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We asked 93.9 WKYS listeners to send in their nominations for the Top 30 Under 30 in the DMV for 2012 and we’ve chosen the best and the brightest young African-Americans in the area to make the list. Come by daily during the whole month of February for a new member to the Top 30 Under 30 Club.

(Listed in no particular order)

#1 Akosua Tyus

Ms. Akosua Tyus is the President of the NAACP Washington, DC Branch.  At 28, Ms. Tyus is one of the youngest Presidents of an NAACP Branch throughout the nation.  As President, Ms. Tyus works to ensure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial discrimination through civic advocacy and outreach initiatives.  The strategic priorities for her administration are to support minority-owned businesses, promote health and wellness through combating obesity, advocate for improved DCPS and DC charter school education and maximize voter mobilization through GOTV efforts.  She leads the implementation of programs administered by 16 standing committees , including Criminal Justice, Economic Empowerment, Education, Fundraising, Health, International Affairs, Legal Redress, Membership, Political Action, Public Relations, Religious Affairs, Veteran Affairs, Women in NAACP (WIN), Young Adults, Youth Works, and the Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO).

In 2011, President Tyus led the NAACP in processing 69 discrimination complaints, testified before DC City Council in support of the Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Designation Act of 2011, hosted the NAACP Region VII Conference, and conducted various programs including a Health Fair, Religious Leaders HIV/AIDS Discussion, Campus to Career Panel Discussion, Health Forum, Veterans Forum, Financial Management Workshop, Healthy Eating Nutrition Workshop, and Get Out The Vote (GOTV) Civic Engagement Training.

During her tenure with the NAACP, Akosua Tyus has served in numerous positions. From 2008 to 2010, she served as Second Vice President of the DC Branch. From 2006 to 2008, she served as Young Adults Chair and Assistant Secretary of the DC Branch. From 2011 to 2003, Akosua served as President of the Johnson & Wales University NAACP College Chapter.  Her accomplishments include implementing a series of initiatives in celebration of the NAACP’s 100th anniversary, including town hall forums, health symposiums, professional development workshops, HIV awareness trainings, voter registration drives, and education forums.

Ms. Tyus is employed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.  She holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Bachelor of Science from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island.

Akosua is an active member of the Washington, DC Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma

Theta Sorority, Inc., a service sorority.  Ms. Tyus is also a chartering member of the Department of Homeland Security Blacks In Government (BIG) Chapter.

#2 Kevin Lewis

Kevin Lewis is Director of African American media for the White House Communications Office. He is responsible for strategic communications planning and messaging for constituency media, and is the liaison for African American media including print, online publications, new media, and radio.

Lewis was promoted to Director of African American Media in October 2010 after working as an aide under then Press Secretary Robert Gibbs in the White House Press Office since March 2009. Prior to joining the White House press team, he was a spokesman on President Obama’s Inaugural Committee working primarily with African American Media.

Before joining the Presidential Inaugural Committee, Lewis served on the Obama for America (OFA) campaign beginning in February of 2007. Lewis started on the exploratory committee in the Chicago campaign headquarters, just five days before the official announcement in Springfield, Illinois. During the campaign, he travelled throughout the country, working in Ohio, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Michigan.

Lewis started his career at the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) and is a graduate of YES WE CAN, the campaign operative training program created by then Senator Obama through his Political Action Committee, Hopefund. Lewis is from Brooklyn, New York and is an alumnus of New York University.

#3 Andrew Welburn

Andrew Welburn is the Owner/Operator of a McDonald’s franchise in Silver Spring, MD. At 26, Mr. Welburn is one of the youngest McDonald’s Franchisees in the nation. Andrew started with McDonald’s as a crewperson and worked his way up as a Manager and an Area Supervisor before becoming an Owner/Operator. As a small business owner, Andrew works to improve the day to day operations and profitability of his restaurant. He is a member of the DC Co-Op QSC Team which focuses on maintaining quality, service and cleanliness within area McDonald’s restaurants. In addition, Mr. Welburn contributes to the system as a member of the Black McDonald’s Operators Association (BMOA) Washington, D.C. Chapter and the Next Generation Owner Operator Group.

Mr. Welburn graduated with honors from Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA and holds a B.A in International Studies with a concentration in Business. He also has a M.P.S from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.

Mr. Welburn understands the importance of giving back to the community in which he does business. In 2010 Andrew co-founded the Red & Black Affair, a charity party which has donated over $8,000 to the Ronald McDonald House Charities Care Mobile. The Care Mobile is a mobile unit that provides free healthcare services to children of low-income families in the DC Metro area. He also volunteers regularly teaching local high school students about entrepreneurship, so that they can prepare themselves to become job creators in their communities.

Outside of McDonald’s, Mr. Welburn is an active member of the Young Ambassadors Council for the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) Washington, DC Chapter and is a member of the Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce.

#4 John Davis

John Davis at 26, 2 years ago was named the youngest Asst. Head Coach in College Football. Working at prestigious Gallaudet University in the district Coach Davis has been the defensive coordinator of some of the best defenses in NCAA DIII college football. His defenses have set 11 school records and produced 22 All Conference Players over the last 3 seasons. This past season his defense broke the Gallaudet turnover record by producing 30 for a staggering 3 a game. While also leading the nation in DIII in tackles for loss. This aggressive defense also had the sack leader whom he recruited of all divisions with 16 1/2. Coach Davis made the move to Gallaudet because originally intrigued by sign language and the Deaf community now Coach Davis sees it at as a part of life. John is now a fluent signer and becoming mentioned as an up and coming coach as evidenced by his selection in 2009 to NCAA Coaching Academy. In 2009, his first as the defensive coordinator, the Bison finished the season ranked No. 6 in the nation for total defense as the Bison only allowed 245.30 yards per game. Gallaudet’s pass defense was ranked No. 4 among NCAA Division III teams as the Buff and Blue limited opponents to 109.10 yards per game. The Gallaudet defense was also nationally ranked for pass efficiency defense (No. 29) and scoring defense (No. 30). On December 17, 2009, Davis was promoted to Assistant Head Football Coach

Alexandra is a 24 year old Maryland native. In 2011, she completed Cornell University’s Financial Management Program, Duke University’s Non Profit Management Program and completed American University’s Executive Leadership Program in 2009.

Alexandra is the founding President of NPO Global LLC, where she works with individuals, companies, government institutions and non profit organizations to achieve their goals. She is also the founder of Futuristic Youth Corp, a youth outreach 501 (c) (3) non profit organization that serves youth from low socioeconomic backgrounds in the Washington DC, Metropolitan Area, and the Greater Baltimore Area. Through her work with Futuristic Youth Corp. Alexandra, has collaborated on a variety of community service efforts and outreach activities designed to empower youth, women and local communities.

