January 9-12, 2024

Denise is the Founder and CEO of Partake Foods, a natural food company that was inspired by her daughter’s experience with food allergies. Launched in 2017, Partake’s first product — delicious, better for you, allergy-friendly cookies — can now be found in more than 13,000 retailers including Target, Kroger, and Whole Foods Market. Partake's offerings have since expanded to include graham crackers and pancake & waffle mixes. Denise is the first Black woman to raise more than $1 Million publicly for a CPG food startup. To date, the company has raised over $20M from investors including HER, Rihanna, CircleUp Growth Partners, FF2032 and Marcy Venture Partners. Partake was named #151 on the Inc 5000 list in 2023. Prior to launching Partake, Denise spent a decade in consumer packaged goods at various Fortune 100 companies. She is also the founder of 501c3, Black Futures Fellowship, an annual program that matches active HBCU students with paid internships in the CPG food & beverage industry. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, Jeremy, and daughter, Vivienne. She graduated with her BA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an MBA from Arizona State University.

Christopher Moses - Professional Speaker, Author, and EntertainerHarnessing a Decade of Wisdom to Ignite MindsChristopher Moses is a dynamic professional speaker with over a decade of experience in captivating audiences worldwide. His journey through the realm of public speaking has taken him on a remarkable trajectory, collaborating with numerous high-profile companies and leaving a lasting impact at every turn.As a versatile talent, Christopher's repertoire spans hosting, keynote speaking, inspirational discourse, and acting. He seamlessly blends these talents to create unforgettable experiences for his audiences, infusing each engagement with a contagious passion, boundless energy, and an irresistible sense of fun.Christopher Moses is not just a speaker; he's a storyteller, a motivator, and a guide. His ability to connect with people on a profound level, coupled with his insightful narratives, leaves audiences inspired and ready to embrace new horizons.Beyond the stage, Christopher is a distinguished author, recognized for his insightful and empowering works. His books have earned him the prestigious title of a #1 bestselling author, and his words continue to guide and uplift readers.Christopher's dedication and hard work have set him on a trajectory that is nothing short of dazzling. He represents the future of professional speaking—a shining beacon of inspiration, wisdom, and entertainment. With every appearance, he reinforces his commitment to making a positive impact and leaves a trail of inspired hearts in his wake.Christopher Moses is not just a speaker; he's a force of nature, a beacon of positivity, and a guiding light for those seeking motivation and enlightenment. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of words and the boundless potential of the human spirit.Invite Christopher Moses to your next event, and witness the magic of a speaker who doesn't just talk; he leaves an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who have the privilege of hearing him speak.

DUANE MYKO - Chief Executive Officer, Everything LegendaryHe’s been called a role-model mentor and an innovator entrepreneur. Now, add industry disrupter to the list. Duane Myko, the founder and CEO of Everything Legendary is shaking up the meat replacement market with a new, plant-based meat company that has grown from its pop-up sampling, guerilla-marketing introduction to a well-received national product rollout, both online and in major supermarket chains across the country. His success has captured the attention of Shark Tank producers where this year, he landed the chance to pitch the Sharks - and the country - on his concept.In founding Everything Legendary, Duane partnered with business strategist Danita Claytor and Chef Jumoke Jackson. He built on a simple, good-tasting, plant-based food concept that was inspired by his mother. In her life-long battle with Lupus, his mother had turned to a vegan diet for better health. Seeing her search for a meat substitute that actually tasted good, Duane committed to developing a plant-based meat that she could enjoy and, as he put it, “is created in a kitchen, not a science lab!” A man of his word, in 2019, Everything Legendary was born.Entrepreneurship is not new to Duane. He fell in love with building businesses in his junior year of college, when he established Movie Solution, an entertainment vending machine company that provided movie and video game rentals for one dollar to students. Duane was influenced by time spent in South Africa when his father worked as an executive for a Fortune 500 company there, and he returned home, deeply touched by the culture he experienced, and fiercely committed to set an example and help today’s youth recognize their own potential. He created Should Could Dream, a motivational and inspirational speaking tour that travels around the world inspiring students to work hard, never settle and dream big. Since 2009, the tour has traveled to over 500 schools and reached more than 1 million students globally. Duane makes his home in the Washington D.C. area where he is guiding the growth of Everything Legendary and continuing his work to teach youth to dream big and to become “legendary.”

Every business needs a practical, well-grounded strategist who is able to bring people together to realize their common dream. Blend that feet-on-the-ground practicality with a dream-big visionary management style, and you have Everything Legendary’s Danita Claytor. Danita is one of the founders of Everything legendary, as she and CEO Duane Myko partnered to conceive and develop the plant-based meat that “tastes like it was made by a chef.”

