2026 She Shines Conference

Hey there, it's me, Sita Lewis, but feel free to call me what my friends love to call me, “Mama Sita”. My journey began after I graduated from Georgetown University. With my dad being the iconic boxing promoter, Butch Lewis, I naturally found my way into the entertainment world. Straight outta college I became a TV Producer, cooking up shows that landed me national awards (like an NAACP Image Award).

I had the privilege of working on fun shows like "BET's Teen Summit," "BET News," and "Heart & Soul," where I also showed up on the BET screen as a beauty and culinary correspondent. But that was just the beginning of my exciting journey! I also cooked up some syndicated hits, like "The Ananda Lewis Show" and "The Bethenny Frankel Show." I even worked on variety shows like "Showtime at The Apollo" and "America's Got Talent." And yes, reality TV too, casting for “Love & Hip-Hop NY."

As fate would have it, I found my way producing some heavy-hitting culinary segments with none other than celeb chef and home expert, Martha Stewart, I mean, wow, that's Snoop's homie, that's major. So not long after, I scored as a finalist on Season 11 of the Food Network's sizzlin' reality series, "Food Network Star!"

But wait, there's more! I love makin' dope recipes, so I took my culinary flair to NYC's inner-city youth, dishing up delicious lessons on healthy cooking. And guess what? One day, I whipped up my own secret, all-natural body cream recipe for my students who had severe eczema! Yep, you heard it right – my secret skin concoction. My students dove in, making hundreds of jars as a class project and experiencing skin transformations along the way. It was nothing short of A MIRACLE – eczema's disappearing act, super-hair growth, and skin that stayed hydrated for 24 hours. Talk about results!

I could NOT keep my formula under wraps for long. With friends and family raving about the miraculous outcomes, I decided to heed their cheers and share these God-given ingredients with the world. Enter stage left: MAMA SITA'S MIRACLE BUTTER CREAM!

But wait, there's more! I know I've got an even bigger mission, and that's to get YOU fired up with the same love I get from my faith in GOD. Like for real, for real, Jesus is my ride or die, and I could not do any of this without HIM. Trust me, I'm rock-solid on my favorite scripture: Romans 8:28 – "ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR THE GOOD, TO THEM THAT LOVE GOD AND ARE CALLED ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE."

Now that's ME – Mama Sita, serving up wins on screen, miracles in a jar, and a whole lotta heart.

Roslyn Young-Daniels is the award-winning CEO and founder of Black Health Matters (BHM), the leading evidence-based chronic disease management and wellness resource for people of color. Her inspiration for the launch of BHM was the passage of the Affordable Care Act and the mission was to improve the health of the medically underserved utilizing a crossplatform approach anchored by the blackhealthmatters.com website.

As a nationally respected health strategist and sought after speaker, with more than 20 years designing and implementing cross-cultural health education programs and initiatives, Young-Daniels has been a tireless advocate for advancing health equity by improving health literacy.

In 2018, she launched the Black Health Matters Summit & Expo series, which is a multiplatform initiative that features live Ted Talk-inspired presentations by a world-class faculty that includes clinicians, patients and caregivers. This free educational program features health screenings, consultations with HCPs and access to community-based health navigators. In 2023 more than 7K registered for the BHM Summits in partnership with 113+ community, regional and national partners. More than 18 types of screenings took place in addition to the distribution of resources on a myriad of chronic diseases that impact underserved communities the most. These numbers are on pacing to double in 2024.

BHM has been the recipient of the prestigious Gold Award from the Alliance for Inclusive & Multicultural Marketing (AAIM), a division of the Association of National Advertisers, and the Medical Marketing & Media (MM&M) Award for creativity and effectiveness in healthcare marketing and communications, to name a few. In addition, Young-Daniels has received the Women of Color in Pharma (WOCIP) Community Impact Award, an Advocacy Award from Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., a Trailblazer Award from The Links, Incorporated, and Mayor Eric Adams declared April 22nd as Black Health Matters Day in New York City.

Most recently, Young-Daniels was inducted as an Honorary Member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, a distinguished honor bestowed upon those who provide exemplary service to the community through their service or profession. She is also a proud member of the Bergen County (NJ) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, and Jack and Jill of America, Inc.’s Bergen-Passaic Chapter Associate Jewels.

Tanya T. Morris, The Mentor Mogul, equips brands, thriving businesses, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations to achieve exponential growth through transformative development and meaningful connections. A lifelong coach and mentor, Tanya T. has dedicated her career to supporting professional women, entrepreneurs, and organizational leaders.

In 2017, she founded Mom Your Business, where she now uses her skills, network, and resources to help Black female founders access education, capital, and community. Since 2021, the organization has helped founders raise over $500,000. She is also the co-founder and General Partner at Phirst Market Ventures, an impact investment fund.

Tanya T. is the author of three books, a Temple University graduate, and holds an MBA in Executive Leadership from Strayer University.

