The Reaves Law Firm Welcomes Dr. Sherrie Crittle as Chief Human Resources Officer

Women's Journal Staff on October 20, 2024

By: Lennard James

The Reaves Law Firm, PLLC, is excited to announce the addition of Dr. Sherrie Crittle as the Chief Human Resources Officer. With over 25 years of experience in human resources leadership, Dr. Crittle brings extensive expertise, particularly within the healthcare and behavioral health sectors. Her career has primarily focused on Memphis and Nashville, Tennessee, where she has significantly impacted the organizations she has served.

A native of Jackson, Tennessee, Dr. Crittle’s academic accomplishments are as impressive as her professional background. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Tennessee at Martin, a master’s degree in human resources, and a Doctorate in Healthcare Administration from Central Michigan University. In addition to her advanced degrees, Dr. Crittle holds the Senior Certified Professional (SCP) credential from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and remains actively engaged in local SHRM chapters.

Dr. Crittle’s HR philosophy is centered on fostering inclusive, engaging, and excellence-driven work environments. She is passionate about championing the well-being and professional development of employees, ensuring that they feel valued, motivated, and supported in their careers. This commitment to creating positive workplace cultures aligns perfectly with The Reaves Law Firm’s core values and dedication to serving its clients with professionalism and care. Her commitment to these principles reassures us about the firm’s future.

Her diverse experience in human resources and deep understanding of organizational dynamics make her the ideal person to lead The Reaves Law Firm’s HR operations. In particular, Dr. Crittle’s expertise in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), change management, and employee engagement has proven critical in shaping successful organizations. Her unique blend of technology and HR experience sets her apart and positions her as an industry leader. As a result, Dr. Crittle has built a career that reflects her ability to drive organizations toward growth and operational success.

Dr. Crittle’s journey into HR began unexpectedly, starting with a degree in computer science and an early career in payroll, which she thought was the perfect fit for her skills. However, a wise CFO mentor encouraged her to pursue a master’s degree in human resources, foreseeing the unique advantage of blending technology and HR expertise. This decision led to a dynamic career, spanning regional director and vice president roles across various industries, including private equity-backed organizations and behavioral health companies. Her experience navigating M&A opportunities and ensuring seamless post-acquisition transitions has been critical to her success.

Beyond her impressive career, Dr. Crittle is a dedicated individual who enjoys spending time with her family and friends, serving in her local church, and advocating for her community. Public speaking and traveling are also among her passions, demonstrating her commitment to personal growth and helping others succeed. Her holistic approach to life and work, and her dedication to personal growth, are inspiring and contribute to her well-rounded leadership style.

The Reaves Law Firm is thrilled to welcome Dr. Crittle and looks forward to the new heights her leadership will help the firm reach. With her extensive knowledge, experience, and passion for people, Dr. Crittle is poised to significantly impact the firm’s continued success, ensuring a supportive and thriving work environment for all employees.

Published by: Khy Talara

Black Women Are the Storm: A Brand Fueling Change and Empowerment

Women's Journal Staff on October 20, 2024

By: Alegra Hall, My Media Buzz

Inspired by the iconic words of Oprah Winfrey, “Black Women Are the Storm” is more than just a fashion brand—it’s a powerful movement and a bold statement of empowerment. Co-creators Kim Alfonso and Cheri Freeman-Watkins were struck by the power and truth in Oprah’s statement, a phrase that resonated deeply with their personal experiences as Black women. This profound connection led them to launch Black Women Are the Storm Apparel, with the mission to share the message of empowerment with the world, one piece of clothing at a time.

“When Kim first heard Oprah’s words, she instantly connected. She shared it with me, and I was immediately on board,” Cheri says. “We knew we had to do something bigger with it, something that could reach women far and wide. Apparel felt like the perfect avenue—a visible, everyday statement of who we are and the change we represent.”

At its core, Black Women Are the Storm is about recognizing and celebrating the unstoppable force that Black women have been throughout history and continue to be today. It’s a powerful message communicated through thoughtfully designed T-shirts, hats, and other apparel. Each item carries with it the spirit of resilience, strength, and transformation, reminding the wearer—and those around them—of their power to be a force for change.

