OUR TEAM
Empower Engage Advocate
The Interactive Advocacy team is comprised of accomplished individuals with doctoral degrees in their respective fields, certified and passionate advocates, award-winning Edutainers (actors), dynamic writers and curriculum developers, and triumphant thriving survivors. With their advanced academic backgrounds, specialized training, and lived experiences, they bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our work, ensuring the highest level of innovation.
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Together, we are dedicated to making a difference and offering immersive, audience-engaged training experiences that ignite your commitment to ACT! (Actively Create Transformation!). Our transformative approach empowers individuals to embrace their power and take action, profoundly impacting their personal and professional lives.
Are you ready to be part of the movement?
Tanya Jones
"Embrace your power to empower change through engaging Advocacy. Ignite inspiration, fuel action, and transform perspectives. Together, we will create a world where every voice is heard. Empower. Engage. Advocate."
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Unleash the power of creative expression and performance art as transformative tools in healing after trauma. By giving voice and form to our pain and emotions, we transform them into beauty, meaning, and empowerment, finding solace and growth through art. Break free from the chains of limitation and ignite the fire within, fueling a revolution of empowerment and change. Together, we shatter barriers, challenge norms, and rewrite the rules. Embrace your power, amplify your voice, and pave the way for a future where justice and equality reign. Join me on this extraordinary journey, where passion meets purpose and transformation becomes our legacy.
"Remember, we are unstoppable. Let us empower, engage, and advocate for a better world. Don't just stand there; take action! When faced with injustice, doing nothing should never be an option. Together, we can make a lasting impact and create a future that embraces our power and amplifies our voices. Be unstoppable. Empower. Engage. Advocate."
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Emily Woods
Director of Talent
Emily is an actor and activist who has been performing and creating socially conscious works since she was 13. Her past work has focused on interpersonal violence, gun violence, and sexism. She has earned a Bachelor of Arts in Theater and Psychology with a minor in Women's and Gender studies from the Honors College of Rutgers University and has experience in facilitation, outreach, training, customer service, and more. Her activism goes beyond people, as she is a vegetarian of 10 years who previously worked at her local animal shelter as an Animal Care Technician.
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
- Margaret Mead
Jessica Jones-Saka
Chief of Curriculum | Training Development
Jessica Saka, a distinguished educator and curriculum developer, hails from Orlando, Florida. She holds a Bachelor's in Education from the University of Central Florida and earned her Master's Degree in Education and Curriculum Development from National Louis University. With a remarkable career spanning over 20 years, Jessica excelled as a teacher, team leader, and grant award-winner in Orange County Public Schools. She also contributed significantly as a teacher, trainer, and head of Faculty for the Ministry of Education in the United Arab Emirates. Widely recognized for her creative teaching, professional training, and curriculum development skills, Jessica possesses an extensive list of expertise and certifications in the field of education.
"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. " ​
- Maya Angelou
Rafeal Cobb
"Awareness Graphics/Merchandise Manager"
Rafeal is highly respected for his ability to solve problems and get things done when others give up by utilizing an innovative, creative spirit and drive for excellence. He is a creative team player that focuses on delivering exceptional customer service. He has a talented eye for fashion and graphic design, he thrives on creating awareness through art and fashion.
“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.”
- Pablo Picasso
Joshua Hernandez
Director of Cinematography
Joshua is a videographer and editor who has worked hard and resiliently in his field for nine years. He has worked on corporate videos, wedding videos, podcasts, and feature films. Joshua has a rugged working tenacity unmatched by any other and strives to change the world someday through cinema. He seeks to utilize his ability to make art, give a voice to the voiceless, and make sure "everyone is heard because everyone deserves to be heard." This idea drives Josh to continue to make impactful art with meaning and to make a difference.
David Schifter
Edutainer
David is a versatile American actor seen in the semi-recurring role of Detective J.D. Walker on ID Discovery Channel's "Lt. Kenda: Homicide Hunter" and Tyler Perry's "The Have & Have Nots." As a teenager, he began life in front of the camera as the host of a New York cable TV show "Spotlight on Teens." He later spent a successful 14-years as a TV news investigative reporter at the local and national level, earning numerous awards, including three Emmy nominations and the coveted Emmy itself. In 1999, David took the ultimate career risk by walking away from everything familiar to begin a career as an actor. In 2017, he won a LA IndieFest "Best Actor" award for the lead role in an African-produced film in Nigeria. In 2019, he co-starred with Michael Pare' and Nicholas Turturro in a thriller set at the beach titled "The Penthouse." A native New Yorker, David loves living a beach lifestyle in North Carolina and traveling worldwide for work. He is also a volunteer firefighter in the city where he lives, which he says gives him the true feeling of giving back to his community.
