Issuu

Finding Her Voice: The Journey of

S. MONIQUE SMITH

TRAVEL IN SUMMER

DERETTA COLE RHODES, PHD, Building Legacy and Inclusiveness

COLOR Breaking

Stereotypes, Embracing Adventure

IT’S TIME! START LIVING A LIFE OF ABUNDANCE

egypt sherrod

THE ROADMAP TO SUCCESS

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Unleashing the Power of Authenticity Coming Soon Scan to Subscribe Today

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editorials@cherylmagazine.com TO SELL CHERYL MAGAZINE IN YOUR STORE info@cherylmagazine.com ISSN: 2766-6352 (Print) Cheryl Magazine, a lifestyle and women’s empowerment publication, is a Cheryl Polote Williamson, LLC (CPW) quarterly produced by Williamson Media Group, LLC (WMG) 6101 Long Prairie Road, Box 744 #269, Flower Mound, TX 75028. Periodicals postage paid at Flower Mound, TX, and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Please send changes of address to Cheryl Magazine, 6101 Long Prairie Road, Box 744 #269, Flower Mound, TX 75028. Subscribers, allow 6-8 weeks for change of address to become effective. Subscriptions ordered are non-cancellable and non-refundable unless otherwise promoted. Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and no responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited materials. All rights in letters sent to Cheryl Magazine will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and to comment editorially. Requests for permission to reprint should be sent to the Permissions and Reprints Department by emailing info@cherylmagazine.com and placing “Request for permission to reprint” in the subject line. The title Cheryl Magazine is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Contents copyright © 2024 by Williamson Media Group, LLC. All rights reserved. Nothing can be reprinted in whole or in part without express written permission from the publisher. Printed in the U.S.A.

CHERYL MAGAZINE

A lifestyle and women’s empowerment publication Editor-in-Chief | Dr. Cheryl Polote Williamson Executive Curator | Shannon Skipper Green Jarrett Contributing Editor | Charmaine Roots Castillo Contributing Editor | Dr. Michelle Kindred Contributing Editor | Tess Alexandria Financial Editor | Roni M. Talley

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Felicia Brown Alexandria L. Barlowe Siobhan Davenport Laurie A. Evans Dr. Maria Flowers Dr. Donna Hunter

Alaina Pinkney Denise Polote-Kelly Kimberly Sweet Dr. Kerry Ann Zamore Byrd Tammy L. Woodard

GUEST WRITERS Briana and Erica Spruille

WILLIAMSON MEDIA GROUP, LLC EXECUTIVE President | Russell Williamson, Sr. Chief Executive Officer | Cheryl Polote Williamson

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elcome to the Summer Issue of Cheryl Magazine! As we celebrate another season of growth, transformation, and empowerment, we are thrilled to feature the incredible Egypt Sherrod. Known for her dynamic presence on television and her profound insights on real estate and lifestyle, Egypt embodies the spirit of abundance in every aspect of her life. Her journey serves as a testament to the power of living with intention, passion, and a mindset of abundance. Through her story, we hope to inspire you to embark on your own path of abundant living.

Abundance is more than just a state of material wealth; it is a holistic approach to life that embraces gratitude, positivity, and the belief that there is enough for everyone. In this issue, we delve into the essence of what it means to live abundantly. From Egypt Sherrod's inspiring journey to practical tips on cultivating an abundant mindset, we aim to provide you with the tools and insights to enrich your life. As you flip through the pages, let the stories and advice inspire you to embrace a lifestyle where abundance is not just a goal, but a way of being. Thank you for being a part of our Cheryl Magazine community. Together, let’s continue to inspire and uplift each other, living each day with an abundant heart and mind. Warm regards,

Cheryl

Dr. Cheryl Polote Williamson Editor-in-Chief

Affirm yourself with these daily to live the life of your dreams and walk in abundance! 1. "I am worthy of all the abundance that life has to offer." 2. "I attract abundance effortlessly and naturally." 3. "My life is filled with limitless possibilities and opportunities." 4. "I am grateful for the abundance that flows into my life each day." 5. "I trust that the universe provides for me in unexpected and joyous ways."

