Music, Community, and Celebration: Highlights from North Carolina’s 5th Annual Soul Picnic

Raleigh, NC, was alive with music, joy, and vibrant energy on Saturday, July 22, 2024, as the 5th Annual Soul Picnic took center stage at Dix Park-Flowers Field. Known as North Carolina’s largest outdoor day party, this year’s event did not disappoint. Hosted by the seasoned event organizers Dynasty5, who boast over 25 years of experience, the picnic was a masterful blend of local talent, renowned headliners, and DJ Skillz on the 1 & 2’s. 

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the performances. With his smooth vocals and soulful tunes, Musiq Soulchild captivated the audience, bringing both nostalgia and excitement. The Chuck Brown Band, famous for their unique go-go sound, kept the crowd dancing and the energy high. Adding to the thrill of the day, Mr. Cheekz made a surprise appearance, much to the delight of the attendees. 

The event was more than just a musical feast. It was a community celebration featuring a diverse range of vendors that catered to every taste. From delectable food vendors to unique merchandise, there was something for everyone. Local artisans and small businesses had the perfect platform to showcase their businesses, contributing to the inclusive and community-filled atmosphere. 

Raleigh’s news outlets highlighted the event’s success and the significant positive impact it had on the community. Attendees were all smiles, enjoying the sun, music, and camaraderie. The Soul Picnic again proved why it’s not just a staple in North Carolina’s event calendar, but also a significant contributor to the local community.

The success of this year’s picnic is a testament to Dynasty5’s commitment to excellence and community engagement. Their meticulous planning and passion for creating memorable experiences were evident in every event detail. With the backing of generous sponsors such as Pepsi, United Healthcare, Big Sipz Cocktails, The Property Shop Real Estate Co., DUDE Wipes, and Murphy’s Natural Skin Repellent, to name a few, the Soul Picnic was an overwhelming success. Dynasty5 has delivered another incredible experience, and attendees eagerly look forward to more unforgettable moments at the 6th Annual Soul Picnic.

If you missed the 2024 Soul Picnic, you can view all of the excitement- The Soul Picnic 2024.

See you next year!

Cobb County Democratic Chairwoman Essence Johnson Hosts Successful Debate Watch Party at Luckey’s BBQ Place

In honor of the first presidential debate, on June 27th, Essence Johnson, Chairwoman of the Cobb Democratic Committee, hosted a highly successful presidential debate watch party at Luckey’s BBQ Place. The watch party was strategically chosen at Luckey’s BBQ Place, a beloved black-owned restaurant in the community, emphasizing the committee’s commitment to supporting local businesses and celebrating diversity.

The watch party saw an impressive turnout, with over 100 attendees packing the venue to show their support for the Democratic Party. Among those present were delegates, elected officials, and several candidates currently running for office. Before the debate started, attendees enjoyed a lively game of trivia with an opportunity to win a prize, demonstrating the widespread interest and engagement in the upcoming election.

Courtesy of Cobb County Democratic Committee

Essence Johnson took the floor before the debate began to deliver an inspiring speech. In her speech, she highlighted the critical importance of education and the power of community. Her words resonated deeply with the audience, igniting a sense of enthusiasm and solidarity that set a positive tone for the rest of the evening. Essence’s speech emphasized the Democratic Party’s commitment to these values and motivated attendees to continue their support and activism.

Courtesy of The New York Times

In recognition of her leadership and dedication, Essence Johnson was selected to be the liaison for President Biden as he embarks on the next leg of his campaign trail. Following the debate, Johnson accompanied President Biden to an Atlanta area Waffle House, where they continued to engage with local constituents and furthered their message of community.

Essence Johnson’s successful hosting of the debate watch party and her subsequent role alongside the President underscores her significant influence and dedication within the Cobb Democratic Committee. Her efforts in encouraging community engagement and her leadership in political activities continue to inspire and mobilize support for the Democratic Party.

