A Night of Strength and Self-Care: Moniek Garside Journal Signing

On Thursday, October 17th, Moniek Garside, LCSW, celebrated the launch of her first journal, “I Can. I Will! A Guided Journal to Create a Pathway to a Better You”, at Nostalgia Kitchen + Cocktails in Stone Mountain, Georgia. The event was an inspiring evening centered on empowerment, strength, and self-care, as Moniek connected with attendees who are passionate about personal growth and wellness.

The highlight of the night was a fireside chat between Moniek and Star94 Personality Alyssa DiTomasso, where Moniek shared insights about the importance of self-care and how her journal can serve as a tool to help others on their journey. The atmosphere was warm and uplifting, filled with thoughtful conversations and powerful reflections on achieving balance in life.

While enjoying delicious food and cocktails, attendees had the opportunity to engage with Moniek and gain valuable insights about how to improve their well-being. Moniek’s journal, “I Can. I Will!”, is designed to help users set goals, reflect on their progress, and ultimately create a pathway to a more fulfilling life.

Guests had the opportunity to browse an array of exclusive merchandise, including t-shirts, coffee mugs, and a special “balance” candle, all available for purchase. Moniek also took time to personally sign cards and connect with family, friends, and fellow wellness enthusiasts, making the event a personal and memorable experience.

For those who couldn’t attend, “I Can. I Will! A Guided Journal to Create a Pathway to a Better You” is available for purchase on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Lulu. To stay updated on Moniek’s work and wellness journey, follow her on Instagram at @fitlifewellnessllc.

The evening was not just about celebrating a journal launch—it was about fostering a sense of community, empowerment, and inspiration for everyone in attendance. Moniek Garside continues to encourage others to prioritize self-care and embrace their journey toward personal growth. 

Honoring Legends, Shaping the Future: Inside the 2024 Living Legends Gala

The Thomas J. Blocker Society hosted its highly anticipated 3rd Annual Living Legends Gala at the Loews Hotel in Midtown Atlanta. Over 100 distinguished guests gathered to celebrate a night of honor, inspiration, and the impactful leaders shaping the future of healthcare.

The evening kicked off with an exclusive VIP reception, where influential guests and sponsors had the opportunity to network and engage in intimate conversations. Among the attendees were high-profile leaders from various industries, all united by a common goal: to support the next generation of healthcare professionals.

With Emmy Award-winning actress Jasmine Guy as Mistress of Ceremonies, the formal gala commenced in spectacular fashion. Thomas J. Blocker Society (TJBS) President Dr. Vandy Gaffney opened the program with Wayne Martin, President and CEO of Covenant HealthShare, and Dan Walden, executive at PNC Bank, among the key speakers. The night also featured moving testimonials from two students, who shared their personal stories about how TJBS and its members have positively impacted their academic journeys and career trajectories.

The highlight of the event was the recognition of Dr. Harold Jordan and Dr. Willie Underwood III for their dedication and services to Georgia’s medical landscape. This segment offered a powerful moment with an intimate discussion featuring honoree Dr. Willie Underwood III and facilitated by 11 Alive’s Emmy-nominated anchor Jonathan Martin. The conversation covered Dr. Underwood’s remarkable career and provided an insightful look at the current state of healthcare.

Guests also participated in a lively auction, where generous bids were made in support of scholarships and programs designed to empower future leaders in healthcare and biomedical sciences.

The gala was made possible due to generous contributions from this year’s sponsors, including Covenant HealthShare, PNC Bank, Henry Schein, Northside Hospital, United Healthcare, Morehouse School of Medicine, Rucker Roots, Carter Hill, Sonder Health Plans, Law Offices of Cameron Hawkins, Olly, Pop Socket, Dax Hair Care, Best-Selling Author Bonika Wilson, Skin Leaf Cosmetics, True Citrus, and many more. 

For more information on how you can support Thomas J. Blocker Society initiatives or participate in next year’s gala, please visit www.thomasjblockersociety.com.