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inside this issue

LEADERSHIP AND LEGACY

8 by a childhood love for baseball,

Dr. DeRetta Cole Rhodes's inspired

is now the Executive Vice President and Chief Culture Officer of the Atlanta Braves, where she champions diversity, inclusion, and mentorship.

ADVOCACY AND AWARENESS

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT

24journey from being an unidentified 64Christian Book Lover's Retreat, S. Monique Smith shares her

trafficking survivor to an advocate for missing children and author, highlighting resilience and self-discovery.

Vanessa Miller, founder of the

and author of 54 books, chats about her newest work, "The American Queen."Don’t miss her inspiring story.

COVER STORY Egypt Sherrod shares her journey from radio host to HGTV star and real estate mogul, emphasizing authentic self-awareness and embracing change. After two decades in radio, she transitioned to real estate, flipping over 40 properties by her mid-thirties. Sherrod highlights her passion for design, architecture, and empowering others through education. Journey with her as she shares her blueprint for living an abundant life.

Photographer: Leslie Andrews Make Up: Taraya Johnson

12 P. 6 Cheryl MAGAZINE

everyday inspiration 5the Editor:

Letter from

Dr. Cheryl Polote Williamson

22Issues Daddy

with Tess Alexandria Embracing Solitude

36Wizdom

38Well with

76Inspiration

Corner 79 with Laurie A.

Foxxy

with Charmaine Roots Castillo Baby Needs a New Pair of Shoes Faith &

with Tammy L. Woodard Living a Fruitful Abundant Life

business 40Profits & Abundance…Not Always Business Sense & Sensibility

Aging

Dr. Michelle Kindred Perspective, Mindset, Abundance!

54Talks with Money

Roni M. Talley Empowering Women's Financial Success

lifestyle

56Meet Janae Willis A Life of Jubilee!

Beard

68Dive into the

Author's Corner

finale of Prose & Perspectives with Dr. Kerry Ann Zamore Byrd's new story, "He Makes All Things New."

Getting Abundant Clarity About

Keepers of the Culture

Evans Creating a Joyful Summer: Co-Parenting After Divorce

Limitless Possibilities: Tia Bradley's Journey of Resilience and Community at Intuit

60Your Purpose-Driven Career

Our Legacy

Family

Equal

CREATIVE RADIANCE: REDEFINING GRACE + BEAUTY In this issue of Cheryl Magazine's Entrepreneurial Spotlight, we highlight inspiring women in health and beauty who embody elegance, strength, and creativity. Discover the journeys of Carol Rasheed and Denise Reese, whose artistry and entrepreneurial spirit light the path for others, encouraging you to pursue your dreams with confidence and resilience.

with 30 Kimberly Sweet

74Your Life with

Romanticizing

Guest Writers: Briana and Erica Spruille

80Coach talks Embracing Your

Travel Dr. Donna Hunter, Travel

Identity as a Traveler of Color

62 Rolodex Picks from Business Brilliance to Event Mastery

Cheryl's Choice: The Essential

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an area where I am certainly not alone. Every woman I know, and those in my sphere are expert jugglers. God gave us a superpower to be multitaskers,” she says. Egypt goes on to speak from her heart about how becoming a mother has shaped who she is as a woman. “I have become a different person across the board, career included, since I became a mom. I did not have my first child until I was thirty-five, and I do not think I truly became a woman until then either,” Egypt adds. With all the exciting and innovative projects that Egypt and her family have in the works, I wanted to find out what she is most excited about as we concluded our time together.