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"There is nothing more satisfying than doing what you love and coming home to the one you love."
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"It's nice to be important but more important to be nice"
Dr. Nissi Hamilton
Collaborative Partner | Educator | Speaker
Dr. Nissi Hamilton is an award-winning expert in human trafficking, an area she comes to with five years of painful experience as a survivor of human and labor trafficking. With her multicultural background, Dr. Hamilton is committed to encouraging diversity and inclusion, making a difference in the decriminalization of human trafficking, poverty, and homelessness with minors. Dr. Nissi Hamilton is a global humanitarian, doctoral learner, veteran, wife, mother of seven, and comedian. She led the nation's first political campaign against human trafficking as she debuted her story by running for office in Houston, Texas. Her social enterprise has allowed her to work with billionaire Attorney Tony Buzbee, The Real TV Show Host, Jeanie Mai with the up-and-coming movie "Stopping Traffick 2," and with Dateline NBC TV Host Chris Hansen "To Catch A Predator." Hamilton also owns a Non-Profit called "Nissi's Network Inc.," and the for-profit corporation "A Survivor's Voice of Victory." "My mission is to raise awareness in fence-lined communities and give young African American girls, boys, men and women a safe space to practice reporting and lead them to safety." Dr. Hamilton has trained over 57,000 community activists, business professionals, law enforcement agencies and others involved in non-profit to recognize, understand, and report human trafficking.
Johnny Kavanagh
Edutainer
Johnny is an actor, comedian, writer, and educator. He graduated in 2018 with his BFA in acting and since has been seen in various shows in the NY and NJ area as well as several commercials and television programs. He also hosts a regular open mic night in New Jersey and has an upcoming directorial debut that he is incredibly excited to share with everyone. Johnny is incredibly excited to join the IA team and cause in bringing theatre around the country and world, and he hopes you enjoy the incredible work by the whole company! You can find Johnny on Twitter @JohnnyKavanaghh, and @Orange_Kavanagh on Instagram, where he advertises his upcoming projects!
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"Be brave, make a choice, take a risk, and you will be amazing."
- Ralph Colombino
Trevor Capel
Edutainer
Trevor is a Thespian Society member with over four years of experience in theatrics and dance. In 2016 he starred in multiple productions, including Shakespeare's The Tempest, Shel Silverstein's One Tennis Shoe, and Southern Guilford's Annual Talent show. Trevor received his B.S. in Mass Media Communications from North Carolina. While pursuing his degree, he worked on projects that included dance and spoken word productions. He also had the opportunity to work on set as a production assistant for the upcoming Indie movie "Urge." After graduation, he sought out Just Dance studios to further train his dancing abilities. Trevor wanted to work with kids in his community, so he started teaching dance classes at Just Dance Studios. He has used this time to work on choreo-based dance and technicality within his movements. In the meantime, Trevor has enjoyed his return to the theater. His craft and new skills have prepared him for a new chapter in his life.
Chanda Davetas
Edutainer
Chanda hails from Wisconsin and holds a BA in Journalism from UW-Madison. She spent most of her adult life in Washington DC, London, Chicago, and Los Angeles in various careers, including advertising, public relations, politics, finance, corporate governance, teaching, entertainment, and even dog training. In 2012, she exchanged corporate life for an acting career and never looked back. Chanda currently resides in Los Angeles and is skilled in comedy, standup, on-camera, voiceover, theatre, and improv, and does a fair amount of commercials. You can find her @chandadavetas on all the socials.
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"Everything you've ever wanted is on the other side of fear."
- George Addair
Celine Dirkes
Edutainer
Celine is a theatre maker and arts educator currently based in New Jersey. Highly involved in their local theatre community, Celine focuses on site-specific, devised, and new works and strives to include the audience as a partner in all their creative endeavors. An alum of Douglass Residential College, they are committed to furthering social justice through the arts and are excited for the opportunity to participate in IA’s meaningful work!
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"Humans need fantasy to be human. To be the place where the falling angel meets the rising ape."