Alexandra has been published in the The Acton Foundation for Entrepreneurial Excellence and the Canadian-based International Entrepreneur Organization’s Global Student Entrepreneur Awards Hero publication and has been featured in numerous media outlets and publications with a focus on topics ranging from organizational development, youth empowerment, youth violence prevention, social entrepreneurship and Sickle Cell awareness. She recently received recognition of her philanthropic work from the Prince George’s County Innovation Fund as a 2012 honoree and as an Envest Foundation 2011 “40 Under 40? honoree. She also won the 2010 Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award from the Prince George’s County Chamber of Commerce.

#5 Alexandra Morton

Alexandra currently serves as a member of the Prince George’s County Chamber of Commerce’s Youth Entrepreneurship Committee, is a member of the Women Business Owners of Prince George’s County, and is a member of the SCLC (Southern Christian Leadership Conference), and as an honorary member of the Future Business Leaders of America.

#6 Brelyn Freeman

Brelyn Freeman is the youngest daughter of Drs. Mike and Dee Dee Freeman of Mega Church (Spirit of Faith Christian Center) in Maryland.

An example both spiritually and naturally, Brelyn has exemplified wisdom and a commitment to serving God that surpasses her age.

A proud and successful business owner of  “Breezy’z Accessoriez” in Waldorf, Md

Brelyn’s leadership and business expertise has managed to make the outlet one of the fastest as well as top growing stiores in the DC Metropolitan Area.

Her current, clothing inventory roster exceeds well over 800 to 1000 items a week and ” “Breezy’z Accessoriez” averages more than 150 customers week.

Brelyn is also passionate about her stand for Christ, as well her willingness to honor her parents.

Ministering the Word of God with simplicity and power, she strives to continue to live a life that others can follow.  In addition to her pursuits outside of the ministry, Brelyn is a Director of the Singles Ministry, a Floor Director assisting the Audio and Media ministries at Spirit of Faith Christian Center.

Committed to remaining a virgin until marriage, Brelyn Freeman is simply put, a young woman who loves God and is committed to fulfill His assignment for her life.

#7 Dwight Brown

Dwight Brown is a native of Largo, Maryland where he attended Largo High School for education but left school with a GED. Mr. Brown left school to entered the work field at the age of 18.

Mr. Brown is currently employed by W&T Travel Services  as a CDL Operator, where he was featured in Black Enterprise Magazine in 2011 for his contribution to the success W&T was having as a  company lead by his business mentor Darnell Lee. Mr. Brown handles all private clientele for the company.

At this young age of 28, he understands how important it is to GOD to create a legacy in his family. Mr. Brown tapped into his family roots of entrepreneurship, opening a global telecommunications franchise, where he has been documented as a  top Expansion Leader in this area. Mr. Brown has become a mastermind of the home base business and now has distribution covering the East Coast and West Coast. More importantly, He is helping countless individuals become entrepreneurs and leave legacies as well. Mr. Brown and his business partners meet up in different cities on a quarterly basis where they make major donations to the Ronald McDonald House Charity.

Mr. Brown has been a faithful member of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Lanham since January of 2005 where rededicated his life to Christ. Mr. Brown serves countless on the sound ministry, young adult ministry, and the security ministry volunteering his time for the further expansion of GOD’s word.

During the months of good weather Mr. Brown spends time in his community volunteering / assisting elderly neighbors with simple yard work and cookouts as a community outreach outlet.

Dwight Brown’s favorite saying: if you believe in GOD you will achieve. HE always opens the door, you just need to be in position and willing to walk through it!

#8 Chelsey Rodgers

Chelsey Sophia Rodgers, Esquire is an attorney, small business owner and inspirational speaker in the Washington, DC area. She is the Director of Business & Legal Affairs for the Atlanta- based marketing and communications firm, Johnson Media, Inc., and the principal attorney for The Law Office of Chelsey Rodgers, PLLC, which services clientele in New York, Maryland and Washington, DC. She served as Miss District of Columbia International 2010 and placed as a Top Ten finalist at the 2010 Miss International Pageant. She is a former Miss District of Columbia USA 2008 and represented the District at the 2008 Miss USA Pageant in Las Vegas.

Chelsey dedicates her time to helping strengthen her community. She was honored by Real Times Media and named one of “Who’s Who in Black Washington DC.” She was recently awarded the Juanita Sims Doty Community Service Award and the President’s Volunteer Service Award from President Barack Obama for completing over 250 hours of community service in the past year. Chelsey is the founder of the Miss Congeniality Foundation, a nonprofit that promotes healthy self-esteem through workshops that teach girls confidence-building skills. She has traveled across the metro DC area speaking at youth conferences, schools and special events encouraging students to appreciate their unique differences, develop healthy self-confidence, and use that confidence to pursue their life and career passions. She is honored to have been chosen as the 2012 commencement speaker for Ernest Just Middle School in Prince Georges County, Maryland.

Chelsey is a Summa Cum Laude graduate of Spelman College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and received her Juris Doctor from Howard University School of Law. She formerly served as chairperson of the District of Columbia Juvenile Justice Advisory Board, which advises juvenile agencies and ensures juvenile delinquency prevention programs meet the needs of youth. She formerly served as Executive Director of the Miss District of Columbia’s Outstanding Teen Pageant and runs a pageant and lifestyle consulting company, Brains & Beauties Pageant & Lifestyle Consulting, which services the metropolitan DC area. She currently resides in northwest Washington DC with her two yorkshire terriers, Trixie and Bailey.

#9 Tiffany Young

Tiffany Young is a former Journalist with more than six years of experience in Public Relations, who has a passion for Education and making an impact in her community by giving back. A certified PR Specialist, she is the Public Relations Manager at American Public University System, where she is responsible for providing media relations expertise for an online institution with over 100,000 students and more than 3,000 faculty members. Prior to this role, she has provided communications support to The Art Institute of Washington and the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies where she was responsible for media relations, strategic planning, special events and marketing. Prior to her career in Public Relations, she was a reporter at The Gazette. Tiffany graduated cum laude from Virginia State University with a bachelor’s degree in mass communications and has completed a certificate program in Public Relations at the University of Virginia. In addition to her professional obligations, she serves on the executive board of the Northern Virginia Urban League Young Professionals Network as the Director of Social Programs, a member of the Alexandria City Commission, a mentor with Hope and a Home for the Homeless, and a professional advisor at Howard University. Previously, she has served on the boards of Black Public Relations Society DC Chapter and the Northern Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce.

Her favorite quote is: “The biggest adventure you can ever take is to live the life of your dreams.” – Oprah Winfrey.

