Our very own, Founder and Executive Director, Dr. Jacquelyn Wilson will be a special speaker at this year’s Bags & Breast Cancer Awareness Lunch.
On Saturday, April 29th, 2017 from 12:00 noon until 3:00 PM, guests will enjoy a beautiful afternoon of activities that include brunch and drinks, and special speakers for the afternoon. In addition to Dr. Wilson, guest will be honored with another special speaker, LaTonya Smiley, Founder and CEO of Eve’s Roses http://2liveunbroken.com
The event will take place in South Amboy, New Jersey, hosted by the lovely Miss Tracey Hamilton.
Guests are encouraged to R.S.V.P as soon as possible to, Blessintra@yahoo.com/347.295.8970. If you cannot attend, but still would like to donate, please visit our Giving Back page and click on the link to make a donation. No amount is too small.
Bonus! We have a few more women we want to acknowledge this March! #SurpriseTheStruggling’s thirty-third highlight this month is the invaluable and dedicated Vanessa E-El—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s friend, supporter and event strategist for our yearly Gift-Giving Extravaganza. We are no stranger to Vanessa and her dedication to the support of local organizations and businesses. We were fortunate to team up with this beautiful soul on many different occasions, including our sister organization, The Stop Bullying Project®.
Vanessa has long had the reputation for stellar and unparalleled business acumen. Her work ethics and sincerity while working with clients have set her apart, raising the bar for many others in Project Management and Events. We are grateful that we have had the opportunity to work with Vanessa and to also have her represent who we are as an organization.
Vanessa E-El, The Event Strategist
It is important to #STSGlobal to meet the needs of the people where they are…period. Often times, success will blind us and make us forget about the struggles that others may be experiencing. So it is paramount that those who work with us, volunteer and represent us as Ambassadors, are of the same mind when it comes to our goals, vision, and mission. Vanessa not only understands who we are and what we want as an organization and a brand. She embodies the mission and spirit of #STSGlobal wholeheartedly.
We are profoundly grateful to all that Vanessa has shared with us over the years. Her organization skills, her people skills, her dedication and commitment to seeing a job through and to her clients, and whom she represents, have forever endeared Vanessa to our hearts.
Vanessa E-El—Friend, Consummate Professional, Event Strategist, Project Manager—is a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) known as The Event Strategist. She is an expert in event and project management, with over 20 years of experience. She has managed hundreds of corporate, nonprofit, and social events both in the U.S. and abroad. Vanessa excels as an independent onsite event planner for meetings, trade shows, and conferences for major corporations such as S&P Global, Oracle, Bloomberg, and JP Morgan. After years of honing her skills, she received her CMP designation in 2010. Vanessa brings her flair for cultivating strategic alliances, brainstorming, creative resourcing, and expert event logistics to every client in order to make dreams happen. Connect with Vanessa https://www.facebook.com/VanessaTheEventStrategist
We salute you, Vanessa E-El! Thank you for being a dedicated friend and supporter throughout the years! We stand with a grateful heart, having you as part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
Bonus! We have a few more ladies we want to acknowledge this March, as we are celebrating Women’s History Month. #SurpriseTheStruggling’s thirty-second highlight this month is the encouraging and inspirational Nichole Bailey—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s benevolent and kindhearted supporter and Ambassador with a heart of gold. Nichole has lent of voice and given her support to our organization in so many ways. The love in her heart for what we are doing is just a testament to her faith, who she is, and what she believes.
When you are beginning a business, organization, or a job, you have a burning in your heart and spirit to do something in a way that no one else has. It is imperative to have a level of faith and a circle of support and encouragement that are not afraid to lift you up and pray for you and your success from a clear and pure heart—no strings attached.
Nichole Bailey, Change Agent, Bits of Faith
Nichole has given this to us. Her words and support have encouraged us and enabled us to push through any negativity and doubtful times. To know, that someone we had just met would go so far to be of help and assistance to us, means more to us and our organization than she will ever know.
