Huami Magazine Greenville Nov./Dec. 2025

Small Impressions Child Development Center

When

It’s

God, You Will Know It

A Letter From The Editor

There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

A Letter from the Editor

Thank God for the praying mamas, grandmamas, aunties, daddies, granddaddies, uncles, and others, as without their covering, I don’t know how it would have made it. I can imagine that this can be a testament for many others, especially for us who share similar cultural backgrounds. Throughout my life’s journeys, my path has often been littered with peaks and valleys, and roads full of twists and turns. So often that it felt normal. However, I eventually learned that there was more to life than what had been presented to me, a whole lot more.

What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What would you do?

On one occasion, while hanging out with some friends, I had an encounter with a total stranger that was eye-opening and changed the trajectory of my life. A stranger this person was; I had never seen or met them before, as was the case for them. They had one question for me: What am I doing here? The “here” they were speaking about was a nightclub where many people my age were partying. Though it was my first time at the club, it wasn’t my first rodeo, and I felt as if I had a sense of belonging there. I would go on to party, no excitement, nothing out of the ordinary, and make it home safely, but those few words from the stranger had done their job. My mind was opened, and the course of my life changed.

I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in return acquire life.

Fast forward many years, and I have come to realize that it was God speaking through that stranger to reach me. God had so much more planned for me, and for His purpose to be fulfilled in my life, my approach needed a realignment. I was obedient to what God spoke to me, and over the years, my eyes and heart have been opened to doing what God has called me to do.

General Inquiries

The best advice ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet, because someone may get it confused with being arrogant.

More than anything, God needed to get my attention, and I thank Him for his grace and mercy. Having my attention brought me back to a place where I asked God for direction and guidance in my life. As I was trekking off course, He sent an angel to remind me of my purpose.

When God spoke to me, I knew it was Him, mainly because I had established a personal relationship with Him. One of the benefits of having a personal relationship is being able to discern God’s voice amid all other noise. I encourage you to seek God and allow Him to speak in your life, because when it’s God’s voice, you will know it.

Make you tomorrow happen today, but most importantly make it count. Life is but a whisper and we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is telling us.

Terry L. Watson

Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder

LaVonda Paul

Spartanaburg, SC Small Impressions Child Development Center

Greenville, SC

Gratifying Smiles

Shylia Henley

Chicago, IL

Publack Library Publishing

Antonia Royal-Whitmore

The city of Spartanburg has reelected Jerome Rice as Mayor. Learn more about who he is.

She is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one beautiful baby. Her name is Siya Loryn Stevens

The Young Brothers Academy Education, Empowerment, Exposure

At Young Brothers Academy, we believe every young man holds the power to lead, achieve, and transform his community. Through mentorship, education, and real-world exposure, we equip middle and high school boys with the tools to succeed in school, pursue meaningful careers, and develop as servant-leaders. Since our founding in 2018, YBA has worked with over 100 young men across the Upstate of South Carolina, providing consistent guidance, leadership training, and opportunities for growth. We are proud to celebrate a 100% high school graduation rate among scholars who complete our program, a testament to the power of intentional mentorship and community support. Our scholars leave YBA prepared to excel academically, lead with integrity, and give back to their communities. Together with our partners and supporters, we are honoring the promise to educate, empower, and expose our youth to the greatness within them and around them.

Education is an essential factor in equipping young men and bringing about change in any environment. Education is not all about academia, though important, but knowing who you are as a person. When you do not know how great you are, you will be held a prisoner to your circumstances. Our African American youth not only need to be educated about their history, but other aspects of life such as finances, relationships, and health.

YBA provides a platform to give African American youth a voice through Empowerment. Whether you consider yourself in the minority or the majority, everyone wants to be heard. We try our best to make YBA a place where scholars can voice their ideas and opinions while at the same time being open and willing to accept other viewpoints.

Exposure is vital when it comes to shifting paradigms in our young men. Our youth have to see the possibilities that await them outside of their communities. You cannot expect someone to be something they have never seen. Our youth have to have visible representations of positive men that they can follow. Our youth need to be able to one day provide opportunities for the generations behind them as well.

The Polar Express Movie Night - Jack and Jill

The Spartanburg Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated will be hosting a festive Mini Christmas Fair during their Teens’ Polar Express Fundraiser benefiting Project REST and the Jack and Jill Foundation. They are currently looking for amazing vendors to participate and help bring extra holiday magic to this special event.

For those who are interested in being a vendor, please visit their website by clicking on the link below to register. If you have any questions, please feel free to message them directly, as they are happy to help. Let’s make this a joyful and impactful holiday experience for our community.

www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/the-polar-expressmovie-night-2

Jerome Rice Re-Elected As Mayor of Spartanburg

On November 5th, 2025, the citizens of Spartanburg, SC, reelected Mayor Jerome Rice to serve another term. Mayor Rice has dedicated his first term to investing in families, strengthening public safety, and ensuring growth reaches every neighborhood in Spartanburg. His first term achievements show what dedicated leadership can accomplish for Spartanburg families.