#10 Chantel Skipper

Chantel Skipper, MSN, CPNP-AC, CPN at 25 years old is living a life of commitment to serve others. Chantel a pediatric registered nurse for the past 4 years was recently promoted to Professional Practice Specialist for Neurology and Surgical Services at Children’s National Medical Center. She is also the Founder and Chair of The Board of Professional Black Females, Inc.; a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization for professional women in the DC area.

A native of Virginia Beach, VA, Chantel moved to Richmond, VA to attend Virginia Commonwealth University. At VCU, Chantel made her mark in the nursing profession. She served as the Chair of the Student Nurses Association for two years and the Nominations and Elections Chair for the Virginia Student Nurses Association. Because of her service, she received a number of awards and scholarships such as the Lettie Pate Whitehead Scholarship, Student Nurses Association Award and the Black History in the Making Award. In 2007, Chantel received her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing. Before graduation, she had job offers from hospitals across the country to include UCLA Medical Center and Children’s National Medical Center. But to be closer to family, she chose to move to the Washington, DC area. After her first year of nursing, Chantel was accepted into the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program at University of Maryland Baltimore.

In 2010, she founded The Board of Professional Black Females, Inc. while working full time as a pediatric nurse, part time as a clinical instructor for the University of Maryland and finishing her last year of graduate school. The mission of The BPBF, Inc. is to build a network of professional black females to foster a sense of empowerment amongst ourselves and to strengthen and aid in our success, as well as educate, support and prepare our youth to become successful black professionals. Blessed to have mentors throughout her educational experience, she wanted to give this same opportunity to other young females. The BPBF, inc. has grown to a network of over 50 professional black women and has worked alongside a number of other organizations such as The Group, Divas MPH, 101 Women of Hope, The Sintia Mesa Foundation, Susan G. Komen, and Metro TeenAIDs to give back to the community.

Chantel received her Master’s in Nursing from the University of Maryland Baltimore in May 2011. She is a Certified Pediatric Nurse, Acute Care Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner as well as a member of the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, American Association of Neuroscience Nurses, American Pediatric Surgical Nurses Association and the Golden Key Honor Society.

#11 Tramaine Brathwaite

Tramaine, a native of Prince George’s County, MD, developed a love and passion for the performing arts at the age of 12 by getting involved in numerous local productions. It was during this time that Tramaine realized that she wanted to be involved in the performing arts in a greater capacity.

After graduating from the University of Maryland College Park, Tramaine delved further into directing and producing. She fell in love with being behind the scenes and seeing her work on stage. Eventually, she became the director of a local drama team for three years. In 2007, she decided to go back to school and obtain her graduate degree with the hopes of beginning a production company in her hometown. Tramaine wanted to widen her network and develop the appropriate tools to successfully run her own company. In 2009, Tramaine graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with a Masters of Arts Management and then founded MaineDrama Productions, LLC.

Tramaine had a vision to start a company that would produce works by emerging playwrights. She wanted to see works of art that would challenge audiences’ perspectives, spark conversations about real issues, and push the envelope about taboo topics. Not wanting to compromise her values as a playwright, yet still grab the attention of viewers, Tramaine started MaineDrama as an answer to that call. It was her vision to capture the attention of diverse audiences while staying true to her visionary aspirations: Mainstream without compromise.

In 2010, she produced her first full-length stage play, Count It All Joy, under the company name. After this production, MaineDrama embarked upon its first film entitled, Unheard. Partnering with *BPC Films, Unheard follows the lives of numerous individuals and takes a look at the journey to healing after sexual abuse. Both companies were charged to make a difference and break the stereotypes about sexual abuse. Set to premiere in 2012, Unheard has generated increased awareness surrounding the topic and has begun to educate the community about the face of sexual abuse, especially in the aftermath.

Tramaine has a great love and appreciation for the theater and is realizing her dreams as a producer. She is also passionate about dealing in realism, seeing true portrayals of herself and the life around her. She operates under the philosophy that “everyone’s life is a stage,” and she only wants to see that truly reflected on the stage in front of her.

*Cinematographer/Director of Photography Ashanti Young (27) and Director Jasmine Barber (26) joined together and founded BPC Films in 2010. The two have worked on a number of independent short films and a feature in the DMV area.

#12 Julian Starks

Recognized for his exceptional skill and versatile talents in the arts, Julian Starks has carved out a niche within the art and fashion world by using his bold, message driven style of illustration to build a dedicated fan base. Through releasing limited edition digital prints and unique canvassed paintings Julian has become one of the staple artist in the Washington DC area.

In an effort to follow his dreams, he and three friends recently launched Demeanor Clothing (www.demeanr.com) where he serves as the Creative Director and lead designer. Since its inception, Demeanor has evolved into a lifestyle brand dedicated to manufacturing high quality, high fashion, detail driven products while also hosting exclusive events. Within it’s first year Demeanor participated in a number of fashion shows, collaborations, music projects, and has participated in events throughout the east coast.

Julian continues to create commissioned artwork, including logos, paintings, and graphic designs for high priority clientele, independent companies, musicians/bands, and non-profit organizations. He has also taken advantage of the opportunity provided to him by attaining his Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, by working in database design and website maintenance for the Department of Defense.

His ultimate goal is to position himself and his company to be able to provide opportunity, employment and assist in the promotion of other young talents throughout the Washington DC area while also giving back to the community. Julian has participated in a number of youth leadership and mentoring programs in an effort to help cultivate young talent and serve as an inspiration for others to follow their dreams.

Above all else he strives to be a great father to his daughter Zoë, she is his inspiration to continue to chase his dreams!

#13 Rob Green

There is a relatively small segment of true young leaders in the business world today; individuals who seem to be able to build trust, relationships, and rapport with almost anyone they come in contact with and then are able to broker those same relationships to make connections between people, creating partnerships and alliances, then motivating forward momentum to ‘get things done.’

Rob Green, age 27 is one of those people, and ‘getting things done’ and driving results—through collaboration, partnerships, and relationships—as a Product Program manager at Xerox Corporation, is what he is all about. With an enthusiastic and genuinely friendly attitude, Rob radiates a sincere passion for delivering value and benefits to his clients, co-workers, and company.

A Salesman by training, Rob Green earned his B.S. in Marketing at Morgan State University in 2007; there he also excelled as Mr. Morgan State University, a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., student government and, many more. Rob spent two years as an intern at Xerox Corporation prior to making the life decision, that Corporate America was where he would like to make his mark in time. Shortly after his career with Xerox began in 2007, Rob secured his full year targets early and attended Presidents Club, all while returning to Johns Hopkins University completing the Leadership Development Program (LDP) in search of his M.B.A. Rob’s career and corporate brand grew rapidly over the next 5 years to management level potential, and has expanded far beyond the typical college graduate searching to find their way.