- Terry Pratchett
Dr. Andrea Mckie
Author | Educator | Facilitator
Dr. Andrea Mckie was born in Kingston Jamaica and migrated to the United States at the age of nine with her parents and siblings. She grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and credits New York as her second home. Dr. Mckie is an Award-winning instructor with countless years of experience driving academic success for diverse students in fast paced environments to include the military. She is a distinct and articulate communicator, published author, researcher, and a retired Navy Veteran. Dr. McKie’s years of work in various social service entities afforded her the opportunity to be a lifelong learner and strengthened her dedication as an ally for social justice. Her interest in violence prevention was sharpened by her work within the federal government over a 10-year span. In keeping with her social justice stance, she established her nonprofit organization (Sisters in Arms) geared towards the restoration and prevention of violence in the lives of women and girls in underserved communities. Dr. Andrea Mckie holds a Doctorate in Education with a specialization in Organizational Leadership and is a Licensed Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LCDAC). It is these layers of experiences that have been the foundation of her work and future goals.
Ananda Ray
Campaign Influencer | Edutainer
Social Injustice plays a considerable role in all I do today; my past experiences have motivated me to be the person I am today. The topic is something I take very seriously because it’s a real problem in society today. I want everyone to have a chance to use their voices, tell their stories, or even do whatever comes to mind to make them more aware. I always use art, whether it is makeup, modeling, or even painting, to show emotion, raise awareness about something, or even try to pull in an audience creatively. Using art to create awareness is so important to me because you create something that people find beautiful or intriguing, but it also makes people think deeper about the meaning of why I did what I did, and that’s the whole point. I know I have influenced so many people I have met. I enjoy ways that I can create something fun while also having a serious conversation. I want to be a voice for those who feel like society has taken theirs away from them.
Willow Lautenberg
Edutainer
BFA in Acting with & a Minor in Writing from Emerson College. She's studied classical & musical theatre singing for over ten years. Her theatrical credits include Shrek, The Musical, Tartuffe, The Tempest & a 4-month tour of A Midsummer Night's Dream & Animal Farm. Her film credits include Bishop's Cove & Clementine. Her commercial credits include commercials for Bank of America, Wayfair & Staples. Willow studied Linklater Technique in Stromboli, Italy & with Kristin Linklater at her Voice Centre in Orkney, Scotland. She last performed her self-created one-woman show What It Means to Be Free - which explores mental illness, incarceration & artistic and creative expression - as part of the United Solo Theatre Festival, Off-Broadway at Theatre Row.
"What would love do?"
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- Linda Bucher
Michelle Keshel
Advisory Board Member | CEO |FOUNDER SAS-GPS-IA
Before founding Sales Automation Support, Michelle was the business systems manager for Chaney Systems, Inc., a custom solution and business technology infrastructure consulting firm in Wisconsin. Previously, she served as a Chief Warrant Officer and Helicopter Pilot in the U.S. Army for nine years. She also performed as an Intelligence Officer and Systems Security Officer in additional capacities.
​“My goal continues to center on delivering effective and innovative “communications automation” products and communications services to our customers.”
Ella Bennett
Edutainer
Ella Bennett is an actor and youth educator based in New Jersey. She earned a B.A. in Theater and Performance from Bard College and has studied Shakespeare at Oxford University and Fordham University. She has since performed in multiple independent films, stage productions, and even a local commercial. When not performing, she is finding purpose in educating youth: especially those who may feel forgotten by the so-called “normal” educational system. She is passionate about using performance as a tool to connect with her students and help them develop skills to promote growth.
"I regard the theatre as the greatest of all art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being."
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Desmond Robinson
Facilitator
This retired 21-year Army Combat Medic/Food Inspector from Montgomery, AL., has been a champion for the SHARP and SAPR programs since 2011. He has held positions as a Victim Advocate, Brigade SARC with the Army, and Installation SARC as a part of Joint Base San Antonio. Additionally, he is the former SAPR Operations Specialist for Headquarters Air Force. He has been actively involved in SAPR and SHARP since joining the program. His training background covers various fields ranging from Equal Opportunity, Master Resilience, and various healthcare certifications from Emergency Medical Technician Intermediate (EMT I) to Advanced Cardiac Lifesaver Course (ACLS). He is a combat veteran (3 combat tours - Operation Desert Spring 02-02, OEF-V, and Operation New Dawn) that has been a part of various commands ranging from 25th ID to 3rd ID. His last Army SHARP command was with the 7th Special Forces Group (SFG (A). During his time with 7th SFG (A), Mr. Robinson took the opportunity to broaden his horizons by becoming a public speaker at the 42nd National Organization of Victim Assistance (NOVA) conference. He utilized his various skills over his illustrious military career to create and implement his “The Importance of Resiliency for Victim Advocates and Emergency Workers” training for over 100 attendees. The training was a huge success. He returned to present at the 44th annual NOVA conference. Mr. Robinson dived into the issue of the Man Box: and the violence that men perpetrate against one another, as well as women. By doing this thru discussion, PowerPoint presentations, and videos, he was able to spark a debate that very well could help bring culture change to help bring awareness and possibly help end sexual violence against men and women alike. Mr. Robinson is a husband and father of two beautiful girls.