“I used to have a laundry list, but now I love letting GOD's blessings flow to me however they are supposed to. I look forward to more astounding surprises and unprecedented opportunities around every corner,” Egypt shared. “I look forward to creating more great television with my family, [affectionately titled] The Jackson 5, while showing the world that the Black family unit loves just as hard, hurts just the same, works with as much diligence, and dreams just as big. Our story is inspiring and is proving to be a great equalizer in how people of all ethnicities see family,” she added. In following her life’s Indigo Road, Egypt Sherrod has created a beautiful and fulfilling life of abundance that serves as a testament that anything is possible! And she was gracious enough to share the recipe with us! My girl dropped some game-changing gems with us during our conversation. Running it back in case you missed it! Egypt’s main keys to a life of abundance are: 1. Be authentic. 2. Share your voice on your platform consistently and persistently . 3. Do not be afraid to take the leap when your journey provides you with the opportunity to do so! Which one resonates with you the most? We want to hear from you! Post & tag us @cherylmagofficial on your social media platform, and let us know your favorite things from Egypt’s story! P. 2 1 Cheryl MAGAZINE

OUR LEGACY

Culture

KEEPERS OF THE by Kimberly Sweet

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ulture and history define communities, chronicle our ancestry and fortify future generations. Recent efforts to erase, exclude, eradicate, extinguish, expunge and outright eliminate the contributions of Black Americans over the centuries to the national narrative have drawn a response all its own. “Keepers of the Culture” have sprung up in every community, city and state. These groups and individuals do what they can to preserve the history and protect the legacies we hold dear. I am proud to count myself among that number and have met many others along my journey. Meet Chandra Cooper, the great-granddaughter of blues-legend McKinley Morganfield, also known as Muddy Waters, the father of modern Chicago blues. Cooper is not only protecting her family’s legacy, but sharing it with local, national and international audiences. She is the founder and executive director of The Muddy Waters MOJO Museum. The 4339 South Lake Park Avenue address is the musician’s first purchased home. His house was not only a sanctuary for Waters, but the place where many blues legends gathered for basement jam sessions and created timeless music.

Not often as African Americans can we protect and preserve things that our family once owned. I am in a position where I own the house that he (Muddy Waters) bought in 1953." - Chandra Cooper

“Not often as African Americans can we protect and preserve things that our family once owned,” she explains. “I am in a position where I own the house that he (Muddy Waters) bought in 1953.” The house also has sentimental value to Cooper because she lived there as a child, however, that is far from her only motivation. “I think growing up, I always felt like there was something bigger or something I had to do for my great-grandfather, not knowing that this was the work that I would have to do—and grateful to be doing it.” Her efforts have been significant for the family and the culture. She is working with the City of Chicago and various organizations on completing what will be the city's first blues house museum. She is supported by a significant $1.1 million dollar grant from the Mellon Foundation awarded in

Above: Site of Mojo Museum, Chicago, IL. Below: Chandra Cooper. Photos courtesy of Chandra Cooper. P. 3 1 Cheryl MAGAZINE

FOXXY WIZDOM

with Charmaine Roots Castillo

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BABY NEEDS A NEW PAIR OF SHOES

n his early teens, my son Curtis was a devoted skateboarder who was frequently found at the Skate Park of Tampa (SPOT). I was worried when he returned from the SPOT one day without his shoes.

"I was teaching this kid at the park how to skateboard, but he didn't have the right shoes, so I gave him mine," he explained. I was deeply moved by his generous act of kindness. Weeks later, I noticed boxes of brandnew skateboarding shoes in his closet. I was a single mom, struggling financially to make ends meet, and the last thing I needed was my kids getting in any kind of trouble. When I confronted him about the boatload of shoes, once again, I was moved by his response. "I have a skateboarding sponsor who provides me with shoes," he said matter-of-factly. Once again, my heart was overjoyed for more reasons than one. What touched me the most was seeing a principle I had instilled in him come to life.

Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be

poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." Luke 6:38 (NIV) Curtis experienced, for himself, how the law of reciprocity operates. Much like the law of gravity, it's undeniable. He created a space for abundance by giving what he had. The harvest reaped from that one act of kindness not only blessed him, but I also benefitted from his blessing. I never had to buy him another pair of shoes throughout his teen years!