Dr. Deborah D. Roebuck, DNP
The Menopause Whisperer™
Founder & CEO, Going Thru The Change, LLC

Dr. Deborah D. Roebuck, DNP, is the visionary behind Going Thru The Change, LLC, a global health and wellness enterprise dedicated to supporting women throughout the full spectrum of hormonal and life transitions—from pre-menopause through post-menopause and beyond. A Doctor of Nursing Practice, former public health administrator, and international speaker, Dr. Roebuck is a breast cancer survivor, widow, and caregiver who empowers women to navigate life’s midpoints with knowledge, grace, and confidence.

She brings over 40 years of leadership in maternal and community health, including her role as Administrator of Women & Children’s Health with the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Public Health. Today, she offers corporate wellness training, faith-based seminars, and community programming through a culturally responsive, trauma-informed lens. Her work bridges reproductive health and aging with spiritual, emotional, and workplace resilience.

As The Menopause Whisperer™, Dr. Roebuck speaks boldly on topics too often left out of the conversation—like menopause, brain fog, burnout, and invisibility—helping women and systems alike reclaim dignity, advocacy, and wellness.

Katrina N. Edmonds, LMFT-AS has been practicing for almost 25 years. She was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA and has historically serviced the Philadelphia & South Jersey areas. Katrina is also a certified life coach and mentor. Katrina has a private practice called Be Set Free Counseling Ministry & Education Center based in Philadelphia, PA. Katrina is wife to Eric and mother to 9-year-old Joshua. Katrina serves as an admin for her worship ministry and as a personal assistant to Apostle Desmond Wiggins. She has participated in various ministries over the past 24 years and continues to be active in ministry today.
Katrina has a passion for education and is currently a doctoral student pursuing a PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy at Eastern University. Katrina also serves as a group and dyad clinical supervisor for Drexel University’s Counseling and Family Therapy Program, adjunct professor for University of Pennsylvania’s Masters of Counseling Program, and has served as a clinical supervisor for a nonprofit in Philadelphia called The Black Brain Campaign. The Black Brain Campaign provides 12 free therapy sessions to Black families in the city of Philadelphia. Katrina is also a part of a clinical corporate training team for GeorgeTalks LLC.

Katrina was a Doctoral Fellow in AAMFT’s Minority Fellowship Program (MFP) in conjunction with SAMHSA for the 2023-24 and 2024-25 fellowship years. Katrina continues to participate in research projects, leadership development, volunteer work and have access to mentors in the field.

Katrina’s current interests are in supervision and training for MFT students, program creation, supervision, and therapeutic resources for clergy populations and therapeutic resources for special needs populations. She is an Approved Supervisor and is passionate about mentoring the next wave of clinicians. Katrina continues to build the up and coming workforce of mental health professionals by teaching and supervising graduate and doctoral students. Katrina is passionate about supporting and providing educational and therapeutic resources to help support the work of clergy professionals. She has been expanding her career aspirations by contributing to the current body of research, literature and program creation concerning the collaboration between mental health and faith communities. Katrina’s own personal experiences with attempting to access services for her son and other family members have highlighted a potential gap in the literature and the services provided for the special needs community. She intends to eliminate this gap by bringing attention to and training for clinicians to help meet the challenging emotional needs of this community.

Katrina, over the span of her career, has provided numerous workshops and trainings to both professional and lay people on topics such as parenting, genograms, medical family therapy, family systems, and the impact of incarceration on the family. Katrina is devoted to helping people acknowledge and accept their past so they can inform their present and improve their future.

Dr. George James, LMFT, MBA
Dr. George James is the founder and CEO of George Talks, LLC, a communication and consulting company. He is a licensed marriage and family therapist, executive coach, corporate & media consultant, relationship & parenting expert, and mental health ambassador. In addition, he is an Assistant Professor for the Couple and Family Therapy Program at Thomas Jefferson University. He has spoken and consulted with multiple businesses, media production companies, organizations, universities, and places of faith.
Dr. James has been a reoccurring expert guest on radio, television, and online programs including The TODAY Show, CBS Mornings, CNBC, Nickelodeon, NBC News Now, New York Times, CNN, Home & Family Show (Hallmark), Good Day LA, Good Day DC, Good Day Philadelphia, TEDx, iHeartradio, Radio One, and many others. He is also the host of LEAPCAST podcast where he speaks with Leaders, Entertainers, Athletes & Performers. He works extensively with professional athletes, entertainers, adult men and women, executives, couples and young adult men on various issues, including adulting, career, anxiety, work-life balance, love life, leadership, parenting, depression and communication.
Dr. James has done extensive consulting work (including script & project review, facilitation of difficult conversations, content & resource development, advice on mental health, relationships, parenting, family, race/culture and the intersection of these topics) with companies including Paramount Global (Nickelodeon/Nick Jr), Google, NBC Universal, Wavelength Productions and others.

In addition to being a well-sought-out speaker, Dr. James is a noted author of I Give Myself Permission: Take Risks. Be Imperfect. Live Boldly.

Dr. James attended Villanova University as a Presidential Scholar where he met his wife, Candace. They are the proud parents of two children.

