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Jonelle Henry

Journalista | Host | Entrepreneur

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Districtly Speaking Turns Six!

10|18|2017 by The Conversation Starter Leave a Comment

Six years ago, I thought: Wouldn’t it be great to host regular community-driven conversations around the issues that we care about so deeply? I wanted to create a space for friends and their friends, a new community of sorts. So I launched this concept, called Districtly Speaking and I used the tagline: Your political and social soapbox. 

Six years later and with more than fifty town halls under my belt, I find myself never running out of things to discuss with the community. Town halls are so popular in the DC-area because the reality is we never stop talking or debating about anything. I mean, seriously, Congress is here. The debates are never-ending. We never stop sharing our thoughts or getting frustrated with the process. We never stop pointing out alarming disparities when we look at gender, race and sexual orientation. The truth is, there’s always plenty to talk about and countless ways to address an issues. I try to give those issues a moment using my platform. So, yes. On October 18, 2011 Districtly Speaking officially became that space for you and me.

So what have I learned these past six years? I’ll give you six lessons, just to stick with our anniversary theme:

  1. People still love to meet in person. I know social media dominates and drives a good amount of our conversations a lot these days. But there is NOTHING like meeting in person. Looking someone dead in the eye and presenting your case. Giving someone a hug you haven’t seen in a while. Exchanging business cards and great ideas. Or maybe, you’re having that post-town hall conversation in the hallway. I’ve seen all these things happen at my events. Human connection is so essential to our everyday. We need it more now than ever to combat the internet trolls.
  2. People can still laugh in the middle of an intense debate. Even at your breaking point of frustration, people still manage to laugh at something during some of the most intense town hall moments. No matter if you’re the panelist fighting tooth and nail for people to understand your unpopular opinion or you’re the audience member with an attitude and monologue “question”, there’s always a moment where we stop, laugh, and pick up the debate right back again. Laughing is good for the soul  and a nice intermission from throwing words at each other.
  3. People are generally civil towards each other. You’ve made my job as host and moderator so easy. I haven’t had to break up too many fights or call security! Because in the end, most of us really do want to hear each other out, despite what you see on cable news shows. We also want to be heard. My job is to make sure both of those things are happening during my town halls.
  4. People still love to network. DC is well-known as the networking capital of the world. There’s plenty of opportunity for the up and comer or even the senior level executive to continue to make those new connections. So many new partnerships with organizations and companies were birthed through this project. I love hearing your partnership stories. Districtly Speaking started as a community project and it will always be one.
  5. People are still nervous about putting their views out there. Because even though I pride myself on creating a safe space for conversation, there’s still a huge amount of fear when you want to disagree with a popular opinion or formulate your thoughts out loud in front of a large group of people. It can be intimidating! I’ve had so many post-town hall conversations (and emails!) with people who had big opinions but were too scared to share it publicly. Some feared the social media mentions and some feared their HR departments! (Don’t get fired, y’all!) But most admitted, they didn’t want to sound stupid. Man, I don’t know what I can do to fix that except to encourage more ways — big and small – to keep those conversations going and to nudge you gently to speak up when necessary.
  6. And finally, people still love when you keep your concept simple. Confession: Districtly Speaking started off as an extension of a failed blog with the same name. (I’m actually more of a talker than a writer, so blogging definitely wasn’t the best medium for me at the time.) A few years ago, I started to get a little fancy with my town halls and the topics. I started charging, booking new venues, and going for more”light and fun” topics. All great ideas, for sure. BUT those ideas fell so flat and so hard. Mostly because I had no real sustainable plan. (I now have a business coach, woohoo!) I just thought my simple concept needed something more. But my audience reported back to me immediately and taught me something valuable: Just keep it simple, Jonelle. Focus on the issues of the day. Invite people over. Talk. Debate. Exchange ideas. Go home. Do you. But keep it YOU.

Bottom line: People still love a good conversation.

It builds community. It forces connection.

A good word can uplift and soothe many souls.

It can empower and encourage someone to speak their mind in a room full of strangers.

It can change minds.

It can make you laugh after a long day at work.