Devika Brij: Championing Inclusivity and Empowerment in the Workplace

In the evolving landscape of corporate America, fostering an equitable workplace has become paramount. Leading this charge is Devika Brij, the founder and CEO of Brij The Gap Consulting. With a mission to empower underrepresented talent, Brij The Gap Consulting partners with companies to support and increase the retention of employees of color, women, and other underserved demographics. Through comprehensive career advancement training, learning and development, and leadership training, the firm ensures these individuals can navigate workplace challenges and achieve the careers they deserve.

The Journey to Brij The Gap

Devika Brij’s journey to founding Brij The Gap Consulting is rooted in her experiences in the tech industry, where she worked for giants like Google and LinkedIn. During her tenure, she encountered numerous challenges as a woman of color. Initially, she believed these obstacles were unique to her, but conversations with peers from similar backgrounds revealed a widespread issue affecting many women and people of color in the tech sector.

This realization sparked Devika’s determination to create more resources, tools, and educational opportunities to help underrepresented individuals navigate their professional landscapes. In 2019, she left her corporate job to focus on consulting full-time, partnering with several prominent companies to drive change.

A Turning Point

A pivotal moment in Brij’s career came in 2018 when she was fired by a biased leader despite being a strong employee with nearly five years at the company. This period of joblessness forced Brij to reflect deeply on her career and aspirations. It was then that the seeds of Brij The Gap Consulting were sown. She envisioned a platform that would provide a thorough playbook for underrepresented individuals, equipping them with strategies and insights to excel in their careers.

 

The Impact of Brij The Gap Consulting

Brij The Gap Consulting offers a wealth of resources tailored to the unique challenges faced by people of color and other underrepresented groups. The firm’s initiatives are designed not only to benefit the employees but also to educate leaders on how to better support and coach their diverse teams. This dual approach fosters a more supportive workplace culture where everyone can thrive.

One of the standout offerings from Brij The Gap is Thrive in Color, a comprehensive playbook that addresses various workplace scenarios and challenges. While it is particularly beneficial for people of color, its insights and tools are universally applicable, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to advance their career. Moreover,  Thrive in Color encourages leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue and develop solutions that enhance understanding and equity.

 

Advocating for Healthy Self-Advocacy

Central to Devika’s philosophy is the concept of self-advocacy. She emphasizes that self-advocacy does not have to be aggressive or boastful. Instead, she promotes “healthy entitlement” or “humble bragging”—advocating for oneself using data and key facts. This approach empowers individuals to confidently showcase their achievements and prepare for career advancement.

Devika believes that self-advocacy is essential for professional growth. By teaching individuals how to advocate for themselves effectively, she helps them overcome barriers and achieve their career goals. Her approach transforms self-advocacy from a negative connotation into a powerful tool for success.

Devika Brij’s work with Brij The Gap Consulting is making a significant impact in the corporate world. By providing underrepresented talent with the tools and resources they need to succeed, and by educating leaders on how to support diverse teams, Devika is helping to create more equitable and supportive workplaces. Her journey from experiencing bias in the tech industry to becoming a champion for equity and empowerment serves as an inspiration for many. Through Brij The Gap Consulting, Devika Brij is not only bridging gaps but also building bridges to a better, more inclusive future.

For more on Devika and Brij The Gap: Website | Instagram

Grab your copy of Thrive in Color on Amazon now!

Danielle Andrews: Leading with Knowledge and Inclusivity in Real Estate

In the world of real estate, it’s rare to find a professional who seamlessly combines a deep understanding of the market with a passion for nurturing talent and fostering education. Danielle Andrews, an established realtor at Realty ONE Next Generation, does just that. With a career that spans multiple states, Danielle brings a wealth of experience and a diverse perspective that has proven invaluable to her clients and team.