Contact:
Connect with Dr. George James:
Website: https://georgetalks.com | https://theleapcast.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/georgetalks/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrGeorgeJamesJr/
LEAPCast Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/333209771885091
Twitter: https://twitter.com/georgetalks
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GeorgeTalksLLC/videos
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/GeorgeTalks

Marquita C. Williams, Ph.D.
Deputy Commissioner of Executive Operations

Marquita C. Williams, Ph.D., serves in the DBHIDS Office of the Commissioner as Deputy Commissioner of Executive Operations. In this role, Dr. Williams leads the teams responsible for Executive Operations, inclusive of Systems Integration, Governmental Relations, and Business Intelligence, ensuring that DBHIDS remains strategically aligned, responsive to Department needs, and deeply collaborative across sectors.

Williams previously served as Interim Commissioner for DBHIDS. In this role, she oversaw a vast network of providers delivering behavioral health services to address mental health challenges, substance misuse, and the impact of social determinants of health, issues that were especially heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic.

With her experience as Interim Commissioner with DBHIDS and Senior Advisor at Community Behavioral Health, Williams has provided continued leadership for the DBHIDS service system including identifying system goals and priorities, creating innovative solutions to address departmental priorities, and provided direct oversight for the programmatic visioning, planning, and operationalizing of the public health vision for Philadelphia’s $1.1 billion Comprehensive Child and Adult Behavioral Health System.
Prior to working with DBHIDS, Williams had over 20 years of experience working in the field of mental health. In various capacities across the system, Williams has been an innovative contributor and guiding force as she rose through the behavioral health ranks from academic researcher and trauma-based clinician to university faculty member, and program and organizational consultant.

Williams holds a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Temple University, an MA in Counseling Psychology, and an Ed.M. with a specialization in Cross-Cultural Psychology from Columbia University in New York City.

Dr. Raeven Maddox (affectionately known as Dr. Rae) is a native Philadelphian whose work reflects a deep commitment to strengthening families and communities through culturally responsive care. As a dedicated systemic family therapist with a strong emphasis on cultural awareness, Dr. Rae brings a comprehensive and inclusive approach to supporting families on their journey toward healing and positive change.

She earned her Doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Drexel University (2025), grounding her practice in both clinical expertise and a strong commitment to cultural competency. Her work centers on understanding the intricate relationship between family dynamics and the diverse cultural backgrounds that shape individuals and their lived experiences. Rooted in systemic thinking, Dr. Maddox recognizes that individuals exist within a complex web of family relationships and broader cultural contexts, and she thoughtfully tailors her interventions to meet the unique needs of each family she serves.
Dr. Rae’s goal is to help families develop effective communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their relationships. She believes that when the underlying causes of challenges are addressed, families can cultivate resilience and build a foundation for lasting positive change. Throughout her years of practice, she has worked with diverse populations, addressing issues such as communication breakdowns, parenting challenges, blended family dynamics, and major life transitions. She is also skilled in guiding families through the complexities of divorce, grief, and loss, offering a supportive and compassionate space for healing and growth.

Currently, Dr. Rae serves as an Outpatient Family Therapist at Creative Services, Inc. and as an Adjunct Professor at La Salle University, where she contributes to the development of future practitioners in the field of behavioral health.

Dr. Rae has been a recurring guest panelist and workshop presenter at the annual She Shines Conference and has presented her work at the Eastern Psychological Association. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and serves on the Board of Directors for She Shines, an organization dedicated to empowering women spiritually, intellectually, and emotionally.

Expanding her impact in the digital space, Dr. Rae recently launched Adullam Grace, a social media-based mental health platform that offers encouragement, inspiration, and accessible conversations centered on emotional well-being and healing. Through her clinical work, teaching, and advocacy, she remains deeply committed to helping individuals and families find strength, restoration, and hope.

Emmy-nominated and award-winning relationship therapist Dr. Argie Allen-Wilson has helped countless families, couples, and individuals to navigate the obstacles that inevitably come with relationships. She has over 30 years of experience as a therapist and held the title of Director of Clinical Training in Couple and Family Therapy at Drexel University. She is the Founder and CEO of F.A.I.T.H Connects LLC and as well as the Co-Founder and Chief Clinical Officer of Connections Matter LLC and their non-profit, Mental Health First Connects Inc. Her featured work as a relationship-expert has gained the attention of various local and national media outlets such as the Today Show, the Mel Robbins Show and the Tamron Hall Show. Her most recent accomplishments include being appointed to Philadelphia Mayor-Elect Cherelle Parker's transition Committee focusing on the Health & Human Services Sub-Committee and serving on the Pennsylvania Governor-Elect Josh Shapiro and Lieutenant Governor-Elect Austin Davis’s Transition Advisory Committee where she served on the Health and Human Services Committee with a sub-committee focus on Health Care. She was honored to serve alongside a diverse and experienced team of leaders, doctors, nurses, healthcare experts and public health advocates with her pastor of the Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, Dr. Alyn E. Waller chairing this committee. Dr. Argie continues her commitment to Mental Health Care for all people with the work she continues to do with PA State Senator Vincent Hughes in the Breaking the Silence & Shedding the Stigma Campaign.