It can offer comfort to others — like the young woman featured in this picture below. “The Skin You’re In” is still one of my favorite town halls! After this beautiful girl had the courage to share her story of being teased about her skin complexion, the audience got involved. And for the next ten minutes, we became aunties and big sisters to this beautiful soul who needed to hear some positive words. Her mother later reported to me that the sisterhood from the room and the words of empowerment left such a lasting impression on her daughter. This is why I do what I do. These are the moments that make me want to get up and plan the next event.

So here’s to another year of conversation and connections. I’m excited about whats’s to come. I’m always full of ideas and I’m always looking for more ways to connect with you. Thank you for your support and encouragement. It’s been a great ride so far!

CONVERSATION STARTER: Do you have a DS memory you’d like to share? What was your most memorable town hall? What should we talk about next? #DSTurns6

Mayra Figueroa-Clark, The Love Expert

08|24|2017 by The Conversation Starter Leave a Comment

Mayra Figueroa-Clark is a gem! And most likely the biggest advocate you’ll meet for single, professional woman who desire a healthy and loving relationship. She is the LOVE expert and pours herself daily into the hearts and minds of single women all across the nation. Mayra is a cheerleader of love. She’s a relationship coach and marriage champion. She’s passionate about helping women lead healthy, long-term romantic relationships. Her brand of authenticity, compassion and friendship is a breathe of fresh air. In 2016, Mayra’s dream of hosting a conference dedicated to single women finally came to fruition. In preparation for her 2017 conference, I spoke to Mayra recently about how this “love” passion all got started:

You had a dream to host a conference for single women. Describe the moment you decided to launch “For Single Women Only”?

Mayra: About three years ago, I was sitting in my 5th marriage conference and I heard (in my head) “How about the singles?” Too many times we focus on healthy marriages without focusing on the beginning. We all know that with students if we “catch them early” i.e. elementary school, they have a fighting chance. I decided to apply the same wisdom to healthy marriages. I wanted to start in the beginning. Before you are in a right relationship with the wrong guy.

What do you hope women will get out of your conference?

Mayra: My main objective is to awaken love in my women, remind them of their beauty, their worth and show them where and how to attract that healthy man.

What are the biggest barriers in dating?

Mayra: Mindset, I teach my women early on… to let go of those thoughts/stories/messages that no longer serve you.

Tell us more about your “love” programs? 

Mayra: I have a three part program: we always begin with YOU, supporting you as you become aware of your obstacles, your love bonds or soul ties. Then I teach you how to release them. Serve you as you learn YOUR WORTH and value your inner beauty. We work through Daddy stories or past pains that have been overlooked or undiscovered.

I then teach you how to get in touch with that little girl inside of you and awaken love again. Not only romantic love but love for life!!! The second portion of my program focuses on implementation; you are actively dating, I give you scripts, the do’s and don’ts, you learn how to flirt, how to approach a man in a CLASSY way. What to ask on the 1st date, 2nd date and so on. We learn how to NOT go to default and keep up the same strategies from part one.

The third portion is teaching you how to identify the healthy man (YOUR Mr. Right), how to keep him, when to have the marriage conversation, the stages of dating and how to get comfortable in those stages. We go over what is working and what we should release- because it no longer serves you.

What is one thing single women can do to prepare for a long-term dating relationship?

Mayra: Remembering THEIR worth- and not placing themselves on a clearance rack. Also, releasing their negative thought-patterns and replacing them with purposeful thought patterns.

 

 

 

I’m emceeing this year! Find out more about the For Single Women Only Conference: https://www.forsinglewomenonly.com/

 

South Africa 2018

07|31|2017 by The Conversation Starter Leave a Comment

 

UPDATE 9/22/17: Only a few spots left on this tour! Email: dstraveler@jonellehenry.com

DS Fans!

Who’s up for an adventure in 2018? Is South Africa on your buckletlist? If it is, it’s time to check it off! Grab a travel buddy and join us on an adventure of a lifetime to South Africa! I’ve taken care of all the details and personally designed a trip that will get you excited and doing the happy dance! Don’t believe me? Check out this itinerary!