Danielle’s journey into real estate was unexpected. Initially, she didn’t envision herself as a full-time real estate agent; instead, she pursued it as a side gig while working as a teacher. However, as her passion for helping people grew, so did her commitment to the industry. Her father suggested that she would make an excellent real estate agent, and his foresight proved accurate. Danielle’s unique approach to real estate is grounded in her desire to help people meet their goals—whether it’s buying a first home, selling a property, or expanding an investment portfolio. 

In a field often glamorized by images of luxury properties and high-stakes transactions, Danielle focuses on the realistic side of real estate. She finds fulfillment in guiding clients through the complexities of buying and selling, emphasizing practicality over flashiness.

The Impact of an Educational Background

A significant aspect of Danielle’s success lies in her background in education. As a former teacher, she developed a keen understanding of how people learn, a skill she now applies to her role as a real estate entrepreneur. Her passion for education extends to her work with other agents, where she shares her knowledge through courses designed to help them further their careers. Danielle believes in the power of education to transform lives, and she is dedicated to ensuring her team has the tools and knowledge they need to succeed.

An Inclusive Leadership Style 

Danielle’s leadership style is as inclusive as it is effective. She values feedback from her agents and encourages open communication within the team. She helps her agents build valuable connections that drive their success by inviting them into various networking spaces. Danielle’s focus on inclusion and mentorship creates a supportive environment where agents can thrive, regardless of their experience level.

Danielle Andrews is more than just a successful realtor; she’s a mentor, educator, and leader shaping the future of real estate. Her journey from teacher to real estate entrepreneur is a testament to her dedication and passion for helping others. As she continues to nurture her team at Realty ONE Next Generation, Danielle’s impact on the industry will undoubtedly grow, inspiring others to embrace the power of education and inclusion in their careers.

Connect with Danielle:

Instagram

Website

 

Unlock the Power of Love: Married 4 Life Walk Promises Joy, Community, and Unity

The 6th Annual Married 4 Life walk is not just a celebration of the promise and commitment made through marriage but a powerful reminder that couples are a unit, never to let go of the hand they’re holding. This encouraging gathering, curated by Martez Layton, a certified professional life and marriage coach, and Woodrina Layton, a licensed therapist, is a testament to the strength of unity and support among couples, inspiring them to strengthen their bonds.

 Coach Martez and Woodrina, founders of Healing Hearts Healing Homes, Inc., a 501(c) non-profit organization, strive to strengthen marriages within communities to help decrease the divorce rate and provide stability in families so that children can experience a healthy two-parent household.

Breathing Fire Back into Your Marriage

 Using the tools God put on his heart to save his marriage, Coach Martez decided to walk with his wife, hand in hand, to face their challenges and embrace the good times they share. Affirming one another through coaching and counseling, the Laytons rebuilt their marriage by understanding their purpose and practicing forgiveness. These initiatives led to other couples joining them on this walk, and many years later, the Married 4 Life Walk is still breathing fire, not only into marriages but into communities.

 Marriage ambassadors Ron and Shamari DeVoe have been dedicated to the walk as they have experienced the challenges of a marriage. With the help of the Layton’s coaching and counseling strategies, they forged through and sustained their marriage, leading to the birth of their beautiful children.  As a testament to not giving up, the DeVoes have a deeply rooted passion for the promise of marriage and unity as they have worked through their marital roadblocks. They want to see other couples live out their purpose with happiness and fulfillment and not give up on one another.

 Since the beginning of the Married 4 Life walk, couples have journeyed to draw inspiration from other couples and reignite the spark in their relationships. With love, value, and appreciation as guiding principles, couples can begin to understand the depths of their connection and the importance of nurturing it. This event serves as a beacon of hope for those seeking to strengthen their bonds and reaffirm their commitment to each other. As they walk side by side, surrounded by a supportive community, couples are reminded of the beauty and resilience of love, inspiring them to continue nurturing their relationship long after the walk concludes.