Mayor Jerome Rice is a native of Spartanburg. He attended District Seven schools and later played college football at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, NC. He also attended the University of South Carolina, Upstate. He would later work as a school teacher in the Spartanburg City School System. While politics weren’t something Mayor Rice had interest in while growing up, he eventually found his footing and now leads the city of Spartanburg and will continue to work for all of its citizens in his new term.

h

www.cityofspartanburg.org

By Dr. Marrissa Dick

Provided by Todd Youngblood Photography

When parents consider child care, they are often faced with a range of emotions. Parents are often faced with extraordinary expenses or find themselves grappling with which child care facility to trust with their child, because choosing the perfect child care facility is an important decision. Parents need to feel comfortable with their choice and be confident that their child is in a safe and nurturing environment. When looking for a child care facility, parents should visit each facility in person to ensure the program is the right fit for their child. Visiting the facility allows you to see firsthand how the program operates, what your child will experience during a typical day, and how the teachers interact and work with children. Visiting also allows you to see what the classrooms and play spaces look like, ask questions, meet the providers in person, and get a sense of who they are. It can also be a good idea to seek some advice from family and friends who already utilize such accommodations.

One child care facility that comes highly recommended is LaVonda Paul’s Small Impressions Child Development Center, which she owns and operates, and she is also the Chief Executive Officer of Cultivating Minds, her nonprofit organization that provides afterschool care and summer camps. So, who is LaVonda Paul, and why do her programs come so highly recommended? She shares, “I’m a wife, mom, and entrepreneur. I’ve had my share of challenges in the child care industry. I’ve had the pleasure of owning Small Impressions Child Development Center for 19 years. At Small Impressions , we cater to children one years of age to thirteen years of age. I’m also the CEO and founder of Cultivating Minds, a nonprofit program that serves school-aged children through after-school and summer camp. I’ve known all my life that I wanted to work with children, so after graduating from high school, I went to Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, NC, and majored in Elementary Education. I passed half of the licensing exam, but the other half kept eluding me—I missed it by two points each time I took it. That’s when I decided to change my major to psychology. You know, God has a funny way of teaching us that delayed does not mean denied, because I’m still able to do what I want to do, and that is to work with children. So, my path was a little different, but I ended up with the same result.”

LaVonda’s personal experiences and challenges in the industry have shaped her philosophy and approach to child care, making her a trusted figure in the field. We should all recognize that ‘delayed doesn’t mean denied’ and trust the process.

Remember when I shared earlier that parents should be intentional about placing their child in a healthy, safe, and nurturing environment? Well, Small Impressions fits that criteria because LaVonda is the second Black owned child care center to earn an “A” ABC Quality Rating in Greenville County. An ABC Quality is a “voluntary rating and improvement program that helps South Carolina parents identify high-quality child care and daycare providers.”

Small Impressions earned their rating as a result of how they cater to toddlers, provide preschool preparation and offer an afterschool enhanced program. Unlike their competitors, Small Impressions serves not only as a child care provider, but as a social service connector for the parents and families of the children enrolled. This facility serves the entire family, fostering a sense of community and support. They utilize relationships in the social services arena to ensure there are no obstacles in the lives of children and their parents that prevent them from maximizing their academic potential and living situations. The other program she has is Cultivating Minds , her nonprofit that serves school age children from kindergarten through eighth grade..

Habakkuk 2:2 says, “And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that He may run that readeth it.” The vision of owning her own child care facility was planted in her heart as a child, so she ran with it, already knowing it was achievable because she had a blueprint to follow. According to LaVonda, “I have always been submerged in education. My uncle was the first black Superintendent here in Greenville County. I have other uncles and aunts who were principals at area schools and other relatives who did other jobs in the district. My greatgrandmother, grandmother, and mother owned and operated residential home care for older people, so I’m a fourth-generation business owner. Because I’m a legacy, I already had a blueprint to follow. It wasn’t easy, though. I have over 30 years of experience working with children in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Greenville, South Carolina. Before I opened any of my businesses, I worked as an Afterschool Coordinator and Teen Companion Case Manager. I saw how effective I was at helping students, so I began to think that I could do this for myself. So, one day, I spoke with my supervisor about opening a center in Greenville, but he didn’t think my dream would take root there. I’m so glad I didn’t listen to him; instead, I held onto my dream, especially after seeing how effective I was working with the 21st Century Community Learning Centers program. I was instrumental in getting children back on the right track, and I saw how much that organization benefited from my ideas. I was like, you know what, if I could do this for somebody else, I can do this for myself. I was also instrumental in getting many first-generation black students into college, and the city of Greer presented me with a proclamation recognizing me as having the highest number of black children from the area ever to attend college, and I was truly honored. So again, if I can do that for someone else, why not put in the effort, time, and energy to build something for myself? My God said all He needed from us was the faith of a mustard seed, and you can do anything. Most people don’t know the trials and tribulations that I have experienced. From going through a divorce to being a single mom, to almost losing everything, to getting remarried, and now look at me. I went from almost losing the building I was leasing for my child care center to now owning it, and that’s a testament in itself. Don’t let what man tells you be the final say. God has the final say, and you can believe in that. If I had listened to those who didn’t believe in me or do right by me, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Keeping hope alive is essential when reaching for your dreams. This is the mindset that LaVonda’s child care programs bring to the children she serves. Her facilities bring the core components of caring for children. First, she meets their Physical needs by providing proper nutrition and shelter and ensuring physical safety and health. Second, she meets their Emotional and social needs by offering love, affection, and a stable environment. Third, her facilities meet the child’s Cognitive and developmental needs by stimulating the child’s mind through interaction, play, and education. Fourth, she fosters independence by creating opportunities for children to develop autonomy through choices and routines, while simultaneously offering support and guidance. Fifth, she provides Guidance and discipline by teaching children to set appropriate boundaries and to distinguish right from wrong in a way that helps them learn and grow. Finally, her facilities offer Safety measures to protect children from harm, as she abides by safety guidelines. Not only does she look out for the children’s well-being, but she also inspires their parents. LaVonda shares, “I don’t just look out for the children, but I provide guidance for the parents too. Sometimes parents don’t know what they don’t know, so I’m that beacon of hope, especially when it comes to education. I instill in them the importance of being lifelong learners throughout their child’s educational journey. If it’s parenting workshops they need, I offer them. I give out free clothing that is donated to us. If they need food, I give my parents food boxes. I try to be that social service connector for so many of my parents because if they don’t know where to get the resources they need, I try to help them find them. And most importantly, I help them be the best versions of themselves, and that has really been a game-changer for me because I’m here for the whole family. Sometimes it feels like I have the entire world on my shoulders, but I think if God brings you to it, He’ll bring you through it, and I’m thankful for that mindset because I can’t afford to give up, knowing that a lot of people are depending on me.” LaVonda describes herself as a difference maker and proudly boasts that she has more triumphs and successes than failures and disappointments. “Loving what I do is what helps set my child care centers apart from the rest. Others often ask me what makes my centers successful or what makes me so different. I can honestly tell them it’s what I offer, like the parental support, our women’s empowerment group, our clothes program, and the parenting workshops we also provide. The whole family should have buy-in to their child’s educational future, and we offer that type of support here,” she says.