#STSGlobal is not just an organization but also a family. We are a family that cares about our staff, volunteers, and Ambassadors, and our consumers. It is important to us always to represent our faith and to convey that hope to those we meet. When we think of Nichole, she embodies this same principles and beliefs. She is a reflection of our mission and is not afraid to meet the people where they are at, and not only meet their physical needs but also their spiritual needs.
We are profoundly grateful to Nichole for choosing to be a part of the #STSGlobal family. To assist, encourage, and support in so many different ways. Her spirit shines brightly and her legacy that she is creating is phenomenal. She is blessed, and we are profoundly blessed for knowing her.
Nichole Bailey—Wife, Mother, Change Agent, Motivator, Writer, Server—is the founder and creator of Bits of Faith, a place where positive affirmations serve as a catalyst for your growth and healing. Bits of Faith provide its visitors and readers with a regimen of inspiration, motivation, and encouragement. Visit the website to learn more, http://bitsoffaith.net/ Follow on FB and IG, https://www.facebook.com/Bits-Of-Faith-778903188893879/https://www.instagram.com/bitsoffaith1/
We salute you, Nichole Bailey! Thank you for being a constant source of encouragement and a reminder to have faith! We stand with a heart full of love and gratitude, having you as part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
Continuing our celebration of Women’s History Month, #SurpriseTheStruggling’s thirty-first highlight this month is the courageous and inspiring Nicole DeRosa aka Cakes by Coley—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s day one supporter, and friend, and our very own Cake Genius! Nicole has been a supporter beginning with our sister organization, The Stop Bullying Project®. Even through difficult times, Nicole has been a constant support to our organization. Her dedication and courage to continue to push past every obstacle in her path have inspired us.
We believe that you are a reflection of those you surround yourself. It is an honor to know and be friends with Nicole. Her strength is an encouragement never to give up on your dreams and your passion. Her courage in the face of adversity reminds us that not every day will be the greatest but if you are willing to push ahead, you will get to where you want and need to be.
Nicole DeRosa, Cakes by Coley, Cake Artist
Nicole embodies the essence and heart of the #STSGlobal mission. Her support and friendship have been invaluable to both of our organizations. We honor her today as a woman making history because she is creating a legacy that goes beyond beautiful and delicious cakes. (Believe us, her cakes are divine and her decorating skills above par!) A legacy comprised of her determination, strength, and courage. Nicole could have given up after two devastating losses and setbacks but she moved forward, even though it seemed impossible. Her determination is infectious and her heart and compassion are awe—inspiring.
We are so grateful to have met this beautiful woman and have the opportunity to be inspired by her story. Nicole’s character speaks for itself. Her workmanship, artistry, and work ethic are evident in every cake she creates, and every interaction she has with a longtime customer or someone new. You will always receive the best.
Experience the passion and love that Nicole pours into her work. Become acquainted with Cakes by Coley, and you will understand the woman and heart behind the brand and taste the love in every bite.
Nicole “Coley” DeRosa—Survivor, Fighter, Entrepreneur, Businesswoman, Cake Artist, Baker Extraordinaire, Champion—is the proud owner and creator of Cakes by Coley LLC, a custom cake company located in Brooklyn, NY, specializing in amazing, delicious and one-of-a-kind creations for any and every occasion. Their mission is to provide beautiful works of edible art that are just as tasty as they are breathtaking. They pride themselves on providing outstanding service, focusing on superb attention to detail, and practicing expert artisanship with every one of their creations, no matter the size or price. They work hard continuously to exceed the expectations of all of their customers.
We salute you, Nicole “Coley” DeRosa! Thank you for being an example of strength, courage, and example of how to overcome obstacles with grace! You inspire us every single day! We stand with a heart full of love and happiness, proud to have you as part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling and The Stop Bullying Project® Family!
