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CAREER EXCELLENCE

 

ACHI Entrepreneur Award

Dawn D. Boyer

Dawn D. Boyer, Ph.D. recently finished her Ph.D. Studies at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA for a Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Occupational & Technical Studies.. Her consulting business provides resume coaching, entrepreneurs with business development and social media management and training, and budding authors with print-on-demand publications. She is the author of 50 books on the topics of genealogy, family lineage, business and career search practice, and quotes for self-improvement (“2,000+ series”).  Her books can be found on Amazon.com under Dawn D. Boyer.

Cherie Holloman

Cherie Y Holloman

Life: •Daughter of Etta Edmond and the late Roosevelt Edmond

•Born and raised in Suffolk, VA

•Mother of Jasmine M. Holloman

•Sister to Ann Edmond-Moore and Karen Lynn Perry

Faith: •First love; Lord and Savior Jesus Christ

•Born Again

•Seeking God the more through fasting, praying, meditation and reading the Word of God

•Received the call in her unshakeable faith walk to declare, decree and spread the

Word of God to this dying world and the nations

•Through many tests and trials she has proven to be an over comer through the blood of Jesus Christ

•She has found that spreading the Word of God may not be popular to man but it is pleasing to God

Cherie is: •An Evangelist, Preacher and Teacher of the Gospel of Jesus Christ

•Founder of Lady In Faith Ministries, Inc.

• Owner and Founder of New Life Changes, LLC

•Certified Spiritual Life Coach

•Author of her first Self-Published Book entitled “7 Powerful Habits to Spiritually Prepare for the Storms of Life: Body, Mind, Soul, Spirit”

•Received her Bachelor of Divinity Degree in June 2011 from Roanoke Theological Seminary

•Received her Master’s Degree in Biblical Counseling in September 2013 from Andersonville Seminary

•Radio/DJ Radio Personality/Producer of Rebirth4Love Gospel    Hour with Cherie

•Online Webinar Host for Rebirth4Love Online University

•Administrator for Rebirth4Love 

•Licensed Public Notary inVirginia

Rachel Watson

WINNER

Rachael Watson is diligently walking in God’s call for her life; to Build His Kingdom by Building His people. He has titled her a “Galvanizer”, one who inspires and motivates others to action. She walks this call out as an Apostle, Motivational Speaker, Seminar Host, Self- Publishing Consultant, Wellness & Fitness Mentor, Author and Online Television Network host. 

Dr. Charlene D. Winley

Charlene D. Winley – speaker, trainer, teacher, leader, is a change-agent for this generation. 

Dr. Winley is an influential speaker and presenter who encourages and uplifts those who are broken hearted, down casted, or others who lack vision and purpose.  As CEO and owner of ReScripted Transformational Leadership, Dr. Winley emphasizes the importance of not letting your past define your future and if you do not like the way your life is going….”Re-WRITE the Script.”  She has equipped countless number of people with strategies in leaving their past behind and ReScripting their lives toward a more fulfilling future. Additionally, Dr. Winley is president and founder of the Daughters of Life,

a non-profit organization of positive women extending themselves to bring hope, encouragement, and stability into the lives of others. In addition to helping people in crisis, the DOLs (Daughters of Life) educate, empower, and equip women, from all racial, ethnic, religious, and socio-economic backgrounds through workshops and equipping sessions. 

Dr. Winley was born the 15th of 16 children in Queens, New York to the late Bishop Jesse H.  & Maria Winley, General Overseer of Soul Saving Station of Every Nation located in Harlem, New York.  Before it became politically correct, her father developed a Drug and Alcoholic Rehabilitation Program on 124th Street in Harlem to feed, clothe, and minister to hundreds of drug addicts daily.  Additionally, the basement of the church housed a shelter that assisted women who wanted to get off the streets and begin a new life in Christ.  Charlene recalls seeing people strung out on drugs and young men and women selling their bodies on 125th Street to support their habit. Outreach did not stop at the church for it was common for the Winleys to have additional people in their home.  Many times, it was pregnant teens, abused women, or single mothers with nowhere else to turn.  Having these experiences reinforced Dr. Winley’s responsibility to reach out and help others. Dr. Winley has a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University and a Master’s Degree in Human Development, Cognition, and Learning from Columbia University.  She is a certified Life Coach and Vice President of Membership of Virginia Beach Toastmasters.  As an educator, she has mentored students, adopted families, and used her talents and abilities to enrich the lives of students and colleagues. Dr. Winley has three sons and lives in Virginia Beach.