Promoted three times in his five-year tenure with Xerox; Rob’s professional success was focused on productivity, profit, customer retention/satisfaction. But more importantly, they focused on building long-lasting, reliable consultative relationships within the C-suite of unions, law firms, associations, and federal government organizations. These same relationships have allowed businesses throughout the Metro area to benefit from Rob’s professional expertise by doing business in a more efficient manner decreasing costs, increasing productivity and maximizing on modern technology.

Throughout it all, Rob has repeatedly proved his ability to lead. As a Six Sigma Yellow Belt, he is an excellent agent of change and has a documented track record of civic affiliations that include the President of the Corporate Few, President of Young Professionals at Xerox (YP@X), MSU/JHU Alumni Association, the United Ways Emerging Leaders, and is still passionately active in Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

Today, Rob currently resides in his original birthplace and hometown Baltimore, Maryland. He enjoys family, friends, cooking reading, playing semi-pro football, and snowboarding around the United States. He is seeking his next opportunity and step in his executive career. As he has top-notch qualifications, it is challenging to put his skills in a box. But what is absolutely clear, is that he has a great deal of value to offer the right company, and while the actual job title may vary, it will almost certainly include some combination of strategic planning, operations, partnership and alliance building, account management and customer relations, and marketing.

#14 Casey Snipes

Graphic Designer, Marketer, Advertiser, Business Owner, and most recently Educator are the adjectives that describes Casey Snipes but to many known as Casey Renae. Born in Prince George’s County, Maryland, Casey Renae discovered her talent of creating visual art to represent her artistic imagination while matriculating at Gwynn Park Senior High School. Upon graduation in 2004, Casey Renae enrolled into the prestigious North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University where she received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Graphic Communication & Printing and Publishing.

Casey Renae pursued her Master’s Degree at Savannah College of Art & Design to enhance her craft of creating visual graphic art in hopes of establishing her own business in the male dominated field. Once Casey Renae obtained the knowledge and training to set sail as a female graphic artist she launched her own graphic design service in 2010. Her company CaseyRenae.com has allowed her the privilege of creating logos, blog sites, public services announcements and branding strategies for DMV clients such as: BlackAlley Band, UpTown Magazine, Indulj Restaurant & Lounge, Tony Lewis, Jr. and The Fellaz non-profit organization.

Spring 2011 Casey Renae transformed her graphic art talents into a clothing line. Laundry Day Brand collaborates minimalism with urban street graphics to create a provoking yet simplistic style. Recently, during the 2011 Thanksgiving holiday, Laundry Day Brand provided twenty laundry baskets to less fortunate families in collaboration with The Fellaz Youth Organization. Casey Renae uses her graphic artistic mind to give back to the community. She partners with local non-profit organizations to brand and promote their events to target audiences that are stimulated through visual artwork rather than print or text.

Aside from her artistic talents, Casey Renae is a strong advocate for children. Although she is the CEO of two companies she is currently pursing a career as a teacher. Casey Renae believes ART can change the lives of the youth and posses a desire to cultivate the next generation as artistic phonemes. Casey Renae volunteers daily at Dr. Henry A. Wise, Jr. School located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland learning the daily routines of what it takes to become an Amazing Art Educator. Casey Renae’s ounce of hope to start her own businesses has transformed into dream fulfilled. When Casey Renae is not designing graphic art masterpieces she is devoting her time to her sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.

#15 Armani Worrell

At only 22 years old, Armani Worrell is CEO of his own company, mogul in the making, and is aspiring to inspire others. As the CEO of W. Public Relations, LLC, Armani has been fortunate to work with some of the DMV’s most promising artists, public figures and upcoming magazines of today. Some including: MTV VMA Nominated Artist RAtheMC, Hip-Hop Recording Artists: Pert McFly, Lano, and R&B Artist IhsAn Bilal, Tiffany Parker (Ms. Maryland US 2011), the Rev. David J. Venable, Senior Pastor of True Life Redemption Ministries (TLRM), and Urban Socialite Magazine. While working on the event staff at the Heritage Center in our Nation’s Capital, Armani Worrell has also had a successful run in the corporate world having the opportunity to work on events for CNN, NBC, The U.S. Navy and several private movie screenings. Staying to his moral and religious beliefs, he operates as the public relations coordinator for his church TLRM, and provides this service as a donation to give back to his community and his God. In addition to his servitude and willingness to give back, he organized the DMV Artist Gives Back Charity Event, at Children’s Hospital in the District and followed his philanthropic efforts in December 2011 as the Co-Creator of the Unite For AIDS Red Reception Charity Event. He successfully landed event sponsors on a national and local level such as Coca Cola, Godiva Chocolate, Uptown Magazine, Uno’s Chicago Grill and Red Velvet Cupcakery. Recently, Armani Worrell has been hired to serve as the Marketing Coordinator for Unos Chicago Grill in Bowie, Maryland. He is working on completing his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication Studies at the University of Maryland University College. Now he has an array of clients from all walks of entertainment. And with every move Armani makes and every hand he shakes, he gets one step closer to realizing the ultimate American dream of turning “nothing into something,” all while branding his demanding clients, as the best of the best in their field. With a wide variety of accomplishments already under his belt, including interning for some industry legends, he is garnishing a reputation as the “Diddy” of PR. Armani is steadily building his empire, with a “take no prisoners” attitude. At this point his {PR}ogression is Inevitable.

#16 Anton Render

Anton Render is a young mogul from Prince Georges County Maryland. Mr. Render graduated from Howard University in 2009 with his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, with Honors. He immediately enrolled back into Howard University and received his Master’s degree in 2011 (Macro level Social Work – Summa Cum-Laude). His motive is to make an impact on struggling communities from a global perspective, through mentoring youth within the DC-Metropolitan area and the individual’s from the African Continent. He is a member of The Knights Fraternity, Inc. (KFI); who serves a mentor to students of Cardozo Senior High, DC – African Immigration Refugee Foundation (AIRF). In addition, as a KFI member Render serves as a philanthropists to the African Continent donating to non-profit 501(c)(3) Charity: Water, who assists in raising funds to bring clean & safe drinking water to undeveloped countries. Render continues to make an immediate impact on the Washington metropolitan community through being a Free and Accepted Mason (Prince Hall Affiliate – Social Lodge # 1). Through various obstacles that we face Render strives to continue to live a life of integrity and prosperity.

On a day to day basis Render is a Project Manager for The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) USCG, HQ. He is currently working on the St. Elizabeth’s project that will be taking place starting in 2013, where DHS will be relocating. The DHS Headquarters at St. Elizabeth’s is the largest Federal construction project to occur in the Washington metropolitan area since the Pentagon was built during World War II. This project will create 4.5 million square feet of new space, to bring together the mission execution components DHS requires in its headquarters facility. The total cost for the project totals $3.4 billion and will be funded by GSA and DHS.