With a Master’s Degree in Education from Howard University, and a professional background as an educator and community activist for her students’ families, becoming a “make it happen” leader at Legendary was not in her original life-plan. As an educator, Danita had been involved not only in teaching, motivating her students to believe in their capabilities to excel, but also in community outreach, working to network and build relationships with celebrities, donors and executives to help provide resources for local families. These skills have transitioned to her role at Everything Legendary, where she helps organize the day-to-day functions of the company as well as the team itself and still is making those vital community connections that have helped fuel the company’s explosive growth. In fact, Danita is credited with laying the groundwork for their edgy, grass-roots pop-up sampling strategy, and connecting the brand with influencers in the community who could help tell their story.

Danita and Duane first developed the concept of Everything Legendary while Danita was teaching. She had brought in Duane’s Should Could Dream Tour, a motivational youth program she knew could benefit her students. The two discovered that their common ground extended beyond their interest in helping students achieve their goals. Danita’s mother was battling cancer at the time, while Duane’s mother was fighting Lupus. They shared their philosophy of the role nutrition played in health and Duane introduced his dream of creating a good-tasting, plant-based burger that would turn the industry upside down. Together, they reached out to Chef Jumoke Jackson to help with the recipe, and when the three joined forces, Everything Legendary launched a flavor revolution.

Today, Danita’s organizational skills, networking savvy and conviction in their mission are helping move the company beyond the impossible to make their products legendary!

Really Jaewon is a 26 year old, up and coming artist from Yonkers, NY who has positioned himself as an imminent hip hop artist in the music industry. Jaewon always had a love and passion for music which made him want to pursue this career. He has also been a part of an empire being built by his grandfather and father, Kiss Cafe. He started off rapping for fun and then it eventually turned into therapy, where he uses melodies to express himself. His audience is built up of young teenagers and adults between 18-24. Jaewon is a graduate of Clark Atlanta University and the son of hip hop legend Jadakiss. Jaewon has built a strong online presence for himself which has enabled him to put his entrepreneurship, storytelling and diverse rap style on display. His music often represents where he comes from, as does the origins of the coffee. Jaewon goes by the motto of “Everything to lose and even more to gain.

Dr. Sam Williams is a distinguished academic and seasoned professional in the fields of business, technology, and entertainment. Holding a Ph.D. in Business and an MSIS in Enterprise Resource Management, and an MBA in Marketing. Dr. Williams brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role as an Associate Professor and Director of the Lincubator at Lincoln University.

With a career spanning over 25 years in the entertainment business, Dr. Williams has made significant contributions to the industry. His remarkable career includes being mentored by the legendary Chris Lighty as part of Violator, an experience that profoundly influenced his professional trajectory.

In addition to his academic and industry roles, Dr. Williams is deeply committed to philanthropy and community development. He is the founder of the non-profit organization bEsTcOrE Arts & Technology Innovation, dedicated to fostering creativity and technological advancement in underprivileged communities

Dr. Williams also serves as a Board Member and Educational Program Director for the Rap Snacks Foundation, further exemplifying his dedication to education and community outreach. His multifaceted professional profile showcases a passion for merging business acumen with technology and entertainment, making him a respected figure in both academic and industry circles.

Jason has over 20 years’ experience in educational publishing working as a writer, executive editor, and senior executive. Jason is also co-founder and board member of LinkIt! —an assessment platform and data analytics solution for schools and districts seeking to both understand and affect a student’s academic performance in real time. His interest in educational publishing began while he was still an undergraduate at Harvard University. During that time, he directed Project Umoja, an after-school program that catered to children in Roxbury, Massachusetts, who were not thriving in the regular after-school program. In this capacity he saw first-hand how effective direct outreach could be in shaping lives and broadening horizons.

Rachel Grayson is an administrator and business development coordinator at Rap SnacksInc. Rachel is committed to her craft by being optimistic and collaborating with variousdepartments within Rap Snacks, ranging from marketing and logistics to customer supportand operations. Above all, Rachel is passionate about finding ways to support the staff atRap Snacks.

Before joining the Rap Snacks team, Rachel had been an educator for ten years. Shereceived her Bachelor's degree in Elementary and Special Education with a minor in EnglishEducation from the University of Delaware. Born in Los Angeles, California, and raised inDelaware, Rachel always loved learning. Leading educators and conducting workshops forfellow educators, Rachel is always eager to help others and promote collaborative groupefforts to execute positive outcomes.

In addition to education, Rachel has a background in the entertainment industry. Rachelworked on the BET production team, helping to produce events such as the BET Awards andvarious BET TV show premieres under the direction of Debra Lee (former President of theBET enterprise).

Outside of her career, Rachel enjoys spending quality time with her three younger nephews,Isaac and twins James, & Jamison. She also loves to travel, read and write.