Dr. Linette Montae

Dr. Linette Montae survived divorce from an Abusive Narcissistic Sociopath and now, as an international speaker, author and award winning business results strategist, you can find Dr. Montae on stage, online and in her community helping successful high profile women “STOP the Madness and Lead with Unapologetic SHE Power” in business and in life. In 2010, Dr. Linette Montae was an entrepreneur stuck in 18-months of negative bank accounts, and today she uses what she learned to guide her clients in customizing a step-by-step plan for adding multiple zeroes to their income stream while delivering superb service and leading a strong support team.

Dr. Montae also founded The International Movement to Empower More Youth because she “believes that given the right space, tools and training; ALL youth can succeed!” and serves as National Advocate Against the Domestic Violence & Abuse of Women and Girls. On a more personal note, as a single parent, Dr. Montae has raised 2 biological and 12 therapeutic foster care children; she loves purple, Cheetos Puffs and really cute shoes. Dr. Linette Montae is someone who has walked many miles in your shoes, someone who truly cares about your goals and your dreams, someone who believes you are destined for greatness.

Lynetta Jordan

“The Motivator” Minister Lynetta Jordan “refreshes hearts, motivates minds and inspires the world one soul at a time.” A former college queen featured in April 1995 EBONY, Lynetta is the author of the inspirational non-fiction book, Love Without The Drama: Why Settle When Relationships Can Sizzle? (www.lovewithoutthedrama.com), National Radio Host of the “Love Talk With Lynetta” and “Love Notes” features broadcast on Love 100.1 FM and the Rejoice Musical Soulfood Network of 42 radio stations and www.musicalsoulfood.com, a dynamic motivational speaker and emerging

 real estate business entrepreneur. Lynetta has also been called a preaching powerhouse! The founder of Lynetta Jordan Ministries (www.lynettajordan.org), she is a gifted encourager and passionate worshipper who especially loves women’s, singles’ and relationships ministry. A faith warrior who has learned to stand firm on God’s promises, she has ministered at many churches, conferences, community events, convocations and seminars. She was blessed to be the keynote inspirational speaker for the national Faith-based Fiction Lovers Conference. On January 1, 2011, she released her first book, Love Without The Drama, to empower people to love better so they can live better and know that their relationship destiny does not have to repeat their history. As an inspirational writer and coach, Lynetta successfully helps people apply Biblical truths to their everyday lives. She has written articles and feature stories for online and print publications, was featured with Dr. Robert Schuler in the national book, Conversations on Faith and has a story in an upcoming book, Praying the News. “The Motivator” Lynetta Jordan is thankful God blessed her to achieve many academic, community and professional awards. She earned two degrees with honors; a Bachelor of Arts degree in English-News Media from Elizabeth City State University and a Master of Arts in Corporate Communication and Development from Regent University. Her highest honor though, is living for, loving and serving the Lord Jesus Christ!

Cherese Jackson

Cherese Jackson, co-founder of New Direction Coaching Associates, is a life and business coach who has traveled extensively as a developer of Non-Profit & For-Profit organizations. She is a speaker, author and member of the International Association of Professional Life Coaches, National Association of Professional Women, member and writer for the Great Black Speakers Bureau, the Black Life Coaches Network as well as senior editor for The Guardian Liberty Voice. 

ACHI Woman On The Rise Award

Candace Credle

WINNER

From her roots of the Eastern Shore of Virginia to her city girl upbringing in Hampton Roads, VA, Candace Credle is a creative and stylish womanpreneur. Candace’s love for planning and executing elite social events has led to her passion of helping and educating meeting planners, business owners, and individuals on how to leverage joint ventures in corporate and social events to reach the masses. Her love and passion extends far beyond organizing social events to her love of giving back and serving her church and community. Candace serves on the Women's

Ministry team at Grove Church, as well as, a mentor for the Save The Seed Ministry which
prepares females between the ages eight and eighteen for womanhood through the development of character, values, responsibilities and self-awareness. 