Empowering Wellness and Inclusivity: The Visionary Leadership of Kamille Richardson and Lakila Bowden at iSee Technologies

Kamille Richardson: Turning Rejection Into a Vision of Inclusivity

Kamille Richardson, founder and CEO of iSee Technologies, has turned the challenges she faced into powerful tools for change. Born blind, Kamille’s early career search was marked by rejection and biases, as many hiring managers were unwilling to accommodate or understand her blindness. These setbacks, rather than deterring her, fueled her resolve to create her path. Instead of being defined by the barriers imposed by others, Kamille decided to hire herself, which became the solution to the problems she faced.

Kamille now leads iSee Technologies, a company dedicated to providing corporations and government agencies with the tools to address unconscious biases and foster more equitable and inclusive work environments. Her unique perspective and experience enable her to help organizations unpack the often-overlooked challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, ultimately creating more inclusive workplaces.

One of Kamille’s signature achievements is her keynote speech, “The Magic of Being Differently Disabled.” In it, she reframes the concept of disability, shedding light on common misconceptions about blindness and other disabilities. Through her journey, and the stories of others, Kamille inspires her audiences to challenge their preconceived notions and adopt actionable steps to foster inclusivity in their daily lives.

Kamille’s advice to individuals with disabilities who aspire to careers in public speaking or entrepreneurship is practical and empowering: start small and grow from there. Whether it’s conducting short Instagram Live sessions or speaking to smaller audiences, she emphasizes the importance of building confidence gradually. For those interested in entrepreneurship, Kamille suggests joining local business networks, such as the Chamber of Commerce, to establish connections, grow a network, and create visibility in the community.

Her greatest career accomplishment so far is building iSee Technologies, a company that reflects her vision of inclusivity and empowerment. By turning the countless “no’s” she received into a business that benefits not only herself but countless others, Kamille has proven that barriers can be transformed into opportunities.

 

Lakila Bowden: Championing Wellness and Leadership

As COO and co-founder of iSee Technologies, Lakila Bowden brings a unique approach to leadership that is rooted in both corporate success and a deep commitment to personal wellness. Having transitioned from a traditional corporate background, Lakila now dedicates her time to helping high-achieving women unapologetically prioritize self-care. She encourages women to celebrate self-care in every facet of their lives through her keynotes, breaking the idea that focusing on oneself is selfish or indulgent.

Lakila’s role as COO is ever-evolving, but her leadership style remains consistent. She focuses on honoring rest, building a strong team, and engaging with clients that align with iSee Technologies’ core values. Under her guidance, iSee has worked with major companies like Walt Disney, Kraft Heinz, and government agencies—organizations that have made wellness a key pillar of their corporate culture. Lakila emphasizes that companies willing to invest in wellness for their teams see real results, including improved collaboration and enhanced productivity.

In her own life, Lakila practices what she calls “Lakila’s Self Care Cheat Codes”—a set of simple yet impactful practices that keep her grounded and balanced. These “cheat codes” include exercise, mindfulness, and practicing deep self-compassion. But perhaps one of her most important strategies is surrounding herself with people who uplift and support her. She believes that self-care isn’t just about the individual; it’s about creating an environment where people around you contribute to your wellness and motivation.

Lakila also brings intentionality to her work at iSee Technologies. Not every organization is the right fit, and that’s okay. She prioritizes working with clients who genuinely value inclusivity and wellness, ensuring that iSee Technologies can make the greatest impact. Despite retiring from corporate America at just 37, Lakila’s proudest achievement is her impressive career accomplishments and her ability to consistently celebrate every win, no matter how big or small, even during uncertain times.

 

iSee Technologies: A Shared Vision of Wellness and Inclusivity

Kamille Richardson and Lakila Bowden have taken their distinct paths and combined them to create iSee Technologies, a company that provides people development solutions with a focus on workforce wellness, performance enhancement, and inclusive workplaces. Their work shifts the hearts and minds of organizations, helping teams collaborate more effectively, boost profitability, and motivate employees to perform at their best.

At iSee Technologies, wellness, and inclusivity are not just ideals—they are actionable, transformative strategies that are embedded into every partnership. Together, Kamille and Lakila are redefining what it means to lead, offering organizations the tools they need to create cultures that not only embrace diversity but thrive because of it.