Executive Chef Liz Rogers, the founder of Creamalicious Ice Cream Brand, has revolutionized thedessert industry with her innovative 2-in-1 desserts. By combining fresh baked pastries withhomemade ice creams made from the finest ingredients, Chef Liz has created a truly unique andwhimsical culinary experience. As one of the few African American-owned national ice cream brands,Creamalicious celebrates Chef Liz's roots and community, crafting artisan desserts that pay homageto her family's recipes passed down through generations. Creamalicicous has made history bybecoming the first African American Ice Cream and Coffee Creamer manufacturer in massproduction in the world today.

Chef Liz's passion for cooking was nurtured by her mother and grandmother in Cleveland, Ohio. Theirguidance and her unwavering love for the culinary arts led her to open renowned restaurants andgain recognition in the media. Now, with Creamalicious Ice Creams launched, Chef Liz continues toshare her innovative and time-honored Southern comfort food, healing the soul through herdelectable creations.

Creamalicious Ice Creams not only delight taste buds but also evoke cherished childhood memories,while honoring the rich history of the South. Chef Liz's award-winning flavors captivates people,by offering a delightful journey into Southern decadence. Her commitment to diversity is evident inher inclusive team and partnerships with minority and female-owned businesses. Creamalicious is atestament to the power of diversity and the benefits it brings to both the brand and the communityit serves.

In summary, Executive Chef Liz Rogers has created a culinary empire with Creamalicious Ice CreamBrand. Her dedication to innovation, diversity, and honoring her Southern roots has propelled herbrand to success. With each spoonful of Creamalicious, customers are transported to a world ofblissful flavors and cherished memories.

Tyla-Simone Crayton is the 20-year old CEO of Sienna Sauce, a family-based business that wasestablished on April 7, 2017, in Sienna, TX. Popularly known for its versatility, Sienna Sauce isan “Everything Sauce” and can be used as a dip, marinade, glaze, or an added ingredient.

The dream of becoming the youngest-ever sauce boss started when Tyla-Simone was very young. Herfavorite wing place closed down in New York City and she asked her Mom if she could try to recreate theflavor by playing with ingredients in her kitchen. With the support and assistance of her mother, MoniqueCrayton, Tyla-Simone created something even better and healthier. The low-sodium, honey based Sienna Sauce contains no high-fructose corn syrup and is gluten-free so the consumers can indulge in its greattaste, guilt-free.

The birth of Sienna Sauce began in NYC when Tyla-Simone and Monique were still residing in Brooklyn,New York. After perfecting the sauce, they would make the sauce for different occasions like, “WingsWednesdays” at family functions, or when they would have a casual Mom-and-Me wing night at home. Itwas moments like this, in their humble beginnings that developed a stronger mother-daughter relationship between the two.

In April of 2015, they decided to bring their NYC flare down to Texas and started cooking and selling Sienna Wings every Friday out of their home. Little did they know, they would be bottling sauce to sell tothe masses in just 3 years. It has been Tyla-Simone’s overall goal to package the sauce she created at avery young age and get it on the shelves of grocery stores around the globe. Recognizing the passionTyla-Simone had, Monique took a leap of faith, left her job to fully support her daughter's dreams andbecame the President of Sienna Sauce. Their hard work slowly started paying off as Sienna Sauce andTyla-Simone began to make noise.

Soon after, Tyla-Simone started getting interviews from different media outlets such as NowThis, BlackEnterprise, Inside Edition, Good Morning America, C-Span, CNBC, ABC, Revolt TV, The Kelly ClarksonShow, and ABCs Shark Tank Season where she secured a deal by a Shark.

Continuing to build her business and bringing her vision to life, Tyla-Simone made herself known in theelite world of venture capitalist, angel investors and won over $40k in pitch competitions since launchingher Sienna Sauce brand. She quickly became one of the most sought-after teen entrepreneurs and was 1 ofthe selected 5 kid entrepreneurs invited to the World Food Championships. Working as a full-timeentrepreneur and a full-time student, Tyla-Simone sacrificed a normal teenage life to pursue her dreams.With 2 years left of high school, she started homeschool while still maintaining her growing Sienna Sauce business. It was not an easy decision to make but one that made the most sense for the amount of time shewould have to commit to both her business and school life.Maintaining a 4.0 GPA, Tyla-Simone continued to receive countless honors from many amazingorganizations including The Icon Awards, She is CEO, National Black MBAAssociation, Top 50Professionals & Entrepreneurs, C.O.R.E Magazine Top 100, just to name a few.

Tyla-Simone received a Pinnacle Award from the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce as thefirst-ever recipient to receive an award for Youth Entrepreneurship. Continually making the city whereshe resided proud, she received a Certificate of Congressional Recognition from Congresswoman SheilaJackson Lee. She was also given a Proclamation from the Mayor of Houston, Sylvester Turner and FortBend County Judge for her achievements and accomplishments in entrepreneurship. Tyla-Simone willreceive the The President Awards next month for her community service.