Khia Cimoné Moon

Khia Cimóne Moon is the reigning Ms Mississippi United States 2013 and former Ms Virginia United States 2012--serving as the first African-American to represent the Commonwealth of Virginia in the Ms United States National Pageant in Washington, D.C.Khia has dedicated her reigns to serving in the community through various charitable organizations and as a mentor to females of all ages. Along with being a full time employee, mother, and queen, she also serves as a proud member of the Urban League of Hampton Roads Young Professionals and has been recognized as a

Distinguished Young Professional; she is member of the United Way of South Hampton Roads Women's Leadership Council, African-American Leadership Council, and Young Leaders Society; and she also volunteers as a Partner in Education for GEICO where she has been employed for the past 12 years.

Cynthia Gossman

"No Bio Entered"

Cynthia L. Roseman

Cynthia L. Roseman is the Creative Event Officer (CEO) & owner of dreams 2 REALITY, LLC a Wedding & Event Planning/Design Company located in North Suffolk. Better known as the “REALITY Godmother”...she is in the gift granting business. Whatever occasion you envision, Cynthia and her dream TEAM will make it the REALITY you deserve and an expression of who you are.

Cynthia served 20+ years in the United States Army.She is a highly decorated soldier and was inducted into the prestigious Sergeant Audie Murphy Club for her exemplary leadership

characterized by her personal concern for others. These same characteristics catapulted her vision of dreams 2 REALITY, LLC. She supports the American Cancer Society by walking & raising funds through ZUMBATHONS and dining events for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk. Cynthia is a daughter, sister, mother, aunt, and nana...family is very important to her! When asked what else she loves, she will answer...”I love the Lord...he is the source of all that I am today!” Her favorite color is purple, she is also an Adjunct Professor at Tidewater Community College, and loves her students. Pursuing a second career in the Special Events & Wedding Industry, was definitely the right choice. 

Lanitha Hudson

Born and raised in Hampton Roads, Lanitha is God-fearing woman, devoted mother and loving wife, motivated by her sincere desire to help others and see them succeed in life.  She is married to Earl Hudson, Jr. and the mother of Tyshawn.

After obtaining her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Virginia, Lanitha returned home to work in the city she was raised.  While employed with the City of Virginia Beach, she obtained her Master’s in Management/Public Administration from the University of Phoenix and her certification as Senior Professional in Human Resources.

As an employee of the City of Virginia Beach, she has served the citizens through outreach programs designed to empower families, individuals, and youth.  Currently, she assists employees with career development and training opportunities.  As a servant of God, she ministers through dance at Mount Carmel Baptist Church.  While others benefit from her ministry through dance, this opportunity is her gift to the Lord.  

Lanitha is co-owner, with her husband, of LEC Enterprises, Inc., a commercial cleaning business.

Nearly five years ago, The Praise Gear Shop was birthed.  As sole owner, Lanitha strives to provide local praise dancers and teams with convenient access to the tools necessary to take their ministry to the next level.  The Praise Gear Shop is focused to be Hampton Road's premier location for all praise tools and garments for praise and worship ministry through dance and mime.

When she’s not managing the many aspects of her own businesses, she sous chefs for her sister and best friend, Tiffany.  Lanitha has a very tight-knit bond with her family.  She considers herself extremely blessed to be part of such a loving group of people.  Lanitha and her family live in Portsmouth, Virginia.

Monique Garret

Monique worked for a local college as the Director of Community Outreach. Although, she held several exciting yet demanding jobs, there was still a desire deep down inside of her to continue to achieve financial success without the compromise of time with her family. In 2008, Monique was introduced to a home-based business opportunity with an Inc. 500 company that literally changed her life. Working alongside her mother and her husband, Monique has been able to build a successful business on a part-time basis, while allowing her to have the time and freedom to spend with her family full-time. She is passionate about teaching other women how to identify, plan and achieve their lifetime goals. After retiring at the age of 36, she and her husband travel all over the country mentoring and helping other couples achieve that balance of Faith, Family, Finances and Fitness. Together, Monique and her husband have built a business network of over 2,000+ associates across the country. Most recently, Monique and her husband have launched their speaking platform together called Love & Business…The Odyssey, where they serve as mentors to married couples who share more than just the bed, but share a business. Monique speaks on the various dynamics on what it takes to be in business with your spouse. She now enjoys her life as a part-time business and law adjunct instructor, public speaker, and her favorite job of all, as a wife and mother to her 4 wonderful children.