A Storm of Strength and Renewal

The metaphor of a storm is especially poignant. While storms can be disruptive, fierce, and destructive, they pave the way for renewal and growth. According to Kim, “Yes, storms can turn things upside down, but after the storm passes, there’s a calm, a clarity, and a fresh opportunity to rebuild. That’s precisely what we want our apparel to represent: the power to tear down what no longer serves us and the beauty that follows as we rebuild something better.

This vision feels especially relevant in today’s cultural and social climate. In the U.S., where conversations about racial and gender inequality are ongoing, Black women have consistently played a vital role—advocating for progress, standing resilient in the face of challenges, and leading efforts toward equality. As co-visionaries Kim and Cheri passionately state, “A storm is necessary—our storms are necessary. Black Women Are the Storm is the force we need to reshape the world around us, and we’re just getting started. Get ready for it!”

Black Women Are the Storm Empowering Change Through Fashion

Photo Courtesy: Alegra Hall

A Mission Rooted in Equity and Inclusion

The brand’s parent company, ResultsOne, is no stranger to the work of inclusion, equity, and justice. With a long-standing commitment to creating accessible, dignified environments for all, ResultsOne’s mission aligns perfectly with the empowering vision of Black Women Are the Storm. Through its work, ResultsOne has always been about empowering people—especially women and communities of color—to thrive in professional environments where their voices are heard and their contributions are valued.

Throughout history, Black women have been fighting for themselves and their entire community. They have often played key roles in driving change, yet their contributions are frequently underappreciated. According to the co-founders, “Black Women Are the Storm is our way of acknowledging that truth and celebrating the fact that, whether recognized or not, we will continue to be that storm.”

Building a Brand of Passion and Purpose

Launching a brand from scratch is no easy feat, especially in the competitive fashion world. But the founders of Black Women Are the Storm were driven by more than just business—they were fueled by a passion to uplift and inspire. “There have definitely been challenges,” the co-founders admit. “But every time we see a woman wearing one of our shirts or rocking one of our hats, it reminds us why we do what we do. It makes all the hard work worth it.”

Each piece of Black Women Are the Storm apparel is designed to make the wearer feel powerful, confident, and in touch with their strength. Whether it’s a bold slogan emblazoned on a shirt or a stylish hat that serves as a subtle reminder, the goal is to help women feel empowered and ready to tackle whatever comes their way.

Empowering Women Through Fashion and Strength

As the brand grows, Black Women Are the Storm remains steadfast in its mission to be more than just a fashion line. It’s a rallying cry for all women—especially Black women—to step into their power, embrace their inner storm, and use it to create the change the world desperately needs.

For more information, visit their website. For inquiries, contact cfreemanwatkins@resultsonellc.com or call 202-744-2086. Storms are coming, and they’re changing the world. Get ready!

Published by: Martin De Juan

Leading All Tanzanian Tours: Zainab Ansell’s Journey of Empowerment and Sustainable Tourism

Women's Journal Staff on October 20, 2024

Zainab Ansell, the founder and CEO of Zara Tanzania Adventures, stands as a trailblazer in East Africa’s tourism industry. Since establishing the company in 1986, Zainab has continually defied expectations, building a business that not only offers world-class travel experiences but also empowers local communities, particularly marginalized women from Tanzania’s Maasai tribe. Through her dedication, vision, and leadership, Zara Tanzania Adventures has grown from humble beginnings into one of the recognized and respected tour operators in Africa.

The Journey from Vision to Reality

When Zainab founded Zara Tanzania Adventures, she had limited resources but an unlimited vision. Starting 1986 in Moshi, Tanzania, she sought to offer travelers authentic and tailored experiences, focusing on Kilimanjaro climbs, Mount Meru treks, and safaris through Tanzania’s breathtaking national parks. Despite the challenges she faced in a male-dominated industry, Zainab’s perseverance and innovative approach helped her grow the company into a tourism powerhouse that boasts over years of experience.