Beneath all of these accolades and achievements as a CEO, Tyla-Simone is passionate about volunteeringher time in her community. One organization in particular that she is committed to, is the Sistership Foundation.

Tyla-Simone continues to inspire her fellow youth to start their own businesses by speaking to themabout entrepreneurship. Serving as a board member of the Black History Club, and a member of theAmerican Sign Language Club (ASL), Tyla-Simone is now a Junior attending UC Berkeley and hasjust been accepted in to the HAAS School of Business.At the young age of 19 Tyla-Simone opened her first Restaurant Sienna Wings 4 months ago in Sienna TX, her goal is to build the blueprint and franchise the company.Monique’s never-ending support and belief for her daughter knows no boundaries and has helpedTyla-Simone become the Sauce Boss that she is now. The business that she and her mother workedhard to build is becoming a household name. They have grown to be a powerful mother-daughterduo team and have no plans on stopping. As the saying goes, “Teamwork makes the dream work”.Sienna Sauce is currently sold in over 600 stores nationwide, including Target, H-E-B, Wegmansand Randall’s; and also available on amazon.com and siennasauce.com.

Christopher Moses is a dynamic professional speaker with over a decade of experience in captivating audiences worldwide. His journey through the realm of public speaking has taken him on a remarkable trajectory, collaborating with numerous high-profile companies and leaving a lasting impact at every turn.

As a versatile talent, Christopher's repertoire spans hosting, keynote speaking, inspirational discourse, and acting. He seamlessly blends these talents to create unforgettable experiences for his audiences, infusing each engagement with a contagious passion, boundless energy, and an irresistible sense of fun.

Christopher Moses is not just a speaker; he's a storyteller, a motivator, and a guide. His ability to connect with people on a profound level, coupled with his insightful narratives, leaves audiences inspired and ready to embrace new horizons.

Beyond the stage, Christopher is a distinguished author, recognized for his insightful and empowering works. His books have earned him the prestigious title of a #1 bestselling author, and his words continue to guide and uplift readers.

Christopher's dedication and hard work have set him on a trajectory that is nothing short of dazzling. He represents the future of professional speaking—a shining beacon of inspiration, wisdom, and entertainment. With every appearance, he reinforces his commitment to making a positive impact and leaves a trail of inspired hearts in his wake.

Christopher Moses is not just a speaker; he's a force of nature, a beacon of positivity, and a guiding light for those seeking motivation and enlightenment. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of words and the boundless potential of the human spirit.

Invite Christopher Moses to your next event, and witness the magic of a speaker who doesn't just talk; he leaves an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who have the privilege of hearing him speak.

DUANE MYKO - Chief Executive Officer, Everything LegendaryHe’s been called a role-model mentor and an innovator entrepreneur. Now, add industry disrupter to the list. Duane Myko, the founder and CEO of Everything Legendary is shaking up the meat replacement market with a new, plant-based meat company that has grown from its pop-up sampling, guerilla-marketing introduction to a well-received national product rollout, both online and in major supermarket chains across the country. His success has captured the attention of Shark Tank producers where this year, he landed the chance to pitch the Sharks - and the country - on his concept.In founding Everything Legendary, Duane partnered with business strategist Danita Claytor and Chef Jumoke Jackson. He built on a simple, good-tasting, plant-based food concept that was inspired by his mother. In her life-long battle with Lupus, his mother had turned to a vegan diet for better health. Seeing her search for a meat substitute that actually tasted good, Duane committed to developing a plant-based meat that she could enjoy and, as he put it, “is created in a kitchen, not a science lab!” A man of his word, in 2019, Everything Legendary was born.Entrepreneurship is not new to Duane. He fell in love with building businesses in his junior year of college, when he established Movie Solution, an entertainment vending machine company that provided movie and video game rentals for one dollar to students. Duane was influenced by time spent in South Africa when his father worked as an executive for a Fortune 500 company there, and he returned home, deeply touched by the culture he experienced, and fiercely committed to set an example and help today’s youth recognize their own potential. He created Should Could Dream, a motivational and inspirational speaking tour that travels around the world inspiring students to work hard, never settle and dream big. Since 2009, the tour has traveled to over 500 schools and reached more than 1 million students globally. Duane makes his home in the Washington D.C. area where he is guiding the growth of Everything Legendary and continuing his work to teach youth to dream big and to become “legendary.”

Every business needs a practical, well-grounded strategist who is able to bring people together to realize their common dream. Blend that feet-on-the-ground practicality with a dream-big visionary management style, and you have Everything Legendary’s Danita Claytor. Danita is one of the founders of Everything legendary, as she and CEO Duane Myko partnered to conceive and develop the plant-based meat that “tastes like it was made by a chef.”