Monique Garrett, also known as the MomPreneur Mentor, is a full-time mother, wife and entrepreneur. Originally from Washington, DC, she is a graduate of the University of Virginia and the Catholic University, Columbus School of Law. With over nine years of municipal government experience, she has worked in various capacities as a Business Development Manager, in a municipal Economic Development Department, and as a Director of Communications. After making the transition to private industry, 

Cherese Jackson

Cherese L. Jackson Direct, witty, and relevant are just a few words to describe the incredible gift

resident in Life Coach Cherese Jackson.

Cherese has a degree in psychology coupled with nearly two decades in human resources and development. Drawing from traumatic situations in her past and the power of focus to overcome them, Cherese seems to cut directly to the issues at hand whenever she speaks. Having traveled extensively as a developer of nonprofit & for-profit organizations

and churches she has always seemed to find herself as a coach, confidante and leader. 

There is a passion and purity countless audiences have discovered in her voice.

After spending several years in the Philadelphia area, she married and joined forces with Early Jackson and together they formed New Direction Coaching Associates; an organization dedicated to developing individuals, groups and companies to the core beliefs and visions that make them profitable in all they endeavor. Cherese has worked to help New Direction Coaching Associates successfully launch an interactive website, several products, weekly and monthly empowerment events, as well as release the highly acclaimed book Groomed For Greatness, along with a multi-city book tour.

Cherese co-authored 50 Affirmations For Next Level Living with her husband. She is a columnist and senior editor for The Guardian Liberty Voice Newspaper, member of the International Association of Professional Life Coaches, the National Association of Professional Women, as well as a member and writer for the Great Black Speakers Bureau and the Black Life Coaches Network.

If you want that “WOW” factor at your next event, if you are ready to take your team to the next level of accountability or want to sit down with someone who won't feed you any “bull” you are ready to meet Cherese Jackson! 

Tanita Brinkley, graduated from Saint Johns University in 2005 with a bachelors degree in accounting. She landed a full time auditing position with PricewaterhouseCoopers, a multinational professional services firm where she gained over 5 years of experience. In 2010 she and her husband quit their jobs and went full time into entrepreneurship or "Love and business" as they call it. Tanita has excelled in the field of accounting by keeping faith and holding on to her dreams. She and her husband own and operate their own Accounting Firm, Brinkley Financial LLC in which now has two locations (Norfolk VA &

Tanita Brinkley
Katrina Brown

Ms. Katrina D. Brown, a native from Chesapeake, VA has included herself in many volunteer opportunities within the Hampton Roads communities.  Not only has she been able to commit to a variety of different things, but she is also a big help in the local churches.  Katrina, has been involved with many different outreaches, but the one that sticks closely to her heart is called Daughter’s of Destiny, which she has been involved with for numerous years.  This particular outreach deals with teenage girls from the age of 13-18 years old. She has been a mentor to many young girls, an encourager to a 

host of women and a motivator to all those around her.  A lot of her desires and goals have been met and Ms. Brown is still working hard to rise to an other level in her life. Not only does she  work a full-time job, but she is also an Entrepreneur of Kat’s Kreation’s , a quickly growing cupcake business. As she continues to strive for excellence for herself, she also will soon begin her non-profit organization for teenage girls called,” G.OT.M”, Girls On The Move coming to a community near you.