Zara Tanzania Adventures is now one of the respected tour operators in the region. Offering more than just standard tours, the company has become synonymous with professionalism, attention to detail, and the ability to craft personalized experiences that showcase the beauty of East Africa. With a fleet of nearly a hundred vehicles and hundreds of employees, Zara provides travelers with an exceptional level of service, ensuring their journeys through Tanzania’s wilderness are memorable.

From organizing treks to the rooftop of Africa—Mount Kilimanjaro—to offering safaris through the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, Zara Tanzania Adventures brings the wonders of East Africa to life. Yet, what sets the company apart is not only its tourism offerings but its deep commitment to sustainable tourism and community empowerment.

Empowering Communities Through Zara Charity

Zainab’s vision extended far beyond the realm of tourism. Understanding the need for responsible travel and the importance of giving back, she founded Zara Charity to improve the lives of Tanzania’s marginalized communities. The charity focuses on providing education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, with a special emphasis on uplifting women from the Maasai community. These women, often excluded from economic participation, now have access to skills training, employment, and a better quality of life, thanks to Zainab’s efforts.

Zara Charity’s work extends across various sectors, providing free medical services, supporting local schools, and assisting in the development of small businesses within rural communities. Zainab’s dedication to using tourism as a force for good has garnered widespread recognition, and her efforts have been pivotal in transforming the lives of many in the regions where Zara Tanzania Adventures operates.

Through these initiatives, Zainab has shown how the tourism industry can become a vehicle for social change, empowering communities while preserving Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage and natural resources. Her unwavering commitment to sustainability is also evident in Zara’s eco-friendly operations, which strive to minimize the environmental impact of their tours.

Promoting Sustainable Tourism

One of Zainab Ansell’s defining achievements is her contribution to sustainable tourism in Tanzania. As the industry has grown, so too has the need for operators to take responsibility for the environmental and social impacts of tourism. Zainab has been at the forefront of this movement, advocating for practices that protect Tanzania’s ecosystems while ensuring local communities benefit from tourism activities.

Zara Tanzania Adventures emphasizes sustainable travel by incorporating eco-friendly measures in all aspects of its operations. The company ensures that its trekking routes are maintained with minimal environmental disruption, and it actively supports wildlife conservation efforts. In the lodges and camps operated by Zara, sustainable practices such as water conservation, waste management, and the use of renewable energy sources are prioritized.

Zainab’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond her own company. Through her advocacy, she encourages other tour operators in the region to adopt similar principles, creating a tourism landscape in East Africa that is both economically viable and environmentally conscious.

Her dedication to promoting sustainable tourism has not gone unnoticed. Zara Tanzania Adventures received Africa’s Leading Tour Operator at the 2022 World Travel Awards. This achievement reflects Zainab’s influence not only in shaping her own company but also in guiding the future of Tanzanian tourism.

A Lasting Legacy

Zainab Ansell’s leadership has redefined the tourism industry in Tanzania, setting new standards for service, sustainability, and social responsibility. Her ability to combine a thriving business with a deep commitment to community empowerment and environmental stewardship serves as a powerful example of how business success can be aligned with making a positive impact.

Today, Zara Tanzania Adventures continues to offer unforgettable travel experiences, from the thrilling ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro to safaris that reveal the wonders of East Africa’s wildlife. Yet the company’s true legacy lies in its role as a catalyst for change in Tanzanian society. Under Zainab’s guidance, Zara has proven that tourism can be a force for good, providing opportunities for marginalized communities, protecting the environment, and showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of Tanzania.

As Zainab looks to the future, her vision remains clear: to continue growing Zara Tanzania Adventures while furthering the company’s commitment to sustainable tourism and community empowerment. Her journey from a small business owner to a leader in East Africa’s tourism industry is an inspiring story of perseverance, innovation, and the power of giving back.

For more information about Zara Tanzania Adventures, visit www.zaratours.com or follow them on LinkedIn.

Published by: Martin De Juan