August 23-September 1, 2018

Land Tour Includes: 
$2699 per person (based on double occupancy) / Add an additional $949.00 for single occupancy

Tour Includes: 

  • 4 nights in Cape Town
  • 3 Nights Kapama Private Luxury Game Reserve
  • 2 Nights in Johannesburg
  • Airport Transfers & Tour Guide
  • Most meals included
  • Cooking Class in Cape Town
  • Table Mountain (by cable car) in Cape Town
  • Ferry to Robben Island & Museum Tour
  • Penguin & Seal Island Tour
  • Cape Winelands Tour (wine tasting)
  • Apartheid Museum
  • SOWETO City Tour
  • Morning, Afternoon and Evening Safari Tours
  • Optional “On-Your-Own” Excursions

Exclusions:

  • International Flights
  • Domestic Flight from Cape Town to Kapama Safari Reserve (approx $150.00)
  • Travel insurance

* Prices are per person and based on double occupancy. All prices are expressed in US dollars. All travel documents are the responsibility of the passenger. A valid passport with at least 6 months validity after the date of travel is required. Travel insurance is highly recommended.

Deposit: $300 by Sept 30, 2017, increases to $500 beginning Oct 1.

Final Payment: June 30, 2018

*Payment Plans Available

So, are you in? Do you have questions? Send an email to: dstraveler@jonellehenry.com

FULL ITINERARY

Day 1: Welcome to Cape Town!

After having collected their luggage and passed through customs, clients will be met at the airport by their South African Tourism Board registered Tourist Guide and transferred to the city hotel.

Optional: Meet up for dinner or drinks in lobby

Hotel: Cape Town Lodge

Meals: On Your Own

Day 2: Cape Town – Table Mountain & Robben Island

08h00 depart hotel – The first port of call will be to ascend Table Mountain by cable car which usually takes about 2 hours. If not possible due to the weather, then every effort will be made to fit it on another day.

Afterwards, we will do Cape Town city tour, which will include a drive by the Houses of Parliament, The Castle (oldest building in South Africa), the old Malay Quarter, known as the Bo-Kaap, and to take a walk through the Company Gardens.

Lunch will be on your own. 

13h00 Depart on boat to Robben Island visit the museum and tour the island.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3: Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve

After breakfast, at 08h30 depart hotel and enjoy a full day tour of the Cape Peninsula, starting with a boat cruise from Hout Bay to view the seals at Seal Island, boat departing at 09h15.

Continue via the scenic Chapmans Peak pass to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. Visit the most south westerly tip of Africa. One can walk to the lighthouse, or alternatively, take the funicular (own expense)

Continue via the False Bay coastline to the Simon’s Town and enjoy a fish lunch at one of the local restaurants. Visit the breeding colony of Jackass Penguins, and return to the hotel after a visit to Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens in the afternoon.

Coach and guide available for a dinner transfer; we suggest at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, situated in Cape Town’s working harbor, where there are a myriad of restaurants, hotels, shops and craft markets. Fresh sea breezes and the warm sun add zest to a cosmopolitan, vibrant atmosphere.

After dinner (own expense), and the transfer back to the hotel with the coach, experience the city’s nightlife at your own pace.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4: Cape Winelands Tour

After breakfast, we are en route to Stellenbosch, in the heart of the Cape Winelands, and it is just a 40 minute drive from the hotel – visit the Village Museum and do a short walking tour in the town, which also houses the University of Stellenbosch.

Visit a boutique or larger winery and enjoy 1 wine tasting.

Continue over the scenic Helshoogte Pass to Franschhoek, situated in the “Valley of the Vignerons” and settled by the French Huguenots in the 16th Century. Driving time from Stellenbosch it is about 20 minutes.

Enjoy lunch on your own – there are a wide variety of restaurants lining the main road of Franschhoek to choose from

Visit the Huguenot Museum and return to the hotel in the late afternoon.

Dinner at the hotel. Bid farewell to your Cape Town guide and chauffeur.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5: Depart Cape Town

Early morning departure. After breakfast, guests will be booked on the direct flight Cape Town to Hoedspruit/Eastgate Airport (www.flysaa.com) *Flight is not included in land tour. To be booked by travel agent.

Guests are met at the airport and transferred to the Kapama River Lodge, lunch is included, there is some time at leisure before departing at about 4 pm on the 1st afternoon/evening game drive in the reserve, with a professional ranger. Return to the lodge for dinner.

Situated in South Africa’s northernmost province of Limpopo, renowned for its prolific and diverse wildlife, Kapama Private Game Reserve is home to over 40 different mammal species, including the most dangerous Big Five of elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhinoceros. Approximately 350 bird species and a myriad smaller species can also be seen here in their natural environment. Twice-daily game drives through the reserve, accompanied by expert guides and trackers, ensure unforgettable wildlife encounters in the African bush.