Render is also the CEO of Night Club promotional company, Signature Connections, LLC. He has two other business partners based out of Baltimore, MD. For the past 5 years Render’s company has organized major events for various clubs/lounges within Washington, DC. He has gained and excellent rapport with venues such as: The Park @ 14th & LOVE Night Club. Not to mention Render was recently named as an Official 2011 Howard University Homecoming Sponsor (alongside with companies such as: AT&T, PEPSI, BET, NIKE ect…) . This enabled him to execute his mission to create the perfect atmosphere for his target population.

#17 Danielle Moore

Danielle was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland and attended Francis Marion University on a basketball scholarship where she earned many accolades including ranking 13th in school history in scoring and being selected All-Conference twice.

Following undergrad, she attended Howard University where she earned a Master’s in Mass Communications and Media Studies.

She currently works as the Communications Lead to the Chief Information Officer (CIO) at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, MD where she is responsible for actively communicating both internally and externally to the organization on behalf of the CIO. This includes speech writing, social media, and website development.

Danielle is also a part-time runway model. She has traveled all over for modeling jobs and opportunities.

Latisha Durham

LaTisha Durham was born and raised in Washington, DC. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Engineering from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and is currently pursuing a Masters of Engineering Degree in Systems Engineering from Iowa State University.

Her career began with the Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland, in June 2008, where she was selected for the Naval Acquisition Intern Program (NAIP), in the Avionics Division.

Ms. Durham is a 2010 graduate of NAIP. While in the program, she took on the role of Communication Lead for Command and Control with UH-1Y, where she delivered briefs, ran weekly meetings, researched antennas and helped with the Site Survey. She also completed an external rotation with SPAWAR in San Diego, CA as a Systems Engineer for Mobile Objective User System (MUOS). In this role, she was responsible for the requirements and inputs for the shock and vibration testing to ensure that the program remained on schedule.

Ms. Durham was selected for the Engineering and Scientist Development Program (ESDP). As an ESDP, she took on the role she is for improving 4.5 AD’s ability to meet current and future needs for unmanned systems support through developing a capability (laboratory, trained personnel and facility support) for Morgan State University. She is also leading the effort to educate the 4.5 AD workforce in the acquisition process, new changes and the most efficient and effective way of ensuring acquisition program success. She is currently the Joint Precision Approach and Landing System’s Technical Lead for E-2D and C-2A Aircrafts. Here she is responsible for timely and accurate review of Aircraft Integration Technical Data Package (AI TDP) and C-2A Platform Specific JPALS Aircraft System Spec (PS-JASS) system documentation provided in support of PMA-231 JPALS program milestone requirements, Oversight provided to C-2A contractor’s development efforts for the JPALS risk reduction and architecture trade study program and E-2D/C-2A avionics requirements and specifications defined in draft form for all JPALS systems and subsystems as part of the PS JASS efforts.

She is the 2011-12 Vice President of the National Society of Black Engineer Patuxent River Alumni Extension Chapter. As an active member in NSBE, she helped to form a mentor group with a local high school to help students prepare for college. She continues to help her mentees with college and real world situations. She is also an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.

Ms. Durham is a 2011 recipient of Women of Color’s Technology Rising Star Award.

Ms. Durham interests includes traveling, shopping, watching sports (basketball & football), helping in the community, reading about and playing with new electronic devices and most importantly spending time with family and friends.

#19 James Murphy

James Murphy is a young gospel artist whose approach to the gospel music world today is noted as unique and refreshing. His voice has a rich mixture of the urban contemporary gospel and R&B sound, which will delight a multitude of music lovers. His goal is to inspire and uplift those in need of a sincere message.

James was provided the opportunity to minister to national and international audiences as he shared the stage with or accompanied A-list gospel artist such as, Donald Lawrence, J. Moss, Jeff Majors, Kelly Price, Byron Cage, Cheryl “Coko” Gamble-Clemons, DeWayne Woods, Damon Little, The Late Dottie Joyce Rambo, Brent Jones, James Fortune & FIYA, 21:03, Micah Stampley, The Choir Boyz, Jonathan Nelson and Purpose, RIZEN and ZIE’L. Additionally, James has accompanied first class R&B artist such as, James Ingram, Eddie Levert, Patti LaBelle, Kelly Rowland, Angela Winbush, Issac Hayes, Gerald Levert, Marcel and The Truth and Paula Campbell.

In 2001, James was awarded a full music scholarship where he attended Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland. As a member and soloist with the celebrated Morgan State University Choir under the direction of the late Dr. Nathan Carter, James traveled the world to entertain enthusiastic supporters. Moreover, James was fortunate to travel to Russia, Prague, Chezk- Republic and Paris, France to perform in different Operas and famed Musicals like “Porgy & Bess” and “All Rise”. Most recently he took the stage in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at the Academy of Music to perform in the Opera “Margaret Garner” along side Denyce Graves & Gregg Baker.

James currently serves as the minister of music at The Life Change Church in Columbia, MD (Pastors Jay and Melanie Gamble)

Presently, James is gearing up for the Release of his debut album “So Crazy, No Boundaries” with Fontez Camp/Empower Record as his new Label Home!

#20 Audra The Rapper

Audra’s love for music stems from her grandmother’s tapes and vinyl records of jazz classics such as: Nat King Cole, Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald. At the tender age of six, Audra received her first CD, Brandy’s self-titled debut album that sparked her interest to focus on a singing career. But seven years later, curiosity struck 13 year old Audra and with the support of her mother and three years of persistence, she performed on stage as Audra The Rapper.

As time progressed, Audra’s talent and natural ability to capture the attention of many allowed her to touch the stage with mainstream artists such as: Trey Songz, Jadakiss,

Latoya Luckett, Lloyd, Ray-J, MC Lyte and others. Then in December 2010, Audra was noticed by industry heavyweight Rick Ross and was endorsed and welcomed into the Maybach Music Group family.

To date, Audra, 22, not only holds a bachelor’s degree from Old Dominion University, she has been named Hellobeautiful and Ford’s Top 30 under 30, featured on BET, MTV, RocStyle, Vibe, Dr. Jay’s 2011 Summer Campaign, The Hennessy Remix Tour and recently presented by Rocawear and Artful Dodger as well as sponsored by The Source Magazine for her Sweet N’ Sour Cyphers and named FunkMaster Flex’s Top 20 in 2012. But alongside her musical accolades, Audra’s influence goes beyond the stage. In 2007, she began “The Audra M. Green Music for A Cause Foundation” in her hometown of Richmond, Virginia; an organization that focuses on HIV/AIDS education, youth violence and teen pregnancy prevention.