With a Master’s Degree in Education from Howard University, and a professional background as an educator and community activist for her students’ families, becoming a “make it happen” leader at Legendary was not in her original life-plan. As an educator, Danita had been involved not only in teaching, motivating her students to believe in their capabilities to excel, but also in community outreach, working to network and build relationships with celebrities, donors and executives to help provide resources for local families. These skills have transitioned to her role at Everything Legendary, where she helps organize the day-to-day functions of the company as well as the team itself and still is making those vital community connections that have helped fuel the company’s explosive growth. In fact, Danita is credited with laying the groundwork for their edgy, grass-roots pop-up sampling strategy, and connecting the brand with influencers in the community who could help tell their story.

Danita and Duane first developed the concept of Everything Legendary while Danita was teaching. She had brought in Duane’s Should Could Dream Tour, a motivational youth program she knew could benefit her students. The two discovered that their common ground extended beyond their interest in helping students achieve their goals. Danita’s mother was battling cancer at the time, while Duane’s mother was fighting Lupus. They shared their philosophy of the role nutrition played in health and Duane introduced his dream of creating a good-tasting, plant-based burger that would turn the industry upside down. Together, they reached out to Chef Jumoke Jackson to help with the recipe, and when the three joined forces, Everything Legendary launched a flavor revolution.

Today, Danita’s organizational skills, networking savvy and conviction in their mission are helping move the company beyond the impossible to make their products legendary!

INGRID BESTFOUNDER, CEO & WINE NÉGOCIANT, IBEST WINESART COLLECTORIngrid Best is a global citizen, avid art collector, and the Founder, CEO,and Wine Négociant of her namesake brand, IBest Wines. She has adeep appreciation for fine arts and the art of winemaking.Ingrid was raised in a diverse Bay Area community with Napa Valley asher backyard. It was here where she developed her life-long love forwine. During her almost two-decade career working for the largestsuppliers in the business, Best took a life-changing business trip to SouthAfrica; it was on the coast of Cape Town where she came to realize herlife purpose: launching her own wine brand. Energized and clear, she combined her marketing prowess,business acumen, love of wine and yearning to tell the story of Black and Brown businesspeople to foundIBest Wines. Her namesake wine brand will launch in 2023 with an initial focus on the opulence andquality of South African wines, an underrepresented wine region in the industry.As a global citizen, Ingrid is passionate about connecting people and cultures from all over the world,especially the US and Africa. She has made it her mission to bridge the gap between these twocontinents, which is a recurring theme in both her personal art collection and the initial focus of IBestWines. Ingrid's vision for IBest Wines is to not only bring excellent wine to the US market, but also toshare the stories and experiences of South African business owners and creatives.Through Ingrid’s travels around the globe, especially to South Africa, she has further realized her passionfor the arts, becoming an avid art collector of Africans and African Diaspora artists including NelsonMakamo, Harmonia Rosales, Bisa Butler, Shaina McCoy, Bahati, Cristina Martinez and many more. Ingridbelieves that art is a powerful tool for storytelling and has an uncanny ability to bridge cultures andpeople. Through her art collection, Ingrid aims to highlight the beauty and diversity of African art andculture, while also supporting the artists and contributing to the growth of the art industryPrior to founding IBest Wines, Ingrid had a successful 20-year career in the wine & spirits industryworking for the largest suppliers in the industry including Diageo, Moët Hennessy and Bacardi, breakingglass ceilings as the only marketing executive to manage two of the biggest joint venture spiritpartnerships. As a Black and Latina woman, she has risen to the top of a male dominated industry and isknown for proudly and boldly advocating with Black and Brown women to hold positions and space atevery level of business, from assistants to C-Suite executives.Ingrid was born in New York and raised in the Bay Area. Her personal life purpose is to mentor youngBlack and Brown professionals, with the goal of redefining the future face of Corporate America,specifically in the wine & spirits industry. Best’s parting words and keys to success? Be clear in yourvision, bold in your ideas and deliberate in your execution. But most importantly, be good to peoplealong the way.Ebony “Ingrid Best Launches iBest Wines Amplifying South African Vintages”Small Doses Podcast “Side Effects of Redefining the Wine Industry with Ingrid Best”NBC California Live “Changing Perceptions of Women of Color in the Spirits Industry”The Breakfast Club “Ingrid Best Empowers Women in Business, Talks Combs Enterprises, New Ventures +More”Revolt “Ingrid Best talks leading an all Black woman team at Combs Enterprises and more”Forbes “Meet Ingrid Best: The Marketing Powerhouse Behind Combs Enterprises’ Spirits Division”Essence “Ingrid Best Promoted to EVP, Global Head of Spirits Marketing at Combs Enterprises”Bustle “Meet The Marketing Pro Behind Diddy’s Cîroc Vodka & DeLeón Tequila”Greenwood Bank “Money Moves Classic: Ingrid Best”SHORT BIOIngrid Best is the Founder, CEO, and Wine Négociant of IBest Wines, launching in 2023 with a focus onSouth African wines. Her brand aims to bridge the gap between the US and Africa by sharing the storiesof South African business owners and creatives. In addition to her passion for wine, Ingrid is an avid artcollector, with a personal mission to highlight the beauty and diversity of Black and Brown art andculture while supporting the growth of the art industry.Prior to founding IBest Wines, Ingrid had a successful 20-year career in the wine & spirits industryworking for the largest suppliers in the industry including Diageo, Moët Hennessy and Bacardi, breakingglass ceilings as the only marketing executive to manage two of the biggest joint venture spiritpartnerships. As a Black and Latina woman, she has risen to the top of a male dominated industry and isknown for proudly and boldly advocating with Black and Brown women to hold positions and space atevery level of business, from assistants to C-Suite executives.

