Hey Queen! Your Superpower Shines Career Mastered 2025 “Top Entrepreneurial Women to Watch”

BY: Career Mastered Editorial Staff

Did you know?
In 2024, an estimated 1,800 new businesses were started each day by women in the United States—bringing the total number of women-owned businesses to over 13 million, which represents approximately 42% of all U.S. businesses.

Keep your eye on these entrepreneurial champions who make success look effortless.

According to the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), women-owned businesses generate a staggering $1.9 trillion in annual revenue, underscoring the undeniable economic power and influence of women entrepreneurs across the country.

Bi-Annually, Career Mastered Magazine shines a spotlight on extraordinary women who are not only leading successful enterprises but are also lifting others as they rise. The 2025 “Top Entrepreneurial Women to Watch” honors those making significant strides in their industries, demonstrating excellence, innovation, and unwavering commitment to mentoring and gender equity.

These trailblazing women are resilient, resourceful, and results driven. They bring immense economic value and creative leadership to the marketplace, helping to shape the future across diverse sectors including Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, Finance, Arts, and Business—what we call STEM-FAB©.

STEM-FAB© is also the core of Career Mastered’s impact mission—where these very women serve as role models, mentors, and changemakers, helping girls envision and build winning futures.

While these honorees may make success look easy, behind every headline is a story of dedication, persistence, vision, and bold leadership. We are proud to present the 2025 honorees—entrepreneurial champions whose voices, ventures, and victories are helping redefine what’s possible.

Read on to be inspired by their journeys, learn from their strategies, and discover why these powerhouse women are truly the ones to watch. Hey Queen! Your Superpower Shines.

 

Cynthia BarnesCompany: Thank You; It’s TrueTM
Launched: 2017
Location: Raleigh, NC
www.cynthia-barnes.com

Transforming ambitious women from overlooked to recognized, respected, and rewarded

Cynthia Barnes is a vivid TEDx and keynote speaker, innovative creator of the neuroscience-based Thank You; It’s TrueTM framework, and executive presence architect for ambitious women. Her pioneering journey is marked by groundbreaking milestones: the first Black woman to
keynote a national sales conference, LinkedIn Top Voice, and four-time Salesforce Top Sales Influencer.

As founder of the National Association of Women Sales Professionals and trusted advisor to Google, Michelin, Bridgestone, and Autodesk, Cynthia’s story exemplifies relentless innovation, strategic leadership, and unapologetic excellence.

The Secret to Her Success
Commanding Attention and Opening Doors

The secret to Cynthia’s business success is mastering presence with purpose. “Competence alone is insufficient leaders must be compelling, visible, and unmistakably confident,” said Cynthia. “Success lives at the intersection of innovation, resilience, and strategic clarity.” Her neuroscience based framework, Thank You; It’s TrueTM, transforms limiting beliefs into executive presence that commands attention and opens doors.

“Success becomes both mindset and strategy, nurtured through reinvention, value creation, and authenticity,” she said.

Cynthia guides women to cultivate mental clarity and emotional strength, empowering them to face challenges with grace and persistence. She positions business as a masterpiece in progress, each stroke intentional and meaningful. This elevated perspective reveals patterns, opportunities, and confidence to stay the course. The bigger picture encompasses influence, impact, and power to redefine the marketplace on one’s own terms. This vision transforms daily tasks into purposeful steps toward lasting significance.

For Cynthia, seizing the day means owning unique brilliance and making bold moves that accelerate trajectory. She sees her Career Mastered moment in the power of now. “The present moment is the perfect time to rewrite your story and amplify impact,” she said.

By introducing neuroscience-backed frameworks into the market, Cynthia is a disrupter shifting how women embody executive presence and leadership, transforming the invisible into the indispensable.

She was able to build her career by cultivating authentic relationships that opened doors and fostered collaboration. For ambitious women, strategic networking catalyzes visibility and credibility in spaces where they might otherwise be overlooked. “Each connection becomes a polished link in a chain of lasting influence,” she said.

Cynthia believes authenticity forms the foundation of lasting influence and trust, and is the luxury that distinguishes true leaders from the noise. She leads with an unwavering commitment to show up as her true self, without compromise.

Building successful ventures demands strategic financial intelligence and disciplined execution. Cynthia approaches economics with abundance, viewing revenue and investment as tools to amplify impact rather than mere numbers. Sustainable growth roots itself in clear value creation, efficient operations, and scalable systems.

Cynthia leads with integrity, creativity, and persistence. She embodies the qualities she inspires in others: confidence, innovation, and strategic clarity without apology. Her journey demonstrates that leadership requires not fitting in, but standing out with purpose and grace. She holds space for others to rise, offering guidance and lighting the path forward.

Helping others drives Cynthia’s mission and anchors meaningful leadership. She empowers ambitious women to transform self-doubt into executive presence, enabling recognition and reward. By blending neuroscience, strategy, and empathy, she unlocks potential and accelerates growth, creating ripple effects that uplift entire communities. True leadership multiplies when invested in others’ journeys.

The reward delivers profound fulfillment beyond measurable success. It manifests in witnessing women step into power with confidence, grace, and authority. For Cynthia, the ultimate reward is legacy: creating lasting change that shapes how women lead across industries.

Cynthia says success becomes richer when it elevates others, and that is a daily celebration.

 

Katrina Belin
Company: Pink Diamond Beauty Mall
Launched: 2017
Location: Detroit, MI
www.pinkdiamondbeautymall.com

A Visionary Entrepreneur and Community Leader

Katrina Belin has been making waves in Detroit’s business landscape. As the founder and owner of Pink Diamond Beauty Mall, Katrina is an established visionary entrepreneur, beauty expert, and community leader.

The Secret to Her Success
Embracing Self-Care and Self-Maintenance

Katrina’s journey to success began at the tender age of thirteen, when she was introduced to the hair care industry. As a foster child, she quickly understood the importance of self-care and self-maintenance, and how it could transcend her circumstances.

Through her experiences, Katrina developed a strong desire to uplift and encourage at-risk youth to engage in conversations surrounding self-esteem, problem-solving, conflict resolution, business ownership, and financial literacy.

“As a visionary entrepreneur
and community leader, Katrina
continues to pave the way for
others…”

With her passion for beauty and entrepreneurship, Katrina founded Pink Diamond Beauty Mall, a renowned beauty and wellness destination in Detroit, Michigan. The business has become a hub for women and men seeking high-quality beauty products and services, while also providing a platform for community building and empowerment.

Katrina’s commitment to mentoring and supporting women has led her to found The Pink Print Women’s Network, a platform providing business support, spiritual and mental support, guidance, and resources for women entrepreneurs. Through this initiative, Katrina has created a safe space for women to share their experiences, receive guidance, and connect with like-minded individuals.

Katrina’s dedication to giving back to her community has earned her recognition and accolades. She founded Operation P.I.N.K, a mentoring program for youth designed to teach self-care, self-love, and self-acceptance.

Through her work with Operation P.I.N.K and other initiatives, Katrina has collaborated with Detroit Public Schools and multiple at-risk youth organizations, providing youth mentoring and emotional support. Her efforts have been featured on prominent media outlets, including Fox 2 News, Channel 7, CBS News stations and in magazines.

Katrina has appeared at women’s conferences and panels across the state, sharing her expertise and inspiring others.

Through her journey, Katrina has demonstrated that with creativity, innovation, persistence, and strategy, anyone can achieve success.

As a role model, she inspires upcoming entrepreneurs to stay focused, adapt to challenges, and remain true to their vision.

Katrina’s leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to her community make her a respected and admired figure in Detroit’s business and beauty landscape.

Katrina Belin’s legacy extends beyond her business accomplishments. She has created a movement of empowerment, inspiring women and girls to take control of their lives, pursue their passions, and become successful entrepreneurs.

As a visionary entrepreneur and community leader, Katrina continues to pave the way for others, leaving a lasting impact on her community and beyond.

 

Valarie R. Brooks
Company: Valarie R. Brooks Real Estate &
Coaching Academy
Launched: 1999
Location: Charlotte, NC
www.valarierbrooks.com

Building Businesses and Systems That Outlasts Trends

Valarie R. Brooks is not just a name in real estate—she’s a movement. As the founder of the first Black woman-owned luxury real estate firm in Charlotte, NC, Valarie has collectively closed over $1 billion in real estate volume—beginning with her father’s investment portfolio and continuing with her own journey, which started when she purchased her first home at just 19 years old.

Her passion for real estate runs deep—from helping home sellers and buyers navigate life-changing decisions to leading her powerhouse team with excellence and care. But beyond the closings, Valarie built something lasting: a business academy that empowers others to succeed on purpose. Real estate is her passion—but coaching? Coaching is her purpose.

The Secret to Her Success
Rewriting Industry Norms

Valarie’s success didn’t come from following industry norms—it came from rewriting them. She believes success is rooted in emotional intelligence, consistent execution, and understanding human behavior. From guiding her clients through multimillion-dollar transactions to coaching women through rebuilding their businesses, her approach is grounded in strategy and soul. Through her Valarie R. Brooks Academy, she teaches that transformation must precede transaction.

Valarie credits her mindset to the wisdom passed down from her parents. Her mother once told her, “Your mind is the steering wheel of your life—stay ready, even when you’re not yet called to go.” That legacy guides how she leads: mindset, clarity, and alignment come before momentum. She teaches women to unlearn limitations, own their voice, and build from a place of intention.

After losing her mother, surviving a car crash, and being diagnosed with PTSD, Valarie stepped back from aggressive expansion. But she never stopped planning. She used that time to strengthen her systems, deepen her mission, and build a legacy brand that serves both clients and coaching students with integrity.

Valarie has been an entrepreneur most of her life— building businesses from dollar stores to identification firms and now her real estate empire. She knows firsthand what it means to scale from scratch and recover after life’s interruptions. She doesn’t teach from textbooks—she teaches from trenches. Through her Builder Hub, on-demand courses, and coaching programs, she equips real estate agents and business professionals with real-world systems that create real results.

Her coaching isn’t cookie-cutter. Her Builder Hub and MasterHERmind programs challenge the “grind” culture by teaching aligned systems, real-life strategy, and requiring self-awareness before scaling. She’s disrupting how women approach growth—teaching them that scaling doesn’t mean selling their soul to social media. She’s building disruptors who lead differently.

Her coaching doesn’t stop at motivation. It’s about monetization. After 26+ years in real estate, Valarie has mastered the art of staying relevant while remaining rooted. Her focus is never just on the next sale—but on building systems and services that outlast trends. Through her academy, she’s now transferring that wisdom to agents and entrepreneurs nationwide.

Valarie is a trailblazer who proves that success isn’t defined by age, algorithm, or approval. She is a model of excellence for women who are ambitious, seasoned, and self-aware. Her journey proves that you can reinvent, rebrand, and reemerge stronger—with grit, grace, and God.

Whether it’s guiding a seller through the most important transaction of their life or helping a new coach birth their business model, Valarie serves. Her greatest fulfillment comes from seeing others rise. Her entire brand is built on one mission: to help others build, shift, and transform.

For Valarie, the reward isn’t just the accolades—it’s the transformation. It’s watching a woman go from self-doubt to self-led. It’s hearing a former agent say, “You gave me my confidence back.” It’s the tears of joy at a closing table, or the emails from clients who now run six-figure businesses. That’s the real win.

Real estate is Valarie’s passion. Coaching is her purpose. Together, they fuel her mission to help women become CEOs of their business and life—through mindset, mastery, and movement.

 

Tanisha Burke
Company: Malaysian Lights
Launched: 2020
Location: Rock Hill, SC
www.MalaysianLightsCandles.com

Illuminating Purpose

As the founder and owner of Malaysian Lights Candles, Tanisha Burke is using her passion and purpose to light the way for others. Tanisha transformed a personal love for beautifully crafted scents into a thriving business built on creativity and empowerment. Her secret? “Stay true to who you are, work with intention, and serve your community with heart,” Tanisha said.

The Secret to Her Success
Knowing She is Making a Difference

Malaysian Lights Candles doesn’t just sell candles, it creates memorable experiences—each scent representing calm, renewal, and cultural connection. However, success didn’t come overnight. It was Tanisha’s commitment to personal development that helped to turn challenges she faced into learning moments that built resilience in both her business and life.

“She disrupted the traditional
candle market by infusing
cultural storytelling, ethical
sourcing, and intentional
branding into every product.”

While it’s easy to get consumed by daily sales and operations, Tanisha keeps her focus on a grander mission: to build a legacy of empowerment and creativity. Malaysian Lights Candles stands at the intersection of luxury and wellness, offering hand-poured, eco-friendly candles designed to promote relaxation and self-care.

“It’s about creating more than just a product—it’s about offering people a moment of peace in their busy lives,” Tanisha explains. Her bigger picture also involves giving back—supporting women entrepreneurs and mentoring aspiring business owners.

Tanisha’s Career Mastered moment came when she made the bold decision to leave her corporate job to pursue her candle business full-time. “It was terrifying and exhilarating at the same time,” she admits. She recalls the night Malaysian Lights Candles hit its first major milestone—selling out an online restock within hours. “That was my confirmation that I was walking in my purpose,” Tanisha says. That pivotal moment marked not
just a business win but a personal breakthrough, proving that calculated risks and hard work pay off.

Stepping into entrepreneurship, Tanisha knew she wanted to do things differently. She disrupted the traditional candle market by infusing cultural storytelling, ethical sourcing, and intentional branding into every product. Each candle is inspired by global experiences and natural beauty, blending wellness with sophistication. “I wanted to elevate the candle experience—every scent should transport you, every burn should nurture your soul,” Tanisha said. Her approach redefined candles as a lifestyle product rather than just home décor.

Behind every great entrepreneur is a powerful network, and Tanisha credits her success to the relationships she’s nurtured. From local artisans and suppliers to women’s business circles, her networks provide collaboration, inspiration, and accountability. “My network keeps me grounded and motivated,” she says. She also emphasizes the importance of giving back to these communities, regularly mentoring up-and-coming entrepreneurs and supporting local causes through her business profits.

What sets Tanisha apart is her unwavering authenticity. Whether on social media or in live pop-up events, Tanisha shows up as her true self—creative, driven, and purpose- led.

Malaysian Lights Candles is more than a creative outlet, it’s a strategically built, scalable venture. Tanisha mastered the art of lean startup practices, reinvesting profits, managing cash flow, and leveraging digital marketing. Her products, ranging from signature candles to custom gift boxes, are designed with both high quality and market demand in mind. Her mission is to expand into nationwide retail while maintaining the integrity of her hand-crafted roots.

Tanisha is a living testament that through creativity, innovation, persistence, and strategy, success is attainable. She mentors other women, teaching them to monetize their talents and pursue entrepreneurship fearlessly. “Representation matters,” she said. “I want people to see me and know they can build something meaningful from their passions.”

“For Tanisha Burke, the greatest
reward isn’t just business
success—it’s knowing she’s
making a difference. “

Her journey inspires a new generation to embrace entrepreneurship as a path to freedom and fulfillment.