Kate Franklin
Edutainer
Kate Franklin is a comedian, writer, and educator based in New York City. She earned a B.A. in Theatre with a performance concentration from Northeastern University. During her time there, she wrote, directed, and produced a feminist play which gamified the patricentric party scene in order to address and start a dialogue about ending gender-based violence on college campuses. To further effect change, she developed and facilitated targeted, post-performance workshops with 7 different fraternities on her college campus. She continues to dedicate her life to this work as the Enough is Enough Health Educator at CAMBA, a nonprofit based in Brooklyn."
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"Power can be taken, but not given. The process of the taking is empowerment in itself."
-Gloria Steinem
Neal Gaulden
Advisory Board Member | CEO GMG Consultants- IA | Project manager
Neal has extensive experience as a Command Managed Equal Opportunity Coordinator and served as the President of the Diversity Outreach Committee. Neal provides business management best practice solutions and process improvement programs for IA. Neal is also the head track and field coach for the local High School and an assistant track and field coach for the local Middle School. Neal holds a degree in Business and Marketing. In conjunction with his degree, he has also held certifications in Project Management, Contract Management, and as a Warranted Contracting Officer. Neal also completed the Executive Leadership and the Effective Management courses at the Naval Facilities Institute and the Naval Leader Development Program. He also holds certifications as a USA Track and Field Level 1 Coach and a USA Track and Field National Level Official. Neal is a member of the Disabled American Veterans Association, Electronics Technicians Association, and the Society of American Military Engineers. Enjoys working to build communities of teams that empower each other and advocate for change, equality, and justice.
Ryan Goldsmith
Edutainer | Talent Advisor
Ryan Goldsmith is a United States Army Veteran that has also worked as a technical Production Manager. He has done student films and musical theatre. He possess a comprehensive background in program Management and Visual and Audio Production globally. Ryan worked as a Television producer for the Armed Forces Network (Europe). There he oversaw researching, writing, voicing, shooting and editing radio and television productions for the American Forces Network (AFN) Europe. He is a Recipient of multiple awards for outstanding performance. Ryan is also a comedian that draws you in with his upbeat, conversational style as he pokes fun at mistaken identity (he’s Jamaican), racial stereotypes, doomed relationships, and more. Audiences find him likeable and easy to relate to, even as he tries—and fails—to be politically correct. Ryan holds a Master of Fine Arts, Cinematography & Film/Video Production from New York Film Academy, Master of Human Relations from University of Oklahoma and a Bachelors of Fine arts and Theater from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
Joe Crumpton
VP Interactive Advocacy
Joe Crumpton has more than 30 years of working and serving within the Department of Defense in the U.S. Army and as a Federal Employee. He has served as Deputy Director, Army Reserve Equal Opportunity, a former member of the Army’s EEO Board of Directors, and Senior Executive Diversity Awareness Trainer (SEDAT) hosted at the Defense Equal Opportunity Management (DEOMI). Mr. Crumpton is a combat veteran of Desert Shield/Storm and a former U.S. Army Drill Sergeant. He has a distinct passion for serving others. He is recognized throughout the Military Equal Opportunity Community across the United States for his work and training style. He holds a Sociology degree from Saint Leo University. His leadership and training style give him a skill set that makes him one of the best trainers in the industry. One of his favorite training sessions is the “Effects of Perceptual Filters” – an engaging and thought-provoking session with just the right level of humor.
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“You can’t teach what you don’t know and you can’t lead where you won’t go”.
- Mr. Claiborne Haughton
Cindy Teniente
Marketing Manager | Edutainer
Cindy currently serves as IA's Marketing Manager and an Edutainer. Through IA, Cindy can bring her love for advocacy and storytelling together to create cultural change. She hopes to shine a light on worldwide issues and amplify unheard voices. She received a B.A. in Anthropology from Texas A&M University in College Station. An anthropologist at heart, she seeks to learn and understand how societies do things presently and how they have evolved. She also served six years of active duty as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army, with a nine-month deployment to Afghanistan. She later transitioned to the U.S. Army Reserves. Through the military, she has learned to be a respected and trusted dependable leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment. Cindy recently graduated from the Summer Conservatory at Stella Adler Studio of Acting (2022) in New York City, where she currently resides. As an actress, Cindy strives to represent Mexican-Americans in the entertainment industry and share untold stories. She also aspires to become a documentary filmmaker one day. On her time off, she loves to go to the theater and film festivals, hike the mountains, camp at national parks, eat good food, draw on her iPad, and conduct humanitarian missions worldwide.