Dr. Argie is also an Amazon bestselling author of the second edition of Courageous Conversations Connect: A Pathway to Reset Your Mindset with Intentional Thoughts from the Inside Out. She is also entering the third season of her podcast, Courageous Conversations Connect with Dr. Argie continues her mission of creating space for
meaningful, healing, and transforming conversations.

Dr. Argie Allen-Wilson has a deep desire to help others rebuild, restrengthen, and renew their relationships. She has her own methodology that she has fine-tuned over the years to guide her clients through difficult yet important conversations to achieve growth and prosperity.

“Healing Families one Relationship at a time and transforming Individuals, Couples, and Corporations one Courageous Conversation at a Time”.

RENINA MCCRAE

Renina has dedicated her life to serving God by serving others, turning her passion and lived experiences into a powerful platform for advocacy and faith-based ministry.
For the past 28 years, she has successfully helped families navigate complex systems to achieve their goals. Today, she serves as a vital voice for vulnerable populations throughout the Southeast Region of Pennsylvania.

Beyond her professional career, Renina is a laser-focused coach and mentor who uses her gift of exhortation to equip, inspire, and encourage both girls and women. By applying a practical, biblical approach to everyday challenges, she guides others toward long-lasting discovery, healing, and restoration.

Known for her transparency, rich testimony, and a wonderfully comical, straight-forward approach to life, Renina builds deep, lifelong bonds and continues to inspire meaningful change wherever she goes.

To connect, book a session, or learn more about Renina’s work, contact her at MaryNMartha.Org.
Hello@aheshinessisterhood.org

Dr. LaToya K. Bridges is a dynamic, multifaceted leader whose mission is to empower individuals and organizations to reach new heights of emotional, mental, and spiritual transformation. As a sought-after licensed therapist, inspirational minister, life coach, and motivational speaker, Dr. LaToya invigorates everyone she encounters—whether in the pulpit, the therapy room, or the boardroom.

With a passion for guiding people through life’s challenges and transitions, Dr. LaToya is the CEO and Chief Psychotherapist of The Life Center, a faith-based private practice founded in 2007. Through this thriving practice, she provides therapeutic services, coaching, and empowerment resources that promote holistic healing for individuals, couples, and families. Her professional reach extends into leadership development and organizational growth through workshops and training for businesses, churches, and community organizations.

Dr. LaToya's voice of wisdom and encouragement resonates far beyond her local community. She is a global minister of the Gospel, traveling extensively to share the Word of God and impart the message of hope and freedom to diverse audiences. Her “Becoming Well” Podcast serves as a platform for deeper conversations on wellness, self-discovery, and mental health, offering a safe space for people to be educated, empowered, and inspired on their wellness journeys.

As a John Maxwell Certified Coach, Trainer, and Speaker, Dr. LaToya blends leadership expertise with her pastoral insights to offer transformative coaching experiences that help individuals and teams realize their full potential. She has been featured on major networks such as AIB Network, Channel 2 News, Atlanta 57, and TCT Network, earning recognition for her profound impact across various fields.

A native of Prentiss, MS, and a proud graduate of Spelman College, Dr. LaToya continued her educational pursuits at Clark Atlanta University, where she received her Master of Social Work Degree. She later completed her Doctorate in Education from Argosy University with research
focusing on pastoral self-care and marital health. Dr. LaToya’s academic achievements and professional experiences reflect a commitment to excellence, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge to serve others.

When she’s not inspiring through her ministry, private practice, or podcast, Dr. LaToya celebrates her role as a mother to Jeronn C. Williams, II, a graduate of Berklee College of Music. Whether coaching leaders, counseling couples, or preaching the transformative power of faith, Dr. LaToya is a woman of faith and virtue, known for her wisdom, resilience, and ability to uplift and challenge others to live victoriously.

“Believe Well, Become Well, Be Well”—this is the mantra that shapes Dr. LaToya’s life, ministry, and vision, guiding everyone she encounters to step boldly into greater dimensions of purpose and fulfillment.

Valerie A. Bundick is a Thanatologist and Grief Counselor. In May 2025, Valerie launched Inevitable to provide death education and grief support services to individuals navigating death and nondeath losses. Valerie has facilitated bereavement cafes for Surviving the Holidays, conducted in-service training on death awareness for teachers, and made presentations at various conferences.

Valerie is a member of the professional organization, Association of Death Education and Counseling. She is a retired social service worker and a former certified schoolteacher with the School District of Philadelphia. Valerie actively serves in the Tau Gamma Delta Sorority, Inc. She gives her time to community service and mentoring others.

Valerie is the Bereavement Ministry Coordinator at the Vine Memorial Baptist Church under the auspices of the Reverend Ralph E. Blanks as Pastor. She teaches a weekly Bible Study class, Sunday School, and serves on the Deaconess Board, Usher Board, Evangelism and Women’s Ministries.
Valerie’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Education from Pennsylvania State University; Master of Arts in Social Gerontology from the University of Pennsylvania; Master of Arts in Teaching from Cheyney University of Pennsylvania; Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies from Lancaster Bible College; and a Master of Science in Thanatology from Marian University.