For Tanisha Burke, the greatest reward isn’t just business success—it’s knowing she’s making a difference. “I’m building a life on my own terms while creating products that bring joy to others,” she said.

With Malaysian Lights Candles, she’s illuminating homes and hearts, one hand-poured candle at a time, proving that when you follow your passion, you truly find your purpose.

 

Melissa McClary Davis
Company: Wise Digital Marketing
Launched: 2019
Location: Southfield, MI
instagram: wisedigitalmarketing Facebook: wisedigitalmktg
linkedin: melissamcclarydavis

How Connections Built a Business, Determination, and Impact

If there’s one thing Melissa McClary Davis has seen repeatedly, it’s that no matter how smart or skilled you are, your network can take you places your talent alone cannot. Melissa is the founder and CEO of Wise Digital Marketing in Metro Detroit, an agency geared at helping small and mid-market businesses build brands that not only look good, but also generate real revenue using strategy, automation, and AI so they can grow with less overwhelm and more confidence.

The Secret to Her Success
The Communities She’s Built Around Her

“The right people in your corner can help you grow faster, dream bigger, and keep going when the journey gets hard. That’s why I believe the true power of networks is one of the most important assets any entrepreneur can build,” said Melissa.

Over the past five years, Melissa had the honor of helping hundreds of entrepreneurs take control of their marketing and move from stuck to thriving. But none of this would have been possible without the communities she’s built around her. “Every major milestone in my career is tied to the power of networks, the relationships I nurtured, the mentors and peers who guided me, and the clients who became champions of my work,” said Melissa.

When she first started Wise Digital Marketing, Melissa leaned on every connection she had, reaching out to people from years of managing campaigns for brands like Coca-Cola, Facebook, Ford, Hallmark, and AT&T. “They didn’t just wish me well. Many referred me to new opportunities, became early clients, or connected me with people who needed exactly what I offered,” said Melissa. “That’s how I landed my first marketing makeover project and opened doors to even bigger partnerships.”

Melissa has seen over and over how networks plant seeds that blossom into life-changing opportunities. “It’s also why I pay it forward. My mission isn’t only to market businesses, it’s to create ecosystems where success is shared,” she said.

That’s why Melissa launched Marketing Therapy Lab, a free community where entrepreneurs get hands-on, revenue-focused support and accountability. “Because I know firsthand that business can be isolating, and that sometimes just having people walk alongside you changes everything.”

Innovation plays a big role in how she serves her network. She developed digital products and AI-powered tools that help smaller businesses compete on a bigger stage. She also shares what she’s learned on her YouTube channel, Marketing Money Moves, and her free online community
Marketing Therapy Lab, where she breaks down how to grow using practical, budget-friendly strategies.

If there’s one takeaway Melissa hopes you get from her story, it’s this: “Your next level might be closer than you think. Often, it’s waiting on the other side of a single new relationship or a fresh perspective from someone who’s already walked the path. Invest in your network with purpose. Surround yourself with people who lift you higher and keep you accountable. Offer your expertise generously, because the support you give often comes back in the most unexpected ways.

The power of networks is bigger than sales or strategy. It’s about building a life and a legacy with people who believe in what you’re creating and want to see you win. And Melissa promised, that changes everything.

 

Vivian Delgado-Johnson
Company: Vivid Strategies, Inc. ; Vivid
Strategies Consulting
Launched: 2018 ; 2025
Location: Atlanta, GA ; Charlotte, NC (with global reach)
www.vividinc.net

Retail Roots, Consulting Wings

Vivian Delgado-Johnson is more than an entrepreneur, she’s a visionary, a disruptor, and a builder of businesses and legacies. With a background that blends telecom, retail strategy, operations, and global nonprofit work, Vivian brings both grit and grace to the world of entrepreneurship. Her journey reflects reinvention, purpose, and bold leadership, a true Career Mastered moment.

In 2018, Vivian founded Vivid Strategies, Inc., a company designed to fill the white space she saw in brick-and- mortar retail—which was data-light site selection and under-leveraged customer experience (CX).

After scaling, selling her portfolio of AT&T stores in 2023 and spending time living abroad, Vivian returned with a bigger vision. In 2025, she leveled up the brand by launching Vivid Strategies Consulting, a strategic arm of the business designed to help other leaders through her The Bridge Builder MethodTM:
• Define who they are and why it matters
• Activate every dollar, hour, and ounce of talent
• Amplify marketing, AI integrations, and PR so brands get loud and get found
• Expand intentionally, no emotional sprawl, just strategic growth

The Secret to Her Success
Reinvention, Purpose, and Bold Leadership

Her clients range from emerging entrepreneurs to established enterprises looking to scale with purpose. Her framework isn’t cookie-cutter; it’s real, relevant, and results-driven.

But don’t get it twisted, Vivian may have pivoted into consulting, but she’s not done with brick-and-mortar. There’s more retail on the horizon, and she said when she returns, it won’t be small. It’ll be bold, branded, and built for impact.

Vivian doesn’t follow trends. She tests them against data, customer insights, and a sharp gut instinct honed through experience. Her approach transforms traditional operations into scalable, tech-powered, customer- obsessed ecosystems. She has built her reputation by delivering clarity and bold execution, no fluff, just focused growth.

Vivian’s business model breaks traditional molds. She doesn’t just respond to what’s happening, she shapes what’s next. As a disruptor, she builds systems that challenge outdated thinking and fuel innovation. Whether she’s launching a new venture or advising future entrepreneurs, her mission stays the same: challenge the status quo with intention and care.

“My network is my village,” Vivian said, and she means it. From telecom executives to budding franchisees in Panama, her relationships are built on candor, coffee, and the occasional “¡Vamos!” She believes deeply in collaboration over competition and uses her seat at the table to pull up chairs for others.

Whether she’s mentoring women in business, partnering with city leaders, or hosting virtual roundtables on retail and AI, Vivian leads with heart, humor, and a whole lot of wisdom.

Vivian’s mission is rooted in service. She helps business owners move from stuck to scalable with clear, actionable frameworks, not fluff. Her work blends strategy, cultural insight, and execution that drives results.

Passionate about supporting women, entrepreneurs of color, and Latino communities, Vivian understands that being blessed comes with the responsibility to reach back and pay it forward.

She’s not just building businesses, she’s building a legacy of empowerment, impact, and generational wealth.

From Puerto Rico to Mumbai, Vivian has always believed in showing up fully, unfiltered, and honest. She knows that lived experience is power. That’s why her leadership is rooted in transparency and authenticity. “Your greatest advantage is your story,” she said. “Use it.”

Vivian Delgado-Johnson is the kind of leader who opens doors and holds them open. She’s bold, strategic, and deeply committed to impact. Her definition of success isn’t just about the bottom line; it’s about creating systems, scaling with purpose, and seeing others win.

“The real reward,” she said, “is seeing others thrive because you helped make room.”

She’s done it again and again, and she’s just getting started.

 

 

Dr. Samantha DeLoache
Company: Model Speakers Academy
Launched: 2024
Location: Charlotte, NC
www.modelspeakersacademy.com

Transforming Boundaries through Science and Style

Dr. Samantha DeLoache is not your traditional pharmacist. While she’s spent over 16 years managing pharmacy operations and delivering quality healthcare, she’s also trademarked the title “The Modeling Pharmacist”—a bold fusion of science, style, and speaking. With a doctorate in pharmacy, an MBA, and a calling to empower others, she is transforming what leadership looks like for professional women who refuse to choose
between brilliance and beauty. As the founder of Model Speakers Academy and Model Missions, Inc., she helps others own their voice and elevate their impact— whether in the boardroom, on stage, or in underserved communities around the globe.

The Secret to Her Success
Staying Rooted in Purpose while Embracing Pivots.

Success, for Samantha, is about saying yes to divine assignments—even when fear is present. Every role she steps into, whether in healthcare or on stage, is anchored in legacy and impact. Her ability to embrace pivots and trust the process has allowed her to evolve with confidence and clarity. It’s never been about doing what’s expected—it’s about doing what’s aligned.

Samantha is a firm believer that mindset shapes motion. Whether leading pharmacy teams or coaching clients, Samantha teaches that confidence is cultivated through language, practice, and intention. “Your voice is powerful. If you don’t believe it, no one else will,” she says. Her message is clear: success starts within.

While applause may come and go, her focus remains on generational impact. She mentors students, leads international mission work, and uplifts everyday individuals looking to grow their presence and purpose. Every business she builds is rooted in the belief that success should bless others too.

Samantha’s defining Career Mastered moment came when she launched her LLC and trademarked the phrase “The Modeling Pharmacist.” In a field that rarely celebrates duality, she gave herself—and other women— permission to be more than one thing. Becoming a disruptor wasn’t just about fashion and pharmacy. It was about challenging the status quo and making room for the multifaceted woman.

Through meaningful relationships—ranging from professional boards to her beloved sisterhood of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.—Samantha has experienced the life-changing power of community. Her network is filled with iron-sharpening-iron connections that uplift, inspire, and open doors to greater purpose.

Authenticity isn’t a buzzword for her—it’s a brand pillar. From pharmacy consultations to keynote stages, she shows up as her full self: faith-filled, Southern- rooted, stylish, and intentional. Her vulnerability andtransparency remind others that professionalism and personality can coexist.

From speaker coaching programs and branded apparel to retreats and live events, Samantha is building a business ecosystem designed to inform, inspire, and generate income. Her approach to entrepreneurship combines both vision and viability, showing women how to monetize their message and lead with integrity.

Samantha takes the word “model” seriously—it’s not just a pose, it’s a posture of leadership. Through her nonprofit Model Missions, Inc., she helps youth grow in public speaking, personal development, and college readiness. Through her academy, she empowers others to rise with their voice and message. At every level, she leads by example.

For Samantha, the most fulfilling moments are when others step into their calling—because she chose to step into hers. Whether it’s a first-time speaker nailing their presentation, a student she mentored heading to college, or a patient feeling empowered in their health journey, she counts every success as a shared victory.

Dr. Samantha DeLoache’s journey as a model, pharmacist, and entrepreneur embodies the essence of what it means to be a disruptor and a leader today. Blending over 16 years of healthcare leadership with a mission to empower others through voice, visibility, and value, she’s committed to helping others lead boldly, speak confidently, and live purposefully.

 

 

Iesha Marie Fox
Company: Iesha Marie Fox LLC
Launched: 2015
Location: Charlotte, NC
www.ieshamariefox.com

Brand Styling with Power, Clarity, and Possibility

In the dynamic world of branding and image strategy, few names resonate with the same authority and elegance as Iesha Marie Fox—the visionary Brand Style Director of high-end editorial styled campaigns. Since launching her Charlotte-based business in 2015, Iesha has become a trusted leader in helping women align their visual presence with their professional goals. Her journey from creative visionary to industry expert proves that when purpose meets precision, the result is not just a brand—but a legacy.

The Secret to Her Success

Brand Style IDTM

At the core of Iesha’s work is her signature framework, Brand Style IDTM—a strategic system designed to help women align their wardrobe with their brand, body type, and lifestyle. It’s through this method that Iesha helps high-achieving women—entrepreneurs, consultants, executives—elevate their image into one that commands respect and drives results.

Her immersive event, Bloom Theory, brings this process to life. It’s where personal styling meets brand strategy in an unforgettable experience that transforms the way women show up—for themselves and their business.

“Through workshops, content,
and thought leadership, she’s
redefining professional presence
for a new generation of women.
Her goal? To build a global
movement where women own
their image as a tool for impact—
not perfection.”

“Style isn’t vanity. It’s strategy,” she said. “How you show up influences every opportunity you attract.” Iesha’s philosophy is clear: success starts in the mirror.

Early in her career, Iesha recognized that how women see themselves directly shapes how they lead, sell, and scale. That’s why she combines strategic styling with mindset education, helping clients release insecurity and show up with clarity, confidence, and command. Her clients don’t just get dressed. They get direction. They get alignment. They get results.

Iesha’s vision extends far beyond fashion. Through workshops, content, and thought leadership, she’s redefining professional presence for a new generation of women. Her goal? To build a global movement where women own their image as a tool for impact—not perfection.

“Bloom Theory isn’t about being trendy. It’s about being undeniable,” said Iesha.

Iesha’s defining Career Mastered moment came in 2015 when she boldly launched Iesha Marie Fox LLC, seeing a gap in the market for intentional image strategy.

While others were styling for trends, she styled for transformation.

Since then, she’s worked with influencers, leaders, and legacy builders across industries—positioning their presence to match the power of the brand they’ve built.

In an industry obsessed with fast fashion and surface appeal, Iesha is a disruptor. She centers her brand on strategy, longevity, and identity—giving women the tools to stop dressing for the moment and start dressing for the mission.

From luxury retail partners to women-led startups, Iesha believes in collaboration as a growth strategy. Her work is rooted in the belief that when women rise together, the impact multiplies. She intentionally builds bridges through partnerships and mentorship, extending her reach far beyond the styling suite.

As a mother, entrepreneur, and mentor, Iesha leads by example—showing that style, strategy, and success can coexist. She continues to mentor emerging entrepreneurs, speak on stages, and inspire women to embrace their brilliance at every stage of life and business.

“The greatest reward,” Iesha
said, “is seeing a woman
recognize her own power—and
wear it boldly.”

For Iesha, success isn’t just in the look—it’s in the shift.

The shift when a woman walks into a room no longer doubting her image. The shift when she finally sees her wardrobe as a reflection of her worth. The shift when she becomes undeniably on-brand.

“The greatest reward,” Iesha said, “is seeing a woman recognize her own power—and wear it boldly.”

In a world where visibility is currency, Iesha Marie Fox has proven that when your image aligns with your identity, you don’t just show up—you lead.

 

 

 

Latonya Garth
Company: The IMAGINE Mentoring
Program
Launched: 2010
Location: Detroit, MI
www.imaginementoring.com

Imagining More, Then Making it Real

In a world where entrepreneurship often comes with glittering highlights and Instagram ready success, Latonya Garth brings a different kind of brilliance rooted in authenticity, resilience, service, and love. As the dynamic founder of The IMAGINE Mentoring Program of Michigan (IMAGINE), Latonya has not only carved out a space for herself as a powerful entrepreneur, speaker, and mentor, but she has also built a movement dedicated to empowering youth and women to rise above their circumstances and imagine more.

Latonya’s journey began in Detroit, Michigan, where grit and grace shaped her early experiences. While others saw barriers, she saw bridges. With a deep belief in transformation and the power of lived experience, she turned her story into a platform for purpose.

The Secret to Her Success
Igniting Possibility Through Purpose, Power and Perspective

“When adversity hit me like a storm, I was once that young girl who needed someone to see me, believe me, and speak life into my dreams so that I could Keep Going,” she said. That understanding became the seed for IMAGINE, an organization that inspires and equips young women and men with tools to overcome trauma, embrace self-worth, and pursue purposeful lives.

Her commitment to mentorship, leadership, and community impact has earned her national recognition, but she remains grounded in the work. From classrooms to boardrooms, her ability to connect with people and leave lasting impact is unmatched and her message is always clear: “You are the most important person in your life, and you have the power to transform it,” she said.

