNA WORRELL WALDRON

Shauna is also a “nursepreneur”. She is the Founder and CEO of NeoLove LLC. Her company is diligently working on a clothing brand catered to premature babies and their families. Shauna’s goal is to make the time families spend with their babies full of joy, one outfit and helping hand at a time.

Shauna has had a burning passion to become an active individual in the healthcare field assisting others from a young age.

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We Were Here All The Time

Kamala Harris, first woman and Black woman Vice President of the United States. “Herstory” was made on Jan. 20, 2021, when Kamala Harris was sworn in to become the first Black and South Asian woman Vice President of the United States.

Barbara Jordan First Black Woman Elected Into Congress from the South After becoming the first Black woman in the Texas state senate, Barbara Jordan did the same by winning her race to represent the Lone Star State in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1972. That made Jordan the first Black woman from the South who was elected into Congress. “I’ll only be one of 435. But the 434 will know I’m there,” Jordan famously said while campaigning for the seat.

Herstory Makers Mae C. Jemison First Black Woman in Space On Sept. 12, 1999, American physician and former NASA astronaut Mae Carol Jemison fulfilled a lifelong dream she held ever since she was a small girl in Chicago by becoming the first African- American woman to fly into space.

Mellody Hobson, first Black woman to chair Starbucks’ board Mellody Hobson was appointed to serve as the chairwoman of Starbucks’ board of directors, marking the first time a Black woman will be at the helm of the world’s largest Madam C.J. Walker coffeehouse chain’s board. First Woman Millionaire In America The Chicago native and Princeton Madam C.J. Walker, who made her University graduate has been a fierce fortune in Black hair care, remains the advocate for diversity and inclusion first self-made woman millionaire—of within major corporations and any race—in the United States. previously served on the boards of companies such as DreamWorks Animation, Estée Lauder and Groupon.

Amanda Gorman, the nation’s youngest inaugural poet Amanda Gorman, the nation’s first youth poet laureate, captivated the hearts of Americans and likely anyone else who was listening to her deliver the Inauguration poem on Jan. 20, 2021. In doing so, the 23-year-old became the nation’s youngest inaugural poet.

Alice Coachman First Black Woman To Win an Olympic Gold Medal A 25-year-old Alice Coachman was competing in the high jump finals at the 1948 Olympic Games in London, where she became the first Black woman to win an Olympic gold medal. Coachman was recovering from a back injury but still managed to soar. This jump from Coachman made her the first Black woman to win an Olympic gold medal. Her win was watched by over 82,000 spectators.

Marian Anderson (Feb. 27, 1897–April 8, 1993) Contralto Marian Anderson is considered one of the most important singers of the 20th century. Known for her impressive three-octave vocal range, she performed widely in the U.S. and Europe, beginning in the 1920s.

Bessie Coleman, First Black Woman Pilot Born in 1892, Bessie Coleman was the first Black woman to earn a pilot license. Since there were no flight training opportunities for women and people of color in the United States she saved her money to study aviation in France.

Mary Jackson, First Black Woman to Work for NASA Mary Jackson, the renowned mathematician and NASA aeronautical scientist of “Hidden Figures” fame had a circuitous route to her historic career as the first Black woman to work for the space agency. The HBCU graduate and three of her fellow Black women co-engineers and mathematicians at NASA were awarded Congressional Gold Medals in 2019.

Herstory Makers Oprah Winfrey First Black Woman Billionaire Oprah Winfrey, whose first name is synonymous with Black excellence, registered a net worth of $1 billion in 2003, making her the first Black woman to accumulate that much wealth. As a result, the media maven has become one of the world’s most generous philanthropists.

Elma Ina Lewis (September 15, 1921 - January 1, 2004) was an American arts educator and the founder of the National Center of Afro-American Artists and The Elma Lewis School of Fine Arts. She was one of the first recipients of a MacArthur Fellows Grant, in 1981, and received a Presidential Medal for the Arts by President Ronald Reagan in 1983. She is also an honorary member of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority.

Melnea Agnes Cass (June 16, 1896 - December 16, 1978) was an American community and civil rights activist. She was deeply involved in many community projects and volunteer groups in the South End and Roxbury neighborhoods of Boston and helped found the Boston local of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters.

SYMONE SANDERS This political and communications strategist served as the national press secretary for Bernie Sanders’ presidential campaign at age 25— the youngest presidential campaign press secretary on record.

Ukunwa Ojo She has 20 years of experience as a global marketer for brands such as Cheerios and Betty Crocker, but it’s as senior vice president of COVERGIRL that she’s changing what—and who— the world thinks is beautiful. She’s leading the charge to ensure that we’re all represented in the brand’s advertising, with a new slate of multicultural CoverGirls, including Issa Rae, Massy Arias, and Ayesha Curry, and that her team and the agencies she works with are diverse as well.

Coretta Scott King Coretta is known as the wife of Dr. Martin Luther King, but she was also a famed activist in her own right for civil rights, women’s rights and against war. She participated in the Montgomery bus boycott, worked to pass the Civil Rights Act and founded the Center for Non-Violent Social Change after her husband’s assassination. She was a talented singer and violin player with multiple degrees, which is how she met Martin, while studying at university in Boston.

Josephine Baker As a dancer and singer, Josephine was one of the most popular and highest-paid entertainers of her time. She also toured France and the States as a comedian and Broadway actress. She performed in controversial, revealing outfits, such as a skirt made entirely out of bananas, which made her memorable to French audiences. In her home country of America, her performances were met with racist reactions and so she tended to embrace her French audiences more.

Nina Simone Singer Eunice Kathleen Waymon, known professionally as Nina Simone, was an American singer, songwriter, musician, arranger, and civil rights activist. Her music spanned a broad range of musical styles including classical, jazz, blues, folk, R&B, gospel, and pop.

SPRING 2022 BOSTON, MA