Hotel:  Kapama River Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Drinks are extra at Kapama River Lodge)

Day 6 & 7: Kapama Private Game Reserve (Safari)

The early morning game drive departs at about 06h00, returning to the lodge about 3 hours later. Time at leisure before lunch (there is a lovely Spa, but treatments are for own account); depart on the afternoon game drive, return for dinner and overnight at Kapama River Lodge.

Beverages and any other extras are for own account.

Optional Excursions: 

  • Kapama Spa
  • Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre
  • Additional Activities at Kapama Private Game Reserve: http://www.kapama.com/what-to-do/

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Drinks are extra at Kapama River Lodge)

Day 8: Depart Private Game Reserve, Arrive in Johannesburg

After the morning game drive and breakfast, clients are collected from Kapama River Lodge, in a 15/19 seater coach, accompanied by an English speaking guide. Drive to Johannesburg for couple of hours.

Check in at your Johannesburg hotel, time to refresh and then depart for dinner at Carnivore Restaurant.

The Carnivore’s unique ‘all you can eat’ dining concept offers delectable game dishes (zebra, crocodile, kudu, etc.) to choose from and an extensive wine cellar (which features a superb selection of well-known wines to complement your meal), you’ll enjoy an unforgettable dining experience.

Hotel: Garden Court Sandton City

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (Drinks Extra)

Day 9: Apartheid Museum & SOWETO Tour

Following breakfast, we’ll visit the Apartheid Museum. The museum opened in 2001 and is acknowledged as the pre-eminent museum in the world dealing with 20th century South Africa, at the heart of which is the apartheid story. A series of 22 individual exhibition areas takes the visitor throughout a dramatic emotional journey that tells a story of a state-sanctioned system based on racial discrimination and the struggle of the majority to overthrow this tyranny. The museum is a beacon of hope showing the world how South Africa is coming to terms with its oppressive past and working towards a future that all South Africans can call their own.

Afterwards, you will depart for Soweto, also south of Johannesburg. A city developed as a township for black people under the apartheid system. Soweto is inhabited by over two million people, with homes ranging from extravagant mansions to makeshift shacks. It boasts one of the largest hospitals on the continent and the only African-owned private clinic. Soweto was created in the 1930s, with Orlando being the first township established.

Enjoy lunch at a local shebeen(restaurant). Chez Alina is a multi-award winning restaurant based in Dobsonville Soweto, boasting its unique, authentic and homely environment in which guests enjoy their meals. Chez Alina is still a home, turned into a Restaurant and there is still a family living there consisting of 4 generations.

Soweto orientation tour will include a visit to – Hector Pietersen Memorial: Hector Pietersen was of the first children shot by police during the 1976 Soweto uprising against the use of Afrikaans as sole medium in schools. The famous painting of his lifeless body, done by one of his friends, is an iconic image and resistance symbol. In the museum, there are videos and photos of the other 566 schoolchildren who died during the riots. –

Mandela House: This is the house in which former President Nelson Mandela lived with his first two wives from 1946 to 1961, i.e. before his arrest. The house which is now a museum still has many of Mr. Mandela’s personal photographs and possessions

Return to the hotel – bid farewell to guide.

Dinner at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10: Depart Johannesburg, Transfer to Airport

The official check out time will be at 10h00. However, guests will be able to store their luggage at the hotel until time for their departure to Johannesburg Airport. Traffic permitting, the transfer will take about 45 mins.

Meals: Breakfast

So now that you’ve seen the full itinerary, are you in? Here’s a recap of the details: 

$2699 per person (based on double occupancy) / Add an additional $949.00 for single occupany

Deposit: $300 by Sept 30, 2017, increases to $500 beginning Oct 1.