What’s the secret behind Latonya’s success? It’s a rare fusion of creativity, authenticity, and compassion. She leads with vision but walks with strategy. “Success isn’t just about what you build, it’s about who you build it for, and how many lives you touch in the process,” she explains.

Latonya believes success begins internally with belief, clarity, and commitment. “I had to mentally outgrow my limitations before I ever saw results externally,” she says. Through daily practices of prayer, reflection, and strategic planning, she cultivated a mindset of resilience and optimism. She often teaches her mentees that success is not a destination, but a mindset developed through discipline and self-awareness.

Her own journey has not been linear, she has faced adversity, loss, and detours. But through every challenge, she’s emerged stronger, guided by who she calls her “Mama in heaven” purpose.

“When you know your ‘why’, you won’t quit when it gets hard because there is a lesson that you need to learn before you can go to the next level,” she said.

Her Imagine Mentoring program serves thousands of children focusing on emotional intelligence, leadership, entrepreneurship, and mental wellness. Her powerful curriculum has been adopted in schools and community organizations, disrupting traditional approaches to youth
development by centering healing and identity.

Latonya’s understanding of economics and business strategy has fueled the growth of her ventures. She bootstrapped her way from speaking engagements and workshops to a sustainable brand with multiple income streams. She’s meticulous about reinvesting into her mission, balancing impact with profitability.

She also uses her event space as a business incubator to mentor other women on business planning, branding, and scaling with purpose.

Latonya is a role model embodying what’s possible when purpose meets persistence. She mentors the next generation not only with her words but with her walk. Her story teaches aspiring entrepreneurs that with creativity, courage, and consistency, you can build something bigger than yourself.

She is living proof that entrepreneurship isn’t about flashy success, it’s about legacy. About showing others how to overcome, how to lead, and how to imagine more.

For Latonya, the greatest reward is seeing a young woman rise after believing in herself for the first time. It’s knowing that her journey inspires others to pursue their calling. “I’m building what I once needed,” she says. “That’s the reward.”

In a world hungry for real leadership and intentional change, Latonya Garth is a light. She is not just building a business—she’s building a movement. She imagined more—and then made it real.

 

 

Tamara Genwright
Company: Wealth Advisory Solutions, LLC
Launched: 2021
Location: Mckinney, TX
www.wealthadvisorysolutions.org

Faith Meets Finance

In a world where money often defines success, Tamara Genwright is on a mission to redefine what true wealth really means. Tammy is a highly respected author, speaker, and coach who brings decades of experience from the finance industry, including leadership roles at Bank of America, Synergy Bank, Charter One Bank (Now Citizens Bank) and National City Bank (now PNC Bank). But despite her corporate success, Tamara saw a harsh truth: the modern financial system was designed to keep everyday people broke, burdened, and misinformed. She saw the patterns. She saw the pain. And she saw the plan: To keep the average American working, borrowing, and barely getting by.

The Secret to Her Success
Extending Generosity and Financial Wisdom to Those in Need

That’s why Tammy set out to reveal why everything we thought we knew about money is a lie. This realization led her to a higher calling and mission: to empower people to live abundantly, build wealth God’s way, and never be broke again.

Now, as CEO of Wealth Advisory Solutions, LLC, Tamara empowers people with the wisdom and tools to transform their finances God’s Way.

“Our flagship program is entitled ‘What’s In Your Hands?!’ where we teach you how God’s plan for money and building wealth greatly differs from the financial system that we live in today. Here, we don’t teach you to chase money. We teach you to activate what’s already yours,” said Tamara.

In a world that often glorifies wealth only as a symbol of success, status and power, Tamara chose a different path one shaped by faith, stewardship, and purpose. To Tamara, being a role model for people means teaching others that God is the true source of all provision. “Wealth is not the destination—it’s simply the tool needed to help you get there. It is a resource to care for your family, your community, and impact the world,” she said.

Her assignment is to extend generosity and financial wisdom to those in need; and to show others that financial peace doesn’t come from abundance, but from obedience to God’s principles.

Tamara leads by example and reminds others that true wealth is found not in possessions, but in peace with God and the ability to bless others with your wealth.

At Wealth Advisory Solutions, Tamara believes your financial breakthrough doesn’t start with a paycheck—it starts with a promise. A promise that “In Him we have obtained an inheritance…” – Ephesians 1:11. “It’s time to walk in it and Never Be Broke Again,” said Tamara.

Tamara and her team teach biblical principles that lead to generational wealth. Her flagship program “What’s In Your Hands?” is a powerful program that shows others how to:
• Shift your money mindset through scripture
• Identify and activate your God-given gifts
• Build wealth from where you are—with what you already have
• Break free from financial stress, toil, and debt

• Reveal the secrets to building wealth with gold and silver
• Align your finances with your faith, purpose, and calling

“You weren’t created to just survive—you were designed to walk in your purpose using your inheritance. It’s time to discover ‘What’s In Your Hands?’ and build your finances the way God intended,” said Tamara.

To learn more about Wealth Advisory Solutions, you may schedule a 30 minute one-on-one consultation at wealthadvisorysolutions.org or you may reach out to Tamara directly via email at support@ wealthadvisorysolutions.org and learn how to “add favor while you build your fortune!”

 

 

 

Dr. Meg Gibson
Company: True Choices Consulting®, LLC
Launched: 2008
Location: Charlotte, NC
www.maketruechoices.com

Leadership through presence, not perfection

In a world that often rewards conformity and restraint, Dr. Meg Gibson stands as a catalyst for purposeful change amplifying voices, advancing leadership, and guiding women as they redefine their professional narratives. As the Founder and CEO of True Choices Consulting®, LLC with more than 25 years of experience in organizational development, leadership cultivation, and personal brand strategy, Dr. Gibson equips high-achieving women to lead from truth and command presence with confidence and intention.

The Secret to Her Success
Commanding Presence with Confidence and Intention

At the heart of her approach is the EMBODYTM Framework, a six-part methodology that helps women articulate their message, elevate executive presence, and expand their influence without compromising their identity. “This transcends aesthetics and helps people lead with purpose, poise, and power,” said Dr. Gibson.

Her journey has been shaped by personal resilience. Despite outward confidence, she once struggled with feelings of invisibility and self-doubt. That internal disconnect became the foundation for her transformation. Today, she draws from those experiences to help women dismantle limiting beliefs and free themselves from the pressure to conform.

True Choices Consulting® was founded with a clear purpose: to help women evolve from being seen to being heard, respected, and remembered. From the Unbox Your BrandTM course to the Command the RoomTM Accelerator, each offer is designed to deliver clarity, confidence, and career-defining results. Dr. Gibson equips clients to create brands anchored in values, not vanity, and to embody leadership that is both intentional and
influential.

A defining Career Mastered moment came when Dr. Gibson delivered her keynote, “The Power Behind Your Brand.” Sharing her story with authenticity and courage, she saw how her words resonated deeply with a room full of leaders. It was an affirmation of her message and mission,
and a powerful reminder of what happens when we lead from who we truly are.

The most powerful brand isn’t manufactured, it’s the one already within you. Leadership is an invitation to show up as your full self.

She approaches each initiative with strategic precision and mission-driven intent. Whether launching a coaching program, developing a digital tool, or leading a brand strategy session, Dr. Gibson ensures that every offer is both impactful and sustainable.

With an eye toward scalability, diversified income, and aligned partnerships, Dr. Gibson positions her business for lasting value and measurable transformation. More than a consultant, she is a mentor and thought leader. Through speaking, coaching, and digital content, Dr. Gibson uplifts women who are navigating leadership, visibility, and personal brand development.

Dr. Gibson shares her journey transparently, offering not just success stories, but real lessons from reinvention and resilience. Her message is clear: “leadership is about presence, not perfection”.

For Dr. Gibson, the reward lies in transformation, in her clients’ confidence, clarity, and ability to lead boldly. Witnessing women step into their full expression and inspire others is the true legacy of her work.

The mission continues to evolve, but one truth remains: meaningful leadership is not defined by titles alone, it’s defined by impact.

In that regard, Dr. Gibson is leading by example.

 

 

 

Stephanie Hancock
Company: Career Rise, LLC
Launched: 2022
Location: Pasadena, CA
www.CareerRise.com

Building Success Through People, Purpose, and Persistence

Stephanie Hancock has a remarkable ability to marry people strategy with business outcomes. As Director of Human Resources at Dealer Image ProTM, she leads with a unique blend of empathy, creativity, and strategic foresight. Stephanie has spent over a decade mastering the art of people leadership while building entrepreneurial ventures that center on human potential. The secret to her success? Consistency in execution, a keen eye for opportunity, and the courage to reinvent herself—again and again.

The Secret to Her Success
Consistency in Execution

Stephanie’s journey has never been about overnight success. She believes in cultivating a mindset grounded in growth, accountability, and continuous learning. Whether navigating corporate restructuring or launching her own business, Career Rise, LLC, Stephanie demonstrates that resilience fuels progress. Her mantra is simple yet powerful: “Every setback holds the seed of a greater comeback.” This mindset has helped her not only endure industry shifts but thrive amid them.

Throughout her career, Stephanie has focused on more than just climbing the corporate ladder. Her ultimate goal has always been to help others unlock their professional potential. From building soft skills training through Career Rise, LLC, to contributing thought leadership as a writer for Career Mastered Magazine, Stephanie keeps service to others at the core of her work. Her perspective reminds us that true leadership is about uplifting others while building sustainable success.

A pivotal Career Mastered moment – her entrepreneurial leadership while balancing multiple professional commitments. Her work as a contributing writer for Career Mastered Magazine gave her a platform to inspire women globally. Simultaneously, she took bold steps to build Career Rise, LLC, providing soft skills and career development services to underrepresented professionals. Stephanie mastered the art of “career stacking”— leveraging her skills across multiple platforms to drive maximum impact.

Stephanie’s entrepreneurial journey started with a simple observation: too many professionals are overlooked because of soft skill gaps. With Career Rise, LLC, she designed workshops, career coaching, and facilitation services that focus on communication, leadership presence, and confidence building. Her business solves a real market need while reinforcing her personal mission— empowering people to navigate their careers with purpose and strategy.

Stephanie’s success is also fueled by the strength of her professional networks. From corporate circles to entrepreneurial communities, she has mastered the art of relationship building. Her ability to foster meaningful connections has led to career opportunities—even after industry layoffs—and business collaborations that drive her ventures forward. She embodies the Career Mastered principle that “proximity is power.”

Stephanie understands the economics of business building. Through her entrepreneurial ventures, she’s learned to balance profitability with purpose. She has built Career Rise, LLC into a sustainable business while contributing to corporate leadership at Dealer Image ProTM. Stephanie proves that women can be both mission- driven and financially successful.

Stephanie is a role model for women in business because she exemplifies innovation, persistence, and strategic growth. Her career journey teaches others that success isn’t linear, but with adaptability, creativity, and the right mindset, it’s achievable. She actively mentors young professionals, contributes knowledge through writing, and uplifts others through coaching—making her impact extend far beyond her own career wins.

Helping others is more than a side project for Stephanie— it’s her life’s work. Whether it’s facilitating career workshops, mentoring through Career Mastered, or supporting her team at Dealer Image ProTM, Stephanie’s mission is to build people. She is a living example that success multiplies when you help others rise.

For Stephanie Hancock, the ultimate reward isn’t just personal achievement—it’s seeing others flourish because of the seeds she’s planted. Her story is a testament to what’s possible when you blend ambition with purpose, creativity with strategy, and leadership with service. Upcoming entrepreneurs can look at Stephanie’s journey to know: you don’t have to choose between impact and success—you can achieve both.

 

 

Linda Hannah
Company: Linda Hannah Speaks
Launched: 1989
Location: Detroit, MI
www.lindahannahspeaks.com

Using the Power of Hats to Bridge Resilience, Brilliance, and History

Entrepreneurship wasn’t just something Linda Hannah pursued—it was part of her DNA. Growing up in Detroit, she watched her father run his own TV repair business, operating daily from the shop attached to their home. He was sought after for his excellence, always delivering more than expected. Additionally, her uncle —one of the first in Detroit to open a unisex barbershop—built a space so glamorous that everyone called him “Mr. Hollywood.” It was their work ethic and ability to serve and build something lasting that shaped Linda’s understanding of what it means to take ownership of your craft.

The Secret to Her Success
Learning at Any Stage of Life

The male figures weren’t the only family members who inspired Linda. Later in life, her mother reinforced this entrepreneurial spirit in a different way—by going to college in her 50s. “She showed me that growth has no expiration date. That courage to step into learning at any stage of life sparked something in me, leading me to embrace my own path of transformation,” she said.

As Linda sat in her home studio crafting hats, she found herself doing more than design. “I was listening, encouraging, and connecting with the women who came to me,” she said. Each hat carried a deeper meaning, tied to the mindset we wear in life. “Some of my clients came in celebrating victories, others facing struggles, but all of them had a story. The more I listened, the more I realized the symbolic power of hats—not just as fashion but as a metaphor for identity, resilience, and the way we show up in the world.”

“They weren’t just learning
about vintage styles—they were
hearing about the perseverance
of women in the 1920s and
1940s who faced adversity yet
became iconic designers.

That moment of realization was more than inspiration; it was divine. “I believe it was something God placed in my heart to see, leading me to develop my first talk Shifting Your Mindset: Cultivate, Embrace, and Demonstrate Resiliency,” said Linda. It was the bridge between her creative work and her greater purpose—empowering women to embrace their brilliance and resilience.

Linda hadn’t set out to disrupt an industry, yet her journey naturally led her there. When she first began sharing the history of hats, people gravitated toward the storytelling. They weren’t just learning about vintage styles—they were hearing about the perseverance of women in the 1920s and 1940s who faced adversity yet became iconic designers. Somehow, these two worlds merged: history, empowerment, and personal growth.

She wasn’t just running a business; she was creating a movement. Hat Moments, which started as presentations about millinery history, soon became a space for women to reflect on their own stories. From libraries, Derby events, teas, and women’s ministry gatherings, Linda found that hats had the power to connect people, build confidence, and inspire transformation.

If there’s one thing she learned, it’s that relationships matter more than anything in business. “Networking isn’t about collecting business cards or LinkedIn connections— it’s about real relationships that create impact,” she said.

“Even today, she presents on
The History of Hats, including an
upcoming event at the Detroit
Main Library on January 15,
2026. ”

“Organizations like Toastmasters and Career Mastered opened doors, but more importantly, they connected me with people who helped me grow. Whether in business or life, the most valuable connections come when you serve others, not just when you seek opportunity,” she said.

In 1989, she never could have predicted that her millinery business would eventually transform into a speaking career. But no experience in life is wasted.

The business wasn’t just a passion project—it was a practical way to earn income while being a stay-at-home mother, homeschooling her three children. Her home became both a classroom and a creative studio, where she balanced education with entrepreneurship. What started as a way to provide for her family evolved into a thriving business, proving that women can build something impactful right from their homes.