Healing, Joy, Community, and Unity

 In pursuing harmony across the facets of their lives, individuals, as well as couples, face the challenge of balancing responsibilities while fostering transparent conversations about their needs and desires. This Saturday, April 27, 2024, marks a significant moment to engage in such dialogues and embrace a vision of unity and strength within communities. The Married 4 Life Walk welcomes participants to join a testament to the enduring principles of love and forgiveness that transcend boundaries of denomination and color. 

At the heart of this initiative lies the belief in inclusivity, where families of all backgrounds are welcomed with open arms. As participants walk hand in hand toward healing and unity, they will be reminded of the invaluable support around them. Together, a space filled with fun, encouragement, and inspiration where couples can reignite the flame of love and strength within their relationships.

Guidance and encouragement are offered to those embarking on the journey of marriage, recognizing the importance of pre-marital counseling and the pursuit of self-improvement. The key lies in knowing one’s purpose, vision, and core values and refusing to compromise. Whether single or committed, individuals are encouraged to strive to be their best selves, speaking into existence the love and life they desire.

 Join a movement celebrating love, strength, and unity. To learn more and register for the event, visit www.married4lifewalk.com. Let’s walk towards a future filled with thriving families and communities.

Preserving History: The Fight to Save The Galloway School’s Gresham Building

Nestled in Buckhead’s Chastain neighborhood lies a beacon of educational excellence – The Galloway School. Founded in 1969 by the visionary WWll and Korean War veteran, Elliott Galloway, this institution has stood as a testament to progress, inclusivity, and academic prowess. However, at the heart of its campus, The Gresham Building faces the threat of demolition. 

Constructed in 1911, the Gresham Building has witnessed the shifting tides in history, transitioning from its initial role as the Fulton County Almshouse to becoming a cornerstone of the renowned Galloway School. 

L to R: Eloise Lamons (attended), Fran Galloway (daughter of founder), Joe Norley (his wife attended) and Doug Seim (his children attended and Galloway School founder Elliott Galloway helped to prevent demolition of a school Doug was affiliated with).

The Galloway School holds a unique position in Georgia’s private education landscape, consistently ranking in the top 20% of schools statewide. Yet, its true distinction lies in its pivotal role during times of societal upheaval. The Galloway School opened its doors to integration, embracing students regardless of race. Icons of civil rights activism, such as Martin Luther King llI, Bernice, and Dexter attended The Galloway school and the children of MLB Hall of Famer, Hank Aaron. 

James Calleroz White, the head of the school administration asserts that the building’s infrastructure is inadequate for modern educational standards, citing concerns about classroom sizes, electrical outlets, and restroom facilities. Yet, to advocate for demolition solely on these grounds risks disregarding the immeasurable value the building holds. 

Enter the Galloway Alumni and Supporters for Preservation (GASP), a grassroots movement fueled by a passion for history and commitment to honoring the legacy of the Galloway School. This coalition has rallied the community, urging citizens of the community to recognize the irreplaceable cultural significance of the Gresham building. Their message is clear: Preservation is not merely about bricks and mortar; it is about safeguarding the soul of this community, preserving the history of its foundation. 

The GASP movement envisions a future where the Gresham building continues to stand as a beacon of inspiration for future generations. By investing in restoration efforts, the school can retain its historical integrity while addressing the practical concerns raised by its administration. With the support of the community, GASP aims to transform this potential loss into an opportunity for renewal and revitalization. 

At a press conference on Monday, March 25th, four advocates for the preservation of the Galloway School stepped forward to champion the cause, among them were Eloise Lamens, a school alumna; Fran Galloway, daughter of the school’s esteemed founder; Joe Norley, whose spouse is a school alumna; and Doug Seim, whose children attended the school as well. Notably, Seim’s connection with the founder Elliott Galloway, assisted in preserving the demolition of a church in which he was affiliated.

In a show of solidarity, the Galloway School community has initiated a petition, acquiring over 1500 petition signatures in support of preserving the historic Gresham Building. 