"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good."
- Romans 12:9
Ryan Cobb
Chief of Logistics
Ryan is the Chief of Logistics of Interactive Advocacy. He is responsible for assisting with the directional strategy of IA and further developing and leading the IA team. In addition, he and the IA team are building processes and relationships designed to streamline IA's core responsibilities, procurement, planning and allocation, pricing, operations, and account development.
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"Wealth in abundance is your birthright"
​- Marvin Mitchell
Victoria Yap
Business Manager | Edutainer
Victoria is an Asian-American actress based in Houston, TX. She has been featured in numerous print campaigns and commercials, both national and local, including Edward Jones, Canada Dry, Dell, HCA Hospital, and the Texas Workforce Commission. Her film credits include Life Insurance Lottery (2019) and Perfectly Oblivious (2018). Victoria is passionate about giving back to the community by volunteering each year with the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo or participating in charity bike rides and charity runs. Each year, her favorite event is the National MS Society’s “MS 150” where riders cycle from Houston to Austin in 2 days to raise awareness and funds for multiple sclerosis. Victoria enjoys playing tennis, reading, playing the piano, and spending time with her friends and family in her free time. Her love of the outdoors often leads her into the mountains for hiking and camping during the summer and snowboarding during the winter.
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"The time is always right to do what is right."
- Martin Luther King
Arikah Nash
Edutainer
Arkiah Nash (Shakira Baly) is originally from St. Thomas, USVI. Her credits include acting, singing, professional wrestling, writer, stunts, aerial circus, and pilot; she owns her own Mermaid Academy, is a licensed massage therapist, and is a nationally certified (NCBTMB) instructor of Aqua Massage. In addition, she is a mom and spiritual practitioner of shamanism.
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"No one is you, and that is your superpower."
- Unknown
Orvie Baker
Collaborative Partner
Orvie B. Baker, Jr. is a Chicago Native who moved to Louisiana at an early age and has been traveling ever since. In 2005, Mr. Baker deployed to Iraq as an EOA and, upon his return, transitioned to an Instructor at DEOMI. After twenty years in uniform, Mr. Baker was back in front of troops, but now in a civilian- capacity, as a Sexual Harassment/Assault Response & Prevention (SHARP) Instructor working to certify Victim Advocates and Sexual Assault Response Coordinators for the U.S. Army.
Dr. Charleson Gaines
Author | Educator | Speaker
Dr. Charlson Gaines is a best-selling author, international speaker, educator, and retired U.S. Air Force disabled veteran who has earned a Master’s degrees in Health Psychology/Behavioral Medicine and Medicine Project Management. His seminars and workshops go beyond providing information and inspiration. Charleston Gaines provides the “how-to” that participants truly need to elevate their happiness through daily practice, empowering them to change their lives. Happiness is not just a lack of misery. Dr. Gaines, a DoD Master Resilience Trainer and Certified Trauma Professional, connects his audiences with the power to sincerely love themselves, feel whole again, and live life as they desire and deserve.
K'jawn Colin
Edutainer
K'Jawn is an actor/fitness trainer/comedian/entrepreneur from Louisiana who believes that we can be whomever we want. "Overall, we are limitless and should never put our dreams on hold for any obstacle that comes our way." K'Jawn attended the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts and has earned an associate's degree in TV/ Film. K'Jawn aspires to be an actor because he enjoys the thrill of being accessible and it's fun. Although acting is his number one goal in life, K'Jawn has gained interest in boxing and music. One thing K'Jawn realizes is that he fears the thought of giving up (which is a good thing). "I may be down, but I'm not out" is what he tells himself to keep pushing forward when times get tough. One word of advice that K'Jawn would share is that when people think you or your dreams are crazy, you're doing something right.
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"Failure Will Never Overtake Me If My Determination To Succeed Is Strong Enough."
