Sheneé Edwards is the founder of His Favor Ministries. Her experience in music, promotions, and public relations led her to start His Favor Magazine, a Christian publication that highlights artists, authors, businesses, and ministries.
She is also the author of “The Miniseries of Me,” a transparent and authentic collection of short stories, dealing with molestation, promiscuity, adultery, homelessness, divorce, and more. It is evident that this woman of God does not take her role in the Body of Christ lightly.
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
Since I was young, I knew I was supposed to do something to help others. Even though I worked in environments that allowed me to do such, I still felt like I was held back to truly do what was in my heart.
Tell us about your business.
His Favor Ministries is the umbrella for both my speaking engagements as an author and my magazine, His Favor Magazine. In all of these, it allows me to encourage the body of Christ, share my story as well as give a platform for others to do the same.
Are you currently running any promos/contests/giveaways that you would like our readers to know about?
Yes. I would like to give my book to someone who has been through so much and about to throw in the towel. I also have opportunities for individuals to be featured in my magazine. I have an excellent rate for authors.
List awards/certifications/accomplishments.
- 2017 PRAYZE FACTOR AWARDS, NOMINEE (HUMANITARIAN)
- 2017 UNCUFFED WOMEN HONOREE
- 2016 BUZZIN’ OFF AWARDS “POWER COUPLE HONOREE”
- 2013 DMV POWER COUPLE HONOREE
- 2013 RCPC HONOREE
- 2013 WE ROCK RISING STAR NOMINEE
Where is your business based?
Baltimore, Maryland.
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?
First I prayed, because I knew I was taking a big step. Starting a business is not easy; I did research. I wanted to know the “ins” and “outs” of what it meant to be a LLC, INC, etc. I also asked for advice from 3 individuals that were already business owners; They were extremely helpful.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
Social Media as well as an Eblast Service.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
At first, I had a hard time staying focused due to things going on in my life. However, I see that what I am doing is helping others as well as spreading the Gospel of Christ. Now, the main challenge is ensuring that I remain authentic and keep people interested.
How did you overcome these challenges?
PRAYER! Also it does not hurt to get a mentor! Aside from a mentor, you need people who will hold you accountable. They believed in me! Every time I wanted to give up, they said “No Way!”
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
Again, I pray more than ever. My relationship with Christ is everything to me. I have been through and am still going through so much. I have my moments, but I go to the Lord, throw on my headphones and blast praise and worship in my ears! Music (if you listen to the right songs) can help you tremendously. I also remind myself of my purpose. There are people that need to see me make it and not throw in the towel.
How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors?
Honestly, I think what makes me unique is the fact that I mainly try to outdo myself (especially my magazine). There are so many these days, it’s really about finding your own lane. I believe, I try to stick with the vision. I also don’t really watch what others are doing unless they have already established themselves. I don’t take their ideas, but I do try to learn so that I can grow. I also throw my own twists and ideas in the mix.
What is the best advice you have received recently?
The best advice I JUST received is that you have to be willing to go through to get to. Nobody that has anything worthwhile or doing anything to make a difference, had it easy. They went through ups and downs, yet they did not give up!
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
I would say… find your niche. Take what you have and stick to it. It’s ok to get advice (we all need someone to pour into us), but at the end of the day, it is YOUR business!
What are your favorite business tools/resources and why?
I like to research on the internet — Google is my Buddy! Whatever topic, I type it in search and have a blast. I also refer to my Bible as a resource for everyday living (that is a must).
It is also important (especially as a writer/author/editor) to own a copy of the “Prentice Hall Reference Guide” Everything concerning grammar, punctuation and all else “English” is in this book.
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
The Bait of Satan. That book is NO joke!
What are you currently learning about for your business or looking for help with?
I am learning different markets to present the magazine to. I am also looking to learn other speaking techniques/etiquette as I am getting more engagements as a speaker, panelist, etc.
What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
My goal is to do exactly what God wants me to do. I know that sounds crazy to some, but I have went totally left field in the past going ahead of myself. I have also thought that something was a good idea and it might have been, but it was not a “God” idea. I do see my magazine helping a lot more people in the Christian community get exposure… internationally.
What social media outlets do you use? List them below.
Instagram @sheneeedwards, @hisfavormagazine
Twitter @sheneeedwards, @hisfavormag
Facebook @sheneeedwards, @hisfavormagazine
Facebook Group www.facebook.com/groups/hisfavormagazine
Website www.sheneeedwards.com, www.hisfavormagazine.com
Email ministersheneeedwards@gmail.com, hisfavormagazine@gmail.com