Determined to be heard, Audra’s sound and vision is brought to life with the help of many up and coming producers. With a universal sound, her image and style are unique being dubbed a hip/pop artist. Reminiscent of her icon Lauryn Hill, Audra is innovative, lyrical and entertaining as reflected on her two previous mixtapes and recent EP, No Such Thing Does Exist that features artist Nickelus F., Mickey Factz, Raheem Devaughn and a message from Rick Ross.

#21 Brittany Anderson

Brittany Holley Anderson was born Washington DC in June of 1988.

As a graduate of Oxon Hill High School in 2006 Brittany served numerous roles in order to prepare for her professional career. She participated in leadership roles throughout her high school experiences but being a Girl Scout Council President was most important to her.

Scouting was extremely important to her because the organization taught her the foundation of becoming an exceptional woman. In 2005 Brittany earned the Highest Award in Girl Scouting; the Gold Award. The intense program had her create and facilitate a national project in order to obtain and show the highest form of ethical leadership. She succeeded so well in her project that in 2006 she received the National Gold Award Scholarship that was awarded to only 10 girls in the nation.

Brittany attended Bowie State University and majored in Psychology. During her collegiate experience she felt the need to impact others on the foundations of leadership. She was called to become the Youth Program Coordinator at a non-profit organization. The Training Source, Inc. located in Seat Pleasant, MD is an organization designed to help meet community needs through superior training.

Brittany coordinates and facilitates the Prince George’s County Youth Leadership Program in which she helps local High School Students grades 10-12 become exceptional leaders through life skills and professional development training.

She also works with PGCPS under the Transitioning Youth program partnership where she is the instructor for Developmentally Disabled High School students and graduates, assisting them in transitioning from High School to gainful employment. In addition to Coordinating the Prince George’s County Youth Programs Brittany is a Workforce Development Instructor at The Training Source, Inc. where she teaches adults Professional Development and Microsoft Office Applications, in order to enhance their career goals in life.

Brittany is passionate about helping others see their full potential and making important steps to reach their next phase in life.Throughout the community Brittany likes to express her creative talents to others by teaching scrap booking and creative Photoshop design classes. She continues to work with the Girl Scouts of America and Jack and Jill groups on proper etiquette and behavioral training classes. She believes it is important to provide a proper foundation in youth at a young age so they can secure their talents and goals early. At the young age of 23 Brittany continues to help others through life goal planning. With her “Engineered for Excellence” talent and drive Brittany knows that she is on the right path to making huge contributions and changes in the lives of others.

#22 Nigel Good

Nigel Good, a native of Waldorf, is a proud resident of Charles County, Maryland for 19 years. Helping youth see their individual potentials is one of his top priorities. Good served in three prominent roles as Youth Campaign Manager, Youth Coordinator and Field Intern in the successful campaigns of Charles County Commissioner Rueben Collins, State’s Attorney for Charles County Maryland Anthony Covington, and Maryland State Delegate Peter Murphy.

In November 2010, Good was appointed and sworn in as a member of the Maryland State Advisory Board of Juvenile Services for a three-year term by Maryland State Governor Martin O’Malley.

He is a political science major at the College of Southern Maryland in La Plata, Maryland and a graduate of Thomas Stone High School. In 2010, he was awarded the “Prudential Spirit of Community Award,” a Certificate of Merit for being the Top Student Volunteer for Thomas Stone High School. He performed over 100 hours of community service with “So Others Might Eat” (SOME), a non-profit organization in Washington D.C. supporting services for the homeless community.

In addition, Good serves as a Youth Lay speaker at St. Matthews United Methodist Church in La Plata, Maryland. Motivating young adults and peers, to envision greater opportunities beyond entertainment or sports, dwells high in his list of priorities as a community activist.

#23 Jennifer Dean

Jennifer Dean is a true champion when it comes to addressing the issues of at-risk youth and a true advocate for young girls.

Always active in the community, Jennifer founded Mosaic LOVE in 2009. Mosaic LOVE (Ladies of Vision & Essence) provides a transformative mentoring program that assists in developing the lives of youth whose lives, in specific but not exclusively, have been or are currently being affected by displacement, drugs, crime or violence with the prospect that they will conquer poverty to become self-dependant residents of the DMV.

In addition to her duties with Mosaic LOVE, Jennifer is also the CEO of Mosaic Solutions, LLC, a boutique public relations and marketing agency that specializes in business marketing, special events and hospitality. MS, LLC works with companies that bring corporate, social, and public events to life and the venues that house them to include clients such as the National Association of Black McDonald Owners and The Grande Boule.

Along with her successful business ventures, Jennifer is a diligent advocate for Washington, DC communities. Jennifer serves as Executive Board Community Relations Chair of the Urban Bridge Builders; she serves as Treasurer of the Order of Eastern Star Alpha Chapter No.2; Campaign Finance Treasurer for Ward 8 State Board of Education candidate Trayon White; Director of Social Marketing for HRT Group, and Marketing Director for Wanda Bruce. She is the former Deputy Director of Young Ladies of Tomorrow and Researcher for DeWayne Wickham, USA Today Columnist and Institute for Advanced Journalism Director.

Currently she is contracted (full-time) as the Strategic Planning Framework State Incentive Grant Coordinator for the DC Prevention Center in conjunction with Department of Health and Sasha Bruce.

Jennifer graduated from North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University with a Bachelor Degree in Journalism & Mass Communications with a concentration in Public Relations. While attending NC A&T, Jennifer served as President of the National Association of Black Journalist, NC A&T Chapter.

Jennifer recently completed her studies in Non-Profit Management at Duke University.

In her spare time Jennifer enjoys volunteering, networking, traveling, perusing unique vintage boutiques and thrift shops, spending time with her amazing circle of friends and playing and watching all sports.

She believes, “ if you educate a girl, you educate a wife. When you educate a wife, you educate a mother- which eventually leads to educating a family.”

Ms. Dean is currently developing a social network site that seeks to bring young risk takers, rule breakers and philanthropist together who demonstrate that their social enterprise endeavors have considerable benefits to the community.

Through a collaboration of resources, community-based businesses, government agencies, other non-profit organizations, parents and the community Jennifer is dedicated to reaching and changing the community.

#24 Desiree Venn Frederic

Desirée Venn Frederic defines herself first and foremost as a social alchemist: creating new social compounds, gathering people’s ideas, experiences, skills and resources in configurations that society is not naturally aligned to produce. As the Founder and Executive Director of Fashion Empowering Women Foundation (FEW), an innovative non-profit organization that mobilizes the creative industries of fashion, music, literature and film by creating opportunities for its members to support the missions of social service organizations that empower girls and women. With fundraising efforts bolstered by strategic partnerships and unique events showcasing innovation and creativity, FEW has mobilized the immense resources of the creative communities to support girls and women social service organizations.

