Today we’d like to introduce you to Chasta Winslow.
Chasta, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’m one of five children and the product of my wonderful parents who’ve been married 39 years. My parents have helped to cultivate and push me to be the best Christian, mother, human being, and businesswoman that I can be; I truly appreciate their prayers and support over the years. I graduated from Lamar University with my bachelor’s in criminal justice and eventually received my master’s in psychology. For the last 13 years I’ve taught Criminal Justice at Nimitz High School; I absolutely love my students and the impact that I’m able to make on their lives. Most of my students are starting at a disadvantage coming from low-socioeconomic or single-parent homes. Many of them are using teachers like me as a gauge and example of what it looks like to be a minority, starting from the bottom and letting hard work and persistence take you to the top-their motivation to keep striving. I’m what you call a serial entrepreneur; starting in 2016, I founded my nonprofit organization, developed my Christian apparel line, published my first book, and officially branded my consulting businesses. My visions for each venture was given to me during a period when I’d lost three grandparents, who I was close to, within a 12-month timespan and my friends were switching up on me. I was forced in a place of submission where God could truly speak to me-downloading the vision for each endeavor in detail; I dare not ignore. One of my biggest dreams is to successfully become my own boss.
Bottom line, I’m a single mother trying to fulfill my calling and create my legacy; A preacher’s kid and the manifestation of a praying mother, who finds fulfillment in bringing joy and positive vibes to others. I have a genuine passion for people and love for Christ. My daughter, as well as my students, are watching me, and I seek to continue to be an example for them as I go after my dreams without fear of failure. Life has been filled with challenges, but I’ve been able to come through the fire and still smile.
Has it been a smooth road?
Absolutely not. Business-wise, it’s been challenging as I’ve come across many ‘No’s’, which hit a little different when you’re funding your own projects, but that also makes hearing “Yes” that much sweeter. Drake said it best, “I just want to be successful” and I truly believe that everyone should have a mentor who can help guide them in the area that they seek to master. I’ve found myself seeking mentorship and not having anyone willing to take me on and show me the ropes. I wish that I had someone to bounce ideas around with and seek advice from those who have already successfully achieved where I’m trying to go. Furthermore, you can’t wait on someone else to move on your behalf-you’ll delay the process or lose your window of opportunity. A lot of what I ‘ve learned and have accomplished comes from my own research and trial and error. However, my family, close friends, and pastor at The Lighthouse Church have all dropped some serious jewels on me throughout the years. I desire to put my family in a better position to leave something meaningful and tangible to the generations that follow.
On a personal note, I’ve had to overcome some deep-rooted issues that I didn’t realize I had until college. Oftentimes, we can be our own worst enemy and we tend to take on the labels others place on us. Even certain experiences, whether they were willingly or not, have a way of leaving a stain. When you fail to address the issues and walk through the hurt you set yourself up for an untimely demise. I’ve always been an over-analytical conversationalist. Those characteristics can be a blessing and a curse but have proven to be more positively represented in my life.
Any advice for other women, particularly young women who are just starting their journey?
