September (SIS) Sister in The Spotlight: Deaquelynn Williams

Deaquelynn Williams

 

 

Deaquelynn Williams is a humanitarian, life coach, author, Bible teacher, inspirational speaker and a social entrepreneur. In addition to founding Quelynn, Inc. she is also founder and executive director of A Light in the Dark Outreach, an organization that provides resources and programs for the homeless and youth.

Besides being a vision and life coach, Deaquelynn also loves teaching teen girls through her program mPOWERd 4 LIFE Girls Network; where she facilitates free monthly intensives for girls of all ages teaching social manners, etiquette, and abstinence with a focus on esteem-building workshops and performing arts.

In addition to serving her community through her organizations, Deaquelynn has served as focus group facilitator for the Sickle Cell Clinic Transition Group at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. She is the co-founder of Talitha Cumi Mentoring Program for girls; and currently she facilitates empowerment sessions at various shelters in the Greater Birmingham, Alabama Community.

·      

     Please share with us when and why you decided to begin Quelynn, Inc.

Quelynn, Inc. in the business/ministry that God gave me in 2005 after I prayed and asked Him for a business that would serve Him and allow me to generate an income. Through Quelynn, Inc., I have been blessed to help women all over the world to grow in their relationship with God, build what I like to call “GODfidence”, start their own businesses, and even become women of virtue as prescribed in Proverbs 31.

I decided to start Quelynn, Inc. after I wrote a booklet entitled, “The Meeting of Success” teaching seven keys to obtaining success from defining one’s personal definition of success to writing their vision and implementing strategies and action steps to their journey of success.

·         

     What is the Mission of your ministry?

The mission of Quelynn, Inc. is to catapult women to their wealthy place through spiritual empowerment, vision development and personal enhancement coaching and training that builds their confidence, ignites their passion and defines their purpose.

·         

     In the beginning, was it a difficult for you sharing your personal testimonies or translating your thoughts in an open forum? If so, how did you overcome?

Yes, it was extremely difficult. I recall the Lord telling me to share my first personal testimony of overcoming a bitter divorce at a women’s conference I hosted in 2003. I begged God not to put that burden on me, but eventually I obeyed. When I shared that testimony I literally cried from beginning to end. It was a struggle to be so open and raw about my personal experience. However, it was through my obedience, that God set me free from being ashamed of my past and my testimonies. Although I was free of the shame, it was still difficult to speak of at first but the more I shared the easier it became and now I’m able to share with ease knowing that my story helps others to overcome.

·         

      Tell us a little more about mPOWERd 4 LIFE Girls Network Ministry.

mPOWERd 4 LIFE GirlsNetwork was birth out of my desire to help young ladies not to go down the same path I chose of promiscuity. It started hosting girl conferences, retreats, monthly sessions to now having virtual internet classes. Through mPOWERd 4 LIFE I teach young ladies to value their virtue while incorporating life skills, esteem building, and even abstinence.

·         

      Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers?

Yes. Don’t look to media and the images they portray as women as the standard because it’s not. As women of God (of all ages) remember above all that you represent your Heavenly Father in all aspects of your life from your inner beauty to your outer appearance and how you interact with others. Always be mindful of this and present yourself accordingly. Remember, as daughters of the Most High God, we are supposed to be world transformers and not world conformers. Regardless of what images are be portrayed on television, we have to choose to be better.

·       

     Before we close, will you share with us your favorite scripture?

The very first Scripture that ministered to my heart and changed my life was Matthew 5:16 which says, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in Heaven.” From that, my prayer has always been, “Lord, let me be a light so that You may be glorified through my life.”

To find more information regarding either ministry or to connect with Deaquelynn Williams, visit her websites below.

Quelynn.Inc.

http://www.quelynnincorporated.com/

mPOWERd 4 LIFE Girls Network

http://www.mpowerd4life.org/

Thank you so much Deaquelynn for sharing with us. May the Lord bless you above and beyond what you ask, think or imagine.

 

August SIS (Sister In The Spotlight): LaShonda Crawford

Elder LaShonda Crawford

 

Here is a little background information to help you get a little familiar with Elder LaShonda.

Elder LaShonda Crawford is an accomplished speaker, motivator, and teacher.  Her passion and vision are to share the gospel of Jesus Christ to all that she can reach.  LaShonda Crawford was ordained as an elder in 2006 by The UCCI School of Divinity. Elder Crawford married her husband, Maurio, in 2003.  Together they are raising three children, Danielle, Hannah and Chancellor.
 