 

 

Keosha Williams

Keosha Williams is currently an Independent Consultant and Director with Pure Romance, a twenty-one year old in-home party planning company that allows women to purchase quality romance products and bedroom accessories while they learn about their sexual health in a fun and relaxed environment. Pure Romance is the only company in its industry that is aligned with Indiana University and The Kinsey Institute which are two of the top organizations for sexual health and research. Born and raised in Virginia, she graduated from Norview High School with an Advanced Placement Diploma and attended Old Dominion University and graduated in 2007 with a BSBA and a major in

Business Management.She also took Psychology and the Psychology of Sex courses while at ODU. After her studies, she went on to become a financial aid advisor and then an accounting assistant for a local law firm. She began her career with Pure Romance as a part time Consultant in 2010. In 2012, she was able to leave her full-time job and work her Pure Romance Business full-time.  She was top in sales for her local team’s 2012-2013 fiscal year. She also earned the 2012-2013 Rainbow Award. You can find Keosha promoting Pure Romance’s mission of Empowering, Educating, and Entertaining women at a variety of locations from private homes to local business and church events. You can also find her giving back to her community by participating in events such as the Susan G. Komen Race for The Cure and The Change is Possible Coat Drive and Feed the Homeless campaigns. As a part-time business plan writer and business coach, she donates countless hours helping others achieve their dreams also. She has “touched” a variety of businesses from a Richmond-based Home Health Care company to her growing team’s own Pure Romance businesses. Her goal as a Pure Romance consultant is to bring more smiles inside and outside of bedrooms by helping keep single women safe and couples happy whether it is via one-on-one consults, parties, or speaking engagements. Her goal as a business coach and team leader is to help people realize that hard work, dedication, and Faith in what we love to do can provide that bridge across troubled waters into the ultimate life of success and happiness.

Danielle Smith Jones

Danielle Smith Jones is a native and resident of Portsmouth, Virginia.  She is the product of the Portsmouth Public School System in which she graduated from I.C. Norcom High School in 1995.  After graduating from High School, Danielle attended and graduated from Norfolk State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology Education in May 2000.  In 2004, Danielle continued her education at Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk, Virginia receiving her Master of Science Degree in Public Health in 2006.

With a strong passion for today’s youth, Danielle is currently employed

Mid-Manhattan NYC). Throughout her journey, Tanita has displayed a love for "giving back" by providing free budget seminars, free business plan classes and free services to the elderly. Also, her company has teamed up with various organizations like "make a wish foundation" "holy temple ministries" "union mission" and many other non profit organizations to feed the homeless, raise money/awareness to a cause, host toy drives, and back to school giveaways. Tanita's company, Brinkley Financial LLC has been awarded the Best of Norfolk award in Accounting and Bookkeeping for 2013 and 2014 and now qualifies for the Norfolk Business Hall of Fame

Tiffany Roberts Reeves

Tiffany is the proud mother of college freshman and the founder and owner of A Touch Class: Elegance Through Accessories.  Elegance Through Accessories emerged as Tiffany sought her own unique style of fashion accessories in stores near and far.  Finding nothing suitable, she launched out to make what she wanted.  Now she creates unique, handmade accessories that cater to your individual style.  Meeting the needs of the whole family, Tiffany designs headbands and hair bows for girls, flowers and jewelry for moms, and bow ties and lapel pins for boys and dads.  

And the line keeps expanding…Elegance Through Accessories now features handbags. Tiffany also has a passion for crafting other beautiful things.  She enjoys designing hair and educating her clients on healthy hair care.  Equally as important, Tiffany loves to cook and bake.  And she loves creating wonderful meals and desserts for family and friends.  In addition to managing her business and pursuing her passions, Tiffany is also pursuing her degree – a double major in psychology and business administration.  She is a role model for her daughter and an inspiration to her family.  She enjoys family time, music, and dancing.  Her motto is “be the best you that you can be.”

Tiara White

Cameren Dare' Adornments is a rising customs accessory line that creates, embellishes and designs through the guidance and insight of God. It was birthed in 2013 without knowledge of fashions, designing or jewelry manufacturing skills but solely on the inspiration of God. Pablo Picasso said, "Inspiration exists, but has to find work." So, indeed work was found. I began working tirelessly to revolutionize a complete accessories line that enhances the decorum of man, woman and child all with affordability, quality and customer service taking priority. Countless hours have been 

spent to produce outstanding craftsmanship. I often reflect on how my work has improved over the last year and can be taken aback once projects are completed. "Above all, you want to create something you're proud of." Richard Branson