- Og Mandino
Carla Mitchell
Collaborative Partner | Speaker
Carla has a passion for advocating for the equal and fair treatment of minorities and sexual assault victims. She is well versed in equal opportunity and sexual assault training, policy, and policy development. She is open and honest about her experiences to assist with educating and encouraging other survivors to feel comfortable enough to seek help and treatment for the trauma they experienced. My mission is to advocate for your voice to be heard. I see you, I listen to you, I support you, and I will not allow your voice to be silenced. In addition to advocating, Carla has acquired over 18 years of Medical Administrative and Human Resources experience serving within the Department of Defense as a Service Member and Federal Employee. Additionally, Carla has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Phoenix and a Master's in Organizational Leadership and Development from the University of the Incarnate Word. I am here to be your advocate and change agent.
Dr. Andwoa Akhu
Collaborative Partner | Facilitator | Speaker
Dr. Akhu is a licensed clinical psychologist, acclaimed author and renowned workshop facilitator, and a former president of the New York Association of Black Psychologists. Dr. Akhu specializes in stress management through self-care. Dr. Akhu has been in private practice for over twenty years and is currently an adjunct professor in the counseling master’s program at NYU. She is a trainer for the NYPD Hostage Negotiator Team and the author of eight self-help books. The latest is Cultivating Inner Peace: A Sustainable System for the Professional Black Women. For more information visit DrAkhu.com
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"The unempowered complain.
The empowered vent then take action"
Vanessa Jose
Curriculum Development
Vanessa is a team leader with the capacity to train, mentor, and develop professionals to enable them to handle customer requirements independently. She is a proactive and reliable team player with a solid commitment to excellence and well-developed analytical, problem-solving, communication, organizing, coordination, and time management skills. She is a highly effective and creative communicator with exceptional problem-solving skills through reasoned thought processes and an excellent track record for customer and employee satisfaction. Dynamic leader and mentor, able to build team cohesion, inspire, and empower individuals to strive toward higher levels of achievement.
Lula De Genie
Edutainer
Porsha the Poet a.k.a Lula De Genie pronounced (LEW-LAH) is an all-around creative. I express creativity through writing, directing, acting, music, and modeling. I have experience in photography, event coordination, and hosting. Poetry has been my blueprint since I was 8 years old. After graduating High School, I decided to share my poetry with the world by performing live. After a year of performing poetry at local open mic events in Charlotte, NC the tales of my life became a published book titled “Mask Off- Reflections of My Spiritual Awakening”. My debut book was published on November 13th, 2018, and this was the brink of my creative success. The publishment of my book allowed me to break barriers of trauma and influence other poets in the community. This encouraged me to host my own event which sparked the idea of my business, LYRICAL HEALING LLC founded in December of 2018. Lyrical Healing is a creative platform dedicated to the mental and spiritual development of all creatives. The 4 components of the Lyrical Healing showcase are to Release, Receive, Manifest, and Heal, through the expression of poetry, music, and art. Over the past 3 years I have experienced extensive creative growth through my artistry while also becoming a multitalented creator. My goal is to continue building a creative society that thrives off ofhealing and defeating all levels of adversity around the world.
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“These gifts are not mines to claim or keep , the most high chose me to be a conductor of energy”
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Omar Hemmings
Sales Manager
A five-star Customer Service award recipient, Omar is highly respected for solving problems and getting things done when others give up by utilizing an innovative, creative spirit and drive for excellence. He holds a solid record in delivering exceptional customer service. His excellent verbal solid communication skills, proven customer service experience, and his ability to motivate and inspire his team are his combination for success.
"Starve your distractions; Feed your Focus!"
Jamil Sykes
Artist | Edutainer | Musician
Jamil Sykes is a 21-year-old Senior in College. Jamil does not shy away from academia; he graduated with an H.S. Diploma while obtaining his A.A. degree. He is now pursuing a B.A. degree as an English major at the University of North Carolina. But who said It's all work and no play for this talented artist? Jamil just released his second album, "NOMAD," found on all streaming platforms. Jamil classifies himself to be an artist of many forms, including but not limited to poetry, photography, and music.
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"Love the life you live, live the life you love"
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- Bob Marley
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"Art is Freedom! Art is me!"