Valerie is a lifelong learner who has a passion for her ministry to support and encourage individuals in their time of bereavement. She enjoys cooking, travelling, and helping people.

Min. Nicole Tate-Wilborn is an Associate Minister at the Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, in
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where the Reverend Dr. Alyn E. Waller is the Senior Pastor.
Min. Nicole has served as a keynote preacher, speaker, and workshop facilitator for conferences and retreats, in the Philadelphia region, as well as in Tennessee, and North Carolina. At Enon,Min. Nicole participates in the Praise & Worship Ministry, as well as the She’s My Sister and Sisters in Christ ministries.

Min. Nicole is a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania where she currently presides over cases in the Family Division. Prior to taking the bench, Min. Nicole spent 20 years in various roles as an attorney -- an Assistant District Attorney (“ADA”), an Assistant United States Attorney (“AUSA”), the Senior Director for Career Planning at Temple University Beasley School of Law, and as a Partner at a law firm in Center City Philadelphia.

Min. Nicole believes that ministry extends beyond the walls of the church and has a passion for impacting lives through serving the community. Her community involvement has included service on the boards of Philadelphia VIP, Youth Action, and The City School. She has also served as a
volunteer with organizations such as Philadelphia Reads, Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Southeastern Pennsylvania, and Cristo Rey High School. She mentors students in high school, college, and law school as well as attorneys starting out in the profession. She is a frequent speaker at schools and in the community on topics such as civics education, legal education, and career insight. Min. Nicole is a member of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women – Pennsylvania Chapter, the Delaware Valley Chapter of the Links, Incorporated, the Valley Forge Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and several professional organizations.

Min. Nicole has been recognized as a Women of Distinction by the Philadelphia Business Journal and a Justice Juanita Kidd Stout Woman of Distinction by the Barristers Association of Philadelphia and received the Judge Horace Davenport Award from the Montgomery Bar Association.

She is most appreciative of the time she spends with her family.
She is a graduate of Spelman College (Atlanta, Georgia) and Northeastern University School of Law (Boston, Massachusetts).

One of her guiding scriptures is Ephesians 3:20: “Now unto him that is able to do exceeding and abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us"

Dawn Thomas
Wife. Mother. Author. Mentor. Founder.

Dawn Thomas is a wife, mother of six, author, nonprofit founder, mentor, and Sergeant with the Philadelphia Police Department. Born and raised in North Philadelphia, Dawn has spent more than 23 years serving others through law enforcement, community engagement, mentorship, and youth outreach.

Dawn holds an Associate’s degree in Business and Paralegal Studies, a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, and a Master’s degree in Strategic Leadership from Rosemont College. She is also the co-founder of Pathways 2 Empowerment, a nonprofit organization dedicated to
empowering underserved youth, families, and single parents through mentorship, support, and opportunity. Along with her husband, Jarreau Thomas, Dawn is also an author and co-creator of a children’s book series that highlights the love, strength, and sacrifices within first responder families.

After becoming a widow, Dawn learned how to walk through grief while continuing to raise her family, serve her community, and rebuild her life with faith and purpose. Now remarried, she uses her journey to encourage others who are learning how to heal, hope, and love again after loss.

Outside of her work and service, Dawn enjoys beach days with her family, spontaneous road trips, trying new restaurants with her husband, spending time with her close friends known as her “Sister Circle,” and watching true crime shows.

Rev. Tamieka Nicole Gerow is a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, shaped by strong
faith, family, and community. Raised in a pastor’s home, she is continuing a family
legacy of serving God’s people. She is the firstborn of Pastor William B. and Mrs.
Pauline M. Moore, and her brother, Justin, is also an ordained minister. Growing up in a
household devoted to the church helped form her deep respect for God’s calling and
her steady commitment to serve with integrity and humility.

Rev. Gerow earned her Bachelor of Arts from Eastern University in St. Davids,
Pennsylvania, where she studied Youth Ministry and Psychology. Wanting to better
understand Scripture and the heart of God, she completed her Master of Divinity at the
Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University as a Kern
Scholar, graduating in 2008. During that time, she also received a certificate in
Congregational Pastoral Care, strengthening her ability to walk with people through
grief, transition, and life’s difficult seasons. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Public
Theology and Community Engagement at Hampton University, continuing her
commitment to thoughtful, faithful scholarship.

She was licensed to preach the Gospel in 2005 and ordained in 2009. Rev. Gerow
approaches preaching and teaching as sacred responsibility. Her messages are rooted in
Scripture and focused on helping people live out their faith in practical ways. In 2007,
she joined the ministerial team at the historic Bright Hope Baptist Church in
Philadelphia, where she helped develop ministry for children and youth that included
Bible study, outreach, academic encouragement, and cultural awareness. In 2009, she
returned to her home church, Tenth Memorial Baptist Church, to serve alongside her
father and continue strengthening the congregation across generations.
Rev. Gerow has also served beyond her local church. In 1997, she represented the
Philadelphia Leadership Foundation at the President’s Summit for America’s Future.
Her work has taken her internationally, including travel to Seoul, South Korea to
support relationship building between African American and Asian communities. She
later traveled to Barbados and several countries in Africa through the Foreign Mission
Board of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc., helping lead high school students
in service experiences that supported schools, clinics, and community ministries. These
experiences strengthened her belief that faith must be lived out through compassion
and service to others.