For more information on Galloway’s historical significance, visit: https://www.savehistoricgalloway.com/ 

Instagram: @savehistoricgalloway

To donate: https://www.gofundme.com/f/savehistoricgalloway

 

Prestigious Thompson Atlanta Hotel Recognizes LaToya Dwight and Pad the Pandemic for Community Service Efforts During Women’s History Month

In a heartfelt celebration of Women’s History Month, the Thompson Atlanta Hotel paid homage to LaToya Dwight and her non-profit organization, Pad the Pandemic, for their unwavering dedication to community service. The ‘It’s Givin’ Brunch,’ held at the renowned Dirty Rascal restaurant, served as a beacon of recognition for Dwight’s tireless efforts in addressing crucial issues affecting individuals with a uterus, particularly in the Metro Atlanta area.

Dwight, the founder and chief motivating officer of Pad the Pandemic, was propelled into action following her own life-altering battle with uterine fibroids. With an impassioned commitment to eradicating period poverty and preventing unnecessary hysterectomies, Pad the Pandemic, a subsidiary of Dwight’s larger organization, The Fibroid Pandemic, has played a pivotal role in providing education, resources, support, and access to clean, non-toxic sanitary products to those in need.

Friends, family, and members of the community congregated at the renowned restaurant , where Dwight delivered a poignant message, declaring, “Health is the new currency.” This powerful statement resonated deeply, underscoring the significance of prioritizing well-being in today’s society. Moreover, the event marked a momentous occasion as the organization  was presented with a grant, symbolizing the tangible support garnered for Pad the Pandemic’s impactful initiatives.

The recognition event, held on Sunday, March 24, 2024, not only served as a platform to honor Dwight’s exceptional leadership but also as an opportunity to amplify awareness and rally support for Pad the Pandemic’s noble mission–to provide resources and bring awareness to menstrual woes.

During her address, Dwight shared sobering statistics revealing that approximately 80% of individuals with a uterus will develop uterine fibroids, with a staggering 80% of this population being Black. She emphasized  the urgency of addressing associated health complications, ranging from high blood pressure to infertility, and stressed the importance of proactive healthcare measures.

Reflecting on the significance of being honored, Dwight expressed profound gratitude for the Thompson Atlanta Hotel’s acknowledgment, stating, “Thank you so very much. I appreciate this support. It will afford our organization the ability to alleviate the continued issues related to lack of financial resources, menstrual supplies and community education.” 

She emphasized that this recognition serves as a testament to the collective determination to overcome challenges and pave a brighter future for all individuals with a uterus. With a resolute spirit, Dwight reaffirmed her commitment by encouraging attendees to show up and show out by donating and participating in her annual Run F.A.R 5K event.

With a successful inaugural brunch, the Thompson Hotel plans to continue honoring nonprofits monthly through Atlanta.

For more information on Pad the Pandemic and how to contribute to their noble cause, visit https://padthepandemic.org/

Join the social movement by following on Instagram: @PadThePandemic.

Celebrating Excellence in Film and Television: Black Women Film Network Announces 2024 Summit Honorees

The Black Women Film Network (BWFN) has long been a beacon of inspiration and empowerment for Black women in the entertainment industry. With a rich history of championing diversity, equity, and inclusion, BWFN continues its legacy of excellence with the announcement of its esteemed honorees for the ninth annual BWFN Summit.

 This highly anticipated two-day event kicks off Friday, March 22, with a Short Film Festival at Auburn Avenue Research Library. Saturday, March 23, will proceed with the Summit and Luncheon from at the prestigious Loudermilk Conference Center in Atlanta, Georgia. It promises to be a celebration of talent, resilience, and the transformative power of storytelling.

Honoring Trailblazers and Innovators

 The 2024 class of honorees represent a diverse array of trailblazers, creatives, and industry leaders whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the entertainment landscape. Among this year’s honorees are:

 Lena Waithe is a Emmy-winning writer, producer, and actress known for her groundbreaking work on “The Chi,” “Master of None,” and more. Waithe will be honored with the TrailblazHER award for her fearless storytelling and commitment to amplifying marginalized voices.