LaVonda has adopted the same mindset when it comes to Cultivating Minds. She shares, “These children are submerged in positivity. Something transformative happens when you take children from an “I think I can” to “I know I can” mentality. Some of the children’s grades may not have been the best when they first entered this program, but I can say with confidence that many of my children’s attitudes toward school have changed. When they come to us every day, they have to pull out their folders so we can see their homework assignments and see the tests that may be coming, so we can prepare the children for them. We look at the progress report, and if the parent needs it, we go with them to parent-teacher conferences so the parent can understand what’s happening with their child. So, the child can see that the staff here at Cultivated Minds and Small Impressions really care about them. I’m not saying we’ve changed everybody, but I can say with confidence that at least 85% of the children we serve have improved their grades to C’s or better, and now they have dreams of attending college.”

For decades, LaVonda and her teams have taught children how they could be entrepreneurs if they want to be. She describes an experience when they had a student who had started his own little podcast called Talking Tyler. Experiences like that, she says, are why LaVonda makes it her business to have a seat at the table and be a voice and advocate for her clients. “I need to understand policy and procedures so I can go out and talk to lawmakers about the decisions they’re making regarding child care and just be able to express what I see and encounter on a day-to-day basis. If nothing else, our ABC Quality rating gives people who look like me hope that if LaVonda Paul can do it, they can too. I’m not saying it’s easy— nothing in life really is —but you can’t afford to give up on your dreams.”

Booker T. Washington, educator and founder of Tuskegee Institute, once stated, “Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome. LaVonda Paul has overcome more than a few obstacles in her life, and she has committed herself to using those obstacles as stepping stones to enhance the many lives she serves daily. She is also grateful for her staff at Small Impressions Development Center and Cultivating Minds. She applauds their commitment to the children that they serve daily. She is also thankful for her supportive husband, Curtis Paul; her daughter, Michaela; her son, Trey; her daughter, Lachenia; her two grandchildren, Christian and Angel Kay; and Ace, their grand pup Ace. h

Dr.

Huntsville Psychotherapy and Counseling Services

By Terry L. Watson

Monretta Vega

Dr. Monretta Vega is a woman of action.

Born and raised in Fort Worth, TX, Monretta and her family relocated several times due to her parents’ military requirements. During her transitions, she was able to transfer to different schools and eventually landed in Huntsville, AL, while in elementary school. She has remained there even today. Monretta is an auntie and enjoys spending a lot of time with her parents, who have been married for 45 years. She also likes to cook, write, and read, and has published two books of her own. One of her mottos that she recalls often is “to remember that life is about quality versus quantity”.

Monretta would later receive an Academic Scholarship to attend Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University. There, she also obtained her Masters Degree and continued, acquiring her Doctoral Degree from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She has a certification as a Life Coach and a Hypnotherapist, a tool she utilizes as the owner of Huntsville Psychotherapy and Counseling Services located on South Memorial in Huntsville.

Huntsville Psychotherapy and Counseling Services began in 2016. Monretta says, “I started as co-owner and took over full ownership of Huntsville Psychotherapy and Counseling Services in 2023. My vision for private practice has always been a part of me since a very young age. I knew as a child that my ultimate goal was to become a Psychologist and work in the Mental Health field. Huntsville Psychotherapy and Counseling Services is an elite group of mental health professionals who provide services within the community and throughout the State of Alabama, as well as across the United States. We provide an array of mental health services to the community. At Huntsville Psychotherapy and Counseling Services, we understand your concerns and are here to provide you with compassionate and professional services. Counseling is effective because it offers you the opportunity to talk directly with a skilled professional who can be objective and supportive. You will begin with an initial assessment to determine the specific challenges you may be facing. Working together with your therapist, you’ll establish goals and a general timeline for your progress. You will have access to a variety of individualized treatment options tailored to your unique needs. You’ll find a diverse menu of care options to assist with your needs. These services are designed to assist individuals, couples, and families in pursuit of their personal goals.”