A central focus of Rev. Gerow’s work is helping women grow in faith and leadership.
Through preaching, teaching, mentoring, and structured development programs, she
supports women as they navigate changing seasons with clarity and courage. She
emphasizes spiritual growth, emotional health, and practical decision making so that
women can lead well in their homes, churches, and communities.

In addition to her church work, she serves as a leadership coach, holding professional
certifications through the Worldwide Association of Business Coaches and credentials
as a Certified Practitioner for Everything DiSC and Five Behaviors.

Rev. Gerow is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and
the devoted mother of Kennedy Noelle and Keon Nicholas Xavier. Motherhood deeply
shapes how she leads and serves, grounding her in empathy and real life
understanding.

Inspired by Luke 4:18, she often says that her anointing is connected to the needs of
others, and she remains committed to serving faithfully in every season God provides.

Shonta Chambers is a health equity leader and public health executive with more than 27 years of experience advancing community-centered strategies to improve outcomes and reduce disparities for historically underserved populations. As Chief Equity and Community Engagement Officer at the Patient Advocate Foundation, she leads national efforts focused on health equity, program innovation, strategic partnerships, and advocacy.

She also serves as Principal Investigator of the SelfMade Health Network, a CDC-funded initiative addressing tobacco and cancer-related disparities among low-income populations nationwide.

Previously, Chambers held senior leadership roles with the Georgia Department of Public Health, overseeing chronic disease prevention programs, managing budgets exceeding $30 million, securing funding, and building multisector partnerships to address social determinants of health.

A frequent national speaker and published co-author, she has presented at major convenings, including the White House, the National Academies of Sciences, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Politico, and leading health organizations. Chambers serves on national advisory boards and has received recognition from organizations including the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, Rare Disease Diversity Coalition, American Heart Association, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

She holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Talladega College. Chambers is committed to dismantling systemic barriers to health, strengthening community capacity, and embedding equity across the continuum of care.

Rozell "Rose" D. Kenney
Elder Tech Advocate | Al Tech Coach | Speaker | Creative |
Founder, It's All Rozellative
Rozell "Rose" D. Kenney believes one powerful truth: In God's ecosystem, you still matter, at every age and in every season of life.
Rose ought to know. She thought retirement meant she was finally going to sit down somewhere. Well, apparently God had other plans.

Today, Rose is an Elder Tech Advocate, Al Tech Coach, speaker, creative, and founder of It's All Rozellative. As a senior herself, she helps older adults discover that technology and artificial intelligence are not just for younger generations. There is room for us in this rapidly changing digital world too.

Through workshops at senior centers, churches, and community gatherings, Rose has shared her practical, judgment-free approach to technology with more than 100 older adults. Her work goes beyond teaching people which buttons to push or which apps to use. She wants people who may feel technology has passed them by to realize they still belong in the future.

When this lifelong creative discovered Al after retirement, she could have easily decided, "That's not for me." But, honey, she didn't run from it. She leaned in.

Inspired by Jeremiah 29:11, Rose sees her unexpected journey into technology as another chapter in God's plan for her life. She continues her love of storytelling through blogging on Medium and brings decades of experience in publishing, business development, ministry, speaking, and community engagement to everything she does.

Rose is truly honored to be part of the She Shine Conference and its powerful theme, "You Still Matter."
Because if there is one thing her journey has taught her, it is this: In God's ecosystem, you still matter. Your purpose is not finished.
And your next chapter just might be the one you never saw coming.

Benjamin “Ben” Kornegay

Benjamin Kornegay is a visionary educator, entrepreneur, and innovator redefining the intersection of music, technology, and youth development. As the Founder and CEO of SoundLabz Academy, Ben has created a cutting-edge music education platform that moves beyond traditional instruction giving young people the tools to become creators, producers, entrepreneurs, and confident voices in the next generation of the creative economy.

With more than 20 years of experience in music education, Ben combines his background as a multi-instrumentalist and educator with emerging technologies, music production, AI, entrepreneurship, and experiential learning to create transformative experiences for students and communities.

A member of the Recording Academy and 2026 GRAMMY® New Member Class, Ben brings an industry connected perspective to education, helping students understand not only how to make music, but how to navigate and shape the rapidly evolving world of music and technology.

Through SoundLabz, Ben has partnered with schools, nonprofits, community organizations, and innovative institutions to create immersive programs where students write, produce, record, perform, and develop real-world creative skills.

His leadership philosophy is simple: don't prepare young people for the world that exists but rather give them the tools to help create the world that comes next.

Ben is passionate about challenging conventional thinking, building new possibilities, and using innovation to turn ideas into experiences that move people.