Hat Moments remain a cornerstone of her work. Even today, she presents on The History of Hats, including an upcoming event at the Detroit Main Library on January 15, 2026.

Linda’s mission? To equip women with the tools to cultivate knowledge, confidence, courage, and resilience— what she calls the “Four Crowns.” Through storytelling, faith, and practical strategies, she continues to inspire audiences to embrace their personal and professional potential.

 

 

Raquelle “Rocki” Harris
Company: Write Down To It ; Rocki’s
Reality
Launched: 2016; 2017
Location: Detroit, MI
www.writedowntoit.net

Writing Your Own Success Story

In the fast-evolving and competitive world of media, few voices shine as boldly and authentically as Raquelle “Rocki” Harris. A multimedia storyteller, publicist, writer, editor, and award-winning host and producer of Rocki’s Reality podcast, Harris has carved a unique space for herself by blending creativity with business savvy. Her journey is more than a tale of professional triumph—it’s a blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs who dream of building a legacy with authenticity, integrity and intention.

The Secret to Her Success
Purpose-Driven Storytelling

Rocki Harris’s success is rooted in a passion for storytelling built on substance. Whether through her written articles, on-air interviews, or public relations work, she uses narrative as a powerful tool to inform, inspire, and empower. Her mantra is simple: tell stories that matter. This guiding principle fuels everything she touches, from creating compelling editorial content to producing Rocki’s Reality, a show renowned for spotlighting genuine conversations about culture, community, entertainment, and relationships. Her transparency and commitment to elevating diverse voices are what make her stand out in a crowded media landscape. She is often recognized for relatable content that garners engagement.

For Rocki, success isn’t just about accolades—it’s about mindset. She embraces a growth mentality, seeing challenges as opportunities to evolve. “Progress beats perfection,” she often says. It’s this philosophy that allows her to tackle new ventures fearlessly, pivot when necessary, and continuously invest in her personal and professional growth. Her faith, self-discipline, and focus on self-care are the quiet engines driving her consistent progress.

Rocki’s career is guided by more than personal ambition. At the core of her mission is service—empowering others through media. Every story she shares is with the intention to uplift, educate, or spark meaningful dialogue. By keeping the bigger picture in mind, Rocki ensures her work serves a higher purpose. Whether advocating for social justice or mentoring up-and-coming media professionals, she is committed to leaving a positive,
lasting impact.

A defining moment in Rocki’s career was launching her media platform, Rocki’s Reality. What started as a radio program quickly evolved into a multi-platform experience with a growing digital presence. Viewers have watched from countries worldwide, including Brazil and Guyana. Winning awards and building a loyal audience, Rocki turned her vibrant voice into a business, demonstrating the power of personal brand building. Her ability to pivot, innovate, and scale her content shows the art of entrepreneurship at its finest.

Raquelle “Rocki” Harris embodies what it means to be a creative entrepreneur. She transformed her natural gifts—storytelling, hosting, and writing—into a thriving enterprise. She is proof that creative work and strategic business building can co-exist successfully.

A strong believer in collaboration, Rocki believes that collaboration instead of competition is key to longevity and success.

Rocki’s greatest asset is her authenticity. She brings her full self to every room, every interview, and every project. This authenticity has cultivated deep trust with her audience and clients, reinforcing her brand as one that is relatable, honest, and impactful.

Through her business ventures, Rocki not only creates content but also cultivates opportunities for others. Her work amplifies underrepresented voices and supports emerging talent. By combining economics with impact, she demonstrates that entrepreneurship can be both profitable and socially responsible. Her services—spanning media production, writing, and public relations—serve individuals and organizations seeking visibility with integrity.

Raquelle “Rocki” Harris is more than a media maven; she’s a role model for anyone chasing their dreams with grit and grace. She exemplifies how creativity, innovation, persistence, and strategy can build lasting success. By sharing her truth, serving her community, and uplifting others, Rocki proves that entrepreneurship is not just a career—it’s a calling.

Her message to aspiring entrepreneurs is clear: “Stay authentic. Lead with service. Bet on yourself.” In a world eager for meaningful change, Rocki Harris is showing the way—one story at a time.

 

 

Colette Hughes
Company: Virtual Real Estate Services
Launched: 2015
Location: Detroit, MI
www.virtualrealestatesvcs.com

Building Wealth, Communities, and Legacies

In the thriving heart of Detroit and the Southeast Metropolitan area, Colette Hughes and Virtual Real Estate Services stand tall as a symbol of creativity, innovation, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship. With her flourishing real estate enterprise, dynamic consulting firm, and empowering product line, Colette is redefining what it means to be a successful entrepreneur in today’s world—one who uplifts communities, builds wealth, and
inspires the next generation.

The Secret to Her Success

Transforming Lives

“I don’t just want to do business—I want to transform lives and communities,” said Colette. Her real estate firm focuses on neighborhood revitalization, affordable housing solutions, and creating pathways for aspiring homeowners and real estate investors, particularly in
Detroit’s underserved areas. It’s not only about closing deals but about closing opportunity gaps—providing education, access, and opportunity through real estate ventures.

“The first property anyone must own is their mindset. If you can own your mind, you can own your future,” said Colette who has an unshakable belief in learning, resilience, and persistence. Her real estate journey wasn’t handed to her. It was built from hard work, continuous education, and strategic action—a mindset she encourages others to foster.

Colette’s Career Mastered moment came when she left a career in working for others in their real estate development dreams and took the leap into
entrepreneurship. “I realized I could either keep building someone else’s empire or build my own. That leap of faith led to my first real estate investment, and from there, creation of thriving businesses in the industry,” she said. Colette celebrates each milestone—each renovated home, each family served—as a symbol of that decision to bet on herself.

Through her creative financing models, partnerships with local contractors, and commitment to uplifting Black and women investors, she’s creating pathways into property ownership for those historically excluded from it. She integrates innovative design and sustainable practices in her developments, ensuring that projects enhance, rather than displace Detroit communities.

Colette’s rise in real estate and entrepreneurship is fueled by a powerful, authentic network. From local business owners and financial advisors to aspiring investors and city leaders, her network is built on trust, collaboration, and mutual success. “In real estate, relationships open doors faster than any key,” she said. Authenticity has allowed her to build real connections and lasting partnerships, both in business and in community spaces.

Through real estate, she tackles economic disparities head-on. Her ventures create jobs, offer homeownership education, and provide affordable housing alternatives. She doesn’t just build properties—she builds economic pipelines. Her workshops on real estate investing, credit repair, and property management are equipping Detroiters to participate in the city’s economic resurgence.

“I’m living proof that through creativity, innovation, persistence, and strategy, entrepreneurship becomes a tool for liberation,” said Colette. Her real estate success is measured not just in profit margins, but in lives transformed, communities revitalized, and legacies created. The greatest reward she says is “knowing I’m not just building my dream—I’m helping others realize theirs.”

Her objectives are clear: build wealth, build people, and build Detroit.

In every renovated home, every thriving entrepreneur she mentors, and every community she uplifts, Colette Hughes leaves a blueprint: “Success isn’t just about what you have, it’s about what you give back.”

 

 

Marina Ivanov
Company: Apex Transit Solutions
Launched: 2012
Location: Charlotte, NC
www.apextransitllc.com

Impacting the Transportation Industry

Marina Ivanov is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Apex Transit Solutions, a certified Women’s Business Enterprise and family run logistics provider headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. With more than a decade at the helm, Marina has steered Apex from its grassroots beginnings into a trusted name in asset-based freight logistics.

The Secret to Her Success
Energizing Teams and Building Others Up

Raised in the world of transportation, Marina’s roots run deep. Her earliest lessons came from the passenger seat of her father’s truck, traveling across the country and gaining a firsthand appreciation for the grit, resilience, and human spirit that define the trucking industry. Today, she honors that legacy through leadership that blends hands- on expertise with bold vision.

A recognized leader across the Southeast, Marina currently serves on the Board of Directors for the North Carolina Trucking Association and is the Chair of the NCTA Women in Trucking Council. She is also a board member of Women in Manufacturing NC, where she pushes for stronger collaboration between logistics and manufacturing and fights for greater representation of women across both industries. Marina’s influence reaches far beyond boardrooms and operations centers. She is a strong voice in public standing up for industry issues on Capitol Hill, she shows
up with passion and purpose.

As a sought-after industry speaker, Marina brings powerful storytelling and practical insight to the stage. Her talks challenge audiences to lead with authenticity, embrace growth, and drive systemic change through inclusive leadership.

Her strengths in business development, logistics strategy, and team building have made her a trusted partner to national shippers, peers, and policymakers alike. But what sets Marina apart is her deep commitment to give back to the industry that shaped her.

For Marina, trucking is more than business. It is a legacy. It is a community. It is home.

 

 

Jania Massey
Company: Huepact ; Stiletto Boss
University (SBU)
Launched: 2013 (Huepact), 2015 (SBU)
Location: Charlotte, NC
www.huepact.com
www.stilettobossuniversity.com

Visionary Architect of Social Change

In 2013 when Jania Massey launched Huepact, she wasn’t just starting a company, she was building a movement. Jania is a champion for equity, entrepreneurship, and youth leadership. As founder of a social impact firm, she helps for-profit and nonprofit organizations create meaningful community initiatives. Her commitment to service expands beyond Huepact and into Stiletto Boss University (SBU) — a youth-led organization teaching girls how to turn their passions into purpose-driven enterprises.

The Secret to Her Success
Build What’s Missing and Make it Better

“I saw a gap in how organizations approached community engagement — especially when it came to amplifying voices that are often overlooked,” said Jania. Her work focuses on shifting that narrative by embedding social impact.

Jania’s mindset is rooted in impact. “You have to believe in what you’re building, even when it feels like no one else sees the vision yet,” she said. “If it doesn’t change lives, I don’t want to build it. That clarity keeps me grounded and motivated.”

Huepact and SBU are vehicles for legacy-building. Every partnership, every cohort, every event is part of a larger mission: to create spaces where young people — especially Black girls — feel seen, heard, and prepared to lead.

“Launching SBU was my Career Mastered ‘seize the day’ moment,” said Jania. “I was tired of watching young girls with bright ideas go unsupported. I knew I had the tools, experience, and heart to do something about it — and I did.”

Entrepreneurship was a calling for Jania. “I didn’t set out to build two brands, but every part of my career — from marketing to nonprofit development — prepared me for this. I leaned into my skills and let passion guide my direction,” she said.

SBU is transformative by design. The company flipped the script on traditional youth programming by making girls the CEOs of their ideas. “We trust them with real decisions and real leadership — and they rise to the occasion every time,” said Jania.

None of this happens in isolation. Her network — especially Black women leaders — has been essential. From mentors to collaborators, the relationships she’s built have fueled her work and helped them stay inspired and informed.

“My story, my faith, my passion — I bring it all to the table,” said Jania. “Being authentic has allowed me to attract the right people and opportunities. I’ve learned that who you are is your superpower — use it boldly.” Sustainability is critical. BossPrint, the consulting arm of SBU, was created to generate earned revenue and reduce reliance on grants. Jania licenses their curriculum and provides training for others to replicate their model across the country.

A lasting business is one that evolves without losing its purpose. She continues to innovate while staying true to her mission — empowering communities and changing systems through entrepreneurship and education.

Jania represents what’s possible — especially for young girls who look like her. It’s not just about success, but how we bring others along with us. Jania has mentored over 1,000 youth and counting, and that’s her proudest legacy.

Whether through workshops, coaching, or speaking, she is committed to pouring into others. “I believe in multiplying impact — when you help one person tap into their power, they’ll go out and do the same for someone else,” said Jania.

“The reward is watching our youth thrive — launching businesses, leading in their communities, and rewriting the future. It’s also knowing I’ve created platforms where their brilliance isn’t just acknowledged, but expected.

Jania Massey is more than a businesswoman — she’s a visionary architect of social change. Through Huepact and SBU, she’s proving that entrepreneurship can be a tool for liberation, leadership, and lasting community impact.

 

 

Lindsey McMillion
Company: McMillion Consulting
Launched: 2016
Location: Greenville, SC
www.mcmillionconsulting.com

Blueprint for Disruptive Success

In today’s digital-first world, few names ring louder in the LinkedIn strategy space than Lindsey McMillion. Known as “LinkedIn Lindsey,” she is the founder and CEO of McMillion Consulting, a premier branding and LinkedIn optimization firm dedicated to transforming professional presence into powerful business results. With clients ranging from corporate leaders to visionary entrepreneurs, Lindsey has become the go-to expert for digital visibility, personal branding, and strategic connection-building.

The Secret to Her Success
A Belief in Long-term Value over Short-Term Applause

Lindsey’s success lies in her ability to blend authenticity with strategy. “You can’t fake connection,” she says. “People are drawn to what’s real.” Her business thrives on helping others craft honest, compelling personal brands that convert. Lindsey’s genius lies not only in what she teaches but how she teaches it—with clarity, warmth, and results in mind.

Beyond her expertise, Lindsey attributes her success to consistency, intentionality, and a strong sense of mission. “I didn’t wait until I had all the answers to show up—I started where I was, with what I had,” she explains. That mindset continues to serve her as both a founder and mentor.

“While it’s easy to get lost in
metrics and marketing, Lindsey
remains grounded in a deeper
vision: helping people build
businesses and careers that align
with who they truly are.”

Success, for Lindsey, is as much mental as it is measurable. She emphasizes the importance of mindset work for entrepreneurs and professionals alike. “Your thoughts shape your actions, and your actions shape your outcomes,” she notes. Lindsey’s journey illustrates that fostering a success mindset requires self-awareness, discipline, and a belief in long-term value over short-term applause.

While it’s easy to get lost in metrics and marketing, Lindsey remains grounded in a deeper vision: helping people build businesses and careers that align with who they truly are. “When your brand reflects your values and mission, you don’t have to chase opportunities—they find you,” she says.

Her work goes beyond branding—it’s about building legacy.

Lindsey’s pivotal Career Mastered moment came when she made the bold decision to leave her comfortable corporate career to build McMillion Consulting. “I realized I was sitting on a gift that could help others rise. I had to honor that calling,” she said. It was a leap that required courage—but it was also the beginning of a new chapter that has empowered thousands.

In launching her business, Lindsey didn’t just enter the marketplace—she disrupted it. At a time when many were offering surface-level social media tips, Lindsey focused on depth, strategy, and data-backed transformation. Her services, including LinkedIn profile overhauls, brand positioning sessions, and executive coaching, help clients build trust and drive impact.

Her success proves that creativity and innovation can redefine industries.

Lindsey is a master connector. Through cultivating meaningful relationships online and offline, she’s built a thriving referral-based business. “Your network is your net worth—but only if it’s built on trust,” she says. Her community spans industries and continents, all rooted in authentic connection and mutual value.

At McMillion Consulting, Lindsey doesn’t just help clients look successful—she helps them be successful. Her business is rooted in economics and ROI. Whether it’s helping someone land a six-figure role or close a major deal, her work directly impacts the bottom line. She’s not just building a brand—she’s building economic empowerment.