In the vibrant tapestry of the beauty and wellness industry, the name Taliah Waajid stands out as a beacon of inspiration and innovation. Her journey reads like a captivating story, woven with passion, dedication, and a profound commitment to natural beauty.

Taliah Waajid, the visionary behind the eponymous brand, has not only revolutionized the landscape of natural hair care but has also become a driving force behind the empowerment and celebration of diverse beauty. Taliah has not just created products; she has crafted a movement that embraces and cherishes natural textures and styles.

At the heart of the Taliah Waajid Brand is an unwavering dedication to authenticity and a celebration of individual beauty. The brand's range of products reflects a deep understanding of diverse hair types, providing nourishment and styling solutions that cater to every curl, coil, and kink.

A pinnacle moment in the Taliah Waajid Brand story unfolds annually at the World Natural Hair, Health & Beauty Show held every April in the vibrant and ever-growing city of Atlanta, GA. This must-attend event serves as a testament to Taliah's commitment to holistic well-being, from head to toe. 

The World Natural Hair, Health & Beauty Show is not merely a gathering; it's a celebration of natural beauty in all its forms. Attendees immerse themselves in a world where diversity is not just acknowledged but exalted. Workshops and seminars delve into the intricacies of natural haircare, while beauty and wellness exhibitors showcase the latest trends and innovations.

Far beyond surface-level beauty discussions of today, the event serves as a platform for exploring the intersections of business, finance, and family within the beauty industry. Taliah Waajid's vision extends past creating exceptional hair products; it encompasses fostering a community that uplifts and supports each other on the journey to self-discovery and success.

In the tale of Taliah Waajid, the World Natural Hair, Health & Beauty Show is a chapter that epitomizes the brand's essence – a celebration of natural beauty, a commitment to holistic well-being, and an unwavering dedication to empowering individuals on their unique paths. As the story continues to unfold, Taliah Waajid remains an influential figure in the ever-evolving narrative of beauty and self-love.

Kyra Renel is the founder and Managing Consultant of The Kyra Company, LLC, an operations and business development-focused consulting firm. She is an author, speaker, and consultant who possesses highly developed strategic and analytical skills with the ability to train and/or implement on multiple levels. Kyra has established the ability to identify opportunities for profit protection as well as the opportunity to increase efficiency within the infrastructure of an organization leveraging people, processes, and profitability.

Kyra Rénel is an award-winning corporate and non-profit management leader, with exceptional customer service & operational management skills and an expertise in operational leadership. She is an effective communicator with a knack for developing cohesive and productive teams. She is experienced in the development of both process and policy. Kyra’s cross-functional experience provides a broad-spectrum approach to addressing opportunities within an organization creating a delicate balance between people and the process.

Kyra serves as Chief Operations Officer at Whitley Neal, a technology and healthcare-based risk and solutions management firm. She drives the design and implementation of business operations, strategic human capital management, learning and training solutions, and project management.Kyra Rénel is skilled in delivering strategic methodology and establishing buy-in as needed, leveraging her ability to develop a network and operate as a collaborative leader. Kyra’s transparency and understanding of the necessity to cultivate alliances and resources internally/externally lend itself to the development of loyal and committed partnerships.

Kyra is also deeply rooted in community, founding Imagine Excellence, Inc., a youth leadership development non-profit organization in 2008. The organization serves over 3500 youth annually through middle and high school programs, an annual youth leadership conference, and an annual IE Honors Gala, honoring leaders in STEAM. Imagine Excellence, Inc. serves as an organization that bridges the gap for youth by providing them with the leadership, character development, and engaging the STEAM programming they need to support their success.

Kyra graduated Cum Laude from Cornerstone University with a degree in Business Management. She also received a Masters in Business Administration in Human Resources with a concentration in Organizational Development from Strayer University. Her consulting firm is Certified at the State,Corporate, and Government level as a Woman Owned/ Minority Business Enterprise.