It is said by many customers the fabricated pieces they adorn creates and promotes a feeling of confidence and generates a feeling of richness. I believe it is because of the spirit exuded as God guides my hands. Some of my returning customers even love to taunt friends emphasizing, "I have my own personal stylist and no one is going to owns any my stuff. One of a kind honey!" exclaims, Cynthia McZeal. To hear the confidence and value my customers place on the things I hand make is utterly priceless. To be declared someone's "Personal stylist?"... I never thought that I would be anyone's personal stylist. The smiles that radiate clients are heartwarming. It helps me to realize that this is not solely business alone but it is also ministry. With each and every person that I come in to contact with, I realize that it is purposeful. Weather it presents an opportunity to share a positive word, increase visual enhancements or a warm smile. I know that if I profit nothing monetary, I have served an even greater purpose. As, I visualize the next phases of my business, I can truly say that it is certainly a brand on the rise and for that I am humbled and thankful.

ACHI Woman Of Achievement Award

by Virginia Tech University College of Life Science and Agriculture with Virginia Cooperative Extension.  She is the Unit Coordinator and 4-H Extension Agent for the City of Suffolk Unit Office.  Danielle serves on various committees on the state, district, and local levels and is invited to other agencies to facilitate their meetings as a trained facilitator.   She is currently the Vice President for the statewide professional organization of the Virginia Association of 4-H Extension Agents.  Danielle is a dedicated individual in all aspects of her life.  She is an active member of New Bethel Baptist Church Portsmouth, Virginia in which she serve in leadership in several ministries.  In the community actively, Danielle is a Diamond Life Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Virginia Beach Chapter, in which she serves on the South Atlantic Regional Leadership Team as the Virginia State Chair for Disaster Relief Task Force.  

Danielle has a strong passion for Norfolk State University in which she serves faithfully as the Recording Secretary of the Portsmouth Alumni Chapter, previous 2012-2013 Ms. Alumni representing not only her chapter but the entire Norfolk State University National Alumni Association, Inc., and was recently elected as the National Second Vice President of the Norfolk State University Alumni Association, Inc.  Other memberships include Tau Beta Sigma National Honorary Band Sorority, Inc., and Eastern Virginia Medical School Health Professions Alumni Association. Always determined about her future, Danielle is a dedicated entrepreneur that shines wherever she goes as an Emerald Director with Traci Lynn Fashion Jewelry.   Danielle strongly believes that “it takes a village to raise a child”, and is grateful for the village.  She is always ready to give back what was gratefully given to her through exemplary leadership, dedication, motivation, and determination.  Danielle resides in Portsmouth, Virginia with her husband Anthony Jones.

 

Ivory Morgan-Burton

WINNER

Ivory Morgan-Burton as a business leader is owner, CEO, and creative visionary for Storybook Events. Storybook Events is an international recognized full service, social and corporate event planning company. With a focus on specialized events and customized floral from concept to completion. A Fulfilled Wish; a subsidiary of Storybook Events offers wedding officiants to marry couples.

A pastor, mentor, and counselor. Ivory founded Holiness To The Lord Ministries, a 501(c)(3) charity. Supporting and specializing in the area of domestic and sexual abuse which has been

operating since 1990. Ivory Morgan-Burton currently is Managing Editor of The Wedding Planner Magazine of Hampton Roads. Past-President of National Association of Professional Women (NAPW) Norfolk Local Chapter, and a blogger for America's Bride.Working to make a difference in the lives of women. Ivory serves as Co-Chair for Dress For Success- Hampton Roads. Dress For Success is a not for profit charity.Mrs. Ivory Morgan-Burton resides with her husband Benjamin Burton in Norfolk, Virginia. Ivory is ready to always help other women succeed in business and in life.

Connie Crane Todd

"No Bio Entered"

Jennifer Hyman

Jennifer Hyman is a multi-faceted entrepreneur who advises commercial clients on how to improve their client-base, improve morale, increase revenue and strengthen customer loyalty through Gifting; and after years of volunteering her services while raising a family and working in corporate america, she is now one-half owner of a thriving Catering business in Virginia Beach, VA. Serving all events with guests numbering 10 to over 200. Jennifer is currently serving as the President of the Key City Norfolk Local Chapter of the National Association of Professional Women (NAPW). She has received 

numerous Awards and Recognitions for her work in organizations that she has served. 