Some of the services offered by Monretta and her team are: Relationship Counseling, Individual Counseling, Group Therapy, and Support Groups. With Individual Counseling, they offer one-on-one sessions and focused attention to their clients’ situations. Their therapists bring years of experience and education to each session, guiding clients to discover their true selves and to live their best lives.

7540 Memorial Parkway SW, Suite W, Huntsville, AL 35802

256-824-9171

www.hsvpcs.com

Monretta says what she loves most about what she does is having the opportunity to help others enhance, advance, and evolve in their day-to-day life. “I am inspired by seeing growth and insight in my clients. Having the opportunity to plant seeds for a client to process and provide strategies/techniques they can implement, and to see them evolve into a better person, is what inspires me daily. That is truly my inspiration,” she says.

One can imagine that running a business can be quite challenging. Managing the day-today operations, staff, addressing the needs of customers, and so on. For Monretta, she shares some of the biggest challenges she has faced is the fluctuation in the economy, along with the stigma associated with Mental Health in different communities. Fortunately, Mental Health has become less taboo and more acceptable in the communities she serves, which has assisted in advancing her business. She has managed her challenges by remaining consistent and staying the course. “My vision is to support others in their growth, and that has been a consistent factor throughout,” she says.

While there have been challenges, Monretta continues to enjoy her journey. She also has some advice for others who may have a similar interest in addressing Mental Health. She says, “Stay passionate about what you’re doing and find your internal and external motivation. Know your “why”. Knowing your “why” and your purpose as you continue through entrepreneurship and creating a business will help keep you grounded in different environments and in different situations. This insight is essential because you will know what motivates you each day to wake up and continue to endure the different facets of having a business.”

The future looks pretty bright for Monretta and Huntsville Psychotherapy and Counseling Services. Monretta says she has a lot of different plans moving forward that are geared toward addressing the different aspects associated with mental health. She says her ultimate goal is to assist others and remove the stigma associated with Mental Health in the African-American and Hispanic communities.

NakiaWomack

NC Realtor EXP Realty

By Terry L. Watson

Photos Provided by Nakia Womack

For Nakia Womack, the holiday season has always been about more than gifts under a tree and the meals shared around the table. She says, it’s more about the people we love and the spaces we gather in. The accomplished Realtor says her focus isn’t simply on closings or commissions—it’s on helping individuals and families find a place where memories are made and traditions are created.

Nakia is a licensed real estate agent in North Carolina, working with EXP Realty. Her journey in real estate began with one of her best friends and business partner, Kedrian Blackmon. Nakia says, “One day Kedrian reached out and told me she was thinking about pursuing her real estate license and suggested we do it together. It just made sense. We’ve always shared a passion for business and community, and we’ve partnered on many other ventures. Taking this next step side by side felt natural.”

Real Estate aligned perfectly with the work Nakia was already doing- serving families, supporting stability, and helping people build better lives. She has served as the Executive Director of Lutheran Services Carolinas (LSC), a faith-based health and human services nonprofit organization. Their focus is to serve children, families, and seniors in North and South Carolina. In her role, she oversees children’s services, including traditional, transitional, and intensive foster care programs, and adoptions.

In reality, Real Estate offered Nakia another way to make an impact, not just by helping clients buy or sell a home, but by helping them take meaningful steps toward generational growth and security. “What started as a shared goal between friends has grown into a vision rooted in community, connection, and empowerment,” she says. “When I sit across from a client, I don’t just see a buyer or a seller; I see a story unfolding. Whether it’s a young family searching for their first home, a retiree downsizing, or a couple investing in their future, my goal is to walk with them through each step. I am here for the people, to help them achieve their dreams of homeownership. I also appreciate the relationships we build along the way.”

In addition to being a Realtor, Nakia is the Co-Owner of an athletic wear company called FitZ Apparel & Accessories LLC. They provide quality, fashionable, and affordable “FitZ” that are designed to be suitable for exercise and everyday wear. She is also the Co-Founder of FitZ Wellness Network Inc, a 501-c3, whose mission is to help as many members in its communities as possible achieve the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. This is done by creating access to resources and offering a wide variety of services to achieve overall well-being in a safe, convenient, and fun environment. As if Nakia’s plate wasn’t already full, she finds time to work as an ACE Certified Personal Fitness Trainer. “Fitness is a big part of my life, and I enjoy working out with my CrossFit family and staying active,” she says.

More than anything else, Nakia enjoys spending time with her family. She is married and has two adult children, and three bonus children, and strives to relay equal compassion to others that she serves. Nakia also has a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology, a Master’s degree in Professional Counseling, and is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). She adds, “Outside of work, I truly value spending quality time with my family and friends. Yet, Faith and fellowship are important to me, and I enjoy attending church and staying grounded spiritually. I also love traveling, exploring new restaurants, and finding new experiences wherever I go.”