We continue our celebration of Women’s History Month! #SurpriseTheStruggling’s thirtieth highlight this month is the most caring and dedicated Tonikwa “Precious” Johnson—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s day one supporter, friend, family and number one Staten Island Ambassador. Tonikwa has been a long supporter of ours beginning with The Stop Bullying Project®. She has shown dedication, love, and a willingness to go above and beyond to support #STSGlobal mission to meet people where they’re at, surprising them in the midst of their struggles, letting them know that there are people who care about them and are not seeking to take from them, but only to give.
From the very onset of birthing #Surprisethestruggling, Tonikwa has been right there. She has been a major part of the success and reason for one of our most wonderful programs, #Surprisethestruggling Baby Shower. With Tonikwa’s dedication and foresight, we were able to implement a successful program that allows us to go into a woman’s shelter for mother and children—some who may have been the victim of domestic violence—and surprise them with a Baby Shower. Thanks to Tonikwa’s efforts and commitment, we are able not only to bestow the essentials upon these mothers for their newborn but also for the mothers themselves.
Tonikwa Precious Johnson, Staten Island Chief Ambassador, Teacher
Many people begin with you and are excited to be a part of the beginning stages of what seems like a good idea. They may even stay through the first couple of hurdles, but soon their involvement and dedication wane and you find yourself standing alone. Tonikwa has shown that she embodies the spirit and mission of #STSGlobal wholeheartedly and is with us for the long haul.
As our number one Staten Island Chief Ambassador, Tonikwa has made herself an invaluable part of the #STSGlobal family. She is an example of the kind of woman who is building a legacy of greatness, selflessness, and kindness. Truly, there really are no words that can aptly convey, what we feel in our hearts for this beautiful young woman who is making a difference in so many lives. We are excited to see what other great things come from our “Precious” Ambassador.
We not only honor Tonikwa today, we also celebrate her Birthday! It is with profound gratitude that we thank God for Tonikwa. For allowing us to share the gift that she is to so many. We are humbled by her dedication and commitment and ask that God will bless her in every endeavor that He has ordained for her life. Tonikwa deserves the moon and the stars, and we are believing that she will receive a hundred times over the love and generosity she has given to us.
Tonikwa “Precious” Johnson—Daughter, Sister, Friend, Teacher, Volunteer, Chief Ambassador—is a woman of dedication who gives selflessly to her family and friends. Tonikwa is a teacher’s assistant at United Cerebral Palsy and is currently studying for her degree in Early Childhood Education. Be certain to connect with her on FB: https://www.facebook.com/tonikwa.p.johnson
We salute you, Tonikwa Johnson! Your light shines brightly and inspires us each day to give and be our best. We stand with a heart full of love and gratitude, proud and grateful to have you as part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
Our celebration of Women’s History Month continues! #SurpriseTheStruggling’s twenty-ninth highlight this month is the uncompromising and incomparable PR maven Jewell Flint—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s day one supporter and friend beginning with our sister organization, The Stop Bullying Project®. Jewell has witnessed our growth and development as organizations and brand. She reminds us of how important it is to project who we are and what we stand for with honesty and integrity through her actions as an individual.
When you think of the kind of people, you want to surround yourself with; the kind of people who can add to who you are as a human being, Jewell comes to mind. Many people say who they are and what they can do for you. Often, their actions do not match what they speak. More times than not, what they are trying to offer you are something they have not mastered in their own lives. This cannot be said of Jewell.
Jewell Flint, Brand Strategist and Marketing and Public Relations Manager, Everything Girls Love
Authenticity is what you receive from Jewell. Her spirit and heart are transparent in the work that she does. Her business and personal ethics are above reproach because she lives what she speaks, and she is the kind of person that you want in your corner and on your team. You know exactly where you stand and what you are getting with Jewell—whether it is friendship, business, or advice. There are no smoke and mirrors. What you see is what you get, and it is 100% authentic.