Makenzie Clanagan is an award-winning domestic violence advocate, speaker, and
survivor-thriver dedicated to empowering women and girls. Her advocacy began after
experiencing teen dating violence in high school and later intimate partner violence as a young adult while pregnant and following the birth of her child. Through her healing journey, Makenzie turned her experiences into a mission to help others recognize their worth, find their voice, and understand the signs of unhealthy and abusive relationships.
She is the founder of Zee’s Reflection, a domestic violence awareness and education ministry, and has shared her story at churches, schools, youth groups, and women’s conferences. Her advocacy has been featured on CBS News, the television talk show “Hands Off,” and KYW Newsradio. Makenzie is also a recipient of the YWCA Exceptional Woman Award for her commitment to advocacy and community impact.

Grounded in her faith, Makenzie also founded Worth It Wicks, a candle-making business an ministry centered on reminding women of their God-given worth, and Women of Christ (WOC), a faith-based walking community that brings women together through fellowship, wellness, and encouragement.

Makenzie’s message is simple but powerful: Know your worth, find your voice, and never allow what you’ve survived to define who God created you to be.

Outside of her advocacy and ministry work, Makenzie enjoys beach days and spending time with her fiancé, son, and family.

Katrina Long was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and is the fourth of seven siblings. Dance was a gift given to Katrina as God was forming her in her mother's womb. Winning numerous talent shows throughout the city in her youth, Katrina's gift truly manifested itself as the Lord led her to ministry through dance and mime.

As God continues to elevate her, she was led by the spirit of God to establish her very own ministry, Divine Poetry. Through God, Katrina has been called to lead worship and share the gospel through mime.

Katrina Long serves as an active member of Bidwell Presbyterian Church, where her faith and appreciation for life's blessings anchor her personal and professional journey. Married to Michael Long, Katrina takes immense pride in their blended family, which encompasses four children, five grandchildren, and a great-grandchild.

Following her retirement from the Pittsburgh Public School District, Katrina continues to walk faithfully in her purpose, sharing God's word and her personal testimony through the gift of movement he so graciously bestowed upon her.

Dr. Bailey earned her doctoral degree in Public Administration from West Chester University, focusing her research on improving the timely diagnosis of breast cancer in young women and advocating for policy changes to enhance healthcare access for this vulnerable group.
As a patient herself, navigating the complexities of the healthcare system with lupus and carrying a cancer gene, BCL6, Dr. Bailey brings firsthand knowledge to her advocacy work, creating a powerful synergy between her roles as a healthcare professional and a patient.

Dr. Bailey is the President of the Byrd Cancer Education & Advocacy Foundation and volunteers with various organizations such Live Like Lukas, Inc and Pink Lemonade Stand Challenge.
In addition to her advocacy work, Dr. Bailey is a writer and director, known for her documentaries "A Letter to My Sisters: A Breast Cancer Documentary for Young Women" and "A Letter To My Sisters: The Erica Jo Robinson Story."

Dr. Bailey's extensive list of roles also includes being an Advisor for Bexa Equity Alliance, being on Unite for HER Women of Color Task Force, and holding a board membership with the Still Rise Farm Organization and Habituelle Board of Innovators. Through her diverse skill set and unwavering dedication, she continues to make a profound impact in healthcare, advocacy, and storytelling, inspiring hope and positive change for individuals facing adversity.
Dr. Nia Imani Bailey, DPA, M.A.Ed., RT(T)
Creator of "A Letter to My Sisters: A Breast Cancer Documentary for Young Women" & “A Letter To My Sisters: The Erica Jo Robinson Story”
Author of "Love Thy Neighbor"
President of "Agape- Finding Your Purpose, Incorporating Your Faith" Nonprofit Organization
President of “Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation”
Unite4HER, Task Force for Women of Color
Still Rise Farms, Director of Partnerships
Bexa Equity Alliance, Advisor
Pink Lemonade Stand Challenge, Strategic Advisor, Delaware Campaign Director, & Intern Mentor

Website: drniaimanibailey.com
Jeremiah 29:11
"May Heaven Smile Down Upon You and Give You Peace"

Shavonne T. Shipman

Shavonne T. Shipman is a woman who loves family, community, and ministry — and brings that same devotion to everything she does. An insurance industry professional with over 25 years of experience, she has built a career grounded in integrity, collaboration, and service. Born in Pittsburgh to Rev. Robert and Yvonne Shipman, Shavonne developed a heart for service during her father's pastoral ministry, and was deeply shaped by his commitment to social justice — learning early on to pay attention to inequity and to stand alongside those working to dismantle it, particularly in minority communities.

Driven by empathy and a calling to help others, Shavonne is dedicated to uplifting voices, unlocking potential, and making a difference in people's lives. A champion of grassroots efforts that advance equity and justice, she supports organizations doing the work where it matters most.

She resides in Philadelphia, where you can often find her volunteering and connecting with fellow PKs through Envision U Network, the organization she founded in 2019.