To learn more about iSee Technologies

Follow Lakila Bowden on Instagram @lakilaj and Kamille Richardson @kamillealia

Dahéli Hall’s Journey Through Infertility and Creativity: The Birth of SPADURA

Dahéli’s creative journey for her project, SPADURA, began in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown—a period she describes as particularly isolating. This challenging time coincided with her struggles with infertility, creating an intense need to process her emotions and experiences in a meaningful way. For Dahéli, expressing herself through performing, journaling, and making people laugh has always been a therapeutic outlet. However, with the world on pause and her usual ways of coping out of reach, she turned to writing as a means of navigating her IVF journey.

One of Dahéli’s most significant challenges was the emotional weight of shame and guilt. She found herself grappling with the societal and familial expectations of conceiving after marriage. Dahéli recognized that marriage often comes with an underlying assumption of starting a family, or expanding it if a couple already has children. These external pressures compounded her internal struggle, making the journey even more isolating.

As a comedian, Dahéli faced an additional layer of complexity. She realized there weren’t many visible examples of comedians successfully balancing motherhood with their careers. This realization motivated her to pursue motherhood on her own terms, which soon meant navigating the demanding process of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) while continuing her work on stage. The experience was grueling: performing for an audience, awaiting test results, and repeating the cycle night after night.

When the lockdown finally eased, Dahéli took a brave step towards opening up about her journey. She rented a small theater near her home for $20 an hour and invited friends to hear her story. The choice to share was prompted in part by the constant inquiries from friends and family about when she would start a family. By speaking openly about her and her husband’s struggles, she hoped to shed light on the complexities and hardships of their journey.

Dahéli emphasizes that the path to motherhood—or even deciding if motherhood is right for someone—is far from straightforward. In many cases, women only speak about their infertility struggles after achieving pregnancy, but Dahéli was navigating her journey in real-time. Through her performances, she wanted to explore how one can endure losses and setbacks without allowing them to become defeating.

Through SPADURA, Dahéli aims to provide a platform for conversations that are often swept under the rug, including issues such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), fibroids, endometriosis, hysterectomies, and miscarriages. Her goal is to infuse these discussions with humor to make them more engaging and break the stigma that often surrounds these topics. By doing so, she hopes to help more women feel seen and understood.

Ultimately, Dahéli wants her audience to leave the show feeling uplifted. Her vision for SPADURA extends beyond a single performance; she dreams of turning it into a series that continues to explore the complexities of women’s health and fertility in a way that is both honest and humorous. Through her work, Dahéli hopes to foster a sense of community and solidarity among women, creating a space where their stories are not only shared but celebrated.

Follow Dahéli on Instagram at @daheli.hall and @spadura_show.

Dahéli Hall Captivates Atlanta with SPADURA: A Powerful Journey Through IVF

Dahéli Hall brought an electrifying energy to the stage during the Atlanta showing of her one-woman show, SPADURA. Her unique blend of humor, vulnerability, and heart. She made even the most complex aspects of her story accessible to all. From the moment she stepped on stage, her presence was magnetic, guiding the audience through a rollercoaster of emotions. Some laughed, some cried, but by the end, every person left the theater with a smile on their face, uplifted by the power of her storytelling. 

At its core, SPADURA delves into Dahéli’s personal journey with IVF, shedding light on the often unspoken struggles many women endure. IVF is far from an easy journey, and Dahéli made sure that the message was clear. However, her effort to make the topic relatable truly shone through, allowing audience members to connect deeply with her experience. Her authenticity and warmth radiated, letting women in the crowd know that they’re not alone, while also breaking down the stigma surrounding the all-too-common “When are you going to have a baby?” question that many married couples face.

The show received glowing reviews from attendees, with many praising Dahéli’s ability to blend raw emotion with humor, creating an experience that resonated deeply with everyone in the room. Her delivery was as heartfelt as it was engaging, offering a space for shared understanding.

Following the performance, Dahéli hosted a Q&A session, where audience members had the chance to share their own stories, ask questions, and reflect on the themes of the show. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and support, as others opened up about their experiences, feeling seen and heard in a space that Dahéli so thoughtfully created.

