Swanda Warren is a proud graduate of North Carolina Central University, where she earned a degree in Family and Consumer Sciences with a concentration in Child Development and Family Relations, and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where she received a Master’s degree in Leadership in Early Childhood Education. She currently serves as a Quality Enhancement Manager with Early Years, empowering early childhood educators through training and coaching.

Swanda Warren is a proud graduate of North Carolina Central University, where she earned a degree in Family and Consumer Sciences with a concentration in Child Development and Family Relations, and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where she received a Master’s degree in Leadership in Early Childhood Education. She currently serves as a Quality Enhancement Manager with Early Years, empowering early childhood educators through training and coaching.

Dr. Katrina Burruss is a U.S. Air Force veteran, best-selling author, motivational speaker, and certified clinical laboratory consultant with more than two decades of experience in healthcare leadership, laboratory operations, and regulatory compliance. She is the Founder and CEO of the Dream Upward Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting youth impacted by adverse childhood experiences, and the visionary behind Lit for the Culture, a dynamic literary and creative platform that celebrates storytelling, entrepreneurship, and the voices of Black authors and creatives.

Erica is a Faith-driven entrepreneur, Co-founder of Sweet Faith where Jesus is the founder. Turning family recipes into gourmet egg rolls while breaking cycles and walking in purpose. SweetFaith is a faith-inspired culinary brand serving gourmet sweet and savory egg rolls.

Lisa is the heart behind Buen Provecho, a rustic, farmhouse-inspired cottage bakery rooted in Dominican tradition, wellness, and community. Her business was born from her bariatric journey and a deep desire to recreate the foods she grew up with in a way that nourishes the body without losing their cultural soul. What began as personal healing evolved into a mission: reimagining the recipes she once watched her mami make through whole grains, sourdough, and protein-forward baked goods that support long-term health.

Well known to most as a public servant committed to improving policy for the NC’s most vulnerable populations, especially women. She spends most days on Jones Street advocating for more access and economic opportunity for the left behind. She has served on numerous boards and commissions, and is the Chair of the North Carolina Council for Women, and convened the 2024 NC Conference for Women with Governor Roy Cooper and 700+ attendees.

LaTida Adams is a dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for nurturing, creativity, and business excellence. As the owner of A Brilliant Beginning Daycare, she has dedicated over 25 years to providing high-quality childcare, ensuring children thrive in a safe and engaging learning environment.

Kenyetta Hall is a product and business strategist and the driving force behind The Katalyst HQ, a dynamic firm that collaborates with enterprises and entrepreneurs to develop tailored strategies for business sustainability, AI and automation, and to enhance leadership agility and career mobility.

Magalie Yacinthe is a founder and the Executive Director of HUSTLE Winston-Salem, a nonprofit organization dedicated to inclusive entrepreneurship. HUSTLE exists to facilitate and promote a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem by working with both entrepreneurs and community stakeholders. We focus on and advocate for those that are most at-risk for systematic exclusion or marginalization in the local innovation economy. Since its inception, HUSTLE Winston-Salem was and continues to be a force of positive turbulence as we challenge and shape systems, share stories as a way to expose barriers and work towards bridging the gap of entrepreneurial inequality, and provide resources to those we serve.

Linda K. Edwards – Advocate, Life Coach, and Social Changemaker

Linda K. Edwards is a distinguished public relations advocate, life coach, outreach coordinator, and Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) dedicated to empowering individuals and transforming communities. As the Executive Director and Founder of New Me New You Inc., a nonprofit organization focused on personal and professional development, she has helped countless individuals unlock their potential through compassionate coaching and social advocacy.

Saideh Brown is President Emeritus of the National Council of Women at the United Nations. She has enjoyed a diverse career that spans entertainment, sports, real estate, interior design, social engagement and philanthropy. She is a disruptive force transforming how women earn and thrive.

Stacy Michelle is a passionate entrepreneur, author, speaker, and mentor dedicated to empowering business owners through The Bridge Business Academy. With more than 20 years of small business experience, she has developed a deep understanding of business operations, strategic growth, and leadership.

With over 25 years of experience in accounting and financial management, Quintonia Thorpe is the Founder & Chief Financial Officer of Prestige Money Managers, LLC. She has worked extensively with small businesses, nonprofits, and state government agencies, providing strategic financial guidance to help organizations achieve stability and long-term success. Quintonia is a recognized advocate for financial literacy, committed to empowering entrepreneurs and business owners with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to build strong financial foundations.

Chisa D. Pennix-Brown is the Chief Curator of Give It To The People, a business service organization dedicated to Mental Wealth, Business Growth, and Professional Development. She founded the Give It Get It Business Membership, a thriving community designed to equip entrepreneurs and business service organizations with the tools, connections, and strategies they need to succeed.

Sheleta Renee was born and raised with the desire to be so much more than average. Very early on it was evident that she had big dreams and her desire in life was to shoot for the moon and hit the stars.

We are a creative marketing firm. We power our clients digital and print projects resulting in impactful design with actionable strategies to reach their target audience.

Meyakka Sturdivant, founder of MS Consulting Solutions in the heart of the 336 Triad is a long standing branding and leadership coach with over 6 years experience to Women in Business and Small Business owners.

Brandi is a dedicated mental health professional with over 15 years of experience, specializing in trauma, spirituality, parenting, and relationships. Her passion for healing and transformation led her to establish a business focused on helping individuals overcome past traumas on a physical, mental, and spiritual level. She believes that by finding one’s inner light, external reality will begin to reflect abundance, love, higher self-esteem, and more fulfilling relationships.

Michele Paul | Founder, Let’s Get Social Raleigh

Michele Paul is a retired Marine, combat veteran, and the visionary behind Let’s Get Social Raleigh, a grassroots wellness organization dedicated to creating safe spaces for adults to combat exhaustion, stress, and isolation by reconnecting with the transformative joy of play, nature, meaningful connections, and community. Inspired by the African philosophy of Ubuntu, “I am because we are,” Michele believes that true well-being comes from rediscovering our authentic selves and fostering a strong sense of belonging.

Pam Snipes Bradford – The Rich Auntie

Financial Educator | Wealth Strategist | Entrepreneur

Pam Snipes Bradford, widely known as "The Rich Auntie," is a powerhouse in financial literacy, dedicated to helping women break free from financial insecurity and step into lasting wealth. With a mission to empower women to become financially smart, build confidence, and embrace non-traditional income opportunities, Pam is redefining what financial independence looks like. She educates women on investing, earning six figures, and reshaping the concept of retirement—not as an age, but as the freedom to work because you love to, not because you have to.