Whether it’s a child finding stability through foster care, a family achieving the dream of homeownership, or someone taking the first step toward a healthier lifestyle through one of my wellness initiatives, seeing others grow and thrive keeps me motivated every day.”

As someone who thrives on connection, Nakia says she believes the impact she makes in others’ lives is what truly lasts. “The smiles at the closing table, the tears of joy when a family gets their keys, and the phone calls months later sharing how they’ve settled in—those are the rewards that keep me going,” she says. “At my core, I am warm, approachable, and deeply committed to serving with excellence. I bring my leadership, empathy, and entrepreneurial spirit into every client relationship, and they know they have someone who is knowledgeable, dependable, and dedicated to seeing them succeed, not just in the market but in life.”

When asked what inspires her, Nakia boldly states it’s the opportunity she has to serve. She says, “Whether it’s a child finding stability through foster care, a family achieving the dream of homeownership, or someone taking the first step toward a healthier lifestyle through one of my wellness initiatives, seeing others grow and thrive keeps me motivated every day.” Besides her own family, as previously mentioned, her faith deeply inspires Nakia, and the strong circle of men and women who surround her and who constantly push her to dream bigger. “Their encouragement reminds me that purpose and services can go hand in hand, and that every role I hold is part of a greater mission to uplift and empower others.”

Balancing her responsibilities as a dual-career professional is one of the biggest challenges Nakia has faced. “It can be demanding to juggle multiple roles that all require time, focus, and passion. Yes, I do serve in multiple roles, but my commitment to my clients is full-time in structure and focus. Having a diversified career strengthens what I bring to real estate: wide networks, deep community knowledge, access to resources, and a big-picture mindset that supports your best interests, not just a transaction. Ultimately, when you hire me, you’re getting someone who integrates real estate into the broader purpose of serving you, your family, and your future.” Nakia has been able to manage her challenges utilizing strong time management, intentional planning, and staying grounded in her “why”. She adds, “Every role I hold is centered around service. All these areas connect back to my purpose, and I’m able to stay focused and energized. I’ve learned to delegate, stay organized, and give myself grace while still delivering excellence. I have a dedicated schedule and team support so that my client’s buying or selling needs are handled promptly, whether that means evenings, weekends, or when most convenient for them. I am very intentional about prioritizing client service. From our first meeting through closing, you’ll always know what step we’re on, what’s coming next, and how I’ advocating on your behalf. The balance isn’t always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding to know that I’m making an impact in multiple ways.”

For others who may follow in a similar path as Nakia, she offers the following advice. “Lead with purpose and not just profit. If you focus on serving people first, success will follow. From a financial perspective, be prepared and patient. Real estate is a commission-based business, so it’s important to have savings or another income source as you build your client base. Also, treat your real estate career like a true business- budget for marketing, education, and continued professional development. Invest in systems that help you stay organized and responsive because your reputation and consistency will be your greatest asset. Lastly, stay teachable and surround yourself with mentors, and collaborate with others. Real estate, like life, rewards those who stay grounded, persistent, and people centered.”

Looking ahead, Nakia has set her sights on expansion and having a deeper impact. She also plans to continue growing in real estate by helping more families become homeowners and by building stronger partnerships that connect housing, wellness, and community resources. She says, “I am personally interested in expanding into real estate investing. I see it as a next step in creating long-term stability, building generational wealth, and continuing to impact the communities I serve. My goal is to invest not only in personal growth but also in creating quality, affordable housing opportunities for families and individuals who deserve a safe place to call home. Ultimately, my next chapter is about alignment- bringing all my passions together under one purpose: to create opportunities, build stability, and empower people to live well in every aspect of their lives.”

In closing, Nakia has prepared some services geared to the upcoming holiday season. Nakia says, “This coming holiday season, I am reminded once again that a house is simply walls and a roof—but a home is where laughter echoes, love grows, and hope takes root. Helping people find that kind of space is more meaningful to me than any paycheck. As we gather this season, may we all remember that home is not just where we live, it’s where we belong. For me, being able to help someone else find theirs is the greatest gift of all. If you’re considering buying or selling a home, or if you simply need guidance on your real estate journey, I would be honored to walk alongside you. Reach out today. I’m here to help you find your place to call home.” h

Loryn Stevens

The daughter of Sydney Hildreth & David Stevens

Charlton Hildreth & Laurinda Hildreth (Grandparents)

David Deener & Teresa Stevens (Grandparents)

Publack Library Publishing Antonia Royal-Whitmore

“As a child, I was reserved and quiet, distracted by my thoughts, observations, and questions of the world. Despite my reservation, I inherited my forwardness and bluntness from my Grandfather and spoke up for causes I believed in, or spoke against things I disagreed with.”

By Terry L. Watson

Photos Provided by Antonia Royal-Whitmore

Reading is soaring to new heights in the city of Chicago, IL.

Publack Library Publishing is home of complete representative literature; publications written by African American authors that feature African American characters, for African American Readers. At Publack Library Publishing, they write and publish inclusive media that showcase Black culture in an authentic and accurate manner. Their catalog consists of projects for children, young adults, and adults. They also help other African American writers publish their work.