Really Jaewon is a 26 year old, up and coming artist from Yonkers, NY who has positioned himself as an imminent hip hop artist in the music industry. Jaewon always had a love and passion for music which made him want to pursue this career. He has also been a part of an empire being built by his grandfather and father, Kiss Cafe. He started off rapping for fun and then it eventually turned into therapy, where he uses melodies to express himself. His audience is built up of young teenagers and adults between 18-24. Jaewon is a graduate of Clark Atlanta University and the son of hip hop legend Jadakiss. Jaewon has built a strong online presence for himself which has enabled him to put his entrepreneurship, storytelling and diverse rap style on display. His music often represents where he comes from, as does the origins of the coffee. Jaewon goes by the motto of “Everything to lose and even more to gain.

Kyra Renel is the founder and Managing Consultant of The Kyra Company, LLC, an operations and business development-focused consulting firm. She is an author, speaker, and consultant who possesses highly developed strategic and analytical skills with the ability to train and/or implement on multiple levels. Kyra has established the ability to identify opportunities for profit protection as well as the opportunity to increase efficiency within the infrastructure of an organization leveraging people, processes, and profitability.

Kyra Rénel is an award-winning corporate and non-profit management leader, with exceptional customer service & operational management skills and an expertise in operational leadership. She is an effective communicator with a knack for developing cohesive and productive teams. She is experienced in the development of both process and policy. Kyra’s cross-functional experience provides a broad-spectrum approach to addressing opportunities within an organization creating a delicate balance between people and the process.

Kyra serves as Chief Operations Officer at Whitley Neal, a technology and healthcare-based risk and solutions management firm. She drives the design and implementation of business operations, strategic human capital management, learning and training solutions, and project management.Kyra Rénel is skilled in delivering strategic methodology and establishing buy-in as needed, leveraging her ability to develop a network and operate as a collaborative leader. Kyra’s transparency and understanding of the necessity to cultivate alliances and resources internally/externally lend itself to the development of loyal and committed partnerships.

Kyra is also deeply rooted in community, founding Imagine Excellence, Inc., a youth leadership development non-profit organization in 2008. The organization serves over 3500 youth annually through middle and high school programs, an annual youth leadership conference, and an annual IE Honors Gala, honoring leaders in STEAM. Imagine Excellence, Inc. serves as an organization that bridges the gap for youth by providing them with the leadership, character development, and engaging the STEAM programming they need to support their success.

Kyra graduated Cum Laude from Cornerstone University with a degree in Business Management. She also received a Masters in Business Administration in Human Resources with a concentration in Organizational Development from Strayer University. Her consulting firm is Certified at the State,Corporate, and Government level as a Woman Owned/ Minority Business Enterprise.

What do the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Veteran Affairs, and the Department of Interior all have in common? Each one of these United States governing bodies has an ongoing relationship with and has awarded one or several government contracts to Jason White.

Jason started his business in 2008. He didn’t reap the dividends of his work until 2011. It took three years to get his first contract because, in the beginning, all he had was a Ph.D., public high school diploma, an interest, and an ethic. Without any guidance or help, he used that formula to become the mentor he thought he needed. Now, he is the conduit between government entities, their representatives, and you. 

Before he began this journey he had never worked for the federal government and had no prior knowledge of the federal government’s internal protocol. Yet, he’s secured over 35 active government contracts, more than 30 of which are ongoing for at least the next four years, and the number continues to grow. Given his extensive experience, Jason has the skillsets, relationships, rapport, and resumé to be a mentor for others who seek to win government contracts.

Aurora James, Creative Director and Founder of luxury accessories brand Brother Vellies and founder of the non-proft advocacy organization, Fifteen Percent Pledge, has long worked to make the global economy a more equitable place for historically excluded groups. Her frst book, Wildfower, is an extraordinary memoir of struggle and perseverance that ofers new ways of envisioning economic equality for everyone.

James’s story is not a “success story.” Or at least, it shouldn’t be told that way. Having dropped out of high school, struggled with body image, and dabbled in street racing, her eventual arrest might have been her rock bottom. Ever the visionary and optimist, that experience became one of many that reshaped Aurora’s way of thinking about the world. After a brief modeling stint, James discovered the real power in creating for the runway and started her own sustainable fashion business in a fea market.

In June 2020, Aurora founded the Fifteen Percent Pledge, a non- proft advocacy organization that is closing the racial wealth gap by partnering with retailers to diversify their shelves and commit 15 percent of their purchasing power to Black- owned businesses. Under Aurora’s leadership, what initially began as an idea and an Instagram post has now expanded to a full- fedged organization with ten full-time staf members. To date, the Pledge has partnered with nearly 30 major companies across industries, including Macy’s, Nordstrom, Sephora, Ulta Beauty and more redirecting $10 billion in revenue to Black brands. By 2030, the organization aims to drive $1.4 trillion of wealth generation by Black entrepreneurs and increase Black business representation by 14.6 percent.