Lindsey is deeply committed to mentoring and uplifting others. Through workshops, speaking engagements, and thought leadership, she equips rising entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed. “I don’t want to be the only one winning,” she says. “My joy comes from seeing others
rise, too.”

“Lindsey McMillion is more than
a LinkedIn expert—she’s a force
for digital empowerment, a
disruptor of outdated norms, and
a role model for anyone ready to
rise with intention.”

She models that through her creativity, persistence, and strategy—demonstrating that success is not a straight line, but a series of courageous steps.

For Lindsey, the ultimate reward isn’t just revenue or recognition—it’s transformation. “When a client tells me they finally feel seen, heard, and empowered—that’s what keeps me going.” Her journey is a reminder that when you lead with purpose, success naturally follows.

Lindsey McMillion is more than a LinkedIn expert—she’s a force for digital empowerment, a disruptor of outdated norms, and a role model for anyone ready to rise with intention. Her story proves that when you combine authenticity, strategy, and service—you don’t just build a business, you build a movement.

 

Melody Marie Melton
Company: Melody Marie Fitness
Launched: 2012
Location: Atlanta, GA
www.melodymariefitness.com

Transforming and Redefining Success From the Inside Out

At first glance, Melody Marie is a powerhouse in the fitness world—strong, confident, and deeply rooted in purpose. But behind every bootcamp, coaching session, and wellness event is a woman who built her business with nothing but grit, faith, and an unshakable mission: to educate, motivate, and empower individuals to live a healthy lifestyle from the inside out.

The Secret to Her Success
Persistence, Late Nights, Prayer, and Purpose

As the founder of Melody Marie Fitness, Melody has created far more than a fitness brand. She’s created a movement that inspires real people with real lives to prioritize wellness, find their confidence, and embrace the journey—mind, body, and spirit.

Melody’s success story is one with no handouts or shortcuts. She transformed her passion into a thriving business from the ground up. “Nothing was given to me.

Every milestone I’ve reached came from persistence, late nights, prayer, and purpose,” she said. Before launching her fitness brand, Melody spent years working as a financial coach and representative with Primerica Financial, where she empowered families to build financial literacy and long-term wealth. But deep down, she knew her calling was even broader.

“I was helping people with their money, but I also saw how stress, health, and mindset were all connected,” she said. “I wanted to create something that helped people live in total alignment—financially, physically, and spiritually.” That leap of faith led to the birth of Melody Marie Fitness and a bold disruption of the traditional fitness and wellness model.

In an industry often focused on aesthetics, Melody stays rooted in transformation. “It’s not about six-pack abs—it’s about building discipline, mental strength, and confidence that shows up in every area of your life,” she said.

That’s why Melody Marie Fitness offers more than just workouts. It’s a hybrid wellness platform with personal training, group fitness, mindset coaching, nutritional guidance, and community challenges. Her MB3 bootcamp, for example, blends intention-setting, faith, and movement to nourish the whole person—body, mind, and spirit.

Melody attributes much of her growth to the power of collaboration and connection. From partnering with gyms like The Union Fit Hub to co-hosting events with nonprofit organizations such as Space of Grace, she’s built strong networks that uplift both her brand and the communities she serves.

Equally important is her authenticity. “People connect with me because I’m real. I don’t sell perfection—I share the process. I’ve faced obstacles. I’ve started over. But I never gave up. That’s what inspires people,” she said.

For Melody, the biggest reward isn’t just business growth—it’s the lives changed. “Building this business gave me freedom, but more importantly, it gave me the power to pour back into others,” she said. “When someone tells me they feel stronger, more confident, more in control—that’s the real win. That’s the impact I live for.”

Her next venture includes developing a nonprofit initiative that will offer youth fitness programs, mindset workshops, and entrepreneurship mentoring for young women of color.

As she continues to grow Melody Marie Fitness, she remains a bold example of what happens when creativity, discipline, and heart come together.

Melody has proven that entrepreneurship isn’t just about business. It’s about service, vision, and legacy. Her journey reminds us that true success lies not in what you achieve alone, but in what you empower others to do.

To women chasing their dreams, she offers this: “Start where you are. Stay authentic. Keep your mission bigger than the money. And remember—you don’t need permission to be powerful.”

 

 

Sonja Moffett
Company: Sonai Strategies, LLC
Launched: 2024
Location: Warner Robins, GA
www.sonaistrat.com

Empowering Entrepreneurs with AI

Sonja Moffett is a savvy businesswoman who represents what it means to have growth, adaptation, and bold thinking. As Founder and CEO of Sonai Strategies, Sonja learned how to transform her fear of failure into a faith walk.

The Secret to Her Success
Powered by Purpose, Strategy and AI

Her company Sonai Strategies supports businesses with AI consultancy and training. Rather than shying away from technology as AI evolved, she embraced continuous learning and saw AI as an opportunity—not a threat. “AI isn’t replacing entrepreneurs—it’s empowering them,” Sonja said.

At Sonai Strategies, Sonja uses AI tools to streamline workflows, improve client experiences, and generate creative concepts—proving that success belongs to those who adapt and innovate. Her commitment to mindset mastery, paired with openness to emerging technology, keeps Sonai Strategies at the cutting edge.

Sonja leads with vision. She believes that technology, when used ethically and intentionally, can create lasting positive change and sustainable growth through rapid change. Sonai Strategies aids clients by performing and automating market research, developing data-driven strategies, and enhancing brand storytelling with AI-powered design tools. Sonja keeps her focus on scaling impact. She believes the bigger picture involves businesses thriving sustainably while making a meaningful difference in their communities.

Sonja’s Career Mastered moment came when she realized she could no longer limit her creativity within corporate walls. By combining her years of expertise with innovative technologies like AI, she founded Sonai Strategies to deliver services at a level traditional firms couldn’t match. “I knew I could create smarter, faster, more impactful solutions if I blended strategic thinking with advanced tools,” she said. That decision marked the start of her entrepreneurial journey.

Sonja isn’t just an entrepreneur—she’s a disruptor. In an industry where many rely on outdated methods, she boldly integrates AI into her consulting practice. From predictive analytics to AI-assisted content creation, she crafts customized solutions that help clients outpace their
competitors. Her unique approach disrupts the typical consulting narrative, offering strategy services that are faster, smarter, and more dynamic. Sonai Strategies is where classic business wisdom meets next-generation technology.

Her connections span corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and tech innovators, all of whom benefit from her ability to bridge traditional strategy with cutting-edge tools. Moffett presented on the impact of AI at a fireside chat in Nairobi, Kenya at the Diaspora Africa Conference where businesses from around the world came together to network and discover new business opportunities.

“A year ago, I could not have imagined travelling internationally on an invitational to converse among like- minded business owners and executives about the impact of AI… I learned that we are more alike than different, and this is the beauty of networking. The trip to Africa has introduced Sonai Strategies to a new economy ripe with opportunity. I can’t wait to share more about what’s coming in 2026!”

Sonja is a shining example of how modern entrepreneurs can thrive by combining timeless principles with technological advancements. She mentors others not only on business strategy but on how to responsibly incorporate AI to drive innovation and impact. Her workshops, consulting sessions, and community engagements are packed with insights on harnessing creativity, persistence, and strategy—amplified by technology.

For Sonja, the reward is seeing businesses grow stronger, entrepreneurs become more confident, and visions come to life—faster and more impactfully than ever before. Sonai Strategies stands as proof that when heart, strategy, and technology align, success is inevitable. Sonja Moffett is redefining what it means to be a modern business leader—powered by purpose, strategy, and AI.

 

 

Portia Mount
Company: Mount Creative
Launched: 2023
Location: North Carolina
www.mountcreativeco.com

Disrupting the Ordinary, Designing the Extraordinary

When you first encounter Portia Mount, her presence is undeniable—calmly confident, effortlessly chic, and strikingly articulate. But beyond the poised exterior is a woman whose journey represents the blueprint of modern entrepreneurship: a fusion of grit, grace, creativity, and the unwavering belief that success isn’t just about personal triumph—it’s about building platforms that elevate others along the way.

The Secret to Her Success
Creating Her Own Lane

Portia Mount is a trailblazer whose professional arc spans executive leadership, brand strategy, entrepreneurship, and thought leadership. Through her company Mount Creative, she is challenging conventional models of leadership during these unconventional times. Her mission is rooted in a powerful belief: when women harness their authentic voice, combine it with data-driven strategy, and step into leadership boldly, they not only
build thriving businesses—they change the world.

For Portia, success hasn’t been accidental. It’s been intentional, thoughtful, and relentless. Her secret? “A success mindset,” she said. “It’s about believing that you belong in every room you walk into, even when no one looks like you.”

Early in her career, she recognized that traditional paths often left little room for women of color to show up as their full selves. Instead of conforming, she disrupted— bringing her whole identity to the boardroom and challenging others to do the same.

Her mindset is fortified by discipline and clarity. “Every decision I make connects to a bigger picture. I always ask, ‘How does this advance the mission? How does this help others?’”

After building a dynamic career in marketing and leadership—serving in senior roles across multiple global organizations—Portia took a leap that many dream about, but few take: she became an entrepreneur.

Launching her own ventures, including a consulting brand and a curated content platform for women of color in leadership, Portia redefined success on her own terms. Her work includes empowering organizations to build inclusive leadership cultures and coaching women to lead
with confidence, creativity, and impact.

Her Career Mastered moment came when she realized she didn’t need to wait for permission. “I stopped asking, ‘Am I ready?’ and started saying, ‘I’m already doing the work. Let’s scale it.’”

What makes Portia a true disruptor isn’t just her departure from the status quo—but how she does it. She integrates corporate savvy with deep cultural insight, using both to build powerful narratives for brands and individuals alike. Whether leading strategy sessions for Fortune 500 companies, coaching first-time CEOs and their leadership teams, Portia brings a rare blend of intelligence and intuition.

Portia has built an expansive network community of leaders, creatives, and changemakers, fueled by mutual respect and aligned values. Her authenticity— unapologetic, thoughtful, and deeply human—is her superpower. She shows aspiring entrepreneurs that being true to yourself isn’t a liability—it’s your greatest asset.

What sets Portia apart is her deep sense of service. As a mentor, speaker, and content creator, she is committed to helping others rise. Her podcast, workshops, and coaching programs focus on real-world tools for navigating leadership, branding, and entrepreneurship. Through each platform, she helps women transform self-doubt into strategy.

She’s especially passionate about empowering women of color, often overlooked in leadership pipelines. “We’re not missing talent—we’re missing opportunity. I want to be the bridge that changes that.”

For Portia, the reward isn’t just financial gain—it’s impact. “When a woman tells me, ‘I finally see myself as a leader because of you,’ that’s everything.”

She knows that legacy isn’t about being remembered—it’s about building something that lasts. Through creativity, innovation, persistence, and strategy, Portia Mount has done just that. She’s built a brand, a mission, and a movement that will outlive any title or trend.

To the upcoming entrepreneur reading this, take note. Portia’s story is more than a résumé—it’s a roadmap. A reminder that you can build your dream from the inside out. That authenticity scales. That strategy matters. And that success, at its best, is shared.

 

 

Tammi Norman
Company: Pretty Tammi the DJ
Launched: 2013
Location: Atlanta, GA
www.mcmillionconsulting.com

Spinning Beats, Breaking Barriers, and Building Legacy

Tammi Norman—better known for her stage name “Pretty Tammi the DJ”—is a force. More than just a celebrated DJ and entrepreneur, Tammi has built a vibrant brand that pulses with creativity, authenticity, and impact. Her rise from spinning records at intimate gatherings to becoming a dynamic entrepreneur and cultural disruptor is a testament to what’s possible when talent meets tenacity and when passion is fused with purpose.

The Secret to Her Success
Femininity, Flair and Fire

Tammi’s journey is powered by one thing above all: mindset. “I always saw myself as more than a DJ,” she said. “I saw myself as a creator, a connector, and a change agent.” This mindset is what helped Tammi operate on a higher frequency and leap from part-time gigs to full-time
entrepreneurship. Rather than waiting for permission to evolve, she created the opportunity!

From launching Pretty Tammi Entertainment—a full-scale event, sound, and DJ service—to building platforms that spotlight other creatives, she turned her passion for music into a growing business empire.

As a result? Tammi broke the mold in a male-dominated industry.

As a Black woman DJ, she was faced with assumptions and barriers. However, instead of shrinking, she amplified. “I knew I had something different to offer—not just a playlist, but an experience,” she said.

Her presence behind the turntables became more than music—it was a movement. Tammi brought femininity, flair, and fire to her sets, attracting a diverse and loyal following. She understood early on that being different was not a disadvantage—it was her power.

Her entrepreneurial instincts kicked in as she recognized gaps in the market. From corporate events and weddings to curated cultural experiences and branded merchandise, Tammi expanded her brand while staying rooted in authenticity. Every set, every product, every event carries her signature touch.

Tammi’s success is interwoven with her relationships—mentors who believed in her, collaborators who challenged her, and clients who returned time and again. But perhaps more notably, the younger women and aspiring DJs she mentors. “I’ve learned that the right relationships can open doors no resume can,” she said. That’s why she believes in collective success.

Tammi’s rise wasn’t without challenge. She’s faced rejection, underestimation, and moments of self-doubt. But she’s mastered the mindset of growth. She invests in self-development, stays grounded in gratitude, and keeps a journal of her wins—big and small.

“I treat every gig, every client, like it’s the first one. Excellence is my standard. That mindset keeps me evolving.”

A turning point in Tammi’s career came when she was invited to headline a major cultural event in her city—an event that had never featured a female DJ before. That night was bigger than music. “It was my confirmation that I belonged here—that I was shaping culture, not just playing music,” she said.

That moment launched new partnerships, corporate clients, and even media features. But more than anything, it gave her the confidence to scale.

Tammi’s vision extends beyond beats. Her long-term goal is to build a creative hub for women in music and entertainment. A space where they can train, collaborate, and launch.

“I want to create what I didn’t have coming up—a blueprint, a community, and a platform,” she said. In the community, Tammi donates DJ services for youth programs, offers scholarships for DJ training, and mentors young creatives—cementing her role as a cultural architect and role model.

Today, Tammi’s story serves as an inspiration to every woman that through creativity, innovation, persistence, and strategy, you can build something beautiful and bold.

“Success isn’t just what you do for yourself,” she said. “It’s what you leave behind for others.”

And that’s exactly what Pretty Tammi is doing—leaving a legacy, one beat at a time.

 

Shanise Pearce
Company: The Advocate’s Table
Launched: 2024
Location: New Albany, OH
www.theadvocatestable.org

Turning Survival Into Power at The Advocate’s Table

For Shanise Pearce, Founder & CEO of The Advocate’s Table, success is rooted in survival—surviving life’s toughest battles and turning them into triumphs. As a breast cancer survivor, Shanise embodies resilience, purpose, and bold leadership. Her success comes from channeling personal adversity into professional impact. Shanise didn’t allow her diagnosis to define her; instead, she used it to sharpen her mission: advocating for those who are overlooked, underserved, and fighting their own battles. The Advocate’s Table now serves as a hub for advocacy, leadership, and empowerment, offering consulting, education, and coaching to help organizations build equitable, people-centered strategies.