Publack Library Publishing was conceived by Antonia Royal-Whitmore. Born and raised in Rockford, IL, and surrounded by a village of love and support, Antonia shares that her environment modeled to her the importance of family, faith, and loyalty. “As a child, I was reserved and quiet, distracted by my thoughts, observations, and questions of the world. Despite my reservation, I inherited my forwardness and bluntness from my Grandfather and spoke up for causes I believed in, or spoke against things I disagreed with. Early on, I was introduced to various forms of creativity. Ellis Arts Academy introduced me to theater, dance, art, and music. I studied tap dance, jazz, ballet, sang Broadway musical pieces, explored artists like Andy Warhol, and performed in dance concerts for an audience full of students, teachers, and families,” Antonia says.

Macedonia Baptist Church shaped her spirituality and provided leadership skills. She took on roles on the usher board, choir, praise dance team, and as the Sunday school treasurer. Antonia also excelled in school, graduating a year early from Auburn High School and going straight to Highland Community College on a bowling scholarship. At Highland, she studied Psychology, and would later attend Midland University in Fremont, NE. There, she continued to bowl and study psychology, graduating in 2017 with a Bachelors in Business and Psychology. Antonia says initially her goal was to earn her Master’s degree to become a therapist, however life had other plans. “Luckily, anytime people are involved, psychology is present. Psychology also presents in business rather it’s marketing (persuasion), understanding the body language of buyers, or classically conditioning your customers to salivate when they see a big yellow arch, convincing them to order a Happy Meal,” she said.

So how did Publack Library Publishing get started? Antonia provides a very vivid recollection. “I had a dream, no Martin Luther King, back in 2016, that I was an author. In this dream, there was a long line of people waiting for me to sign their books. This particular dream seemed out of place because being an author wasn’t on my Pinterest board; it never even crossed my mind. Partly because English was my least favorite subject and I struggled with spelling and grammar. However, this dream was so vivid and memorable, I started writing my first book, that morning. I didn’t know what I was doing but I knew I had to do it. I eventually wrote the first draft to an urban fiction novella, Nine Inches, which collected dust in my hard drive for three years.In those three years, I switched gears and explored children’s literature and published three projects (You Are: Tu Eres, Thanksgiving with the Bully, and Boys Wash Their Hands Too: ). By the end of 2019, I published five projects, including Nine Inches. Nine Inches was revised and republished December 2024 and has been the most sold book in our catalog, ranking top ten for Urban Erotica and Romantic Erotica on Amazon, for consecutive weeks.”

As of 2025, there are sixteen in house books in Publack Library Publishing’s catalog, written by Antonia Royal Whitmore. Publack Library Publishing has also helped dozens of African American authors through their publishing process.When asked what she loves most about what she does, Antonia’s response aligns with the change that she has sought to bring to publishing. She says, “The literary industry has had a particular look for a while, as only 5% of published authors are African American. In addition, there are seven times more children’s books that feature animals than Black children. I love that I’m able to disrupt the monotony of the current literary industry and add more inclusive and representative literature to readers. I love seeing the faces of my readers light up when they realize our books were made for them, by them. I also love watching the lightbulb turn on for individuals who may have had a book idea but needed confirmation or resources that I could provide. Learning myself through my business and seeing my continuous progress brings me great joy as well.”

Antonia draws inspiration from her spirit and her environment. One word, song, color, or sound can trigger an entire project for her. She also draws inspiration from different modalities, whether it be fashion, education, art, or music. Her family, she says has truly impacted Antonia’s life and been constant supporters. “My parents, Tiffiny and Christopher Whitmore kept me on track as a child and showed me how to navigate life as an adult. My grandparents, Morris and Gloria Royal, generously funded my first book and remained a constant investor in all of my endeavors. My Grandfather, Morris Royal, spoke life into me as a child. He reminded me over and over that I was important, that I was going to be abundant and prosperous in life, that with the right mindset, anything was possible,” she says.

Antonia says she honestly believes reading is a basic necessity, like food and water, and should be free to children, and funded by the government. She also realizes children’s literature isn’t a priority. “One would think distributing children’s literature would be easy but it has been quite the opposite. Reading and comprehension have been overlooked by busy parents and overworked teachers, and replaced because of book bans and technology. One way I have been able to fight back against this is by allowing individuals, organizations, and businesses to donate to help fund books for classrooms, schools, and even entire neighborhoods,” she says.

“One would think distributing children’s literature would be easy but it has been quite the opposite. Reading and comprehension have been overlooked by busy parents and overworked teachers, and replaced because of book bans and technology.”

Antonia recently co-authored a book with her younger siblings, Darby Whitmore and Royal Whitmore, Before You Go to Heaven, that pays tribute to their late Grandfather, Morris Royal, who passed away earlier this year. Before You Go to Heaven celebrates the bond between generations and reminds young readers to cherish their elders while they are still here.

For other aspiring authors who may follow in a path similar to Antonia, she offers the following advice and encouragement. “There are no rules to this thing. Of course there are a few grammar rules you may have to follow as a writer, but other than that, it’s free game. I’ll spare you your first author heartbreak; not everyone is your target audience, and not everyone will like your work. Now that that’s out of the way, do what feels good, what feels right. Create and write for yourself and share it with the world how you see fit. Release the need to be perceived, release the fear of judgment, and give yourself permission to evolve.”

Antonia has set her sights on the future. She says the next few years involve her mastering her pen game as an autnor and eventually transitioning into screenwriting. “I believe my work will land better on the big screen through TV shows, commercials, and movies. I would love to work with legends like Tyler Perry, Issa Rae, and Quinta Brunson,” she says.