Did you know that you have that same power to obtain wealth? Material possessions aside, what is in your hand that you can use as a deposit into your future? Look within at the gifts, talents, or abilities you currently possess and consider how you can use them to be a blessing to others. Giving selflessly is a crucial element in receiving abundant blessings. Generosity activates a universal law that ensures a return with interest. The "every man for himself" or "dog eat dog" mentality attracts like-minded individuals into your circle. When it comes to the law of reciprocity, it works both ways. When you are a blessing, you receive blessings, but giving sparingly, half-heartedly, or with a hidden agenda will cause you to reap exactly what and how you sow. How you give is a direct reflection of your heart's intention and is closely linked to how you will receive. So, what's it gonna be? In what areas of your life could you use just a little bit more of something? Are you willing to give a little bit more to help others? Whether you're contributing from your personal treasury of gifts and abilities or being generous with your time, it paves the way for your future self to thrive. Understand that no one owes you anything; however, you owe it to yourself to create the life of abundance that you want. It's quite okay to ask for help, but before requesting a withdrawal, make sure you have made a deposit. You have the God-given ability to establish yourself as a gift that keeps on giving. Give wisely and prepare for the downpour of blessings. I hear the sound of the abundance of rain—do you hear it?

Charmaine Roots Castillo is a creative writer promoting hope, encouragement, and brighter perspectives. For inspiration galore, follow her on FB @CharmaineLaFondé P. 3 7 Cheryl MAGAZINE

ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT

In this Entrepreneurial Spotlight, we shine a light on inspiring women in the health and beauty space who embody elegance, strength, and creativity. Their stories are not just about success, but about the grace and determination that drive them to pursue their hopes and dreams. Join us as we delve into the inspiring journeys of Carol Rasheed and Denise Reese. These remarkable women extend grace through their artistry and entrepreneurial spirit, lighting the path for others to follow. Their journeys will inspire and encourage you to embrace your aspirations with confidence and resilience.

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“I remember growing up and her telling me to always ask for what you want. Don’t ask people for handouts. Don’t go and get on welfare. I remember her instilling in me to work for what you want, always work for what you want and be responsible for you.”

Carol Rasheed: The Power of Make-up from the Inside Out by Kimberly Sweet Carol Rasheed uses makeup to transform the Hollywood elite. Rather than cover up, her true gift is to reveal inner strength, beauty and truth. As a Makeup Department Head, Rasheed, has been recognized with Emmy, Critic’s Choice, Astra Award, and The Black Reel Award nominations. Variety Magazine named her among “The Top 10 Artisans to Watch in 2023.” This year, Rasheed was presented the Outstanding Achievement in Makeup honor at The Hollywood Beauty Awards by Emmy-winner Lynn Whitfield. And yes, you have seen her work. She led the makeup team and created the incredible looks and feels of The Color Purple, Reimagined. Rasheed has also led teams on many other highend productions: Greenleaf, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, Steel Magnolias, Mean Girls, All Eyez on Me and Crazy, Sexy, Cool – The TLC Story. She has also worked with a wide range of notable celebrities, actors, and actresses, including Cicely Tyson, Diane Lane, Coleman Domingo, Lynn Whitfield, Fantasia Barrino, Woody Harrelson, Sir Sidney Poitier, Samuel L. Jackson, Kiefer Sutherland, and Usher. For all the success that Rasheed enjoys today, she still hasn’t peaked. So much more is ahead. She continues to

