We had the good fortune of connecting with Latifah Hameen and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Latifah, what do you want people to remember about you?
I want my legacy to be, that as a young single parent raising two boys, I worked full-time and completed two degrees, my bachelor’s in Education and master’s in Human Behavior and Development. I taught Kindergarten through 6th grade and college courses for over 20 years. I survived many years in domestic abuse and after finally getting out of it for good, I wrote my first book in 2007, “Suffering in Silence: Breaking the Cycle of Abuse.”
In 2011, I started a non-profit, “Healthy Positive Choices, Inc.”, a 501© 3 organization whereby, we educated teens and adults on the dangers of domestic violence, while advocating a healthy self-esteem and relationships.
I went on to write seven (7) more book, four on domestic abuse awareness (one for teens) one poetry book and two books on relationships.
Several articles were written of my life and positive critiques of my books. I received “Woman of the Year” Award in 2012 for outstanding work in the community from “The National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women, Inc South Central, Dallas.”
Upon writing the relationship books, I decided to get certified as a Relationship and Life Coach. Since I had helped others get out of domestic abuse, I could then coach them, thereby enhancing their self-awareness and relationship building. They both worked hand and hand.
After about five years, I developed and implemented a 6-hour Domestic Violence Awareness Certification course. A few years later, I created and implemented a couples’ 5-hour hands-on workshop for couples who wanted to improve their relationships or enhance them.
I want people to remember that when I sought to complete an endeavor, I did it with passion and wholeheartedly without any hesitation to give my best. I focused on solutions because I always felt, if I was not a part of the solution, I was part of the problem. I concentrated on the positive aspects and attributes of others. I had a Can-Do spirit. I believed in my abilities to help improve others’ lives.
I strove to improve myself and my character to be the best person I could. I was ready with a hand up to give back to the community. My motto: “What can I do to Help?”
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have been an educator for about 25 years. I am passionate about my work and when I set my mind to an endeavor, I’m there in the moment.
I’m also a breast cancer survivor of 20 plus years. I have also been the CEO of American Muslim 360 Radio Broadcasting Station for the past 1- 1/2 years.
What sets me apart is my creativity. When I set out to do something, I see it from all angles and put in my extra touch of creativity. I’m most proud of being a mother, educator, believer, and humanitarian.
I got where I am professionally due to hard work, consistency, persistence, passion, and diligence, It was not an easy task, but well worth it. I kept going even when I was tired or beat. I knew I had a purpose, so that gave me the strength to continue..
I learned that excuses are tools of incompetence and if you want something, excuses are not an option.
My brand is “Powerful Choices, NOW,” tomorrow isn’t promised.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to see the historical sites in Dallas. First the tour of JFK assassination, then a nice lunch, next to the museum and aquarian. Later that evening, dinner at an expensive restaurant. Every day we would go to some exciting tourist sites. We would visit Fort Worth Museum. We would go to the African American Art Museum, We would go to Addison, TX where there are so many restaurants for any kind of food you want to eat. We would choose various places to eat daily. We don’t drink alcohol, so we would get non-alcoholic drinks and just live it up for a week.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband, Rasheed Bilal has been one of my biggest supporters. My family and friends have supported my efforts in writing all my books, presentations, and public speaking.
Website: www.powerfulchoicesnow.com
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/messaging/thread/2-ZDgyOTA0OGMtMzU4ZS01YTQ2LTljYTgtYmU5YTI5N2M0NTY4XzAwMA=
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lhameen
Yelp: https://biz.yelp.com/home/bz2EKC1TvhHj7tAxsa9v1g
Youtube: https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCUhNAl8KsOLpgCdJ-HebAvA