 Mona Scott–Young is the CEO of Monami Productions and the creator of the iconic “Love & Hip Hop” franchise. Recognized as a RainmakHER, Scott-Young has paved the way for countless women of color in the entertainment industry.

 Gail Bean is a rising star of the screen, acclaimed for her performances in “P-Valley” and NAACP Award recipient for “Snowfall.” Bean will receive the Black Woman Rising award in recognition of her talent and dedication to her craft.

 Raamla Mohamed is the creator and showrunner of the hit series Reasonable Doubt. She will be honored with the StorytellHER award for her exceptional storytelling prowess and commitment to authenticity.

 Amber Rasberry is a senior executive in film development, production, and acquisitions at Amazon Studios. She will be celebrated as a PowerbrokHER for her instrumental role in shaping the future of cinema.

A Platform for Empowerment and Advancement

The BWFN Summit is more than just an awards ceremony—a transformative experience designed to empower and uplift Black women in the industry. From dynamic workshops and panel sessions to networking opportunities with industry leaders, attendees will have access to invaluable resources and connections.

 “This year’s theme, ‘Standing on Business: How Creatives Get the Bag,’ reflects our commitment to equity and advancement for Black women in film and television,” said Chiquita Lockley, Chairwoman of the BWFN Board. “We are proud to provide a platform where Black women can thrive and succeed in an industry that too often overlooks their contributions.”

 Join the Celebration

 Registration for the 2024 BWFN Summit is now open. Don’t miss your chance to celebrate the achievements of these extraordinary women and join the ongoing legacy of the Black Women Film Network. Visit blackwomenfilm.org to secure your spot today.

 For the latest updates and announcements, follow BWFN on Instagram @blackwomenfilm and Facebook at BlackWomenFilmNetwork.

 Learn more about BWFN at blackwomenfilm.org.

 Event Details:

Short Film Festival: Friday, March 22, 2024, from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM at the Auburn Avenue Research Library.

BWFN Summit and Luncheon: March 23, 2024, from 8:30 AM to 5 45 PM at the Loudermilk Conference Center, 40 Courtland St NE, Atlanta, GA

 Register for the event at https://www.blackwomenfilm.org/.

Paint Your Lips Red Annual Luncheon and Gala: A Celebration of Legacy, Sisterhood, and Empowerment

In a celebration of empowerment and resilience, the Paint Your Lips Red (PYLR) Luncheon & Gala recently unfolded, leaving attendees inspired and invigorated by the powerful stories shared and the unwavering determination displayed.

Photo Credits: Joi Person Photography

Dr. Karmetria Burton, the visionary behind PYLR, kicked off the event by delving into her own journey and the founding inspiration of the movement. PYLR was birthed from her grandmother, Dorothy Jean Walker, whose red lipstick became a symbol of strength during her battle with illness. With Dorothy’s legacy as a guiding light, Dr. Burton challenged attendees to consider their own legacies and the impact they wish to leave on the world.

With PYLR, she aims to empower women to embrace their strength, overcome challenges, and cultivate sisterhood. Coach T. Renee furthered this narrative with a reflective session, urging attendees to look within themselves through handheld mirrors. This exercise prompted deep introspection, encouraging participants to confront obstacles such as self-doubt, modesty, and past traumas, ultimately empowering them to use their stories to shape a brighter future.

Photo Credits: Joi Person Photography

The event featured a fireside chat with Egypt Sherrod, esteemed HGTV Star and Real Estate Mogul, who courageously shared her own untold stories of triumph and resilience. From childhood trauma to the balancing act of career and family, Sherrod’s transparency resonated deeply with the audience, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and self-care in navigating life’s challenges.