walk the path her mother, a long-time hotel cook, traveled before her. “To see how hard my mother worked, that was something that always stuck in my head,” Rasheed said. “I remember growing up and her telling me to always ask for what you want. Don’t ask people for handouts. Don’t go and get on welfare. I remember her instilling in me to work for what you want, always work for what you want and be responsible for you.” As a teen growing up in Winter Haven, Florida in the 1980s, Rasheed chose to work at the local department store’s cosmetics counter because it paid more. That led to her getting a cosmetology/ barber license, opening up her first salon and buying a house. When things got tough financially, Rasheed didn’t step back, she stepped up and coldcalled Walt Disney World. “It’s in the entertainment business and I thought to myself, ‘I’d love to work in the entertainment business,’ still not understanding that makeup artistry could turn into a job, into a real profession,” she explained. Rasheed’s department store experience earned her a spot on a 15-member core team Disney put together for MGM Studios. She worked on The View, Regis & Kathy Lee and some game shows when segments were filmed at Disney. Rasheed’s professionalism and reputation caught the attention of Nickelodeon executives who tapped her to be their head of the hair and makeup department in 1991. “Everything was kind of divinely ordered,” she said. Divinely ordered and divinely empowered. In 2000, Rasheed led the newly formed Hair and Makeup Department for Oxygen Media Corporation. In this capacity, she hired and managed others who performed services. Just a year later, she was the first African American to hold a $250,000 annual contract to provide make

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Getting Abundant Clarity About Your PurposeDriven Career by Felicia Brown, Financial Resilience, AARP

Throughout our lifetime, many of us will probably have several jobs and careers. For some, it will be a journey of fulfillment and purpose, and for some it will be one that pays the bills, but not necessarily as purpose-driven as perhaps desired. According to Zippia’s Average Job Satisfaction in the US research, only 20% of people are passionate about what they do. As we mature, change is inevitable, and sometimes the desire to live with purpose and meaning increases. If you are at a crossroads in your life and looking to pivot to something new, different, and meaningful that drives you toward your passion, perhaps now is the time to take that leap and see where you’ll land. Just get clear about what you want and how that will look for YOU! Here are a few suggestions to help you gain clarity as you navigate the journey toward your purposeful career. Pursue Your Passion. Start with getting clear about what you’re passionate about, then create a career path that will help you get there. Sometimes early in our careers we accept jobs that will make us lots of money, but we’re

not necessarily doing something we love. Now, don’t get me wrong, money is important for financing our livelihood and desired quality of life, but it’s equally important to follow your heart and do what truly fulfills you. Set Goals and Direction. Once you’ve determined what you’re passionate about, get busy with setting goals. If your current role doesn’t give you the passion you’re seeking, consider launching a new path. Whether it’s looking for a new job or taking on new assignments in your current job, create a road map to get there. Consider taking classes, making new connections and/or getting expert guidance on what you need. Reach out to organizations like The Muse or Better Up or tap into your employer’s career development programs. However, be clear about your north star and let that determine your path. Reskill or Upskill. Now that you’ve set goals, consider enrolling in a few courses or programs to help you achieve them. Continuous learning is not only good for the brain and longevity, but in today’s dynamic and ever-changing job market, it’s important to stay relevant. View it as an investment in yourself. Think about where you may need to reskill or upskill. Commit to taking a few courses or enrolling in a certification or degree program. Platforms like the AARP Skills Builder for Work, LinkedIn Learning, and Coursera offer courses in a variety of areas that may align with your goals. And if you’re not sure of what you want to pursue, they have courses to help you figure it out. Network. Building and nurturing a professional network is critical. It can lead you to new opportunities and advancement. Think of your network as your