“One of Shanise’s defining
moments was launching
The Advocate’s Table after
completing her treatment.
Starting a business while
healing was not easy, but it was
necessary.”

After surviving breast cancer, Shanise developed a deeper understanding of mental strength. She embraced a survivor’s mindset—focusing on what’s possible, not what’s limiting. Shanise’s journey taught her to be fearless in her pursuits and intentional in her choices. She committed herself to learning, growing, and serving with purpose. “Cancer changed how I show up in the world,” she says. “Now, I lead with clarity, compassion, and
a determination to live life fully and help others do the same.

The Secret to Her Success
Turning the Toughest Battles into Triumphs

Surviving cancer shifted Shanise’s perspective. Her work became more than a career—it became a calling. At The Advocate’s Table, Shanise is building pathways for marginalized voices, providing leadership coaching, advocacy training, and organizational strategy that moves beyond checking boxes to creating real, lasting change. Her bigger picture: a world where survivorship stories inspire transformation in workplaces, communities, and personal lives.

One of Shanise’s defining moments was launching The Advocate’s Table after completing her treatment. Starting a business while healing was not easy, but it was necessary. Shanise realized her voice and experiences could help others rise. Building her company was her personal declaration that she was not only surviving but thriving— and through her work, others could too.

Entrepreneurship became Shanise’s vehicle for impact. Through The Advocate’s Table, she provides tailored solutions for businesses and nonprofits ready to lead with integrity and inclusion. From equity strategy workshops to advocacy coaching, Shanise built a business that merges personal passion with professional expertise. Her mission: to create spaces where advocacy isn’t just discussed—it’s embedded in action.

As a breast cancer survivor and Black woman CEO, Shanise disrupts expectations at every turn. She challenges outdated systems that silence women, people of color, and those living through health crises. Shanise uses her business to dismantle performative practices, pushing organizations to lead with authenticity and humanity. Her survivorship fuels her drive to make every space more inclusive, empathetic, and accountable.

Survivorship taught Shanise the importance of support systems. She credits her professional success to the powerful networks she built—healthcare advocates, community leaders, business mentors, and fellow survivors. Through The Advocate’s Table, Shanise is paying it forward, cultivating connections that uplift, educate, and empower. “We don’t win alone,” she says. “Your tribe will carry you, and you must carry others.”

Cancer stripped away any need for pretense. Shanise shows up authentically in every room—as a survivor, a CEO, a mother, and an advocate. Her story of battling breast cancer while building a business resonates deeply with clients and audiences. Shanise’s transparency is her superpower, reminding everyone that real leadership includes vulnerability, honesty, and strength.

Shanise has proven that purpose-driven businesses can be profitable. The Advocate’s Table offers workshops, strategic consulting, and leadership programs that generate revenue while delivering transformational impact. By blending advocacy and entrepreneurship, Shanise built a sustainable model that honors both community empowerment and economic viability—showing survivors and entrepreneurs alike that their stories can fund their futures.

Shanise is a beacon of inspiration. She proves that survivorship is not an ending, but a beginning. Through her company, speaking engagements, and mentoring, she empowers women, particularly women of color, to lead boldly after personal trials. Shanise stands as a role model of resilience, reminding others that healing and success are not mutually exclusive.

The greatest reward for Shanise is knowing her story and work are helping others reclaim their power. Every workshop, advocacy session, and strategic plan is a ripple effect of her survival story. “My reward is watching others realize their voices matter,” she says. “Helping people turn
pain into purpose—that’s the real success.”

From surviving breast cancer to thriving as an entrepreneur, Shanise Pearce redefines what it means to lead with courage. Through The Advocate’s Table, she’s creating spaces where advocacy, authenticity, and empowerment sit at the head of the table—and everyone has a seat.

 

Lauren Fitzpatrick Shanks

Company: KeepWOL (Keep Wondering
Out Loud)
Launched: 2018
Location: Phoenix, AZ
www.keepwol.com

Engineering a Future Where Everyone Belongs

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, leadership, and inclusion, Lauren Fitzpatrick Shanks stands as a singular force—disrupting convention and building a more connected, equitable future of work. A dynamic aerospace engineer turned tech entrepreneur, she is the Founder and CEO of KeepWOL (Keep Wondering Out Loud), a team-effectiveness platform that is transforming how organizations foster connection, learning, and growth.

The Secret to Her Success
Bold Moves, Strategic Thinking and Radical Innovation

Lauren is not your average tech founder. She’s a multi- hyphenate powerhouse—engineer, innovator, strategist, and visionary. From becoming the first Black woman to graduate from the University of Kansas’ Aerospace Engineering program to building aircraft for Fortune 500 companies and later founding an award-winning, data-driven tech platform from scratch, her journey is a masterclass in bold moves, strategic thinking, and radical innovation.

Now, her extraordinary story has earned her the honor of being named the Career Mastered 2025 National Winner, Top Entrepreneurial Woman to Watch.

As CEO of KeepWOL, Lauren is redefining how teams connect in today’s fast-paced workplace. The platform blends real-time dialogue, AI, gamification, and behavioral science to build stronger, psychologically safe teams— one conversation at a time. It’s not just a platform—it’s a movement to humanize workplace learning. Coming from a field where she was often “the only” in the room—only woman, only Black person, only young voice— Lauren turned discomfort into fuel. “I learned to ask better questions, stay curious, and trust that discomfort meant growth,” she shares.

“Merging her passions for
engineering, behavioral science,
and DEI, she launched KeepWOL
to close the gap in team
development and inclusion.”

That mindset became the cornerstone of her entrepreneurial success.

After a decade in corporate America, Lauren chose to pivot. Her Career Mastered moment came when she realized that she didn’t want to keep climbing someone else’s ladder—she wanted to build her own. Merging her passions for engineering, behavioral science, and DEI, she launched Keep WOL to close the gap in team development and inclusion.

The risk paid off. Today, KeepWOL serves companies across industries, helping leaders and teams engage in high-impact, data-driven conversations that spark reflection and unlock growth.

Lauren’s unique approach fuses play with purpose. Rather than traditional workshops or static training, KeepWOL offers interactive, gamified learning experiences—proving that professional development can be both effective and joyful. “We’re showing that work can be productive, inclusive, and fun,” she explains.

“She’s a speaker, mentor, mother,
and movement builder, showing
the next generation that success
isn’t about fitting in—it’s about
boldly standing out.”

Lauren is a rare force in the startup ecosystem—combining deep technical knowledge with sharp business acumen. She has secured early-stage non-dilutive and venture funding, participated in elite accelerator programs, and designed KeepWOL for enterprise scalability.

“I want to help teams create space for real connection and continuous learning,” she says. “Because when people feel seen and heard, performance soars.”

Lauren’s leadership is defined by clarity, community, and purpose. She believes in the compounding power of collaboration and actively mentors young women and people of color in STEM. “No one builds anything great alone. Relationships are the soil where ideas grow,” she emphasizes.

Lauren Fitzpatrick Shanks is a living blueprint for what happens when brilliance meets purpose. She is proof that entrepreneurship can be inclusive, strategic, and transformative—and that joy has a place at the table.

She’s a speaker, mentor, mother, and movement builder, showing the next generation that success isn’t about fitting in—it’s about boldly standing out.

As the Career Mastered 2025 National Winner, Lauren will receive a $2,500 Business Grant to continue scaling KeepWOL’s transformative impact. From Kansas classrooms to global boardrooms, she is proving that where brilliance meets purpose, legacy follows. Lauren isn’t just redefining the rules—she’s building a new game entirely.

FAST FACTS ABOUT Lauren Fitzpatrick Shanks

Barriers Broken
• First Black woman to graduate from the University of Kansas Aerospace Engineering program
• Tech founder in the inclusive learning space—an industry with very few Black women CEOs
• Overcame the historic lack of venture capital access for women of color (less than 1% of VC funding) Awards & Recognition/Impact
• Forbes Next 1000 Honoree
• Google for Startups Black Founders Fund Winner
• Techstars Portfolio Company
• National Pitch Competition Winner (NAACP, Black Enterprise)
• Featured in Inc., Business Insider, and Women in Tech
• Key Innovation: Gamified learning experiences for corporate team growth
• Known For: Breaking engineering barriers, DEI innovation, national pitch wins
• Career Mastered Grant: $2,500

 

Kim Boudreau Smith
Company: Kim Boudreau Smith, Inc.; Her
Bold Voice
Launched: 1998
Location: Birmingham, MI
www.kimbsmith.com

Bold Voice, an Unstoppable Path to Success

In a world where many shy away from their true voice, Kim Boudreau Smith has made it her mission to amplify it boldly, authentically, and unapologetically. As the founder of Her Bold Voice and a seasoned entrepreneur, Kim exemplifies how creativity, innovation, persistence, and strategy can not only build a thriving business but inspire a movement of empowered voices.

The Secret to Her Success
Aligning Her Purpose, Her Values, and Her Boldest Voice

Kim’s success isn’t anchored in shortcuts or overnight wins, it’s rooted in consistent action, deep authenticity, and a fierce commitment to personal and professional growth. Her unique ability to transform challenges into stepping stones has propelled her through industries, from corporate sales leadership to global entrepreneurship.

For Kim, success is a byproduct of alignment: aligning your purpose, your values, and your boldest voice.

“I believe success starts in your mind before it’s ever seen in your bank account,” Kim said. Her mindset practice is non-negotiable, she invests time daily in reflection, visualization, and self-development. Kim believes entrepreneurs must nurture mental resilience just as much as business strategy. She teaches others to embrace the inner work, to eliminate limiting beliefs, and to focus on possibilities rather than obstacles. This inner clarity fuels her outer success.

Kim’s boldness is driven by a vision larger than herself: empowering women to use their voices to change the world. Her mission extends beyond business metrics to community impact, building platforms where women can be heard, seen, and valued. Whether through her books, speaking engagements, or the Bold Radio Station, every endeavor is infused with purpose. “It’s not just about me building success; it’s about creating ripple effects so others can succeed,” Kim said.

A pivotal moment in Kim’s career came when she chose to leave corporate leadership to launch her own venture. “I realized the corporate world muted my voice,” she said. That moment of clarity birthed Bold Radio Station, a media platform giving voice to thought leaders and entrepreneurs globally. This was her Career Mastered moment, where her courage, strategy, and passion converged to create a sustainable, purpose-driven
business.

Kim is not just an entrepreneur; she’s a disruptor who challenges outdated norms about women in media, leadership, and business. Her career defies convention, proving you don’t have to conform to succeed.

For Kim, community is currency. Relationships are built on authenticity and mutual support, not transactional gain. “Your network should stretch you, support you, and celebrate you,” Kim advises, crediting her expansive network for not only business growth but also personal evolution.

Kim’s business acumen is as bold as her voice. She has built multi-faceted income streams through coaching, media services, speaking, and publishing. Her entrepreneurial strategy combines lean business practices with high-impact services, creating sustainable revenue models. She emphasizes economic empowerment for women, teaching clients to monetize their expertise while staying aligned with their values.

In every room she enters, Kim leads with honesty and heart. She is a role model for entrepreneurs because she embodies the full spectrum of what success looks like: courage, creativity, compassion, and consistency. She leads by example, showing that through boldness, strategic action, and inner work, women can create businesses that are both profitable and purposeful.

For Kim, the ultimate reward is witnessing transformation in others. “There’s nothing more fulfilling than watching someone reclaim their voice and step into their power,” she reflects. Her mission-driven work continues to inspire a generation of women to lead, speak, and build boldly.

Kim’s story reminds us that success is not defined by titles or accolades but by impact. Through her creativity, innovation, persistence, and strategy, Kim Boudreau Smith has built more than a business—she has built a legacy.

 

Kayvonna Stigall
Company: Rise Above the Clouds
Education Services
Launched: 2015
Location: Ecorse, MI
www.riseaboveclouds.com

Rise Above Through the Power of Literacy

In an age where innovation collides with purpose, Kayvonna Stigall is a name that rises with power and clarity. Entrepreneur, educator and inspirational speaker, Kayvonna’s journey is not just one of business growth, but of personal triumph and community elevation. Her life’s work, rooted in creativity and service, stands as a blueprint for emerging entrepreneurs—especially women determined to live their truth out loud and walk in their calling with purpose and on purpose.

The Secret to Her Success

Deliberate Intention

At the heart of Kayvonna’s entrepreneurial mission is Rise Above the Clouds Education Services, a brand and business she developed to build a bridge between creativity and education. Her mission is clear: To build communities where creativity and education is the driving force that equips and prepares individuals to walk in their purpose.

“When I started Rise Above the Clouds it wasn’t just about design,” Kayvonna said, “it was about building legacy, providing services that could in turn teach others how they too could become community change agents in education, writing and creative learning.”

Kayvonna’s success didn’t come from shortcuts, it came from deliberate intention. “Collaboration and partnerships are my secret weapons,” she said. “But so is my faith and perseverance. I can never give God enough praise for all that He has done and continues to do for me. He leads, I get the benefits of doing the great work that I love and that helps support my family.”

Kayvonna’s path to entrepreneurship wasn’t linear, but what sets her apart is her commitment to authenticity. “I show up fully as myself—in boardrooms, in organization platform meetings, in the classroom. People don’t connect with perfection. They connect with real.” That transparency has not only built trust with clients but also attracted a great network of collaborators, mentors, and supporters.

Kayvonna’s defining Career Mastered moment came when she was awarded grants and contractual work to support children in literacy programs and creative workshops.

Kayvonna is a champion in networking. She makes it her business to reach out to stakeholders, sponsors and organizations to partner and create programming to support the growth in literacy in her community to empower the students and adults that her business services.

“I want the kids in my community to thrive in reading. As a former teacher, lover of books and someone who benefited from my local library River Rouge Library, I want the kids to know that knowledge is power. Today a reader, tomorrow a leader!”

Rise Above the Clouds has been on a season-long book tour. Providing literacy activities throughout community libraries, and sponsoring reading tours to local daycare centers.

For Kayvonna, the reward is results. “Everytime someone benefits from our reading program, publishes their book, completes a language and literacy workshop and learns how to be a more effective early childhood educator. Those are the best rewards, we celebrate big”.

Kayvonna shares that she will continue to Rise Above, be a light in her community, to other entrepreneurs who are willing to rise up to the occasion.

 

 

Evelyn Summerville
Company: Evelyn Summerville, LLC
Launched: 2016
Location: Southfield, MI
www.evelynsummerville.com

From Plungers to Purpose Mindset

Evelyn Summerville’s entrepreneurial story doesn’t start with a business plan or a slick logo. It starts in a Detroit basement filled with plungers.