Photo Credits: Joi Person Photography

Interactive storytelling circles allowed attendees to bond over shared experiences and journeys of growth. Themes of personal balance, setting boundaries, and the power of self-love emerged as central pillars of empowerment. Guest speaker Dr. Dennis Kimbro, acclaimed author and educator, delivered a rousing message on dreaming big, refusing to succumb to failure, and making a difference in the lives of others. With a focus on mental health and effective time management, Kimbro encouraged attendees to close the gap between potential and performance, urging them to be bold and fearless in their pursuits.

As the event concluded, attendees departed with a renewed sense of purpose and determination, fueled by the wisdom and encouragement shared throughout the day. The PYLR Luncheon & Gala served as a powerful reminder of the resilience and limitless potential of women everywhere, embodying the spirit of Women’s History Month and paving the way for a brighter, more empowered future.

In the end, it was evident that the PYLR Luncheon & Gala had succeeded in its mission to ignite inspiration, uplift spirits, and unite women in their journey towards empowerment and success. With untold stories of women’s strength and unwavering resilience at its core, the event left an indelible mark on all who attended, serving as a beacon of hope and empowerment for generations to come.

The proceeds from the Luncheon and Gala will be directed to support a nonprofit organization selected by PYLR.

For more on the Paint Your Lips Red foundation, visit: https://www.paintyourlipsred.com/

Dr. Heavenly’s FemFest Celebrates Women’s Empowerment on International Women’s Day

Women are leading the charge in entrepreneurship, and FemFest 2024 was a testament to their indomitable spirit and achievements, especially during Women’s History Month. Spearheaded by the dynamic Dr. Heavenly, the inaugural FemFest Women’s Empowerment Conference, powered by Dr. Heavenly University, is a platform to celebrate and uplift women from all walks of life.

With legendary media personality Ebony Steele as the emcee and the esteemed Forbes contributor Stephanie Tharpe guiding discussions, FemFest attracted women from across the nation to converge at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex. The event was a convergence of powerhouse women, each bringing their unique expertise to the table.

Photo Courtesy of Princeton Cordell Studios

The lineup of panelists was nothing short of impressive, featuring Bravo TV stars Dr. Heavenly Kimes, renowned medical professional Dr. Jackie Walters and award-winning weight loss specialist Dr. Jada Moore-Ruffin, e-Commerce expert Ashley Loveless, motivational speaker and healthcare professional Dr. Ebonee Gresham, serial entrepreneur and investor Monique Rose Sneed, financial strategist Octavia Conner,  education executive Crystal Nasir, multimillion-dollar business guru Stormy Wellington. and Six Figure Spa Chick Candace Holyfield-Parker. These well rounded professionals delved into various topics, from business strategies to personal wellness, inspiring attendees to reach new heights of success.

Throughout the day, attendees were treated to a plethora of enriching sessions, learning practical tips and direct networking with business leaders. Many of them shared their sentiments on social media and recorded testimonials on-site.

Photo Courtesy of Princeton Cordell Studios

The event concluded with a Moment of Strength, an inspirational talk by Strength Coach Jaira B., and a soothing sound bath experience led by wellness advocate Vanessa Parker. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and empowerment as women shared stories, exchanged insights, and forged new connections. Local CBS affiliate, channel 42 captured panel footage and Dr. Heavenly’s mission behind bringing the inaugural conference to Birmingham. 

In addition to the invaluable knowledge gained, VIP attendees received exclusive goodie bags filled with luxurious products from Kyvan Body Essentials, Skin Leaf Co., Dax Haircare, True Citrus, and Synergy PR Services. These tokens of appreciation added an extra layer of pampering to an already unforgettable experience.

The overwhelming success of FemFest 2024 has set the stage for future iterations, with plans to take the empowering message to cities across the United States. As FemFest continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to celebrating the achievements of women and empowering them to pursue their dreams fearlessly. 

Catch the FemFest 2024 recap HERE  (courtesy of Alexander Aperture).

Keep up with updates on future FemFest events by following @thefemfest on Instagram.

Receive more financial literacy tips by subscribing to Dr. Heavenly on Patreon at www.patreon.com/Dr_Heavenly.

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