Jewell wholeheartedly embodies the spirit and mission of #STSGlobal. Her work ethic, her commitment, her dedication, her drive; are all something that we watch and strive to emulate when working with others—no matter who they are or their socio-economic status. YOU are your brand. What you present represents who you are. We thank Jewell for her support, encouragement and the opportunities to be our authentic selves while reaching out and changing lives for the better.
Jewell Flint—Brand Strategist, Marketing/Public Relations Manager, Resource Queen, Information Specialist, Communications Strategist—is Marketing and Public Relations manager at Everything Girls Love, Brand Strategist & Integrated marketing manager at Bond Brand Management, and Brand Manager at Gemini Virgin Hair Co.
Everything Girls Love is a place where femininity rules. They personify the phrase Girl Power, striving to be that special place women can come to for fashion, information, comfort, and empowerment. Check out their website for more information. http://everythinggirlslove.com/ Be certain to follow Jewell on her journey as Brand Strategist and Public Relations Maven, https://www.facebook.com/jewell.flint IG: https://www.instagram.com/jewell_flint/
We salute you, Jewell Flint! Your light, business acumen, ethics, and stellar personality inspire us always to be our best and to put our very best forward. We stand with a humbled heart, proud to have you as part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
In continuing our celebration of Women’s History Month, #SurpriseTheStruggling’s twenty-eighth highlight this month is the enterprising and unforgettable radio personality LaShawn Lukes—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s host with the most supporter from Long Island, New York. LaShawn has been a friend to both #STSGlobal and our sister organization, The Stop Bullying Project®.
Our slogan at #STSGlobal is simple: “We Meet The People Where They’re At…Period!” Not only does LaShawn embody the spirit of our mission, but also the essence of our slogan. When you have gone through some tough times in your life and you survive? You make the most of each day that God grants you. Lashawn has taken advantage of each day that she is blessed to see, and has given her time to uplift, support, and make a positive change and impact in her community. She is a champion for the people and an Activist ready to make a change in the lives she encounters.
LaShawn Lukes, Community Activist, Radio Personality, Long Island Edge Radio
This is what LaShawn brings and offers to the #Surprisethestruggling family. Her support and willingness to bring our mission and cause to the forefront enabled us to reach an even broader audience. She has honored the work that we do by affording us a new platform in which to speak from, making people aware of who and what we are about at #STSGlobal.
It is not uncommon to see the philanthropic side of Lashawn, in addition to her business savvy. She is a businessperson that gives back in various ways. By giving voice and a spotlight to many who may never have been heard of, she allows individuals, organizations, and businesses an opportunity to promote who they are.
We thank Lashawn for being a part of the #STSGlobal mission and helping us to shine like diamonds, and for being a part of the reason we are able to do what we do, and touch the many lives that we have and will continue to.
LaShawn Lukes— Co-founder, Radio Personality, Empowerment Activist, Blogger, Director of Bag Lady the Photo Experience, Production Coordinator, Public Speaker—is Owner-operator at Exclusive NYC the Blog and Co-Founder and Partner at Long Island Edge Radio. Exclusive NYC the Blog connects you to the Elite New York Life Style from Food and spirits to the trendiest fashion—the hip Chronicle of NYC. https://exclusivenyc.wordpress.com/ Follow LaShawn on IG, https://www.instagram.com/sweetlifeofla/
Long Island Edge Radio—The most anticipated full functional radio station in Long Island, NY bringing you talk, hip hop, reggae, kompa, gospel, current events and so much more. The future of internet radio, Long Island Edge Radio is a long Island New York based adult contemporary online station and media production powerhouse directly connecting the people to music, media, current events, news, fashion, lifestyle, and what’s trending. They pay close attention to the community and provide a platform for all to be heard. LONG ISLAND EDGE RADIO is the voice of the people. http://longislandedgeradio.com/about-us/https://www.facebook.com/longislandedgeradio/
We salute you, Lashawn Lukes! Your spirit, activism, and work in the community inspire us every day to walk in our greatness. We stand with a heart of gratitude and graciousness to have you as part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
Our celebration of Women’s History Month continues. #SurpriseTheStruggling’s twenty-seventh highlight this month is a dynamic duo of dedication and motivation; kind of like having a double shot espresso, the team of Janine Smalls-Gueye and Lanise Herman-Thomas—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s reminder of how powerful sisterhood is, and how much you can accomplish when we work together with a spirit of support, understanding, and determination.