Dr. Jeri L. Wright, a prophetic problem solver, humanitarian, and high‐performing, strategic‐thinking professional, is a native of Bethesda, Maryland. Dr. Jeri is committed to achieving excellence, wellness, and wholeness through the intersection of faith and the development of creative programming and initiatives for enhanced cultural competencies and community building in entrepreneurial, non-profit, and for-profit environments. With such skills and competencies as new business development, relationship building, public relations, branding, copyrighting, communication, media consulting, project management, strategic planning, non-profit consulting, staff management, policy development, budget planning and preparation, community organizing, fundraising, event management, editing, journalism, public speaking, creative writing, creative video production, training and development, program development, and personal development coaching, Jeri is whom everyone wants on their team!

Putting those skill sets into action, Jeri is a change agent and consultant for countless businesses and industries, including religious and social justice organizations, health care, restaurant and service, fashion and design, and education. She created and built a multi-million dollar media services department for the largest church in the United Church of Christ denomination (1972-2008), growing the department from a staff of one to a paid
staff of 30 and 300 unpaid ministry partners/volunteers. Not only was Jeri the department director, but she was also editor-in-chief of a newsmagazine she transformed, at the pastor’s request, from a church magazine into an internationally distributed newsmagazine for the socially conscious. Simultaneously, for a five-year stint, Jeri was also the Chief Operations Officer of an OB/GYN medical practice.

Rev. Jeri is the Oikos Institute for Social Impact National Conference Director, connecting faith-inspired leaders and place-based investors/funders to help faith communities and anchor institutions – including historically Black educational institutions (HBEI) - harness the power of their assets for communal transformation and economic mobility.

Founder, executive director, and visionary of The Butterfly Effect (TBE) ministering to the soul of justice-impacted women, their children, and families, Rev. Jeri further engages and seeks to train faith leaders and the Black Church in transforming “prison ministries” to do the restorative justice work of soul care with justice-impacted individuals and families, emphasizing returning citizens to significantly impact their lives and reduce the rate of recidivism.

In May 2014, Rev. Jeri co-founded, with her eldest Goddaughter Nakia J. Green, and began an early morning prayer call that continues to gather weekly. At the onset of the 2020 COVID-19 shutdown, she developed the infrastructure and protocol for, and became the executive producer of the virtual Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference (SDPC) International Daily Service of Prayer and Song, engaging all in need of a “prayerdemic for the COVID-19 pandemic,” which was streamed live across all social media platforms for 18 months. Additionally, Rev. Jeri planned, orchestrated, and produced the annual Proctor Conference in the virtual setting. She was also challenged to create, plan, orchestrate, and produce the new HBCU-Style Proctor Conference for Generation Z and millennials.

Jeri also took Dr. Quincy James Rhinehart’s creation and foundation of the Murray-Rustin Social Justice Institute (MRSJI) of the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference, and spearheaded innovative and historical firsts. In June 2020, SDPC launched the inaugural Proctor PRIDE Prayerdemic, primed by the request of Rev. Dr. Michael Elam for a week of PRIDE prayer warriors, psalmists, and musicians. Out of this significant move came the commitment of a team of LGBTQIA+ members dedicated to the work of MRSJI.

Dr. Jeri L. Wright is the founder and CEO of wRighting MemoriesSM A Publishing Company, encouraging potential authors to disallow others’ interpretations by telling their own stories. wRighting MemoriesSM encompasses writing, editing, producing, and publishing all genres of works, including obituaries, audio/visual products, video tributes, magazines, greeting cards, and books, including Jeri’s own Preacher’s Daughter: A Journey Through the Pit ... In the Presence of God.

Dr. Jeri founded the Chicago Chapter of the National Action Network. She is the recipient of a Trumpet Award, presented by Xernona Clayton, for Religious Commitment and her work as editor-in-chief and publisher of the Trumpet Newsmagazine: A lifestyle magazine for the socially conscious.

Additionally, Jeri received the Payne Research Scholarship, awarded for the best overall thesis, exceeding the target number of primary and secondary resources for each perspective, “The Cost of Black Liberation Theology: An African-Centered Lens,” and Master of Divinity at Payne Theological Seminary in 2020.

An April 2023 inductee into the Martin Luther King, Jr. Board of Preachers at Morehouse College, in June 2023, Rev. Jeri was blessed with a surprise honor by Rev. Dr. Ambassador Suzan Johnson Cook and Women On the Worldstage (WOW), with the Unsung She-roe Award.

In May 2025, Jeri earned her Doctor of Ministry degree in Human Centered Design with a focus on Soul Care for the Justice-Impacted, a training tool for faith leaders at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia. Her doctoral project, We Don’t Need Another Sermon! Transforming the Black Church Prison Ministry into Restorative Human-Centered Justice Ministry reflects her commitment to walking with the justice-impacted individuals and communities, as Jesus did.

Rev. Dr. Jeri L. Wright is a member of the Board of Directors for Culture Solutions In Action and also a member of the Board of Directors for the Philadelphia Enrichment Cafe. She is the proud mother of Jeremiah A. “JA” Wright-Haynes.