SPADURA is more than a show—it’s a conversation starter, and Dahéli Hall’s brilliant performance in Atlanta left a lasting impression on all who were lucky enough to witness it.

Now Dahéli is headed to her hometown of Miami to give another riveting performance. Tickets for SPADURA are available at SPADURA.com/tour.

Follow Dahéli on Instagram at @daheli.hall and @spadura_show

Music, Community, and Celebration: Highlights from North Carolina’s 5th Annual Soul Picnic

Raleigh, NC, was alive with music, joy, and vibrant energy on Saturday, June 22, 2024, as the 5th Annual Soul Picnic took center stage at Dix Park-Flowers Field. Known as North Carolina’s largest outdoor day party, this year’s event did not disappoint. Hosted by the seasoned event organizers Dynasty5, who boast over 25 years of experience, the picnic was a masterful blend of local talent, renowned headliners, and DJ Skillz on the 1 & 2’s. 

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the performances. With his smooth vocals and soulful tunes, Musiq Soulchild captivated the audience, bringing both nostalgia and excitement. The Chuck Brown Band, famous for their unique go-go sound, kept the crowd dancing and the energy high. Adding to the thrill of the day, Mr. Cheekz made a surprise appearance, much to the delight of the attendees. 

The event was more than just a musical feast. It was a community celebration featuring a diverse range of vendors that catered to every taste. From delectable food vendors to unique merchandise, there was something for everyone. Local artisans and small businesses had the perfect platform to showcase their businesses, contributing to the inclusive and community-filled atmosphere. 

Raleigh’s news outlets highlighted the event’s success and the significant positive impact it had on the community. Attendees were all smiles, enjoying the sun, music, and camaraderie. The Soul Picnic again proved why it’s not just a staple in North Carolina’s event calendar, but also a significant contributor to the local community.

The success of this year’s picnic is a testament to Dynasty5’s commitment to excellence and community engagement. Their meticulous planning and passion for creating memorable experiences were evident in every event detail. With the backing of generous sponsors such as Pepsi, United Healthcare, Big Sipz Cocktails, The Property Shop Real Estate Co., DUDE Wipes, and Murphy’s Natural Skin Repellent, to name a few, the Soul Picnic was an overwhelming success. Dynasty5 has delivered another incredible experience, and attendees eagerly look forward to more unforgettable moments at the 6th Annual Soul Picnic.

If you missed the 2024 Soul Picnic, you can view all of the excitement- The Soul Picnic 2024.

See you next year!

Cobb County Democratic Chairwoman Essence Johnson Hosts Successful Debate Watch Party at Luckey’s BBQ Place

In honor of the first presidential debate, on June 27th, Essence Johnson, Chairwoman of the Cobb Democratic Committee, hosted a highly successful presidential debate watch party at Luckey’s BBQ Place. The watch party was strategically chosen at Luckey’s BBQ Place, a beloved black-owned restaurant in the community, emphasizing the committee’s commitment to supporting local businesses and celebrating diversity.

The watch party saw an impressive turnout, with over 100 attendees packing the venue to show their support for the Democratic Party. Among those present were delegates, elected officials, and several candidates currently running for office. Before the debate started, attendees enjoyed a lively game of trivia with an opportunity to win a prize, demonstrating the widespread interest and engagement in the upcoming election.

Courtesy of Cobb County Democratic Committee

Essence Johnson took the floor before the debate began to deliver an inspiring speech. In her speech, she highlighted the critical importance of education and the power of community. Her words resonated deeply with the audience, igniting a sense of enthusiasm and solidarity that set a positive tone for the rest of the evening. Essence’s speech emphasized the Democratic Party’s commitment to these values and motivated attendees to continue their support and activism.

Courtesy of The New York Times

In recognition of her leadership and dedication, Essence Johnson was selected to be the liaison for President Biden as he embarks on the next leg of his campaign trail. Following the debate, Johnson accompanied President Biden to an Atlanta area Waffle House, where they continued to engage with local constituents and furthered their message of community.

Essence Johnson’s successful hosting of the debate watch party and her subsequent role alongside the President underscores her significant influence and dedication within the Cobb Democratic Committee. Her efforts in encouraging community engagement and her leadership in political activities continue to inspire and mobilize support for the Democratic Party.