At age 14, Desirée Venn Frederic began her fashion career as a high fashion runway model and then as a fashion buyer for luxury department store and brand consultant for several fashion houses. Considered a respected authority on the business and politics of fashion, armed with experience of the fashion industry and driven by an innate entrepreneurial spirit, Venn Frederic founded the image consulting firm, NARCISSIM: the style and image network, in 2005 which has served over 1,200 clients.

Although most of Venn Frederic’s career has been spent in the creative industries, the native Sierra Leonean’s breadth of talent and influence surpasses fashion to humanitarian interests. She was raised with a strong sense of commitment to philanthropy, witness to her late grandmother, Matilda E. Williams, who supported refugees from Liberia and Sierra Leone’s civil wars, rebuilt churches and provided safe spaces for men, women and children in danger. She was taught that people have whole needs. Therefore the organizations that serve them have whole needs. “My grandmother was my first lesson in how an efficient non-profit should operate: provide resources, rebuild lives but most importantly, rebuild self-efficacy.” With that in mind, Venn Frederic strives to support the organizations that girls and women depend on. With an understanding of the power of the arts, FEW uses fashion, music, literature and film as vehicles for social awareness.

A graduate of The Fashion Institute of Technology, Venn Frederic balanced her creative interests with a strong business foundation by obtaining a Master’s degree in Business Administration. She is fluent in French, Krio and Italian. She is a member of the board of trustees for Church of Our Saviour, Ladies DC, The National Association of Professional Women and several women’s professional groups. She resides in Washington, DC

#25 Ashley Grayson

Ashley K. Grayson is an author, producer and Life Coach. A graduate of Morgan State University, Ashley has worked with several media entities including TV One, Radio One, ABC, Interactive One and NBC Universal.

Ashley currently oversees the online marketing for celebrity-based content for the fastest growing Black Network in cable. She has worked closely with talent, Roland S. Martin, Tocarra and K-Ci & JoJo to name a few, on expanding their social outreach and visibility.

In 2008, Grayson self-published her first novel School of Black Love and has written for several media properties including Brownsista.com, Radio One’s The Frequency, TV One’s blog The Daily Obama and bmorenews.com. In 2009, Grayson also created and produced, The Cube Life, TV One’s first original webseries.

Ashley is the CEO of Beach Chair Entertainment LLC, a multi faceted production company.

#26 Bryant Harris

Dr. Bryant Harris knew from a young age that he was destined to impact the lives of others and be of service to his community, but not so much in what capacity. Growing up, the unique personal relationship he had with his pediatrician helped facilitate the desire for him to want to become a pediatrician himself. The model, which his pediatrician’s practice was working under, was truly a rarity – which Dr. Harris would soon find out. It wasn’t until he attended Duke University that he found what he was truly destined to do.

While pursuing his B.A. in Sociology (Pre-Med) from Duke University, Dr. Harris kept in contact with his pediatrician to assure that he was on track to attain the same level of success and achievement that he had witnessed while under care at his pediatrician’s office. To his dismay, during a conversation with his pediatrician during his first year, Dr. Harris was told by his pediatrician that “if I had to do it all again, I would not become a [medical] doctor.” What Dr. Harris didn’t know was all the politics that were going on behind the scenes in the medical profession that would hinder him from attaining this ideal practice which he wanted – where people were treated as a unique individual and not as a case on a piece of paper. Needless to say, Dr. Harris never saw that coming and that revelation left him in a rut.

Mind you, during this same time, Dr. Harris’ mother’s health had been compromised and it was recommended for her to have several back surgeries – given complications predicted, a second back surgery was going to be needed after that first. Through the suggestion of a family friend, his mother sought out the care of a Chiropractorwho gave her hope in the fact that she would not need to have surgery and as a result of the care she was under was given her life back. – she received not only symptomatic relief from the pain she was experiencing but experienced other positive changes in her health and ultimately her life as a result of care. Not only did this experience with the Chiropractor change his mother’s life, but it subsequently changed Dr.Harris’ life as well.

After much skepticism, deliberation, and conversations with his mother, Dr. Harris decided to venture down a different path, one not typical of a Duke student – become a Chiropractor. Naive, would be understatement, if he were to say he knew what he was getting into when he matriculated into Life Chiropractic College West in the Fall of 2005 with a partial tuition scholarship after receiving his A.B. from Duke University. It was not until he stepped on the campus of Life West that he knew that this was what he was meant to do. At that point, his life was altered forever for he was beginning to be exposed to a paradigm that was drastically different from what he was brought up believing.

Prior to being exposed to Chiropractic, Dr. Harris viewed health as a very linear and segmented phenomenon, not realizing that our body and mind are truly connected. A good friend and fellow Chiropractor once told Dr. Harris that “we are spiritual beings in human bodies, electrically stimulated, chemically balanced and emotionally controlled.” No longer viewing the world in such a segmented fashion, Dr. Harris began to fall in sync with a different model of thinking, one recognizing that the world is made of energy and different energy fields, and we humans are just energy being expressed in a different form. As a result of the world being made of energy we are capable of impacting each other and the world in which we live in significant ways.

One key concept, and a founding principle of Chiropractic, which Dr. Harris’ fully operates under is that the body is a self-healing, self-sustaining system. As a Chiropractor in Washington DC, Dr. Harris is here to help facilitate changes in the body to aid it towards reaching its full potential. This would be done through making sure the body is free of any nervous system interference that could be triggered by our thoughts, toxins, or traumas that our bodies have experienced throughout the duration of our life.

Dr. Harris is a firm believer in that he is not the one doing the healing, but it is YOUR body that is and he is just helping the body remember how. For Dr. Harris, serving life is about unconditional love and creating an opportunity for people to reconnect to themselves and experience full expression of their innate self through the chiropractic adjustment.

Given that Dr. Harris’ initial route in life was to become like his mentor, a Pediatrician, his passion for helping children has not faded as a result of becoming a Chiropractor. Recognizing that the health of children has dramatically declined in the United States and they have begun to contract “adult” illness, the need for an alternative is ever apparent. With that need being known, it has led him to become a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association where he is currently pursuing a Certificate in Pediatric Chiropractic. Through this post-graduate work, he is able to impact the lives of families who had lost hope as a result of traditional approaches to common childhood illness and pregnancy concerns, making it possible for these families to reach their fullest health potential. Additionally, Dr. Harris is one of the only chiropractors in the Washington, DC Area that is educated in the Webster Technique which is a gentle, specific technique designed especially to relieve the cause of intra-uterine constraints (which could lead to breech presentations or a difficult labor and delivery) during pregnancy.