The Secret to Her Success
Always Choose Faith Over Fear

“My father was selling plungers,” she recalls with a laugh. “It was such an odd moment, but it left an imprint.” That unusual inventory wasn’t just about sales—it was about a mindset. Her father, Tommie, a man of many ventures— including convenience stores and a daycare center—was planting seeds. “You should have your own business,” he would say, not just as advice but as a principle to live by.

That principle followed Evelyn into adulthood, first as a whisper, then as a pull she couldn’t ignore.

“She was finally learning to trust
her intuition—the quiet inner
voice that had been nudging her
toward something more aligned,
something more her.”

Throughout her twenties and early thirties, Evelyn flirted with freelance public relations and network marketing selling PartyLite candles and eventually scrapbooking kits through Creative Memories. While none of those early attempts stuck, each experience layered lessons about effort, connection, and the kind of support it takes to build something sustainable.

The real shift came in 2014 when Evelyn left her job at Kelly Services after nearly 25 years in corporate. At first, she thought she was simply ready for a new role. But something deeper was stirring. She had to admit to herself that she didn’t want to be an employee anymore. She was finally learning to trust her intuition—the quiet inner voice that had been nudging her toward something more aligned, something more her.

What she wanted was agency. A schedule on her terms. A business rooted not just in profit, but in purpose.

Just a year later, the answer arrived—not through a strategy session, but through intuition. That answer: leadership training. “When I looked back at my life—from my teenage years through corporate and church—the throughline was leadership,” Evelyn says. “I’d been a leader in so many capacities. I just hadn’t named it as my business.”

She joined the John Maxwell Team (now Maxwell Leadership), which provided her with curriculum, mentorship, and a clear path forward. In those early years, she focused on mastermind groups and community workshops, helping people set goals, embrace change, and strengthen their communication. “I wanted to work smarter, not harder,” she explains. “This gave me the structure and support to grow with intention.”

“Her success isn’t just measured
by consistent revenue or client
wins. It’s measured by the
internal transformation her
journey demanded.”

And grow, she did. Her role evolved from trainer to speaker to coach; from coaching individuals to being engaged with leadership teams. But even more transformative than her business offerings was the shift in how she saw herself — which was a Career Mastered moment. “At first I thought I was just working for myself. It took time to click–I’m not just a trainer. I’m the CEO of a business.”

That mindset didn’t come easily. It took intentional investment in professional development, in business structure, and in learning how to lead herself. Evelyn went on to earn her Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) certification from the Co-Active Training Institute as well as her Professional Certified Coach (PCC) certification from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). That helped her to build a coaching practice grounded in purpose, accountability, and human connection.

Now entering her tenth year as a business owner, Evelyn is preparing for her next chapter: a rebrand, a bigger platform, and a deeper commitment to helping leaders build workplaces where positive energy, clarity, and empathy drive performance.

Her success isn’t just measured by consistent revenue or client wins. It’s measured by the internal transformation her journey demanded. “Every time I chose faith over fear, every time I kept going through uncertainty—that was an investment in becoming who I was called to be.”

Evelyn doesn’t just teach leadership. She embodies it. She dismantles outdated leadership myths, builds safe spaces for leaders and executives to develop, and models what it looks like to lead with courage, integrity, and soul.

“I’m not just building a business,” she says. “I’m creating a movement and it’s rooted in passion, purpose, and power. When we learn to trust ourselves and follow the quiet inner knowing, we don’t just find work—we find our work.”

Watch her. Because Evelyn Summerville isn’t just redefining leadership—she’s proving that when you plant your business in purpose, there’s no limit to how far it can grow.

 

 

Chase Terry
Company: CCQ SKINCARE
Launched: 2024
Location: North Carolina
www.ccqskincare.com

Rising Confidence

In the competitive world of beauty and skincare, few stand out like Chase Terry, Founder and CEO of CCQ Skincare. CCQ—short for Chase Clean Queen is a brand built on clean, quality, and confidence. Chase is not just selling products—she’s cultivating empowerment. Her entrepreneurial journey is a testament to what’s possible when you combine innovation and a purpose bigger than yourself. Balancing entrepreneurship, faith, family, and community—is not just inspirational, it’s familiar. It reminds others that everyday women can rise and lead industries with boldness and grace.

The Secret to Her Success
Beauty Starts From Within Approach

Beauty starts from within and that’s her approach to life and business. To Chase, a success mindset is about having discipline, positive self-talk, and unwavering faith. “I intentionally cultivate a mental space where challenges are seen as opportunities, and every setback is fuel for a greater comeback,” she said.

More than selling skincare, Chase’s bigger picture is about representation, wellness, and economic empowerment. CCQ Skincare isn’t just a business—it’s a vehicle for change, promoting healthier skincare choices in underserved communities and opening doors for women of color in beauty entrepreneurship. Her ultimate goal is generational impact. “I’m building something my daughters can be proud of and others can be inspired by,” said Chase.

A defining Career Mastered moment for Chase came when she made the bold leap to leave her 9-to-5. “Launching CCQ Skincare was a leap of faith, but also an act of freedom,” she said. That moment solidified her calling— not just to build a business, but to disrupt an industry and show women they too can create from purpose and passion and master both mission and marketplace.

“We are proof that you can build a purpose-led business, rooted in integrity and culture, and still thrive in the competitive world of beauty,” she said. Today, she holds the contract position as Director of Sales for the American multi-cultural beauty brand, Carol’s Daughter. “Women entrepreneurs need to see that excellence doesn’t have to come at the cost of authenticity,” said Chase.

In an industry dominated by mass-produced, chemical-laden products, Chase disrupted by bringing transparency, simplicity, and care back to skincare. CCQ offers natural, effective, handmade products that prioritize skin health without sacrificing luxury. They’re able to challenge traditional beauty standards while promoting holistic self-care.

The mission through CCQ Skincare goes beyond beauty. It’s about ownership, economic power, and legacy. She uses her platform to educate others about entrepreneurship, wellness, and wealth-building. From pop-up shops to educational workshops, Chase is committed to helping others launch their own ventures while strengthening the ecosystem of small, Black-owned businesses.

Chase leads with intention, proving that creativity and strategy can coexist to build thriving businesses. Success is possible with persistence, innovation, and heart. Through mentorship and community engagement, she is working to uplift aspiring entrepreneurs, showing them what’s achievable when you operate in your purpose.

“Seeing someone’s skin glow, confidence rise, and mindset shift because of CCQ Skincare is my ultimate fulfillment,” said Chase. “The glow starts from the inside and that’s what we’re really delivering.”

With CCQ Skincare, Chase Terry is changing the face of beauty—intentionally and powerfully—one confident woman at a time. CCQ Skincare, home of No Wash Cleansing, isn’t just a brand—it’s a movement.

 

Dr. Carmen Thomas
Company: Transformation GEMS (Gifted Entrepreneurs with Millionaire Status)
Launched: 2017
Location: Lansing, MI
www.transformationgems.com

Transforming cycles of poverty with empowerment and strategy.

Dr. Carmen Thomas is a transformational force whose life and work radiate purpose, resilience, and vision. Born in Albion, Michigan, she was shaped by a community that modeled leadership and service. With a Doctorate in Transformational Leadership and over 20 years of experience in government relations, real estate, and executive coaching, Carmen has become a serial entrepreneur, author, and founder of multiple ventures.
Her leadership style is that of heart and strategy, empowering women to uncover their gifts and build sustainable businesses that leave a legacy.

The Secret to Her Success
Unwaivering Faith, Strategic Mindset, and Commitment to Service

The secret to Dr. Thomas’s success has been in unwavering faith, strategic mindset, and commitment to service. Her story of overcoming nearly $1 million in debt without filing bankruptcy is a testament to her level of resilience and understanding of a system for financial recovery and growth. “Business is not just about profit—it’s about purpose,” she said.

Dr. Thomas’s coaching platform, Transformation by Carmen, equips women with tools to develop clarity, courage, and consistency. She focuses on emotional intelligence, lean process improvement, and holistic life coaching—empowering women to lead with confidence and authenticity.

“Transformation GEMS is more than a nonprofit—it’s a movement. It provides grants, mentorship, co- working space, and startup acceleration for women of color in the Greater Lansing area,” she said. Through partnerships with organizations like CASE Credit Union and the Mid-Michigan Credit Union Association, she successfully secured six-figure grants to support women entrepreneurs for years to come.

When asked about her Career Mastered moment, Dr. Thomas said, “Receiving the 2023 Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award was a milestone, but my true Career Mastered ‘seize the day’ moment came when I realized my story could be a blueprint for others.” She now hosts sold-out conferences and retreats that inspire women across the U.S. and abroad to rise into their purpose.

Dr. Thomas’s entrepreneurial journey was born from necessity and shaped by vision. From managing multi-million-dollar real estate projects to launching a global women’s membership platform, she’s built ventures that reflect her values and uplift others.

“Through Transformation GEMS and the Unstoppable Women’s Empire, I’m setting out to redefine entrepreneurship for women of color,” she said. The programs help women become recession-proof, create systems, and build generational wealth—disrupting cycles of poverty with empowerment and strategy.

Dr. Thomas’s ecosystem is built on collaboration. She partners with financial institutions, community organizations, and global networks to create a thriving support system for women entrepreneurs. Unstoppable Women’s Empire now includes members from Africa, the Philippines, and across the U.S.

“I show up as my full self—wife, mother, grandmother, and visionary,” she said. Dr. Thomas brings transparency and warmth, which help make her a trusted mentor and coach. She believes that authenticity is the foundation of leadership and teaches others to lead from within.

Transformation GEMS is a social enterprise incubator that helps women turn ideas into sustainable ventures. From pitch competitions to micro-grants and mentorship, the organization equips women with the tools to build businesses that create jobs and transform communities.

Dr. Thomas believes in servant leadership. “I don’t just talk about empowerment— I fund it, teach it, and live it. My hope is that I inspire women to believe in their potential and take bold steps toward their dreams,” she said.

Dr. Thomas’s life’s work is a beacon for those ready to rise. Seeing women go from overlooked to overachieving, from uncertain to unstoppable, is the legacy she cherishes most.

 

Gwen Thomas
Company: Fresh Perspectives Seminars
Launched: 2010
Location: Detroit, MI
www.freshperspectivesseminars.org

A Modern-day Architect of Opportunity and Service

For Gwen Thomas, success is not measured solely by accolades or titles—though she has plenty—but by the tangible difference she makes in people’s lives. As the powerhouse behind Fresh Perspectives Seminars, founder of the nationally recognized Scholarship Mom platform, and owner of a growing public relations firm, Gwen has turned her passion for empowering others into a thriving entrepreneurial journey. Her secret? “Relentless curiosity and purpose-driven action,” she said.

The Secret to Her Success
Relentless, Curiosity and Purpose-Driven Action

Gwen combines vision, values, and voice to create opportunities where none seemed to exist. At the heart of her career lies a deep belief in the transformative power of education and mentorship. Gwen believes success is cultivated by consistent personal development and strategic planning.

Through her programs, Gwen teaches others how to position themselves for success using tools that elevate mindset and skillset. “You can’t outperform your own belief system,” she said. “So, I focus on helping people, especially women and youth, develop a mindset that aligns with their dreams.”

Gwen’s mission has always been bigger than herself. With Scholarship Mom, she’s helped families access over $30 million in scholarships -removing barriers and opening doors to higher education for students who may have believed it was out of reach.

Her company doesn’t just offer guidance; it creates legacies. Whether leading a PR campaign for an executive woman, or brand or hosting a workshop under one of Fresh Perspectives College & Career Readiness initiatives, Gwen ensures every effort ladders back to her broader goal: empowering communities through education, visibility, and equity.

Gwen’s Career Mastered moment came when she was invited to speak internationally on educational access more than once. That moment crystallized the global relevance of her mission. “It was no longer just about helping one student,” she recalls. “It became about global advocacy—changing systems and mindsets across continents.” That recognition ignited a fire in her to scale her efforts, influencing policy, expanding partnerships, and deepening her community impact.

Gwen’s entrepreneurial journey began not out of convenience but conviction. She left a corporate role to build a platform that reflected her values and addressed unmet needs. “I wasn’t just creating a business—I was creating a movement,” she said.

By combining her expertise in education, media, and strategic communication, she built three interconnected brands that support her mission: education access, economic mobility, and public influence.

Gwen reimagined what scholarship support could look like. She digitized the traditional process, developed DIY scholarship kits, and launched webinars long before they were mainstream. Additionally, her PR firm breaks traditional agency molds, centering diverse voices and culturally relevant campaigns.

Gwen’s journey underscores the power of strategic relationships. She has cultivated a robust network across education, corporate, nonprofit, and media sectors. These alliances fuel her ventures, expand her influence, and open doors for those she mentors. “Your network is your net worth,” she said, “but even more, it’s your community. That’s how we grow together.”

“People resonate with truth,” she said. “When you’re real, you create real impact.” Her transparency builds trust and loyalty—hallmarks of her brand.

For Gwen, the greatest reward isn’t the recognition—it’s the results. It’s seeing a student graduate debt-free, a woman launching her first business, or a brand gaining national exposure because of her PR guidance. “That’s the real win,” she says. “Changing lives, one story at a time.”

In Gwen Thomas, we find a modern-day architect of opportunity—shaping futures with brilliance, bravery, and boundless belief in what’s possible.

 

Angianein Wallace
Company: 8th Reign
Launched: 2017
Location: Charlotte, NC
www.8threign.com

Crowned for Impact

True business success isn’t just about external markers; it starts within. As the founder of 8th Reign, Angianein Wallace has discovered that the most powerful leaders are those who’ve learned to align their authentic selves with their professional presence.

The Secret to Her Success
Soft Place to Land for Leaders Wearing Heavy Crowns

Her journey from corporate buyer managing $100M+ businesses to executive coach and image consultant taught her that when being and doing don’t align, it undermines everything someone is trying to accomplish. The secret isn’t working harder or longer, it’s about transforming your relationship to yourself, your work, and your life through what she calls “The 8th Reign Approach.”

Sustainable leadership requires more than just delivering results. It demands emotional intelligence, authentic presence, and the courage to embrace both your excellence and your shadows.

Angianein’s Career Mastered moment came during a professional workshop. “I was distracted by how the team’s appearance didn’t match their expertise. I started noticing this disconnect everywhere from corporate settings to church pulpits. That moment of clarity revealed my calling: to help leaders bridge the gap between their internal excellence and external presentation. I realized I was uniquely positioned to serve in this capacity,” she said.

In a world where image consulting and executive coaching are often treated as separate disciplines, she disrupted the industry by creating an integrated approach that addresses the whole leader. “My methodology recognizes that true presence is the intersection of authentic self-awareness and intentional impact,” said Angianein.

The bigger picture isn’t just about individual transformation, it’s about creating a ripple effect of empowerment that transforms organizations,
communities, and industries. This is the multiplier effect of authentic leadership: when leaders show up as their most confident, grounded selves, they become catalysts for positive change at every level.

The most powerful networks aren’t just about who you know, they’re about who you become in relationship with others. “I’ve had the privilege of serving women in some of their most prestigious and high-profile roles, from CEOs announcing major mergers to clients accepting top honors on major industry stages,” said Angianein. These relationships have taught her that iconic leaders understand the power of consistency in both style and energy.