Henley Shylia

Gratifying Smiles

By Terry L. Watson

Provided by Shylia

Henley

Shylia Henley of Huntsville, AL, is a devout woman of God who decided to give God her “yes”.

She is also the owner and founder of Gratifying Smiles. Her company offers services on her social media platforms as a disciple of God’s kingdom by sharing daily Bible app scriptures for individuals to hear or see. While Gratifying Smiles has yet to officially launch, Shylia has been making preparations for what is to come. In the interim, Shylia works as a life and health insurance agent for Wellstone Mental Health facilities as needed. Shylia works as a life and health insurance agent with Aflac and Hundley Batts and Associates. In her role, she helps individuals or groups secure life and health benefits to secure a meaningful impact through health, wellness, and financial security. Rather, it helps increase the business’s bottom line, retain employee, give peace of mind, create a legacy, or simply give their loved one’s peace of mind knowing they have something in place. Addiitonally, Shylia is a PRN mental health technician for Wellstone Behavioral Health Center.

Born and raised in Iuka, Mississippi Shylia grew up in Sheffield, AL where her mother, Margaretta Henley, still resides in the nearby town of Tuscumbia, AL. Shylia is the happy mother of Areila Summerhill and Adalee Henley. Shylia also comes from a big family, having three siblings (one sister and two brothers). She also has 14 nieces and nephews.

The motto for Gratifying Smiles is Live It. Fulfill it. Experience it. Shylia refers to the following scripture and aligns it with her vision. Romans 8:28: And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.

Where did the vision of Gratifying Smiles come from? Shylia says while facing the most difficult trials and tribulations of her life over again, she found herself homeless. “Having to move back home with my mom around August 2020, my mental health wasn’t always the greatest. In my free time, I would go on my daily walks, reading my daily scriptures as usual. I continued to attend church. I had good days, and bad days. At that time, I was working two jobs, and I commuted back and forth to work until around September, and my plans were to get a place back in Huntsville. I became exhausted and was losing hope. Then, the Covid pandemic began to hit hard. My niece caught Covid. I began to fall deeper into depression as my jobs began to lay off. Still, I continued to read my daily scriptures and made goals to start my own retail business, selling dental products. This is where the name Gratifying Smiles came from. One of my daily devotionals asked a question: Who can I go visit that and check on and share Gods word? I thought about a family member. I decided to visit them, and I experienced some childhood trauma that repeated over in my mind again. That day I was still happy, and in good spirits. I told them that they were forgiven,” she says.

“I love helping others build a relationship with God. God has increased my faith and helped me to build a solid foundation and attract opportunities that are divinely oriented. I love speaking life into individuals who may have lost hope.”

Shylia would soon lose her second job. Battling depression and anxiety, she attempted to keep going. She started her teeth whitening toothpaste with no money, only a plan and a Dental Assistant certificate that she obtained in 2018. Shylia would soon acquire over 30 customers and $600 in one day. Yet, Shylia shares she still didn’t feel as if she was enough. She didn’t work for about three or four months. “Stress started messing with my physical health. Digestive system began to have issues. Started visiting a place called Simply Healthy to get natural juices, and my healing journey, eating clean, working, and walking at the TVA trail began. Things started to feel normal, and I got a new job at a manufacturing company near the end of November 202,” she says. Life was looking brighter for Shylia, and she began dating again after being celibate for two years. She would soon give birth to her three-year-old and had a spiritual awakening while working one day. “I was journaling on my breaks to write a book. God gave me the title “The Birth of Gratifying Smiles”. From that day I made it my purpose of my brand. To uplift, inspire and encourage others who may have walked in similar situations and needed help mentally.”

More than anything, Shylia loves being a servant. She adds, “I love helping others build a relationship with God. God has increased my faith and helped me to build a solid foundation and attract opportunities that are divinely oriented. I love speaking life into individuals who may have lost hope. I also love being an example to my children and family,” she says.

In her young life and career, Shylia has acquired a lot of experience. With her gaining, her heart continues to pour out love to others. She also offers advice to others who may find themselves in a similar situation in life. She says, “I would tell them to do what God is calling you to do. There is purpose for your pain. Walk in excellence and expectation.” As Shylia continues to prepare for the launch of Gratifying Smiles, she remains committed to doing what God’s work. “My plans are to continue to walk in obedience and connect with individuals to see how I can be a servant. I also plan to collaborate, recommend resources for the community, and share my story. More than anything, I will continue to put God first.

Mothershed Compassionately Connected for Veterans Inc.

By Terry L Watson

Michelle Mothershed of Little Rock, AR, describes herself as a compassionate leader, devoted mother, and proud grandmother whose life reflects service, faith, and community impact. Rooted in strong family values, Michelle balances her roles of being a dedicated family woman and a purpose-driven professional. Michelle is a graduate of Little Rock Central High School, the same school where her aunt, the late Dr. Thelma Mothershed Wair, was one of the Little Rock Nine of 1957. Michelle says her aunt inspired her to always strive for justice and equity within her community. Michelle’s academic achievements include Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Education, earned at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. For the past 28 years, Michelle’s focus has been to empower others through education, mentorship, and outreach.