Devika Brij: Championing Inclusivity and Empowerment in the Workplace

In the evolving landscape of corporate America, fostering an equitable workplace has become paramount. Leading this charge is Devika Brij, the founder and CEO of Brij The Gap Consulting. With a mission to empower underrepresented talent, Brij The Gap Consulting partners with companies to support and increase the retention of employees of color, women, and other underserved demographics. Through comprehensive career advancement training, learning and development, and leadership training, the firm ensures these individuals can navigate workplace challenges and achieve the careers they deserve.

The Journey to Brij The Gap

Devika Brij’s journey to founding Brij The Gap Consulting is rooted in her experiences in the tech industry, where she worked for giants like Google and LinkedIn. During her tenure, she encountered numerous challenges as a woman of color. Initially, she believed these obstacles were unique to her, but conversations with peers from similar backgrounds revealed a widespread issue affecting many women and people of color in the tech sector.

This realization sparked Devika’s determination to create more resources, tools, and educational opportunities to help underrepresented individuals navigate their professional landscapes. In 2019, she left her corporate job to focus on consulting full-time, partnering with several prominent companies to drive change.

A Turning Point

A pivotal moment in Brij’s career came in 2018 when she was fired by a biased leader despite being a strong employee with nearly five years at the company. This period of joblessness forced Brij to reflect deeply on her career and aspirations. It was then that the seeds of Brij The Gap Consulting were sown. She envisioned a platform that would provide a thorough playbook for underrepresented individuals, equipping them with strategies and insights to excel in their careers.

 

The Impact of Brij The Gap Consulting

Brij The Gap Consulting offers a wealth of resources tailored to the unique challenges faced by people of color and other underrepresented groups. The firm’s initiatives are designed not only to benefit the employees but also to educate leaders on how to better support and coach their diverse teams. This dual approach fosters a more supportive workplace culture where everyone can thrive.

One of the standout offerings from Brij The Gap is Thrive in Color, a comprehensive playbook that addresses various workplace scenarios and challenges. While it is particularly beneficial for people of color, its insights and tools are universally applicable, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to advance their career. Moreover,  Thrive in Color encourages leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue and develop solutions that enhance understanding and equity.

 

Advocating for Healthy Self-Advocacy

Central to Devika’s philosophy is the concept of self-advocacy. She emphasizes that self-advocacy does not have to be aggressive or boastful. Instead, she promotes “healthy entitlement” or “humble bragging”—advocating for oneself using data and key facts. This approach empowers individuals to confidently showcase their achievements and prepare for career advancement.

Devika believes that self-advocacy is essential for professional growth. By teaching individuals how to advocate for themselves effectively, she helps them overcome barriers and achieve their career goals. Her approach transforms self-advocacy from a negative connotation into a powerful tool for success.

Devika Brij’s work with Brij The Gap Consulting is making a significant impact in the corporate world. By providing underrepresented talent with the tools and resources they need to succeed, and by educating leaders on how to support diverse teams, Devika is helping to create more equitable and supportive workplaces. Her journey from experiencing bias in the tech industry to becoming a champion for equity and empowerment serves as an inspiration for many. Through Brij The Gap Consulting, Devika Brij is not only bridging gaps but also building bridges to a better, more inclusive future.

For more on Devika and Brij The Gap: Website | Instagram

Grab your copy of Thrive in Color on Amazon now!

Dr. Sheria Rowe: Educator and Business Leader Bridging Education and Entrepreneurship

Dr. Sheria Rowe is a dynamic force in both academia and the business world, where she navigates multiple roles with finesse and commitment. As the Assistant Dean and Associate Professor at the School of Business at Saint Augustine University in Raleigh, North Carolina, Dr. Rowe integrates her extensive experience in business, marketing, management, finance, and accounting to offer a comprehensive perspective to her students. Her approach to education is a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, providing students with a well-rounded understanding of the business landscape.

Dr. Rowe’s impact extends beyond the classroom. As the president of Business Mogul, LLC, Moguls Matter Foundation, and Mogul Home, she leads with a vision that encompasses entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and community engagement. Her ability to manage these diverse roles requires careful planning and dedication, ensuring that each venture receives the attention it deserves.

