The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

Christian motivational speaker Raquel Pinder is set to gather a panel that is sure to inspire, uplift and motivate all in attendance at the 2017 Beauty Beyond Feelings conference tomorrow at the British Colonial Hilton, beginning 7pm.

Under this year's Dear Future Me theme, there are names like Naijie Dun taking on the topic of "Faith Walking," Aneka Stewart speaking on "Purpose," Shakeisha Johnson touching base on "100 Days of Singleness," Xavia Rolle on "Entrepreneurship," Marcus Laing sharing tips on "Knowing Your Brand" and Niandra and Kenard on "Balancing Marriage and Family Business."

Activities will also include a Mix and Mingle and the signature Beauty Beyond Feelings Rap Battle segment, hosted by Raquel and Bahamian Gospel artist Ruebin Heights. Admission is $25.

Since its 2014 launch the Beauty Beyond Feelings annual event has become an inspirational staple in the local community.

In an interview with Tribune Religion Raquel said the series of events are doing extremely well through the grace of God. Blessed to have come this far, she is thankful to God on a daily for trusting her with the vision.

"The organisation has grown tremendously. We are now operating at St Anne's School as an empowerment club for both elementary and junior high school students. Also, I feel the events always benefit and bring about change with all those we connect with. This organisation is constantly finding ways to inspire, uplift and motivate in a different way," said Raquel.

Speaking more on the theme "Dear Future Me," Raquel believes there are indeed people within the community who sometimes get discouraged by negative opinions, or unfortunate circumstances as it relates to their future endeavors.

This weekend's event hopes to bring light and positivity to all in attendance.

"We often find ourselves in a place of doubt because of the lack of support or even finances," said Raquel.

"I believe that when we begin to renew our minds through the word of God and change our focus from negative to the impossible, we can say to our future, 'Dear Future Me, you look good, don't give up'.

Our panelists will give you the real truth about their personal experiences with life. This event is aimed for both men and women. If you are in a place where you are uncertain about your future, this is an event for you. This event is for those who are wondering will they ever find a husband or a wife, will they ever get their dream job, will there ever be a time where they can enjoy being happy?"

Even after hosting the events for years, for Raquel, it still feels like the first time year after year. She is grateful to do amazing work with team members who have sacrificed and committed to the vision of inspiring, uplifting and motivating.

"There's always need to be a constant reminder and push to want to see persons living their best lives. Purpose is evident when you are given another day to live, why not find that purpose and live out loud. We have grown in attendance, but that is not our focus. Whether we have 80 persons or 20, if there is change, then we've been successful at making a difference.

Guests are normally taken aback from the raw truth, through conversation during the panel segments, and the men who have attended said we should continue inviting men.

So here you have it, an event made with men in mind," said Raquel.

For more information readers are asked to contact: beautybeyondfeelings@gmail.com.