Brother Vellies was founded in 2013 with the goal of keeping traditional African design practices and techniques alive. The brand supports artisancommunities around the world, creating timeless pieces that celebrate various cultural histories and honor the individuals that make them through fair labor practices and job creation. The frst Brother Vellies collection was a single style of vellies that Aurora sold at the Hester Street Fair in New York.

Today, Brother Vellies is handmade across the globe and has expanded into handbags and other accessories categories, including a home goods subscription service, Something Special. As a result of her advocacy work, Aurora has been awarded the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s Founders Award, and named to the 2021 TIME100 and the 2020 Bloomberg 50.

Aurora currently splits her time between New York City and Los Angeles withher dog, Mr. Chow.

Jeremy Lewis, former professional football player and entrepreneur, is known for his commitment to success on and off the field. 

During Jeremy’s third season in the Canadian Football League, he had the foresight to prepare for life after the league. With a true passion for cars and helping people, he pivoted and became an entrepreneur. 

In 2017, Jeremy  founded The Slippery Soap, LLC, an automotive detailing company. After securing certifications in paint correction and ceramic coating, he became an expert professional detailer focused on the preservation of high-end vehicles. 

While on the path to expand The Slippery Soap, LLC brand, Jeremy discovered that popular soaps and cleaners caused irreparable damage to a car’s paint and rims. To provide an alternative, he launched a line of premium car care products. 

To date, customers tout the brand as being the top provider of car care products in the industry. Highly acclaimed and recommended, because of the quality and ingredients of the products, the Slippery Soap, LLC has carved out a clear niche in car care. On the road to being a true game changer, Jeremy has a strong hold and is driving the success of The Slippery Soap, LLC.

Daniel Taylor is the Co-Founder and CEO of Bags, a platform that helps minority- and women-owned brands borrow better money for business growth. We help founders find and apply for the best lending products for their business (or inventory, retail POs, and growth), manage their finances with clean books, and coach them through the entire lending process.  Our mission is to empower entrepreneurs to generate wealth, provide good jobs, and strengthen their communities. Prior to Bags, Daniel co-founded AskTipster, a social data startup that was acquired by Tim Armstrong’s Flowcode in 2019.  

Daniel is a Stanford StartX alumni, former professional soccer player, and Brown University graduate. Daniel sits on the Board of the Technology and Innovation Council of the Guggenheim Museum, the #10 board of the U.S. Soccer Foundation, the Next Generation Council of the National Bankers Association, and the Board of the Waterside School.

Christopher Moses - Professional Speaker, Author, and EntertainerHarnessing a Decade of Wisdom to Ignite MindsChristopher Moses is a dynamic professional speaker with over a decade of experience in captivating audiences worldwide. His journey through the realm of public speaking has taken him on a remarkable trajectory, collaborating with numerous high-profile companies and leaving a lasting impact at every turn.As a versatile talent, Christopher's repertoire spans hosting, keynote speaking, inspirational discourse, and acting. He seamlessly blends these talents to create unforgettable experiences for his audiences, infusing each engagement with a contagious passion, boundless energy, and an irresistible sense of fun.Christopher Moses is not just a speaker; he's a storyteller, a motivator, and a guide. His ability to connect with people on a profound level, coupled with his insightful narratives, leaves audiences inspired and ready to embrace new horizons.Beyond the stage, Christopher is a distinguished author, recognized for his insightful and empowering works. His books have earned him the prestigious title of a #1 bestselling author, and his words continue to guide and uplift readers.Christopher's dedication and hard work have set him on a trajectory that is nothing short of dazzling. He represents the future of professional speaking—a shining beacon of inspiration, wisdom, and entertainment. With every appearance, he reinforces his commitment to making a positive impact and leaves a trail of inspired hearts in his wake.Christopher Moses is not just a speaker; he's a force of nature, a beacon of positivity, and a guiding light for those seeking motivation and enlightenment. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of words and the boundless potential of the human spirit.Invite Christopher Moses to your next event, and witness the magic of a speaker who doesn't just talk; he leaves an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who have the privilege of hearing him speak.

Jeff Osuji is the CEO of Eventnoire, a premiere event marketplace that celebrates Black culture and diverse events! After years of marketing and producing events nationwide, Osuji Co-founded Eventnoire to unify culture enthusiasts and event curators while rewarding their efforts with incentives and recycling dollars back to curators. Jeff has received coverage in notable media outlets, including Essence, AfroTech, and Forbes for winning Mountain Dew's Real Change Opportunity Fund competition. Osuji is a Google for Startups Black Founders awardee and an Entrepreneur in Residence at 1871, the world's largest private tech incubator in Chicago. He lives by the motto  "To become truly great, one must stand with people, not above them."