UPDATE 9/22/17: Only a few spots left on this tour! Email: dstraveler@jonellehenry.com

Final Payment: June 30, 2018

*Payment Plans Available

Questions? Send an email to: dstraveler@jonellehenry.com

 

Travel in Style

06|30|2017 by The Conversation Starter Leave a Comment

There are a few things I must pack for every weekend getaway or dream vacation. We all have those favorite “must bring” items that we pack. It either fits right, photographs well (not all favorite outfits photograph well btw!) or it makes us feel like a million bucks when we are already out of our comfort zone. For every trip / vacay, I always pack the following:

The Jumper

I’m obsessed with jumpers. For so long, I thought jumpers fit best on other women. But then last year I tried on a few and fell in love with their fit and ease. Jumpers are the perfect day-to-night outfit. Pair it with sandals and shades for the day time stroll through a park or museum tour. Then at night, slip on some heels or high wedges and cinch that waist in with a bold, metallic belt and you are ready for a dressy casual dining experience with a side of dancing.

The Statement Piece

Must pack statement piece. For me, that’s a bold pair of earrings, a chunky necklace or a belt with lots of personality. Statement pieces transform the solid color outfit into a work of art. It takes that little black dress to next level boldness. And I’m all making a statement. So for every trip, I have at least 2 or 3 statement pieces. Find a style that works for you and makes a statement.

The Party Dress

This one is simple. For most of us, we include several options for a night on the town. But ladies — don’t forget to include the party dress that you’ve worn before and fits you perfectly. Sometimes we get into the “I gotta bring the new stuff on vacation” mindset! That’s okay, but you always want to have a few tried and true pieces that always work. I made the terrible mistake one vacation of bringing an entire new wardrobe and I was in my feelings for most of the trip because the outfits just didn’t work.

Before you pack…

I like to set the mood of fun while packing. I might have on some music. Maybe there’s a glass of wine too. It’s really about that mindset before you board that flight or take that road trip. Think ahead to the amazing time you’re going to have on your trip. Envision the mood you want to be in when you slip on that favorite someting. There’s a reason why you love that dress or those pair of jeans. It’s comfortable and stylish. It’s what you know. It’s you! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve packed that amazing new item, only to throw on the tried and true. So remember… don’t forget to pack a few of your favorite things!

CONVERSATION STARTER: What items do you never leave home without?

Follow all my travel adventures @dstraveler on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram!

40 is the New

05|28|2017 by The Conversation Starter Leave a Comment

April 18th was a good day. It was a Tuesday and it was my birthday. I prayed and thanked God for another year. And it didn’t rain. You don’t understand. It always rains on my birthday. The sun was out and …eek! I’m 40. Well, that happened fast. So I celebrated hard. I hosted a Fab40 birthday party and had SO much fun catching up with friends and family from all walks of my life.  I spent time with my out-of-town guests visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture. It was their first time going. I’ve visited several times before,  but there’s nothing like going with someone for their first time. And I never grow tired of visiting this amazing place. The whole was day was pretty amazing. I had so much to reflect on and to smile about that week.

But I’ll be the first to admit it took a while for me to warm up to this idea of turning 40. We, I — spend so much time focusing on what goals I haven’t accomplished yet or what dreams are still deferred. I didn’t feel like celebrating. (And I definitely didn’t want to throw no party.) But while thanking God for another year, I realized that of course there was plenty to be grateful for at this stage of my life. Of course! And what stage is that? The stage of maturity. Of adulting times two. The stage of peace of mind, financial freedom, wanderlusting, love, marriage, cute kids. You name it. I wanted it all.

For me, 40 is the new —

ADVENTURE: I started off this year with a new theme instead of a resolution. I decided to adopt the theme “adventure” because I wanted to boldly approach this year with confidence and take calculated risks in business and in myself.  So far, so good. I’m chronicling all my new adventures this year through voice memos (hello, remember when Felicity did that? Who’s Felicity? #DatingMyselfHere). I’ll share those adventures in another post. But in the meantime, I’m loving the “adventure girl” in me.

BOSS: So don’t be surprised if 2017 turns out to be my year of ventures. Being a multi-passionate entrepreneur means you are all-in about many things. So yes, that means I’m a political producer, a travel business owner, a mentor and coach, and a public speaker. I’m pretty sure I want to write a cookbook, too. And I want to expand my grad school thesis on media, politics and post-racial America and turn it into some creative media experience. Seems like a good time in this heightened political season to expand on that research anyway. The sky’s the limit and this will be the year that my parent company expands (ahem, blows up! Claiming it!) and for me to experience more of this “multiple streams of income” life. I’ve heard it’s really nice.