In discussing her path to success and advice for students seeking to follow in her footsteps, Dr. Rowe emphasizes the importance of mentorship and a supportive network. “It’s essential to have mentors who can guide you, critique you constructively, and direct you towards your goals,” she says. “A board of directors is equally important—people who will advocate for you in rooms you aren’t in, or wouldn’t be in without them.” Additionally, she encourages students to be open to learning, coachable, and resilient in the face of challenges. “The good will always outweigh the bad,” she adds. “Persevere, and don’t give up.

The broader “Mogul” brand serves as the umbrella for Dr. Rowe’s various ventures. The brand’s logo, a puzzle piece with one section missing, symbolizes the interconnectedness of her businesses, with the Moguls Matter Foundation serving as the vital piece that connects everything. Each venture serves a distinct purpose: Mogul Home caters to home decor, Business Mogul Magazine focuses on entrepreneurship and business news, and Moguls Matter Foundation is dedicated to giving back to the community.

For those interested in exploring or supporting the Mogul brand, there are multiple ways to get involved. You can learn more about Moguls Matter Foundation by visiting mogulsmatter.org. For home decor needs, check out themogulhome.com. To stay updated on the latest business trends, visit thebusinessmogul.com.

Through her multifaceted career and dedication to mentorship, Dr. Sheria Rowe exemplifies the spirit of a true mogul—someone who succeeds in business and positively impacts the world around her.

 

Anisha Grimmett: Crafting Style and Empowerment with a New Look by Nisha 

From a young age, Anisha Grimmett was immersed in the world of fashion, a passion inspired by her mother, who often sewed and created clothes with a unique sense of style and creativity. This early exposure laid the foundation for what would later become her career as a personal stylist and founder of “A New Look by Nisha.”

Rediscovering Fashion through Career Guidance

 Anisha Grimmett’s journey to becoming a personal stylist wasn’t immediate. She began her career in engineering, then transitioned to the nonprofit sector, where she focused on college and career readiness. While guiding students toward their future careers, she often discussed the importance of pursuing one’s passions and hobbies. It was during these conversations that Anisha rediscovered her passion for fashion, realizing how much she enjoyed creating unique looks and connecting with others who shared her enthusiasm for style.

Corporate Experience and Personal Style 

With over 20 years of experience in the corporate world, Anisha understood the balance between professional appearance and personal style. She emphasized that working in corporate America doesn’t mean sacrificing individuality. This belief became a cornerstone of her approach to styling, where she encouraged clients to embrace their style, even in professional settings.

This blend of corporate experience and a passion for fashion prompted Anisha to explore what it takes to become a personal stylist. Through extensive research and training, she began focusing on career women and those seeking to advance in life. Her unique background in engineering, management, and HR provided her with the skills to guide clients in discovering their style and using it to fuel their sense of purpose and passion.

Building a New Look by Nisha

Anisha’s process with clients goes beyond selecting outfits. She takes them on a journey of self-discovery, helping them set and refine goals that align with their style and aspirations. Over a 6-8 week period, she works with clients to identify what success looks like for them and how their clothing choices can support their ambitions.

Anisha’s commitment to her craft is evident in her ongoing pursuit of knowledge and growth. She has a mentor, attends mastermind classes, and participates in various networking opportunities to expand her understanding of the latest trends. She also joins different groups to stay current on fashion and styling techniques, ensuring she delivers the best possible experience to her clients.

Anisha Grimmett’s journey from a young fashion enthusiast to a respected personal stylist is a testament to her dedication, creativity, and passion. Through “A New Look by Nisha,” she empowers women to embrace their unique style and use it as a tool for personal and professional growth. Her work is not just about clothes; it’s about inspiring confidence and enabling women to reach their fullest potential.

 

To learn more about A New Look by Nisha, visit www.anewlookbynisha.com 

Instagram: @anewlookbynisha 

 

ABOUT THE RECAP REPORT

The Recap Report is an American news publication covering world news, trending celebrities, luxe lifestyle, business and the latest in sports and entertainment. 

© The Recap Report.