Dr. Harris recognizes that most important thing in his life is his health. Having lost his mother prematurely to several chronic health conditions brought upon by bad lifestyle choices, he vowed to do a better job for himself. As a result, he is an active CrossFitter – training 5 days a week, enjoys cooking and following a Paleolithic Diet – no grains, no diary, no legumes , no sugar (although he does sneak in a cheat meal now and again), and deepening his practice of Power Vinyasa Yoga. In addition to living a health lifestyle, he supplements his exercise routine with weekly chiropractic adjustments to make sure that his body is functioning optimally in addition to utilizing glyconutrients, antioxidants, and omega 3’s to add nutrients that may be neglected from his diet. Besides, living a healthy lifestyle, Dr. Harris enjoys traveling (he’s been to South America twice and Africa so far…), photography, playing the piano and fashion.

It is said that “procrastination is the thief of health” and currently in society we are so caught up and on the go that we tend to neglect the important things in our life, like our health. Each day we put off gaining more health, and eventually we slip further into dysfunction and ultimately disease. Our bodies are designed to continuously adapt to our environment, and once our bodies fail to be able to adapt, we begin develop symptoms. These symptoms are a way of your body speaking to you to inform you that it is need of assistance, adjustments and lifestyle changes. Darwin said it best with his theory of evolution – those who do not adapt and evolve will cease to exist.

Duane Myko

Duane Myko, a graduate of Morgan State University’s Earl Graves School of Business is a motivational speaker, entrepreneur, and author. While at Morgan State, he realized his dream to become the chairman of a conglomerate, and at the same time helped others purse their dreams. In his senior year, he founded Movie Solution, an entertainment vending machine company.

However, Duane Myko passion for helping others succeed continued to burn deep within him. He then created SHOULD – COULD – DREAM, a motivational monologue that inspires the youth to work hard, never settle, and dream big. The motivational monologue incorporates motivational speaking, acting, and music into an extraordinary experience. Duane Myko presents at middle schools, high schools, and universities. Through the motto “Pray, Believe, and Work Hard” Duane Myko believes one can accomplish anything they set their mind to.

#28 Raevyn Jones

Hailing from Baltimore, MD, Raevyn A. Jones is a communications professional with experience managing public relations and strategic planning for corporate, entertainment, sports, fashion, and non-profit brands. She has held positions at Media Planning Group, a global communications agency, and Johns Hopkins University’s public relations department. After graduating Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from Delaware State University, Raevyn has gone on to further her education and is now a candidate for a Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) degree. A rising talent in the public relations industry, Raevyn credits her innovative PR perspectives to her diverse background in the field.

In 2010, Raevyn co-founded Ideal Publicity LLC, a Baltimore-based public relations and marketing agency committed to creating strategies to implement the visions of its clients. Since Ideal Publicity’s official launch, Raevyn has spearheaded campaigns resulting in commendable results for a variety of clients.

In addition to her position as co-founder of Ideal Publicity, Raevyn serves as Chief Operating Officer and co-founder of Polished For Prom, an organization dedicated to creating programs to build self-development for teen girls and ultimately provide a dream prom experience for high school seniors who otherwise would be financially unable to attend.

Raevyn is a member of various organizations including the Public Relations Society of America, Women in PR, National Urban League, and the National Black Master’s of Business Administration Association. In the future she plans to continue to pursue her entrepreneurial and philanthropic goals.

#29 Alisha Brooks

Songwriter / Entrepreneur / Innovator and Inspiration to everyone she meets. M’Jestie, born Alisha Quiona Brooks on June 20, 1982 in Newark, New Jersey. She was destined at a very early age to fall in love with music and leave her stamp on the world in a very positive way. In 1994, the 11 year old Alisha Brooks wrote a play entitled “Dreams in the Ghetto.” The play was performed for the School Board and Kean University in Union, New Jersey where she received a standing ovation. At the age of 15, Alisha began writing poetry after giving birth to Jameel Antwon Brooks-Norwood Jr. on February 11, 1998. The challenges of being a teen mom led to the adding of melody to the rhyme and the discovery of a voice that would quickly bring attention to the young songwriter.

Her musical inspirations were Lauryn Hill, Missy Elliott, Monica, Brandy, Luther Vandross, Naughty by Nature, Kris Kross, Total, SWV, Escape, The Jackson Five, and Billy Holiday. What inspired her most was the first concert she ever attended with a surreal performance by Lauryn Hill in 1998. This concert had an ever-lasting effect on M’Jestie.

White perfecting her craft she finally got a call from a friend signed to J Records and was on her way. This led to a connection with David Pic Conley (Surface), in Newport News, Virginia and within a year she was writing with Roc-a-Fella Records. Damon Dash became a fan and placed her in the studio with former Spice Girl, Victoria Beckham. This experience led to her first release and her second came with Bad Boy. In 2004 Christopher Anokute (Capitol/Universal Motown) introduced M’Jestie to Vada Nobles (Miseducation of Lauryn Hill) who had the vision for a song. M’Jestie was inspired and penned song “Pon De Replay.” Several months later she received a call, Jay-Z had signed a girl from Barbados and her first single was entitled “Pon De Replay.” Reaching #2 on the Billboard Charts within weeks, “Pon De Replay” catapulted M’Jestie and Rihanna to the top.

Songwriting quickly became a job. Over 1 million dollars at the age of 24, however M’Jestie searched for something more. This search gave birth to the idea to inspiring other dreamers of the world, one at a time.

After 5 years away from the music industry, M’jestie is back with Dream Little Dreamer.

The company launched in 2008 after M’Jestie, now YFC – your favorite CEO, wrote her first children’s book entitled, Dream Little Dreamer. Her vision transcended into a company which serves as a platform for children and teenagers aspiring to a dream. It is an community of people designed to inspire the world by teaching children the importance of dreaming big, setting goals and inspiring others. The company promotes positive energy, motivates children and parents to believe together.

Since then the company has kicked off they have received overwhelming number of positive responses, news coverage and been able to provide opportunities for their “Little Dreamers”.

#30 LaWanda White

Passionate and focused on creating an iconic PR firm, LaWanda quickly learned the importance of having a strong team and even stronger database. In order to standout beyond her peers, while receiving her Communications degree at Old Dominion University, she secured four internships landing her first at Radio-One in the Washington DC market as a Promotions and Marketing Assistant. She then began perfecting her PR in publishing and entertainment under two successful entrepreneurs. First working directly with national songwriter and entrepreneur Alisha Brooks who penned Rihanna’s hit single, Pon de Replay then under Harvard MBA and CEO, Howard Denson.

Rubbing elbows with successful businesses and frustrated with the job market, LaWanda launched IndependentlyPR. Soon after, the now-entrepreneur was invited to speak publicly at a university in regards to her work in PR and advice for students studying in the field. To date, the company is growing rapidly and has managed press for up and coming as well as national icons such as: Rakim, Maino and Kevin Shine.