HEALTHY: This is a big one. For so many years, being healthy meant losing weight. Which is never a bad thing! But it’s more than just losing weight for me now. I want to make sure all the parts inside my body are working well. That includes my mind and my heart. I pushed myself at the beginning of the year to to schedule and actually make all my doctor visits. (And the dentist too! Ugh!) It was empowering (and sometimes challenging!) to learn what needed improvement, what needed an additional visit, what needed more exercise.

So I made a few decisions. First, I’m committing myself this year to whole foods. Foods I can pronounce. And I was going to pay attention to food labels. (Bacon has sugar in it! #TheMoreYouKnow) Second, I need to get moving. I even bought a Fit Bit aka accountability-on-the-hour. And boy, do I need to move more. Because the key to being healthy for me this year is knowing what’s actually going on in my body and committing to a lifestyle of good health — mentally and physically. Eat right and move more? That’s it? Doctors have been saying this for years. SMH. Nothing new under the sun.

BANK ACCOUNT: This is simple. Keep more money in the account. Spend less. Create multiple streams of income. Invest in another property. Build wealth. Create a financial legacy. And most importanty, return my financial adviser’s call in a timely fashion!

LOVE: Yes, I want to fall in love and marry the man of my dreams. I hope he likes curry chicken. And won’t mind that I sing ALL the songs to Sound of Music when it airs on TV. Y’all should see my vision board. I’m not playing. Time to be intentional and keep praying those bold prayers and making some moves. Dating can be fun. So here goes.

MINISTRY: Speaking of bold prayers, I saved the best for last. My God and my faith are so important to me. Best decision I ever made was giving it all to Him. I treasure my relationship with God. It centers me and gives me hope and a future. It reminds me of my worth and propels me to give more of myself to the world through service. I’ve always felt that ministry is community. It goes beyond the four walls of any church building. It’s right there in your neighborhood, in your schools, in your playgrounds, in your homes. It’s yesterday, today and every day. It’s friendship and new partnerships. It’s family and strangers. It’s the young and the old. It’s the misguided and the disadvantaged. Who will I pour into this year?

 

40 is a new day. A pep in my step. A bold entrance. It’s the “making better decisions, living life to the full, and going after my dreams” me. 40 is a brand new season. So happy birthday to everyone turning 40 this year! Don’t hide behind it. Embrace it. Cheers! 

CONVERSATION STARTER: Are you turning 40 this year? “40 is the new” what for you?

 

“Unplugging” Seems Impossible!

02|3|2017 by The Conversation Starter Leave a Comment

UPDATE, UPDATE (as of 2/8/17): So…yeah! I unplugged for 48 hours out in the woods in Maryland. Who knew this area existed only two hours away. Anyway, I was attending a girls retreat and the venue had no WiFi. We were encouraged to stay off our phones and really just connect with our faith and nature. It was awesome. All this to say…unplugging can be done!

——————————————————————————————-

Ugh! “Unplugging” seems impossible! I have this frustration of not being able to really “unplug” from the day-to-day news cycle because of my profession. So many of my friends have decided to “unplug” from news and politics. At least for this week. Lucky for them. Not so much for me. (Am I hating, hmm, trying not to, just venting!) It’s crazy out in these streets. We are living in a very heightened political season, no matter what side you’re on or what marches you attend. Unplugging for me is not really an option when you work in politics and news and there’s a new administration underway. You have to stay plugged in, anticipate what’s next, process information coming in at high speeds, and make your deadline. You have to stay connected.

There’s an interesting balance of neutrality that you have to play when you work in news and politics. You obviously are human first and so you’re going to feel connected to the stories you’re covering. Journalism 101 says to keep your personal opinions to yourself. Report the facts. Stay neutral. Your job may say that too. (Don’t get fired, y’all!). I have visions of unplugging when I come home from work. But if I’m honest, I’m still on! The breaking news alerts are still coming. News doesn’t stop. I have to know what’s the latest.

The cycle never seems to end though. I used to balk at the term 24-hour news cycle. I mean who absorbs that much information on a given day. We do, we do! I’ve read articles at three in the morning. And with social media at the top of the news cycle chain, it’s really hard to escape “the news.” Sure, you can shut down Facebook for a day or two, but are you on Twitter? Instagram? Cable news? Blogs? My iPhone has so many alerts set to it, it just started shutting down the other day — with a fully charged battery. Maybe it’s trying to unplug too.