The advice that I would give to others is not to be afraid to have uncomfortable conversations and be fine with how others perceive you, especially, if you know that you’ve been the genuine, best version of you. You cannot control other’s perceptions and interpretation of your actions. The worst thing that you can do is believe more of what others say about you than what you know to be true. Take time to get to know you. Take time to address any issues that may be reflective in your interactions and everyday ability to healthily progress. Be ready for the ugliness you will find, because although the essence of you may be beautiful, the core is deeply rooted in other subconscious factors that can cause you to be stagnate in an area without even realizing it. Stay prayerful, objective and in forward motion. Life is not always an incline, but simply be willing to show up, be present, and fight for your happiness and peace-of-mind. I took the time to work on me, which has helped to clear a space for me to be creative and productive.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Kudos Youth & Community Enrichment Program, Tagged4Christ Apparel, Your Power Consulting LLC – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
One of my most important passion projects dear to heart is my nonprofit organization, Kudos Youth & Community Enrichment Program (K.Y.C.E.P.). Like most teachers, I wear many hats: Mother, Auntie, Financial Advisor, Banker, Counselor, Life Coach, Motivational Speaker, etc. and those hats are applied at some point each day. Each month I take a portion of my check to supply food, clothes or opportunities for my students. I do it willingly because my heart is pleased when I see their smiles or exhales of relief. I wanted to take what I do daily and increase the means and method in order to reach more individuals. K.Y.C.E.P. works within communities as well as partners with local campuses to create programs for their youth. Our participants have monthly meetings, annual conferences, college tours, academic accountability, and participants acquire community service hours through our planned projects. At the end of each year, two participants are awarded scholarships as they enter their next phase of life. Each year, we spearhead several initiatives and sponsor several youth, elderly and families that need a little extra TLC. I find joy in being a servant, providing a solution or relief to someone in need. K.Y.C.E.P. needs the constant support of businesses and individuals seeking to monetarily invest in a movement that seeks to create hope, change, and cultivate our youth and communities. Currently, my team and I are working hard to solidify corporate and small business sponsorships as we gear up for the upcoming school year. Anyone can donate to us by visiting www.kycep.org (determination letters and sponsorship packages available).
Tagged4Christ Appareal is my Christian apparel line that creatively finds a way to uplift Christ in my custom designs; it’s my ministry. I’ve been fortunate to see my designs on Sunday Best artist, Alexis Spight; Zydeco artist J. Paul Jr; Gospel R&G Artist T-Rex, and R& B soulstress, Faith Evans and her team gave me a much-needed motivational boost by shouting me out on Instagram. Several others have supported me along the way, which I’m grateful and appreciate those who have sewn into me. The best part is working with my younger sister’s pressing company The Unique Elite. Ultimately, I’d like to see my designs not only in the Christian arena but also, on the streets and anywhere there is a Believer. My line is not only for those who are perfect but for those who are not ashamed to acknowledge Christ (Romans 1:16). I’d love to see the gospel, hip hop, actors, and all entertainers and influencers rocking the brand. Tagged4Christ is apparel that can be dressed up, dressed down, great to workout in, or be comfortably draped in while traveling; all-purpose gear. I’m starting with tees, but I have several ideas on how to expand the brand. Readers can visit www.tagged4christapparel.com to check out our products.
Your Power Consulting, LLC seeks to help others cultivate their visions and produce a tangible product. Many have the idea but are unable to translate it well on paper or successfully produce their ideas into a visual concept. I help with creating basic business plans, websites, logos, and other branding and business needs. I’ve had the pleasure of being a committee member and spokesperson for the amazing ZBT Awards, The Luxury Transport Group, Just Passing Thru BBQ, and other up and coming small businesses. My services can be sought out by visiting www.yourpowerconsulting.com.
My book, “The Primal Element: Intestinal Fortitude” is a 28-day interactive devotional addressing topics that many are afraid to discuss and share some of my truth in hopes of helping heal or empower others. It didn’t matter if the book became a bestseller or entered the mainstream market- it was important to me that I unload my baggage in a healthy, productive way while reaching another milestone. I believe everyone has at least one good storybook in them; it’s just a matter of being willing to and the means in which you share. Anyone seeking to purchase a copy can find it on Amazon.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve benefited from using?
Many of the books that I read are spiritually based or self-help book. I have many that I’ve enjoyed over the years such as, “The 48 Laws of Power” by Robert Greene, “The 10 Natural Laws of Successful Time and Life Management” by Hyrum W. Smith, and “God Help the Child” by Toni Morrison. Some of my current pleasures have been reading books published by my peers. A couple that really resonates with me is a book written by Markeita S.Pruitt called, “A Wife’s Guide” and “Pain’s Purpose” by LaToya C. Martin.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kycep.org; www.tagged4christapparel.com; www.yourpowerconsulting.com
- Email: chastawinslow@kycep.org
- Instagram: instagram.com/tagged4christapparel instagram.com/chastawrites
- Facebook: facebook.com/chastaw
- Other: instagram.com/kycep
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