Elder Crawford currently oversees the ministerial staff at Emmanuel Baptist Church in the city of Thomasville, NC. and presently serves as the Vice President of Marketing at B2L, a marketing & technology focused company.  She is a woman of passion, determination, and motivation.  She is not only a preacher and teacher but she is also a Spiritual, Life, & Business Coach, Motivational Speaker, Workshop Facilitator, & Mom-preneur. 

Desiring to enrich and empower the whole woman and with the ever expanding need of mentorship for women in business, her ministry, “Rizen” has established “The Prosp-Her Summit”. The inaugural event is scheduled for Fall of 2013. Bringing together students, local businesswomen, and aspiring business owners for networking and professional development. The summit’s primary objective is to provide tactical skills and knowledge that will enable women to build or continue strong careers in a weakened or strong economy.

As the Editor-N-Chief of “One E-Magazine” she fosters growth and positive thinking among the body of Christ. As the founder of The Trayon Marsh Child Abuse Awareness Foundation, she focuses on raising the awareness & further preventing child abuse within our communities. This foundation was established in memory of her own son, Trayon Marsh who became a victim of child abuse and died in 1999.

           
 LaShonda is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Arts at the University of Phoenix. As she normally says, “Through God we can do anything! Nothing is too hard for the God we serve.” With Him, Elder LaShonda Crawford will continue moving forward & doing great things in His name.

Please share some information regarding your ministry (when and why you decided to begin). 

RiZen, formally known as Women of Seasons was established in 2003. I can recall sitting in front of my television watching Bishop TD Jakes’ Maximize the Moment.  I had just lost my home, I was a single mother and I had to move back in my parents’ home for the first time. I had just got over the emotionalism of everything and began to look at my situation in a positive way. This gave me the opportunity to gain a closer walk with God. I had to loose my freedom in order to gain freedom. I had to loose my independence in order to learn to be dependent on Him.  My mind was focused and my spirit was hungry and that night Bishop TD Jakes spoke to me through his seminar. I sat there and heard God through him encourage the people and I heard God say in the midst of that message, “Women of Seasons”. 

You recently launched your own magazine. Is it available in print and online? Could you share with us what one could look forward to in each edition? How often it is released and how can they make sure they don’t miss a copy?

The One eMagazine was established in 2012. Currently this magazine can be found at http://issuu.com/oneemagazine.  This subscription is currently free in order to bless the readers with positive information that will edify individuals through education, relationship, spiritual and life principals.  One eMagazine is released bimonthly and eventually be available for print in the near future. In this issue you will find articles covering the subjects of divorced women, college students, financial education, politics and more.

Tell the readers something you would like for them to leave with.

Along with One eMagazine, we also offer “Ministry-N-Minutes”, as the media counterpart of the ministry.  Daily video posts are shared to empower and motivate viewers throughout their walk with Christ.  You can visit us on You Tube (username: Women of Seasons) to subscribe to our channel and be notified when new videos are loaded. Also, anyone can visit our website at www.MinistryNMinutes.com

Please share your favorite scripture or quote.

My favorite scripture is Romans 8:28, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose”, as well as Proverbs 31:30, “Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.”

July SIS (Sister in the Spotlight) : Kennisha Hill

Kennisha Hill

 Welcome Kennisha. Please tell us a little about you.

I am an author of fiction and non-fiction books, a motivational speaker, journalist and the Founder and Chief Operator of NyreePress Literary Coaching Group. My novel series, The Tamara Files, consist of the books Awakened and Uncovered and my latest book release is a memoir entitled “Once Upon A Child.” I am passionate about sharing words of hope, grace and empowerment in every area of my career. It is a delight to help other’s discover the grace of God in their lives and operate in their gifts.

Information regarding your ministry (when and why did you begin.)

I have always been writing with a heart to help people. It all started when I was a little girl journaling and creating stories for my mom. Fast forward 25 years later, God revisited my desire to write and gripped my heart to serve him in that way. I started blogging, writing freelance articles and penned my first book-- a devotional entitled “Simply Wisdom.” God has given me messages of grace and truth for ordinary life. That’s my aim and my mission and by God’s grace I hope to continue walking this path as long as I can.

What is the Vision of your ministry?

My vision is to simply share grace and truth for women in books and blogs and to inspire and motivate people to do what they are called to do. That’s my vision. I equip people to walk in grace, truth and purpose in their everyday lives.

Share some information regarding your latest book. What or who inspired you to write your book? At this point, do you see any more books in your future? Was it a difficult process sharing your thoughts or translating your thoughts to paper when you wrote your first book?