Don’t get me wrong. I love my job. I love my industry. It’s exciting and it keeps me on my toes. I signed up for it many, many years ago because I love telling stories and I wanted folks to be informed. I wanted to be a source of information. But I also don’t want to lose my mind in the process. LOL. So maybe unplugging seems impossible at this very moment. But I do know that down time and peace of mind are extremely important to me. So here’s to some unplugging over this next month. Not sure what that will look like for me, but I keep hearing good things about trap yoga. And I’m definitely scheduling some solo vacays this year. And there’s so many books I want to read. Let’s see how this works.

CONVERSATION STARTER: How are you “unplugging” from the news cycle? What are you doing during that down time?

 

A New Adventure in 2017 – What’s Your Theme?

01|4|2017 by The Conversation Starter Leave a Comment

A New Adventure in 2017

Happy New Year! It’s finally here! 2017! Yes! For me, that means a new planner (thank you Plum Paper!), a new list of things to go after, and a new theme that will direct my activities and mindset for the year. A new adventure. Like many of you, I started to reflect on the lessons learned in the previous year and how I’d like to step my game up in the coming year.

We’re all naturally in this mindset right about now, wondering how the next year will be different and better. So we start to chart out those dreaded resolutions. To be honest, I gave up on resolutions a few years ago. I would always have these ambitous, unreachable goals in play and just like all the articles would say, by January 31st of whatever year, I was already behind in my goals. (Yes, I was that person that signed up at the gym and was done by the end of the month!)

Moving Beyond the Resolutions

So last year, I decided to build my goals and dreams around a theme. A one-word theme. A few of my friends posted this trend via social media and I thought it was pretty cool and made a lot of sense. The simple, not so original concept, seemed do-able than a list of resolutions.

In 2016, my theme was PURGE. Really, Jonelle? Why purge? I have no idea. All I know is that I had a very vivid dream / spirtitual intervention that I couldn’t shake. In my dream, I was instructed to purge — get rid of all the negative people, things and stuff out of my life that didn’t advance my God-designed purpose. I had to purge the emotional, physical and spiritual clutter in my life. And it was necessary for me to to re-dedicate myself to the positive. I needed help too and a strong, positive network of associates in the entrepreneur game. Oh, and I absolutely had to de-clutter my condo. I was living with way too much stuff at the time.

However, this word purge initially made no sense to me as a theme for the year. How could I build my goals around “purge”? Wasn’t this a scary movie? It just didn’t have the same flare as BELIEVE, TRUST, NO EXCUSES, or JUST DO IT! But it acutally did work.

Everything I accomplished in 2016 came back to this theme. I got rid of dresses that still had the tags on it and de-friended negative people who never seem to have a good word for me. I donated furniture and knick knacks; I drank more water; I read my bible more and starting hanging around people who would tell me the truth in love.  Mostly importantly, I purged the negative voices in my head that said I should give up on my dreams because it was too late to start on them anyway. This word PURGE isn’t pretty or positive-sounding but it actually worked.

My 2017 Theme

So it only made sense in 2017 to embrace a new word that would take my goals and life to the next level: ADVENTURE! I love that word. It describes so much of what I want to accomplish in 2017. It describes the boldness and thrill of life that I want for myself this year. I imagined myself on a rollercoaster. Up and down. Around. Backwards. Upside down. And around again. (I don’t enjoy rollercoasters like I use to, but it works for this point.)

Adventure applies to the risks I’ll take as an entrepreneur. The travel bucketlist that I’m determined to check off. The spirtual maturity I desire and the impact I want to make in my community. The adventure that lives in me. I am so here for this word. Now, I’m not sure how this theme will exactly play out this year, but I’m super confident it will be life-changing. And I can’t wait to see how it all develops over the next 12 months. Let my adventure (and yours) begin!

CONVERSATION STARTER: What’s your one-word theme for 2017?

DS Traveler. My Passport to the World.

10|23|2016 by The Conversation Starter Leave a Comment

Bio of a DS Traveler (that’s me!)

London. Hawaii. Paris. Jamaica. Las Vegas. Mexico. Bahamas. Greece. Dominican Republic. Puerto Rico. Cayman Islands, Havana…

greece-walkaboutgreecesuitcase

Welcome to my travel page! In case you’re wondering, I love to travel! Born in Jamaica and raised in South Florida, I was introduced at a very early age to warm beaches, tropical weather and exotic foods.