Each woman deserves to be singled out for their generosity and valuable time that they so generously give towards the success of #STSGlobal and carrying our mission forward. In their own right and as individuals Janine and Lanise are exemplary in all that they do. They give of themselves, each bringing to the table something unique and inspiring. Yet, as a team, they have proven to be even more impactful and leading example that one: women can work together and birth something powerful. In addition, two: when women come together to build one another up; especially wives and mothers, there is absolutely nothing that can stop them from accomplishing their goals.
Lanise Herman-Thomas, Janine Smalls-Gueye, Founders of P.R.A.D.A. an NPO & Wife Mom Entrepreneur Community Platform
Janine and Lanise both embody the spirit and mission of #STSGlobal. Providing services that are needed, meeting the people where they’re at, forming a community that is a wealth of ongoing support, and encouraging and motivating others to take the necessary steps in their lives to be all that they desire to be.
The sisters have proven that visions and dreams to come to pass when you work together and have a team of support and people that believe in you. Janine and Lanise have more than proven that they believe in what #STSGlobal is doing. They believe in who we are as individuals, team members, and an organization. Janine and Lanise are beautiful examples of what love and dedication look like in action. We humbly accept and appreciate their advice, guidance, and friendship, as well as their support in our journey of helping others.
Janine Smalls-Gueye and Lanise Herman-Thomas—Wives, Mothers, Sisters, CEOs, Scholars, MPA, MBA, Entrepreneurs, Educators, Tutors, Motivators, Visionaries, Authors—are the CEOs and founders of not one but two organizations— Peoples Resource and Development Association, (P.R.A.D.A) and Wife Mom Entrepreneur—that have been and are changing lives and communities, and making a difference in the lives of countless women every day.
Peoples Resource and Development Association, (P.R.A.D.A) a 501(c) 3 nonprofit was founded to assist low-income families, achieve stability and self-sufficiency through their programs. People’s Resource and Development Association mission is devoted to meeting the educational and developmental needs of children and adolescents while acknowledging and responding to the potential achievements and interdependence of their adults. Jessica Joseph is Program Director and Chantay Berry is Executive Assistant, http://pradanp.org FB: https://www.facebook.com/PRADANP/
Wife Mom Entrepreneur is a community organization and platform, whose purpose is to educate women on how successfully to juggle life as a wife, mom, and entrepreneur. Wife Mom Entrepreneur business consultant boutique offers: Business Advice/Solutions, Personal/Business Branding, Strategic Planning,
Marketing Services, Team/Partnership Building, and Start-Up Planning and Development. This amazing community of sisterhood— created for the women who are wives, moms, and entrepreneurs—offers a supportive place for women to share, as well as, educate other women successfully to juggle three of the most challenging yet fulfilling jobs. Their website offers tons of advice and a wealth of resources, and the opportunity to connect and network. https://www.wifemomentrepreneur.com/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/wifemomentrepreneur/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/wifemomentrepreneur/
We salute you, Janine Smalls-Gueye and Lanise Herman-Thomas! The legacy you are creating is inspiring and motivating. We are filled with extreme gratitude to have you both as part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
Continuing our celebration of Women’s History Month, #SurpriseTheStruggling’s twenty-sixth highlight this month is the inspirational and loyal-to-a-fault Charlene Stewart—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s example of loyalty and dedication; our tried and true New York Ambassador. That one that will show up no matter what is going on; no matter how tired she may be; no matter what obstacles appear to be in the way—Charlene is faithful to her word and her commitments. #STSGlobal is BLESSED to have this woman be a part of our family. To be able to call her Ambassador, friend, sister, is an honor.