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- Jamil Ijaz Sykes
Asha Devi
Edutainer
Asha Devi is a West-Indian and American actress, writer, activist, and educator based in NYC. She is a recent graduate of NYU Tisch, where she earned a BFA in Drama, and has also trained at NYFA, The Terry Knickerbocker Studio, and the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute. As an artist, she is committed to honest and empowering work, and is especially interested in questions concerning ambition, maternity, and self-efficacy. She has been seen most recently as Nalina in the film Rising Lotus which has been winning numerous awards in the festival circuit, including Best Short Film at the Manhattan Film Festival and the Nice International Film Festival, and on stage as Huma Abedin in Huma Dreaming by Alexis Spiegel, Sophia in Repulsing the Monkey by Michael Eichler, Avery in Birdbrain by Kat Agudo and Maddie in Fish Tank by Aly Kantor. In addition to shooting two feature length films this summer, Asha just wrapped She Kills Monsters with the Staten Island Shakespeare Theatre, Double Happiness at the Museum of Chinese in America in Manhattan, and Around the World in 80 Days at Gretna Theatre. She would like to thank her parents, her fiancé, and the entire team at Interactive Advocacy.
Patrick Brandt
Edutainer
Born and raised in Burlington, NC, Patrick grew up acting and tech-ing in community/public school theatre, only putting his artistry on pause to join the Army after graduating high school in 2004. After an honorable discharge in 2010, Patrick returned to his home and used the GI Bill to attend Guilford College in Greensboro, NC. Patrick graduated in 2015 with a BA in Theatre Performance. Then he moved to Asheville, NC, where he performed professionally with Flat Rock Playhouse, NC Stage, Immediate Theatre, Project, and Attac Salt Theatre Company. In 2018 he was accepted into the 3-year Professional Conservatory at the Stella Adler Studio of Acting. Patrick completed his training at Stella Adler in August 2021. He currently lives in Brooklyn with his partner Nina and black cat, Bruce. Patrick's Military service includes US Army 2004-2010, 82nd Airborne Division, Airborne Infantry, Afghanistan 2005-2006, Iraq 2007-2008, Iraq 2009-2010
Wesley Gonzalez
Edutainer
Wesley David Gonzalez, Prefers to go by Wesley Gonzalez. A young spirited Latino born in Queens and raised in Somerset. His mom is from Bogota and his father is Puerto Rican. After his first stage production, Wesley knew he'd want to pursue a career in acting. He is an actor with strong stage projection as well as the ability to perform behind and in front of the camera. He has acquired successful skills as a Videographer, Video Editor, Content Creator, Social Media Production Assistant, and Student Broadcaster. Wesley has performed at over 100 colleges in America, worked on several film projects, and has enrolled himself in many acting intensive courses. He has a strong swimming background as a certified Aquatics instructor, educating hundreds of individuals. During his free time, he takes advanced salsa classes and makes videos with his dog. Wesley is open to learning many aspects of the film industry while sending an empowering and positive message out into the world.
khalilah Valez
Author | Facilitator | Speaker
A proud veteran of the Armed Forces, a coach and mentor certified through Dr. Faith Wokoma's Destiny Training Academy, and an expert specializing in faith-based leadership, Khalilah has made a name for herself inspiring transformations and encouraging deep, long-lasting fulfillment among her clients. She believes that happiness is always possible, and in the course of her 22-year career, she had guided men and women toward a greater sense of power and self-actualization. Today, Khalilah is an author and in-demand speaker whose presentations on faith, leadership, management, and team management have won her a significant and devoted following. Time and again, she had inspired her audiences to go out into the world ready to overcome any and all challenges and to achieve successes beyond even their wildest dreams. In addition to leadership, Khalilah also offers coaching on such topics as overcoming trauma, forgiving those who hurt you, navigating marital issues, and striking a balance in life. Because she understands human nature, she is an expert at handling the many problems that arise from it – and offering solutions that work.​
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"No voice is too soft when that voice speaks for others"​
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- Janna Cachola
Travis Thomas
Facilitator
Mr. Thomas possesses over 19 years of experience in the Criminal Justice field, concentrating on conducting complex investigations and advanced law enforcement training. Mr. Thomas, I have developed numerous verbal and written investigative and management reports. He has demonstrated the proven ability to plan and conduct investigations of a routine nature. He has a comprehensive background in Sexual Assault Investigation, Domestic violence, and crisis intervention training. He also works with at-risk male youths in the community, providing mentorship and life skills. He is most passionate about the community volunteer work he does with CASA as a court-appointed special advocate for children in areas such as dependency child development and the juvenile court system. Mr. Thomas is a Husband, Father, and veteran of US Marine Corp. In his free time, he enjoys reading and wrestling.
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"Doing what's right isn't the problem. It is knowing what's right."​
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- Lyndon B Johnson
Lakeydra Houston
Facilitator | Collaborative Partner
Lakeydra Houston is a US Air Force veteran who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and the Chief Executive Officer of KEY Fit, Knowledge, Empowerment, and You-nity, which mentors wellness, veteran support, and suicide prevention to increase life productivity.