Jennifer is the Administrator for her church, Greater Thou Faith, in Virginia Beach. She volunteers with many charities through her social affiliations and supports Toys-for-Tots and The Angel Tree during the holiday seasons. She mentors young women, teaching them how to respect themselves and command respect from those they encounter. Jennifer enjoys her work as a mentor as she sees daily the impact that women have in their homes, their church, their community, their schools and their government. Through her many business affiliations, she has traveled around the country educating and training clients on the services and opportunities available to them.  You can connect with Jennifer on www.twitter.com/SJ2Hyman or on www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferhyman1

Dawn D. Boyer

Dawn D. Boyer, Ph.D. recently finished her Ph.D. Studies at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA for a Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Occupational & Technical Studies.. Her consulting business provides resume coaching, entrepreneurs with business development and social media management and training, and budding authors with print-on-demand publications. She is the author of 50 books on the topics of genealogy, family lineage, business and career search practice, and quotes for self-improvement (“2,000+ series”).  Her books can be found on Amazon.com under Dawn D. Boyer.

Carla Hesseltin

Born and raised in the mountains of WV - I grew up determined and proud. And, in the worst recession since the depression, I pursued my dream of opening my own business.  Since opening our doors in 2009 Just Cupcakes has been named Best Cupcakes in the Eastern Region by Virginia Living, Best of Hampton Roads, Best of the Best and is the official cupcake for Neptune Festival. I was the first Virginia competitor in Food Network's, popular Cupcake Wars in 2011 with subsequent visits in 2012 and 2013.

I’ve also received Inside Business’ Women In Business Achievement Awards, am an alumni of the FBI’s Citizen’s Academy and I serve on Congressman Rigell’s Small Business Advisory Council.

Sabrina Benjamin-Jackson

Sabrina is an agent with New York Life Insurance Company and has more than 20 years of experience as a financial services provider. Her focus on Empowerment through Education is something she’s very passionate about. She facilitates workshops presented to families, churches, business owners and groups which teaches the basics of proper financial planning and addresses the need for Generational Financial Legacies within the African American Community. Sabrina is happiest when her prayers, words or deeds positively affect another’s life. 

She’s a dog lover, originally from NYC who currently reside in Suffolk, VA. She generously donates her time and energy to various causes in the community. Those that bring enrichment to the lives of girls and young women, are especially near and dear to her heart. 

Orna Dixon

I am Orna Dixon I am a native of Norfolk va I am 41 yrs old. I have been hair since I was 11 and getn paid for it. I attended Norfolk votech. I completed cosomotolgy school at alpha omega beauty school in 1992.  I have a bacholers  in christian leadership i am a minister of the gospel. I am a enterp and love being it.  have been working in a salon for 23 years of which 17 I have been owning hair biz located 1314 kempsville rd. I am a mother of 5. 4 bys and 1 girl. I am married to Darrick Dixon and we share a wonderful biz in Realestate called Dixon prop. We love and live by the gospel of Jesus Christ. 

Edith White

"No Bio Entered"

ACHI Young Entrepreneurs Award

Gabrielle "Bri" Pinkney is a 12 year old Singer, Songwriter, Actress and Model whom has added the title of Recording Artist to her resume for an original song that she wrote titled “Anything Is Possible.” Bri is an official member of The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP). She shares her passion for music and the arts through the many live stage performances, community events and social media videos that she has been featured in. Her YouTube channel has over 16,000 views and her first single is sold on iTunes, Amazon and CDBaby. 

Gabrielle ''Bri'' Pinkney
Danette Makaila

WINNER

Danette Makaila is not only a 16-year-old mini mogul in the business world, but she is also a fashion designer, actress, model, national speaker and 2 time published author. Danette started her first business, Princess Jewels at age 9, making and selling custom designed sterling silver jewelry for kids. Then at age 13, she published her first book, Success Is A Decision and at age 16 her second book, 12 Keys to creating the Life You Want to Live – as well as launching her first clothing and accessory line for teen girls. Danette chooses to live by the fact that “Nothing is impossible when you dream with your eyes wide open” which she uses to encourage the kids at Children’s Hospital – her charity of choice.

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