Presently, Michelle leads the way at Compassionately Connected for Veterans Inc., fondly called CC4V Inc. CC4V Inc., a nonprofit organization, is committed to empowering veterans, low-income communities, and their families through a multi-faceted approach. Their core services include: The Compassion Pantry: operating a pantry providing healthy food options, hygiene and household items, especially servicing veterans, low-income individuals and families. They also provide Wellness and Mental Health Support, which offers mental health awareness events and programs like suicide prevention, and mindfulness and community support groups. Their Compassion Hub -Community Resource Center allows them to network with local partners and serve as a community access point for resources, empowerment, and outreach. Finally, their Youth and Family programs offer running youth-focused programs for teens (8th-12th grade) that emphasize self-love, community service, and peer mediation.

Compassionately Connected for Veterans Inc. (CC4V Inc.) was founded on March 29, 2021, by Michelle and a serviceconnected veteran with a deep passion for serving those who have served their country. What began as a heartfelt vision to bridge gaps in care and support for veterans quickly grew into a thriving community-driven nonprofit. “CC4V Inc. was born into a concept of serving unsheltered veterans from my car. My friends, my children, and I would go to places where unsheltered veterans mainly found refuge. We would use 2-gallon Ziploc bags and fill them with items such as Vienna Sausages, Tuna, Sardines, breakfast bars, crackers, water bottles, body wipes, and hygiene items. The packages also included a word of encouragement. We continued bringing goods to central locations and noticed a need for consistent food security. In 2022, we moved into a 400 sq ft space, and our work continued. In February 2025, through faith, dedication, and strong community partnerships, we expanded our mission and impact and began operating from a 1,100 sq ft facility and offered wellness programs, empowerment initiatives, and holistic support designed to build a better tomorrow for the communities we serve.”

Michelle says what she loves most about what she does is seeing lives change through compassion, connection, and community. “Every week, I get to witness hope restored, whether it’s a veteran finding stability, a family receiving the help they need, or someone discovering their own strength and purpose. Being part of that transformation and knowing that love, faith, and service can make a real difference is what fuels my passion and keeps me moving forward,” Michelle says.

Michelle’s inspiration for CC4V Inc. is tied to the resilience and strength of the veterans, families, and communities the organization serves. “Their courage in the face of challenges reminds me every day of the power of hope, determination, and perseverance. I am also deeply guided by my faith, which gives me purpose and direction, and by the love and support of my family, whose encouragement fuels my commitment to making a meaningful impact. Together, these sources of inspiration keep me motivated to serve, uplift, and empower others,” Michelle says.

While running CC4V Inc. has been incredibly rewarding, Michelle admits it has not come without challenges. One of the biggest obstacles has been addressing food insecurity in a community with limited resources, ensuring that every veteran and family who walks through their doors receives nutritious options. “Due to the government shutdown, we have almost doubled the number of community members that we normally serve,” Michelle says. “However, the funding to keep us afloat is also being affected by the same shutdown and by the lack of grant funds available. Securing sustainable funding and ongoing support has also been a constant focus, as well as managing the logistics of a growing operation while maintaining a personal, compassionate approach,” she says. Something else she has faced has been raising awareness about the needs of those they serve and connecting with the broader community to form strong partnerships. Yet, she has remained persistent, creative, and faithful.

Despite these challenges, each hurdle has strengthened the mission of CC4V Inc. and reinforced why their work is so vital. They have managed those challenges by combining strategic planning, community collaboration, and unwavering faith. To address food insecurity, they have built continuous partnerships with Arkansas Food Bank and Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance. They have also established community connections with local pantries, churches, businesses, and volunteers, and created a network of support to ensure consistent resources for those in need. Funding and sustainability have been met with a focus on grants, corporate sponsorships, and community fundraising initiatives, while continuously exploring new revenue streams.

The journey has been worthwhile for Michelle and her team. Michelle says if she could change anything about the way things have happened, it would be to have access to more resources and support earlier on. This includes both financial and community-based, which she says would have helped to accelerate the impact of CC4V Inc. and reach more veterans and families sooner. “While every challenge has been a learning opportunity, having stronger networks and guidance from the beginning could have made some milestones easier to achieve. Even so, the obstacles I’ve faced have shaped me, strengthened my resolve, and made the successes even more meaningful,” she says.

What is next for Michelle and CC4V Inc.? Michelle states she is prayerful that their future holds exciting growth and expanded impact for both herself and CC4V Inc. “We urgently need monetary donations, in-kind support, and a seed donor to sustain and grow our programs, continue serving veterans and families, and ensure that no one in our community goes without the support they need, especially being in a food desert,” she says.

By the end of 2026, their aim is to begin delivery services for up to 75 veterans and seniors who are unable to get to our Compassion Pantry due to a chronic illness or mobility issue; this initiative is called Compassionate Delivery Services. Additionally, they will strive to strengthen community partnerships, secure sustainable funding up to $250,000 to expand our reach so that more veterans, families, and underserved individuals can benefit from our services. Personally, Michelle is committed to continuing her journey of learning, leadership, and service, ensuring that CC4V Inc. remains a trusted, compassionate resource and a catalyst for positive change in their community.

“Every week, I get to witness hope restored, whether it’s a veteran finding stability, a family receiving the help they need, or someone discovering their own strength and purpose.” h