My latest book is a memoir entitled “Once Upon A Child: Finding Grace After a Pregnancy Loss.” This book chronicles my journey after experiencing three pregnancy losses after marriage. God has shown me a lot about his love and tenderness for us during our times of suffering. This book shares that message of hope for many women who deal with such a tragedy. I recently experienced another miscarriage at 15 weeks-- and it happened just weeks after the book released. It was equally devastating, but God continues to show me why I needed to write this book. I needed it too.

This book did bring me great challenges. Writing a memoir can be challenging because in order to grip your readers with the truth of your story, you have to go back and sort of relive where you’ve been. I had to do that with Once Upon A Child. Many nights it brought me to tears. Mostly, the Lord just reminded me of the purpose of that book and that he’ll help me get through it to serve as a blessing to others.

You have written several books with small children. What would you say to those who may think 

they don’t have the time or that it cannot be done? 

It is very possible to be a full-time mommy and have a career / ministry at the same time. The key is prioritizing. My children--my home-- is my first ministry. The bulk of my day is filled with arts and crafts, coloring, dolls, toy dishes and superhero men. We dance and love each other all day. I always keep them in mind as first before any work is done. Pray and ask God to show you the best way to manage your home and he will. He’ll give you the strength to do it. By the way, having a great calendar on my Macbook and iPhone makes my life easy! (smile)

It seems as if your books are being written rather quickly. What would you say to someone who may find it challenging to finish their book and may be beginning to become discouraged?

Don’t give up! It takes time to pen a book together, but once you find your niche, you’ll be just fine. Writers write very differently. When people learn of new books of mine that release, they are always surprised. I believe the Lord gives me the ideas and the ability to type fast. I’d like to encourage aspiring writers to not give up. Consider how you can make room for writing in your life and when you find the space, start writing. Don’t give yourself extra stress over a deadline. Take your time!

Now you know I am a fan of Tamara. The character in Awakened and Uncovered. When can we expect Captured? 

Thanks, Aretha! Captured is almost finished and I hope to have it published in early 2013!

Great! I'm looking forward to it!

Will there be any more Sequels?

It’s possible. Tamara is really just getting comfortable with her career as a government agent. There’s definitely room for another book to follow Captured. If not a full length novel, it’ll release as a novella or a short story series!

Tell the readers something you would like for them to leave with.

God loves you tenderly, has a perfect plan for your life and has already equipped you with the ability to deliver. Your gifts were given to you so that Christ may get the glory out of your life. We glorify the Lord by being fully satisfied in him.. and when we are satisfied in Him alone, it’ll reflect in our work performance and success. Trust the Lord and allow him to guide your path!

Please share your favorite scripture or quote.

I have many favorite scripture verses. Lately, 2 Corinthians 12:9 has been encouraging me. It reads, “But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. ”Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”

I also love this quote!  “God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.”-John Piper

To purchase

Amazon Kindle $.99 http://www.amazon.com/Once-Upon-A-Child-ebook/dp/B0085FLE52/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1340637162&sr=1-1&keywords=kennisha+hill

Hardcopy https://www.createspace.com/3836454 

Thank you so much for taking time to share with us. It is always a pleasure. You are such a sweetheart. I am always here to support you and your ministry. God Bless You!  

If you have  never purchased one of Kennisha Hill's books, you are definitely in for a treat. You will not be disappointed!!!

Featured June 2012 Sister In The Spotlight: Robin Shockley

Co-founder, Facilitator, Minister, Speaker, Writer, of

Legacy Tree Ministries

Brief Background on Minister Robin Shockley:

Robin Shockley is a part time employee in the corporate world but a full time servant to her family and ministry. She is the Co-Founder of Legacy Tree Ministries where she is devoted to communicate the truth of God's word in a way that will draw women into a love relationship with Jesus. Robin is passionate about encouraging a woman to see her worth, her value and her importance as a power of Godly influence in today's world. She does this by speaking at conferences and retreats as well as the small intimate settings of bible study. She desires to trigger the mind to think and focus on all the possibilities that God has for His people. She enjoys teaching women the importance to be real with yourself before you can be real with anyone else. She feels it's time to forget the past and press forward with new beginnings. She and her husband Gene are Elders and Robin serves as a Mentor to women under the Mentor program at their church Redemption World Outreach Center in Greenville SC. She is active in the community with various programs and other ministries. Robin has received her ministry ordination through Redemption Ministerial Fellowship International and she in the process of having the Legacy Ladies mentoring documents copyrighted. She has spent the last five years with other women training them for mentoring and leadership. Robin enjoys writing, taking trips and spending time with family. She has been married for 22 years and she resides in Greenville SC with her family whom she has the privilege to serve with in ministry. She is a true example of a woman who was changed from a "boxed in" religion mindset to a God given personal relationship with our heavenly Father. Robin also coordinates outreach events in her community representing Girls gifted 4 God, which is a branch ministry connected to Legacy Tree Ministries. She and her daughter organize functions to help educate women about the inner beauty and that each one has a unique gift given by God for a purpose.

