It is, it will be, it has been a wondrous and prosperous day. I send you much love and blessings.
Thank you for wanting to get to know a bit more about me. The cleverest way I can imagine doing so is to modestly introduce you to my inspiration: My Children!
My oldest is DeMarien aka D’Money aka Mari who is almost nineteen. He is very spiritually in tune, has a great understanding of life, and still allows himself time to just be. He has huge financial goals and still has love for the game (sports/video alike). Mari is a natural born leader, protector, and dedicated to his friends and family.
Next, is Kai. Most of you may know him as Lorrie. Kai is almost eighteen. He is extremely sweet, caring, and loving. Kai seemingly always puts others before himself. They have a plethora of business ventures and creative ideas. Kai is an introvert with a heart of gold that forgives easily.
Finally, the true boss baby of the bunch, Ailani aka Lani. Born with a natural ability to create with her hands. She has been sewing and drawing since she could hold a writing instrument! She has a genuine love for organization, art, and music. Lani is a born matriarch who sees the good in all even when frustrated.
And me: I am Minister Sophia M. Barnett, she/her pronouns, and my children represent every part of me! I was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. I spent all my life growing up on both sides of the Motor City. I am currently a member of Full Gospel Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) where I became a licensed Minister in 2015 under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Gwendolyn Pettway.
I currently own and operate several businesses: Wisdom Financial Management, Inc., Flowering Follicles LLC All-natural hair, skin, and body oil, M.A.C.C. Burgers Co., and the Making a Child Change Foundation. Through my non-profit, I have an opportunity to reach and teach teens who are interested in an entrepreneurial lifestyle so that they can gain the skills, background, and capital to start such ventures before graduation. Teens in our program also receive firsthand job experience as part-time employees at my restaurant M.A.C.C. Burgers Co. Not only do they receive high school required hours of service, but for every dollar earned we match and fund their college fund as well as the account for their future business. Our goal is that upon graduation the young adult is prepared for whatever journey they choose to take!
So why an internship now? Why Peace and Justice? In this season of my life, I am merging my passion to elevate the African American community beyond the strategic socio-economic injustices and my purpose to lead humanity to a Spiritually fulfilling life. This summer will allow me to connect with resources that will expand my reach to create change across the USA and then the World!!
Lastly, I am excited to meet other young people to listen to their concerns about peace and justice. The only way to know what the cries of the next generation are is to be there to catch their tears. You do not have to wipe them or come to the rescue to make them stop flowing. Just simply be an ear to listen. Open and receptive. I expect to learn a tremendous amount of wisdom from these youth and young adults. And I pray I may give them an example of being the change you wish to seek!