Building a sustainable business requires understanding that your greatest impact often comes from your unique perspective. Angianein’s background as a corporate buyer, combined with her faith-driven approach to leadership creates a distinctive market position serving leaders who want both excellence and authenticity.

For Angianein, the greatest reward isn’t personal recognition, it’s witnessing the complete transformation of her clients. “Picture the executive who once stood frozen outside her office building, paralyzed by the weight of expectations and disconnected from her authentic self now moving with confidence through her bright, light-filled corner office, fully present in her body, radiating focus, joy, and an unmistakable lightness of being. This is a woman who can close a massive deal in the boardroom and then kick off her shoes at a concert with friends that same evening. Her outer success finally matches her inner reality, creating the integrated life she always dreamed was possible.”

Angianein is the founder of 8th Reign, where she serves as a “soft place to land” for leaders wearing heavy crowns. Through her proprietary methodology combining executive coaching with image consulting, she helps leaders bridge the gap between being and doing, transforming “success fatigue” into sustainable leadership while maintaining high performance with noteworthy style.

 

Rasheda Kamaria Williams
Company: Inspired Life Professionals
Launched: 2024
Location: Royal Oak, MI
www.inspiredlifepros.com

Helping Changemakers Lead with Impact

Rasheda Kamaria Williams is taking bold steps to mentor the next generation. When she launched Empowered Flower Girl in 2010, it was with a fierce determination to transform the way young people relate to themselves and one another. A mission rooted in personal experience.

The Secret to Her Success

Living Life on Purpose

Her work with Empowered Flower Girl laid the foundation and has connected her with Kiwanis International, Wayne State University, the University of Michigan, Michigan Science Center, and the American Federation of Teachers where she led anti-bullying programs as well as facilitated workshops on girlhood, self-esteem and digital discernment.

But behind the workshops, keynotes and youth summits is a powerhouse strategist with over 20 years of experience in journalism, media and public relations.

Drawing from her background in journalism and public relations, in 2024, Rasheda expanded her mission with the launch of Inspired Life Professionals (ILP) — a purpose-driven communications consultancy designed to help changemakers, nonprofit founders, and social entrepreneurs get noticed for the good they do in the world.

“It’s the blend of resilience and
vision that makes Rasheda a
powerful role model…”

ILP was born from years of witnessing brilliant people with bold visions struggle to gain visibility and credibility in their fields. Rasheda coaches her clients to hone their personal brand narratives and amplify their voices in meaningful ways. Whether it’s preparing for a national media appearance or applying for an industry award, she brings strategy and soul to every project.

“Everyone has a powerful story,” she said, “But not everyone has the tools or confidence to tell it.” Inspired Life Professionals was created to change that.

These experiences not only positioned Rasheda as a national thought leader but connected her with a diverse network of visionaries including authors, speakers, educators and founders who wanted to make a difference but lacked the storytelling and strategic support to do so effectively.

However, Rasheda’s journey wasn’t without hardship. In 2021, she lost her mother, and just a year later, her only brother. Those devastating personal losses became pivotal moments that fueled her resolve to live a life of purpose and help others do the same. “Grief is something we all go through, and it can be tough. But it gave me a deeper understanding of what it means to rise. I’ve learned that persistence isn’t just about pushing forward, it’s about honoring where you’ve been while courageously stepping into who you’re meant to become,” she said.

It’s the blend of resilience and vision that makes Rasheda a powerful role model for 21st century entrepreneurs. She doesn’t just talk about empowerment — she lives it.

Through ILP, she coaches nonprofit founders, small business owners and solopreneurs to step confidently into their genius. Her approach is part strategy, part storytelling and all about service.

“We don’t believe in gatekeeping,” Rasheda said of her work with ILP. “Our goal is to uplift others, to help them recognize their power — no matter who they are or where they come from.”

Learn more about Rasheda’s work with Inspired Life Professionals at www.inspiredlifepros.com

 

Rashida “Glam Doctor” Williams
Company: The Glam Doctor
Launched: 2012
Location: Southfield, MI
www.TheGlamDoctor.com

Prescribing Glamour with Boldness and Authentic Leadership

By all accounts, Rashida Williams—known affectionately as “The Glam Doctor”—is a force. A bold entrepreneur, trailblazer in the beauty industry, and unapologetically authentic leader, Rashida has turned her passion for glam into an empire that merges artistry, empowerment, and economic impact. But behind the flawless makeup and polished brand is a woman deeply rooted in purpose, resilience, and strategy—a woman committed to lifting others while building her own lane.

The Secret to Her Success
Creating a Boutique Experience

What separates Rashida from the crowd isn’t just her eye for color or skillful makeup artistry. It’s her mindset. “If you can train your thoughts to expect greatness and prepare for it, the world will rise to meet you,” she said.

This philosophy has guided her from humble beginnings to a sought-after beauty-preneur, speaker, and mentor not only in Detroit, but also on national platforms. Her name has become synonymous with excellence in beauty and business.

Rashida credits her mental resilience to her grandmother, Mildred—a woman of strength and unwavering faith— who taught her to believe in God, trust her instincts, and never settle. So when others saw limitations, Rashida saw possibilities.

“When challenges come, I don’t break—I strategize,” she says. “That mindset has carried me through tough seasons.”

Rashida began in corporate America but quickly realized her passion for beauty and empowerment couldn’t be confined to a cubicle. She made the bold leap to entrepreneurship, choosing faith, creativity, and impact over predictability.

“Her mission? To elevate the
lives of women through beauty,
inspiration, and business
education. Her services are
not just cosmetic—they’re
transformational.”

Through her company, The Glam Doctor, Rashida disrupted the standard makeup service model by creating a boutique experience where luxury meets authenticity. Rashida’s skills are elite, earning her everything from celebrity clientele to bridal glam and also opportunities to give talks on entrepreneurship and image empowerment—proving that she’s more than just a makeup artist, she is a brand.

Today, she leads a talented team of professional makeup artists who help deliver the high-touch, elevated Glam Doctor experience across Michigan, Atlanta, and beyond.

Her mission? To elevate the lives of women through beauty, inspiration, and business education. Her services are not just cosmetic—they’re transformational. She offers luxury glam sessions, masterclasses, corporate image consulting, and branding support for women building their visibility and voice.

Rashida views entrepreneurship as a pathway to generational wealth and community impact. Her vision includes helping women evolve from beauty to business— turning their gifts into scalable, income-producing ventures.

“Rashida’s Career Mastered
moment came when she realized
her impact extended far beyond
her makeup chair, but sparked
confidence, clarity, and courage.”

She is also the visionary behind The GLAM Movement (Genuinely Loving and Accepting Myself), an empowerment program for girls ages 7 to 18 that helps build self-esteem, confidence, and identity. Through interactive workshops, mentorship, and affirming experiences, Rashida is shaping a new generation of confident, purpose-driven young women.

Rashida’s Career Mastered moment came when she realized her impact extended far beyond her makeup chair, but sparked confidence, clarity, and courage.

“That was the moment I knew I wasn’t just creating beauty—I was helping women and girls step into their power,” she said. It was a moment that shifted her purpose from being more than just a beauty expert—she was a vessel for healing, transformation, and leadership.

Rashida is a savvy businesswoman who understands the economics of beauty and branding. She’s scaled her services into products, events, and educational platforms, creating a sustainable enterprise with room to grow.

But for Rashida, success isn’t defined by income—it’s defined by impact. She pours back into her community by mentoring emerging artists, partnering with schools and nonprofits, and creating safe spaces where women and girls are seen, heard, and celebrated.

Her journey proves that creativity, faith, grit, and strategy can build empires—and change lives.

And as “The Glam Doctor,” she continues to heal self- doubt, prescribe empowerment, and glamorize purpose—one brushstroke, one girl, and one moment at a time.

 

Tonia Williams
Company: Universal Special Events, Inc.
Launched: 2014
Location: Detroit, MI
www.universalspecialeventsincorporated.com

Driving Success with Empowerment, Impact and Legacy

From the streets of Detroit to the helm of a thriving valet service, Tonia Williams is a shining example of how creativity, persistence, and strategy can steer an entrepreneur toward lasting success.

The Secret to Her Success
Daily Commitment to Improve and Adapt

As the founder and owner of one of Detroit’s premier valet companies, Tonia didn’t set out to just run a valet service—she wanted to redefine an industry. Tonia’s success story is built on a blend of hard work, sharp business acumen, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Her secret? A success mindset grounded in resilience, continual learning, and a clear vision for the bigger picture.

“Every challenge is an opportunity,” Tonia often says. That mantra has helped her overcome the hurdles many entrepreneurs face, particularly in a service industry where customer experience is king.

Tonia credits much of her growth to cultivating a mindset focused on possibility rather than limitation. Early in her career, she encountered setbacks—logistical obstacles, market competition, and doubts from naysayers—but she refused to let those define her path.

“I learned to celebrate small wins and stay solution- oriented,” she said. “Success isn’t overnight; it’s about the daily commitment to improve and adapt.” This mindset has been crucial not just for managing her business but for inspiring her team, fostering a culture of accountability, and maintaining high standards of service.

While the day-to-day running of a valet service is demanding, Tonia never loses sight of her long-term vision. Her company is not just about parking cars; it’s about elevating Detroit’s hospitality landscape and creating meaningful economic opportunities.

“I want to build a business that contributes to the community and sets a new standard for professionalism,” she said. This vision guides her decisions—from investing in employee training to embracing technology that enhances efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Tonia’s journey to entrepreneurship began with a spark of inspiration and a clear identification of a market gap. Observing the inconsistent quality and lack of professionalism in local valet services, she realized there was room for innovation.

With limited resources but abundant determination, she launched her company from the ground up. The transition from employee to business owner was challenging but empowering. It was her Career Mastered moment — the point where passion met purpose.

In an industry often overlooked, Tonia positions herself as a disruptor. She reimagines valet service through innovative approaches—introducing digital ticketing systems, real-time vehicle tracking, and personalizedcustomer service initiatives.

Her disruption isn’t just about technology; it’s about breaking stereotypes. She champions diversity, hires locally, and mentors young talent, proving that success in business can also be a platform for social impact.

Tonia’s success is deeply intertwined with the strong network she’s cultivated. From local business leaders to city officials, her relationships have opened doors, provided valuable mentorship, and fostered collaborative growth. Her active involvement in Detroit’s entrepreneurial circles amplifies her influence and extends opportunities for both herself and others.

Tonia approaches her business not only as a service provider but as a sustainable venture with economic impact. She emphasizes strategic planning, prudent financial management, and scalable growth.

By reinvesting profits into staff development and technology, she ensures that her company remains competitive and future-proof. Her business model balances profitability with social responsibility—a blueprint for modern entrepreneurship.

As a Black woman entrepreneur in Detroit, Tonia is a powerful role model. She exemplifies how creativity, innovation, persistence, and strategy combine to break barriers and achieve success.

She often shares her story at schools, business forums, and mentorship programs, encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams with confidence and clarity. Giving back is central to Tonia’s mission.

Her company actively recruits from underserved communities, providing training and career advancement. She also collaborates with local nonprofits to support youth development programs, believing that helping others is part of true success.

For Tonia, “Success is meaningful when it’s shared,” she said. “The real reward is knowing that I’m making a difference—in my life, my community, and the lives of others.”

Detroit’s valet queen isn’t just parking cars—she’s paving pathways to success, proving that entrepreneurship is a vehicle for empowerment, impact, and legacy.

 

Robin Wilson
Company: Vesey Lane Goods
Launched: 2023
Location: Detroit, MI
www.veseylanegoods.com

Designing Success with Relentless Focus and Purpose

Robin Wilson, founder and CEO of Vesey Lane Goods, is more than a celebrated entrepreneur—she is a visionary who transformed obstacles into opportunities and carved a unique path through creativity, innovation, and persistence. Her secret? Relentless focus paired with a purposeful mission: to create and curate goods and services that marry creativity, sustainability, and luxury.

The Secret to Her Success
Faith in Christ, Intentional Learning, Mentors and Prioritizing Wellness

With Vesey Lane Goods, Robin has built a brand that reflects her personal commitment to the arts and elevated design, setting a new standard for modern consumers who value both art and well-made goods.

Robin’s success mindset stems from a mentality she picked up from an early age. That “success is a process, not a destination,” she often says. This approach allows her to embrace failures as stepping stones, pivot when necessary, and stay focused on evolving goals.

She credits her positive mindset to her faith in Christ, intentional learning, surrounding herself with mentors, and prioritizing wellness—both mental and physical—as the foundation of business endurance.

For Robin, business is never just about the next product launch—it’s about building quality relationships and a brand that leaves a meaningful legacy. Vesey Lane Goods offers goods that enhance everyday living while supporting sustainable practices. From handcrafted greeting cards to hypoallergenic home goods, every decision at Vesey Lane Goods reflects Robin’s bigger picture: creating a company that enriches lives, fosters
creativity, promotes wellness, and uplifts communities.

Robin’s defining Career Mastered moment came when she shifted from educational leadership to building her own consumer lifestyle brand. She saw a market void—high-quality, handmade greeting cards, gifts and home decor—and she had the courage to fill it.

Launching Vesey Lane Goods was not just a business pivot but a declaration of her entrepreneurial power.

That moment underscored her belief in the power of ownership and taught her the value of betting on herself.

In industries steeped in tradition, Robin is unapologetically a disruptor. She challenged the norms of stationery and home design by creating the gold standard of handcrafted greeting cards, and collaborating with other artists to curate an unforgettable collection of gifts and home goods that are uniquely made and eco-friendly.

Vesey Lane Goods disrupted the market by proving that artisan goods could also be luxurious, timeless, and affordable. Robin’s fearless approach to challenging outdated models makes her a trailblazer and catalyst for industry transformation.

Robin’s authenticity shines through everything she touches—from the integrity of her brand to the transparency in her leadership. She never shies away from sharing her entrepreneurial highs and lows, believing that honesty inspires others to pursue their goals realistically. Her ability to remain true to her values while scaling her business makes her a relatable and respected figure in entrepreneurship.

Robin’s strategic business acumen plays a central role in Vesey Good Lane’s success. She approaches venture building with a sharp eye on market demands, operational efficiency, and financial sustainability. Her ability to blend creative design with strong economic fundamentals has allowed her to scale a profitable business while maintaining product integrity. Robin’s focus on sustainable economics ensures her business thrives while
positively impacting her supply chain and customer base.

Robin is more than a business leader; she’s a role model who uplifts others through mentorship, community involvement, and advocacy.

For Robin Wilson, the reward isn’t just financial success—it’s the ability to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. It’s seeing Vesey Lane Goods’ greeting cards, gifts, and home decor bring comfort and vibrancy into homes. It’s watching young entrepreneurs realize their potential
because of her guidance. It’s building a legacy rooted in excellence, impact, and inspiration.

Robin Wilson proves that with creativity, strategy, and heart, success isn’t just attainable—it’s transformative.