Rarely do you meet people these days that jump in first and ask questions later. They see a need and ask what they can do to help make that need dissipate. This is who Charlene is. When she learned of #STSGlobal, she did not hesitate to ask, How do I become an Ambassador? Moreover, What can I do to help and spread the word?
Charlene Stewart, MPA, Actress, Community Organizer, Change Agent
Do you not understand how valuable those characteristics are in a person? How, it sets them apart and endears them, making them that much more special to you? Charlene is a very special woman who lays it all on the line every day for her family and close friends. She is the kind of woman that you desire to be on your team, in your corner, to have as a sister and a friend. She embodies the mission and spirit of #STSGlobal wholeheartedly, making her an irreplaceable part of the #Surprisethestruggling tribe, and our success.
We have watched day after day, month after month since becoming an Ambassador how supportive and interactive Charlene is. She is not a woman who just speaks something and does something different. No. She is a woman of her word; putting her actions behind what she says. Charlene is creating a legacy of greatness that her family for generations to come, can be proud of and follow in her footsteps. She is a trailblazer going after what God has promised her, and we honor her today.
Charlene Stewart—Wife, Mother, Administrator, Scholar, Advocate, Coach, Mentor, MPA Public, Actress, Community Organizer, Change Agent—is more than meets the eye. Alongside her list of accomplishments and accolades, Charlene currently works at the Community Coalition of East New York. She is the Community Visiting Coach and Community Representative at Bushwick Community Partnership Program. We encourage you to connect with Charlene on social media page: https://www.facebook.com/pinkAMETHYST35
We salute you, Charlene Stewart! You Rock! Your loyalty, commitment, heart, and spirit inspire us each day. We are humbled and grateful to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
Our celebration of Women’s History Month continues! #SurpriseTheStruggling’s twenty-fifth highlight this month is the effervescent and uncompromising Jacqueline Rowe—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s example of what it means to live the words you speak. #STSGlobal is honored to have met and get to know the awesome woman who has touched and changed many lives.
Jacqueline is the woman behind the scenes as well as out in front, who is doing her part to make a difference in the lives of others; encouraging people to share their truths and face their fears and pain head on. She embodies the spirit of the #STSGlobal mission—to meet people where they’re at…period! Jacqueline helps individuals to move forward and stand up for themselves; taking the steps that they need to get to the life that they were meant to have.
Jacqueline Rowe, CEO, Author, Motivational Speaker, Founder of FACE MY ABUSE
When we meet people, we do not always know their story. We may have heard things, seen things, but rarely do we know the story behind what makes a person who they are. What drives them to fight? What motivates them to take on the tasks that they do? If you have the pleasure of meeting Jacqueline, it will become evident that what drives her to fight; what motivates her, is a heart of love. She carries a spirit of love that is immediately felt when you come in her presence. That desire to help, lift up, motivate people to live their best life is evident after spending time in her presence. When she speaks, she speaks with conviction from a place of experience. You know that she has been through something in her life, but unlike some, has managed to grow from and overcome her experiences.
Jacqueline is now in a place where she can teach and reach others to achieve the same clarity and power that she now lives and operates. She is creating a legacy that her children, family, friends, and even strangers can glean from for years to come. A legacy tried in the fire and made stronger for it.
Jacqueline Rowe—Mother, Broker, Deal Maker, P R Consultant, Lifestyle Marketer, Author, Life Coach, Empowerment Speaker, Domestic Violence Advocate, Philanthropist—is the founder of FACE MY ABUSE. “FMA” founded in 2006, is established to address domestic violence against women and girls by increasing awareness, promoting effective policies and implementing potent strategies for prevention and intervention. “FMA’s” mission is to advance the health, education, and security of women and girls the world over with a focus on building healthy sustainable relationships defying domestic violence and its impact on not only the victim but by extension the family as a whole transcending the community.
We salute you, Jacqueline Rowe! Your encompassing love, concern, spirit, and heart inspire us every day. We are honored to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
