Always Put GOD First

Johona Braswell, a born and raised Maconite, is known to many as a father and pillar of the community, but less known to most are his efforts as a humanitarian, mentor, coach, advocate, and community activist. Raised with a strong belief in Jesus Christ, Johona has made his life's work one of service to others. As a sophomore at Northeast High School, he began his efforts toward providing opportunities for himself and those around him. He enrolled in Macon Technical College at the age of sixteen working towards his certificate of Master Barber. Having always been gifted academically, he easily obtained a full scholarship to Tuskegee University, later relinquishing those plans for the calling of Owner/Entrepreneur.

For years, Johona has owned and operated Johona's Beauty and Barber Shop. "The Shop, "as it is affectionally referred to, has given many their first chance at a career, and others their second chance at life. Johona's is an institution rooted in service, faith, leadership, and activism. Many seek the comforts of the chair for weekly counsel, while others for education and stimulating advice. Johona believes that laying the groundwork with essential elements such as civic involvement, environmental responsibility, and educational access is the key to a thriving community.

Community First is the motto of Johona's and the origin of an atmosphere of inclusion. Johona's have committed to giving back to the community through their annual "Community Give Back" celebrations. These festivities include but are not limited to food, games, jump houses, baseball/basketball tournaments, and music. In the years of providing community service, Johona's grassroots ambassadors continue with the Matthew 7:12 approach of being in the service of others by paying it forward. Purchasing laundry services, pool passes, and groceries for random strangers, as well as speaking with moral, ethical, and spiritual guidance to the community is only a brief analogy of Johona's approach to giving back.

In a world of continuous motion, the community remains to be a cornerstone that shapes and sometimes defines the quality of our lives and offers a blueprint for the future. By never allowing himself to be retrained by the complacency of societal norms, Johona continues to go above and beyond to better those around him. To be continued....