She earned her Associates degree in Criminal Justice, Human Resources and a Bachelor’s degree in Leadership from Trident International University. Lakeydra is pursuing a master's degree in Social Work specializing in military and trauma. She is a certified ASSIST and resiliency trainer with over 7+ years of experience within domestic violence programs, youth organizations, sexual assault prevention, and mental health. Her community outreach includes working with high school students and veterans with professional and personal development practices. She is currently a member of American Corporate Partners, Merging Vets & Players, Veteran Counseling Veterans, and The KEY Mentor group, to name a few. She is looking to make an impact within the military community and bridge the knowledge gap between our civilian counterparts while continuing to serve others.
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"Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter"
Martin Luther King
Kimberly Henery
Facilitator | Collaborative Partner
Nicole Snell
Facilitator | Collaborative Partner
Nicole Snell is an award-winning international speaker, trainer, facilitator, and self-defense expert specializing in sexual assault prevention education, gender-based violence prevention, and boundary setting training. She is the CEO of Girls Fight Back, Founder of Outdoor Defense, and Lead Instructor with IMPACT Personal Safety and IMPACT Global.
Nicole has presented her interactive programs at over 400 events, keynotes, and workshops worldwide for gender-inclusive groups at colleges, high schools, the US Military, Fortune 500 companies, corporations, outdoor groups, conferences, and more. Nicole has facilitated Sexual Assault Prevention workshops for the Department of the Navy (DON) at over 90 military installations worldwide, including the Pentagon.
Nicole is a NACP Credentialed Victim Advocate, a credentialed Empowerment Self-Defense Professional, and a collaborative teammate with Difference Makers (10 Strong). She is a dynamic speaker renowned for her ability to connect with and engage audiences of all sizes and demographics. Her programs are evidence-based, trauma-informed, interactive, and inclusive.
Nicole has been featured in various media outlets for her violence prevention and empowerment work, including Women’s Health Magazine, Spectrum 1 News, Backpacker Magazine, and News Nation Now. Nicole is committed to ending violence in all of its forms and believes that everyone has the right to walk through the world feeling safe, powerful, and confident.
Chris Moffitt
Facilitator | Collaborative Partner
Chris Moffitt is a third-generation US Army pilot who served eight years on active duty and has since provided continued support to the US government and Department of Defense in various roles including government civilian, defense contractor, military spouse, and small business owner for over 25 years, both CONUS and abroad.
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In 2020, Chris transitioned from a remote career at the Pentagon to establish Agile Vector, a training services and administrative support firm based in Jacksonville, Florida. Agile Vector specializes in matching client needs with expert instructors, delivering customer-focused curriculum on a range of topics from technical courses and certifications to team building, leadership coaching, and physical/mental health and wellness.
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Married with two children, Chris values the flexibility that small business ownership affords his family. When not immersed in entrepreneurship, he enjoys traveling, watching movies, attending live music events, and exploring the outdoors, from the mountains to the beach and everything in between.
Kimberly Henry, LMSW, is a dedicated social worker and influential advocate for interpersonal violence prevention, particularly within the military community. With extensive experience, including roles as a Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Specialist in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force, she has demonstrated a commitment to supporting survivors and implementing evidence-based practices worldwide.
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Her academic background includes a Master's degree in Social Work with a concentration in Military Policy and Programs, providing her with a deep understanding of Department of Defense operations. As CEO of The GOLD Beacon, PLLC, Kimberly focuses on consulting for nonprofit organizations, specializing in strategic planning to promote sustainability and positive change.
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Driven by personal experiences, Kimberly is dedicated to promoting equity, accessibility, and community care. Her goal is to advance interpersonal violence prevention, contributing to a safer and more inclusive world for all.
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Favorite Quote: "Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time." - RBG
Aaron Stone
Facilitator | Collaborative Partner
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Aaron Stone is a retired United States Army Combat Medic, Aaron completed multiple tours in Iraq, Afghanistan, and
Bosnia; none of those experiences affected him as much as the trauma he suffered at age 15 at the
hands of a male teacher who methodically groomed and raped him.
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For almost two decades he became a silent sufferer of depression and PTSD. Thankfully, he finally realized he needed help and, for the first time in his life, he told his story. It was an act of liberation.
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He has spoken to numerous military organizations and universities spreading his message of pain, redemption, and hope. His goal is to be an inspiration for those who may be suffering through the same mental anguish as he once did.
He reassures survivors that sexual assault is never their fault, they are
never alone, and help is here.