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2024
2024 speakers
Nesha Brown :
Visionary Leader
Nesha Brown is a visionary entrepreneur and global motivational speaker known for her innovative strategies in business development, grant writing, and project management. As the founder of Therasoothe Cleaning Pro’s and Conqueror Consulting Group, she has led her organizations to secure substantial grants and partnerships, significantly impacting community development. Nesha’s dedication to empowering others is evident through her initiatives like the ‘Riseup:EmpowerED’ program, aimed at reducing gun violence and uplifting at-risk youth in North Baton Rouge. Her expertise in crafting grant-fundable programs and her passion for education continue to inspire and drive meaningful change.
Avis Brown :
Self Care Coach | LCSW
Avis “Coach Curator” Brown is a seasoned behavioral health professional with over 30 years of experience, holding advanced degrees from Tulane University and Southern University. As a licensed clinical social worker and wellness coach, she founded Victory Unlimited LLC, offering a unique blend of coaching, counseling, and consulting services. Avis is renowned for her “Silver Lining Self-Care Treatment Plan,” a patented framework that empowers busy professionals to prioritize self-care and combat burnout. She is also a published author and the founder of the Sterling Smiles Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering inclusivity and providing wellness resources to underserved communities, in memory of her son, Sterling.
Ivory Wilson :
Licensed Addiction Counselor
Ivory K. Wilson, M.A., LAC, CCGC, CCDP-D, is a distinguished behavioral health professional with over 31 years of dedicated service. As a Program Manager for the Louisiana Department of Health’s Office of Behavioral Health, Ivory oversees critical programs, including 24-hour residential treatment facilities and federally funded initiatives like the COVID-19 Emergency SUD Grant. He is deeply involved in efforts to combat the opioid epidemic and prison reform in Louisiana, serving as Chair for several strategic committees. Ivory is also the founder and Clinical Director of Bridges to Serenity, an outpatient SUD program that provides comprehensive treatment services and preventive programs for high-risk youth. With a Master’s in Psychology from Southern University and multiple certifications, Ivory’s impact in the field of behavioral health is both profound and far-reaching.
Jacquise “JT” Terry is a dynamic leader and mentor, renowned for his diverse accomplishments in both sports and community service. Born in Phenix City, Alabama, and raised in public housing, JT defied the odds to graduate 3rd in his high school class with a 4.2 GPA while earning All-State honors in football and basketball. A graduate of Kent State University, he was a two-time ESPN Academic All-American and later pursued professional careers in both the NFL and ABA. With an MBA from National University, JT now serves as the Campus Pastor and Leader of the Healing Place Church Dream Center and is a board member and program leader for Empower225. His leadership and service have earned him recognition as a member of Baton Rouge’s prestigious “40 Under 40” and 225 Magazine’s “Generation Now Leaders.
Jacquise “JT” Terry is a dynamic leader and mentor, renowned for his diverse accomplishments in both sports and community service. Born in Phenix City, Alabama, and raised in public housing, JT defied the odds to graduate 3rd in his high school class with a 4.2 GPA while earning All-State honors in football and basketball. A graduate of Kent State University, he was a two-time ESPN Academic All-American and later pursued professional careers in both the NFL and ABA. With an MBA from National University, JT now serves as the Campus Pastor and Leader of the Healing Place Church Dream Center and is a board member and program leader for Empower225. His leadership and service have earned him recognition as a member of Baton Rouge’s prestigious “40 Under 40” and 225 Magazine’s “Generation Now Leaders.
Sydney Young :
Personal Development
Leader
Sydney Young is a highly organized and technically proficient professional with over a decade of experience in providing operational and technical support across diverse industries. With expertise in managing office operations, coordinating projects, and delivering exceptional customer service, Sydney has honed her skills in financial operations, human resources, and IT systems. Her extensive experience in technology, healthcare, and finance sectors gives her a well-rounded understanding of the job market and the critical skills employers seek. Sydney’s blend of practical experience and technical knowledge makes her an invaluable resource for navigating the complexities of the professional landscape.
Anthony Kenney :
Deputy Executive Director
Anthony Kenney Jr., a distinguished HBCU graduate and proud alumnus of Southern University and A&M College, has made significant strides in the fields of strategic communications and public affairs. With a Master’s degree from LSU’s Manship School of Mass Communications, Anthony has held pivotal roles, including Deputy Executive Director for 100 Black Men of Metro Baton Rouge and Legislative Aide for the Louisiana House of Representatives. He is an Amazon Best Selling author and the founder of the GeauxVote Festival and A.K. Consulting Firm LLC, passionately advocating for civic engagement and leadership in his community. Anthony’s dedication to bridging gaps and lighting the way for his generation has earned him recognition as one of Baton Rouge’s top young professionals.
Zalexis Williams :
Licensed Clinical
Social Worker
Zalexis Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Louisiana and Texas, with a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Southern University A&M and a Master of Social Work from Southern University at New Orleans. Since beginning her career in 2015, Zalexis has gained extensive experience working with at-risk youth, providing school-based therapeutic services, and serving as a case manager with one of the state’s Managed Care Organizations. Currently, she offers psychotherapy to individuals, couples, families, and small groups through her private practice, Family Oasis, where she is dedicated to fostering mental health and well-being within her community.
Brittney Johnson :
Licensed Master Social Worker
Brittney Johnson is a dedicated advocate for strengthening families and individuals, with over a decade of experience in social services and education. Holding a bachelor’s degree from Southern University and a master’s in social work from Louisiana State University, Brittney has worked across various roles, including domestic violence programs, kinship care, and school social work. Currently, she serves as a Project Coordinator at LSU, focusing on community mental health equity in partnership with Together Baton Rouge. A licensed master social worker, Brittney is pursuing her clinical licensure while actively contributing to her community through ministry, mentorship, and education on trauma and crisis management. Her commitment to helping others overcome challenges is fueled by her deep faith, supportive husband, and the joy she finds in her family.
Rassie Givens :
Motivational Speaker
Rassie C. Givens is a passionate motivational speaker and the founder of Ogtalk_7 organization. He is committed to making a positive impact both through his personal outreach and in his professional role with the Baton Rouge Community Street Team. Known for his authentic and unwavering dedication, Rassie focuses on mentoring youth and creating safe spaces for young individuals within the community. Having been given a second chance at life after a life sentence, Rassie is driven by a purpose to inspire and empower others to pursue their dreams and lead a purpose-driven life. Through his story, he aims to save lives and spread a message of hope and empowerment to those around him.
Chantel Nicholas :
Nonprofit Founder & Advocate
Chantel Nicholas is the founder of The Start Of Something New, a faith-based organization dedicated to empowering families and bringing change to communities affected by gun violence and mass incarceration. Inspired by her own painful journey, which began in 2016 when her only child was unjustly incarcerated, Chantel has taken her experience and turned it into a mission to support and encourage families facing similar challenges. Through her work, Chantel is on the front lines of fighting incarceration and stopping gun violence, guided by her faith and the belief that with Christ, all things are possible and the best is yet to come.
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