I enjoy learning new things, exploring new places and traveling with friends and family. Exploring the world should be exciting and accessible and that’s why I decided to become a Certified Travel Consultant and launch DS Traveler! I wanted to learn more about traveling like an insider as well as help find ways for my friends and family to explore more of this great world. Travel is the one thing you don’t have to convince people to do!

DS Traveler has also given me the opportunity to tap into more entrepreneurial opportunities. The additional stream of income that comes from my travel business directly helps to support my Districtly Speaking projects. I call that a win-win scenario!

Whether you’re planning your next vacay, joining us on one of our exclusive group trips, or looking for an opportunity to get paid and save on your own travel, I am here to help you do it all!

Bon voyage!

Jonelle

DS TRAVELER is my boutique travel agency designed to provide travel and vacation planning for the busy professional. My clients can book directly through my Priceline-powered site  or customize their vacation with my trip planning services for a nominal fee.

New Year’s in Dubai 2018

10|22|2016 by The Conversation Starter Leave a Comment

 

Pic Credit: Tours for the World

Pic Courtesy: Tours for the World

Pics Courtesy: Tours for the World

DS Fans,

How would you like to celebrate New Year’s Eve 2018 in Dubai?! Sounds exciting? Well cross it off your wish list and join us for a trip of a lifetime to the luxurious destination of Dubai. DS Traveler is proud to host a fully-escorted bucket list group trip to Dubai from December 29, 2017-January 3, 2018! And we’ve done all the planning for you! This is the perfect opportunity to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style with friends, family and spouses!

Land Tour Includes: 
$2309 per person (based on double occupancy) / Add $1200 for single occupancy
•    6 nights in Dubai at Media Rotana or similar 5 stars (by American Standards)
•    Personalized meet & assist upon arrival at the airport
•    Half day Dubai city tour
•    4×4 Desert Safari with BBQ dinner
•    Dhow cruise dinner
•    11 meals: 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 3 dinners
•    New Year’s GALA DINNER at luxurious 5 stars hotel in Dubai
•    Full Day Abu Dhabi tour with lunch
•    Round trip transfers from the airport to the hotel and vice versa by a deluxe air conditioned vehicle
•    Daily buffet breakfast at the hotel
•    Local taxes (except Hotel Tax in Dubai only, it will be billed directly to clients $6/night)

* All tours and entrance fees are included.
* All taxes are included and NO HIDDEN FEES
* International Airfare is not included, but we can book it for you at very competitive rates.

* Prices are per person and based on double occupancy. All prices are expressed in US dollars. Prices for vacation packages are subject to change without notice. All travel documents are the responsibility of the passenger. A valid passport with at least 6 months validity after the date of travel is required. Travel insurance is highly recommended.

Reserve your spot early with a $200 deposit through October 31, 2016. Deposit increases to $300 in November. Payment plans available. 

Are you ready? Do you have questions? Send an email to: dstraveler@jonellehenry.com

 

 

The Conversation Starter

10|17|2016 by The Conversation Starter Leave a Comment

I wajoprocollages an inquisitive child growing up. Always asking questions. Always curious. Always talking. Always starting conversations. I pretty much had something to say about everything. I love, LOVE, love connecting people to issues and I love to start conversations. I don’t want anyone to be misinformed or feel like they don’t have a voice. I love telling stories. So of course journalism was the obvious career choice for me…but I didn’t really like to write (more on that in a future blog post!). I actually wanted to be a TV investigative reporter….on the red carpet…asking Jay-Z questions about climate change and gentrification. Ha! Well that didn’t happen, but I found my place and purpose right here in Washington, DC – covering news and politics as a producer.

So what can you expect from my blog? News and politics of course. But also all the DC happenings, people of interest, my love of travel and Jamaican food. You’ll get a glimpse into my obsession with random things, like fonts and a proper cup of tea. You’ll see what drives me (social justice, mentoring young professionals), and what inspires me (my faith, family and Girl Scouts). So follow me on this blog journey. It’s been a long road but I’m excited about what’s next on the Jonelle Henry tour. Thanks in advance and welcome to my world.

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