Overview of Robin’s Testimony:

I am the legacy of a teen pregnancy. My mother was 17 yrs old when she gave birth to me and for years I struggled with rejection from my biological father because he left when I was less than a year old. Though I grew up in a loving home with a wonderful family and was fully accepted by all whom I made contact with, the enemy trapped me into believing I had to strive to be “perfect” to be accepted by God since my birth father did not want me. Though outwardly I was smiling, inside I was dying. I had no identity. I remember in 3rd grade writing on a piece of paper " I hate myself" on every blank area of that paper during class while the teacher was speaking. I covered my emotions up so well by putting demands of control on my family. I carried this rejection into my marriage. After a few years into my marriage, I took some sleeping pills hoping to not wake up the next morning but God had a plan. I fought so hard to have a perfect life, it caused me to almost lose everything because of that. I did not understand "life happens" and you have to deal with it by leaning on and trusting God. This identity crisis finally broke in chaos when I swayed from my family and turned to the world's lifestyle. I was manipulated by the excitement of not having to be perfect and live free. What I did not understand was I really wasn't experiencing true freedom. A little over 7 years ago, I found out I was anemic. That was about the time God began speaking to my spirit about the woman with the issue of blood. She did all she could do to get to the hem of Jesus garment to receive her healing. I felt like this woman. I knew not only was I physically sick, I was spiritually and emotionally sick. I had been to church all my life, but I was so "boxed in" by religion I did not know what true freedom meant. Until, God spoke to me in church one day that he can restore my soul unto HIS salvation by repenting to receive a pure and clean heart. At that moment, I realized I could be fully healed. Later that week while driving the Lord showed me a vision that was so clear that he hated my sin, but he loved me, despite all my imperfections. That day was a stepping stone to real freedom. And I've never looked back since.

Today, my family is restored and we serve in ministry together because I made a choice to stand in the gap. I refused to let the enemy of my mind win. Legacy Tree Ministries started out as writings of visions, dreams and devotions that God gave me over the course of 20 something years to leave behind as a legacy for my family. But three years ago he spoke to me in the middle of the night that this legacy will spread and it will not be for just my generational line. We now have several branches of the ministry where different members of my family reach out to others through singing, speaking and writing. God's hand has been on me even before I was born and as Jeremiah 29:11 says, He knew the plans and it was to do good and to bring me a future - a future to share and testify that real freedom reigns in relationship with Christ and not in religion. Psalm 145:4 "one generation shall command your works to another and shall declare your mighty acts". Today I am a testimony and I am declaring His mighty acts with all who I come in contact with. Just recently God has called my husband and I to serve the community we grew up in. Our hearts desire is to do more for individuals through mentoring families such as providing a place for teaching and training for them to build their own legacy life.

Robin's Favorite Bible Verses and Quotes:

The task ahead of you is never as great as the power within you.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me Philippians 4:13

But if you look at me closely, you will see in my eyes, this girl will always
find her way.

Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. 1 Peter 4:10

Restoration with God is multiplication. He not only restores you, but he multiplies you. ~ Apostle Ron Carpenter Jr.

He is like a tree planted by streams of water which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. Psalm 1:3


I like to leave you with the thought to close your eyes and imagine who you desired to be as a little girl. Maybe you dreamed of being a teacher, a singer, or a nurse. I encourage you to write these memories down and ask God steps you can take to bring this dream alive again in your heart. You dream is not dead, it is only sleeping. Arise o sleeper and take up your bed and walk it out! The best is yet to come and you have a destiny designed just for you to impact your world!

You can learn more about the ministry vision God has birthed in me by contacting me at robin@legacytreeministries or either on my family website www.legacytreeministries.com. Legacy Tree Ministries & Girls gifted 4 God are both on FACEBOOK.

Thank you so much Minister Robin Shockley for being transparent and giving us words of encouragement.Your heart for God really shines through. The seeds you have sown is sure to reap a harvest.  May God continue to pour blessings upon you and your ministries.