community—one that you can lean on for advice and new opportunities. Aside from the typical networking events such as conferences and trainings, use non-professional social gatherings, particularly if you are moving into a new field, to share your goals and expand your network. Remember, there is a networking group for everything! Find your tribe. Use social media and networking platforms like LinkedIn to expand your sphere and connect with groups in your desired pursuit. Don’t worry if you don’t know them personally. If you have a friend or an acquaintance that’s connected to them, just reach out. Resilience and Adaptability. The path to reach your desired goals will not always be straight and narrow. Matter of fact, the road is oftentimes a bit bowed. If you are pivoting toward something new, it may not happen as quickly as you’d like it to. Stay the course. Be agile, adaptable, and really find the space to do what is necessary to get where you want to go. While disappointments may occur along the way be resilient in your pursuit. And finally… Practice Gratitude. If you’re setting out on a new career path, it may take time to yield results. Be patient and trust you will get there. Believe in yourself. Every day you wake up, be thankful you’ve been given another day to work on yourself to achieve your desired career goals. Consider incorporating a daily routine that invites a mindset of abundance. Tap into your inner strength and resilience to carry you along this journey. Appreciate the opportunities, embrace the challenges, and count the wonders along the way. To find tools to help you navigate your career journey, visit www.aarp.org/work.

Cheryl's Choice: The Essential Rolodex Picks from Business Brilliance to Event Mastery

Explore the key tools and resources that have fueled my journey from the world of business to the art of event planning. Here's a curated selection, from innovative networking to savvy funding.

intuit.com Intuit is a global technology platform, powering prosperity with TurboTax, QuickBooks, Mint, Credit Karma, and Mailchimp.

Swain Consulting swainconsultingllc.com Providing comprehensive financial services with an emphasis in Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC).

Black Alzheimer’s Brain Study blackalzbrainstudy.com Our mission is to create solutions for a healthier community. P. 6 2 Cheryl MAGAZINE

Women’s Business Enterprise National Council www.wbenc.org/certification WBENC is also an approved third-party certifier for the SBA’s Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contracting Program.

Small Business Administration www.sba.gov The SBA has worked to ignite change and spark action so small businesses can confidently start, grow, expand, or recover.

AARP www.aarp.org AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that empowers people to choose how they live as they age.

DFW Flower Wall www.dfwflowerwall.com

Pinkney Creative www.pinkneycreative.com

Full Brand Activation, Balloons, Design Maquees, Neon Signs, Flower Walls, Chiara Arched Backdrops, Shimmer Walls & more.

Your Brand Drives Engagement, Authority, Impact, and Conversion. We specialize in crafting impact-driven brands that not only excel in marketability and profitability but also resonate deeply, ensuring they stand out and flourish in competitive environments.

Woodard Worldwide Visions, LLC www.woodardworldwidevisions.com Tammy Woodard - Owner, ICF Certified Professional Life Coach. As a seasoned life coach, she provides clients with the necessary tools and insights to transform their lives and rediscover their true selves.

Speak Beautiful www.speakbeautiful.com Beautiful is a creative agency that leverages innovative talent to deliver exceptional publishing solutions and impactful graphic design, fostering deep audience engagement for entrepreneurial brands and organizations.

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FAITH & INSPIRATION with Tammy L. Woodard

Living a Fruitful Abundant Life When you think of abundance, what comes to mind? Is it having a large sum of money, name brand clothing, luxury cars, jewelry and titles? To some people that may be considered living an abundant life. If that is true, why is it that most people that have these things are not happy? Building an abundant life starts internally! Your mindset is the key to a fruitful life. It begins with YOU! The way you see yourself and the things that P. 7 6 Cheryl MAGAZINE

you speak over yourself play a big part in living a fruitful abundant life. I want to share something with you that you may or may not know. Did you know that there are over 70 bible verses about abundance from scripture? One of my favorite scriptures is Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”

Faith and understanding that God wants his best for you is the beginning of an abundant life. You don’t have to wait for heaven, you can choose to live it right now! Believing that God wants the best for you is the key to living a fruitful life. YOU have the POWER to live the life that you desire! There was a time in my life when I thought that living an abundant life meant having a lot of money in the bank. Don’t get me wrong; there’s absolutely nothing wrong with having it. But now I understand what money is and its purpose. Money is a tool used to accomplish your dreams, help others, give back to your communities, and for some, tithing toward their spiritual needs. Even though money is a principle of abundance, living a fruitful life is much bigger. Now that I am older, I realize that living a fruitful life means excelling in all areas of my life. I see life from a different viewpoint. For me to experience God’s best, I must think the right thoughts and speak things as though they are. My mind is my superpower!

Tammy L. Woodard

Many years ago, I was going through a difficult time when I came across a book titled “As a Man Thinketh” by James Allen. It was a short but powerful book! It talked about the effects that your thoughts can have on your circumstances, health, body, and achievements. Every thought is a seed! If you think good thoughts, your harvest will bear much good fruit. However, if your thoughts are bad, the harvest will wither and die. Having a fruitful life means expecting the unexpected! Greatness should be your expectation! Get rid of a mediocre mindset. You may

be wondering how to begin to live the life that you deserve. I have provided you with some tips to get started building a fruitful, abundant life.

5 Tips to Thrive By: 1. Have Faith! Many of us are not able to achieve our hopes and dreams because of lack of faith. Believe that you deserve the absolute best. 2. Affirm yourself daily! Write down what you want to see happen in your life. Then say it out loud and believe that it will happen. 3. Selfcare! Self-care is getting the proper rest, meditating, exercising, eating healthy and taking the time to pamper yourself. Sometimes self-care can be as simple as unplugging from your phone, social media, or finding a quiet place to read a book. 4. Healing from past trauma! Take a self-evaluation and address the issues that are holding you hostage. Talk to a counselor or your spiritual leader to help you. Forgive those who may have wronged you, but most importantly, forgive yourself. 5. Pray Continuously! Find some time in your day for daily devotion. Building a relationship with your heavenly Father will equip you with the tools and steps to build the abundant life. Next, ask God to renew your mind and create in you a clean heart. Ask Him for the life you want, then thank him in advance as if it’s already done. Gratitude! Gratitude! Gratitude! Now expect the unexpected and watch the fruitfulness of abundance manifest in your life!

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TRAVEL

by Dr. Donna Hunter, Travel Coach

Representation in travel is a critical aspect that often gets overlooked in the travel industry. Travelers of color need to see themselves represented in the destinations they visit, the activities they participate in, and the people they interact with. This was never clearer than when I started my flying career in the late 80s. I saw Black people light up as I walked through the terminal in my uniform, and when I saw others who looked like

me, I was so proud. Representation helps create a sense of belonging and validation for travelers of color, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the travel experience without feeling like outsiders. One key reason representation is essential in travel is because it challenges stereotypes and promotes diversity. When travelers of color see representation in travel media and marketing

materials, it helps to break down the stereotypes that have long been associated with people of color in the travel industry, which leads to more inclusive and diverse travel experiences for everyone, regardless of race or ethnicity. Another important aspect of representation for travelers of color is the opportunity to connect with our heritage and culture. Our history saw us spread all over the world, and seeing representations of our own culture and history in the destinations we visit can be a powerful and meaningful experience. That fosters a sense of pride and connection to our roots while also providing a deeper understanding of our own identity. This type of representation also plays a role in promoting equity and inclusivity in the travel industry. By showcasing diverse perspectives and experiences, travel companies can create a more inclusive and welcoming environment. This can lead to more opportunities to explore new destinations, try new activities, and connect with people from different backgrounds.

Understanding the importance of representation in travel is essential for travelers of color to unlock unforgettable experiences. By advocating for more diverse and inclusive representation, travelers of color can create a more equitable and inclusive travel experience for ourselves and for future generations. Let's continue to push for better representation in travel and create a more inclusive and diverse travel industry for all. Overcoming Stereotypes and Prejudices While Traveling

As travelers of color, we are all too familiar with the stereotypes and prejudices that can accompany us on our journeys. From being followed in stores to facing discrimination at hotels or restaurants, it can be disheartening to experience these challenges while exploring new places. However, it is essential to remember that these negative experiences do not define us or our travels, but they present opportunities for growth and empowerment. One key to overcoming stereotypes and prejudices while traveling is to educate ourselves and others.

CHERYL MAGAZINE | Egypt Sherrod | Summer