Meet Our Speakers
Inspirational Leaders Sharing Their Journey and Wisdom.
Dr. Cora B. Jakes
Dr. Cora Jakes, associate pastor at The Potter’s House Church of Dallas, is a globally recognized prayer warrior, bestselling author, and passionate teacher who empowers people to fight for their dreams with faith, hope, and prayer.
Dr. Sarita Lyons
Dr. Sarita Lyons, Director of Discipleship and Women’s Ministry at Epiphany Fellowship Church, is a renowned speaker, bible teacher, and psychotherapist dedicated to the emotional and spiritual health of the Church, and the intersections of faith, mental health, and justice.
Melissa Herd
On April 22, 2024, Melissa Herd was appointed as the Regional Director of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Region 3, overseeing health initiatives across five states and six federally recognized tribes. Based in Philadelphia, she leads regional efforts in intergovernmental collaborations and equity in federal program outreach, leveraging her extensive background from her roles in CMS and the American Red Cross.
Dr. Devona Williams
Dr. Devona Williams is the founder and CEO of Goeins-Williams Associates, Inc., a performance management consulting firm dedicated to enhancing organizational productivity. With a Ph.D. in Urban Affairs & Public Policy, her expertise spans strategic planning, organizational development, and diversity training. A former DuPont executive and author of several publications, Dr. Williams is a respected keynote speaker and has been honored with significant awards from the University of Delaware.
Dr. Deborah Roebuck, RN, DNP
Dr. Deborah Roebuck is a dedicated coach for menopausal women, employing a holistic mind, body, and spirit approach. With a lifelong passion for women’s and children’s health, she has spent over forty years as a nurse clinical specialist and public health administrator. Despite retiring, Dr. Roebuck continues her research focused on the health promotion lifestyle of childbearing women. Her personal challenges—including widowhood, a police shooting, and a breast cancer diagnosis—have deepened her understanding of the unique health issues faced by women from their forties to their seventies, particularly during the transitional phases of peri-menopause, menopause, and post-menopause. Driven by a commitment to enhance the quality of life for these women, she strives to ensure they feel supported, confident, and visible during their menopausal journey.
TW Suggs
T.W. Suggs, an author, storyteller, and host of "The TOMMIE! Talk Show" on P3 Christian Radio, blends his educational background in Human Services, Business Management, and Organizational Development with his passions for storytelling and music to inspire and heal. Raised in Philadelphia, his works, including the book "Running Through the Rain" and the album "God’s Love, My Stories," address profound themes like forgiveness and trauma. His talk show furthers his mission by fostering community through candid conversations.
Dr. Argie Allen-Wilson
With over 20 years’ experience as a Relationship Therapist Dr. Argie Allen-Wilson is the former Director of Clinical Training at Drexel University’s Couple & Family Therapy Department and the founder and CEO of her private practice F.A.I.T.H. Inc. (Family and Individual Therapeutic Healing). Also, Dr. Allen-Wilson is the Co-founder & CEO of Connections Matter LLC along with her husband. She is the author of her first book Courageous Conversations Connect (A Pathway To Reset Your Mindset With Intentional Thoughts From The Inside Out). Prior to her appointment as Director of Clinical Training at Drexel University, she received her Doctor of Philosophy degree in Couple & Family Therapy in 2009 from Drexel University and her Master of Family Therapy degree in Marriage & Family Therapy from Drexel University (formally Hahnemann University) in 1998.
Dana and Tiffany Sorey
Dana Sorey, an acclaimed gospel music producer and writer, along with his wife Tiffany, a pharmacist, have earned two Dove Awards and three ASCAP Songwriter Awards. His productions have topped Gospel Billboard charts and he won the Stellar Award for Producer of the Year in 2018. Leading C Bazz Entertainment and C Blake Studios, Dana focuses on both record and commercial production, and educates upcoming artists through his "StayHomeMoneyMovement" forum. His notable work includes producing for top gospel artists and stage coaching for Christian performers, supported by Tiffany’s partnership.
Dr. Patricia White
Dr. Patricia A. White, honored with an Honorary Doctorate in Strategic Leadership from Wayland Baptist Theological Seminary, has significantly contributed to church ministries and Baptist conventions in Pennsylvania and New York. Her extensive service includes leadership roles in education and youth programs, and she remains an active participant in church and community events.
Lynne Alston
Lynne Alston, entrepreneur and International Bestselling Author of "A HUG Saved My Life," is a cancer survivor and advocate, community ambassador, and life and wellness coach. Founder and CEO of HUGS Around America Foundation, she has built successful businesses in fashion, beauty, consulting, hospitality, and healthcare, focusing on consciousness, community, and empowerment. Diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer in 2014, Lynne is dedicated to advocating for cancer awareness, support, and the eradication of stigmas associated with clinical trials.
Kamryn Davis
A West Chester University graduate with a degree in Political Science, is a dedicated youth advocate and PA Youth Vote’s Lead Organizer, empowering young people in civic engagement and voting. A West Philadelphia native and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority member, Kamryn also creates popular social media content, including the TikTok series "Black History Facts You’ll Never Learn in School," amassing over 100,000 followers on TikTok and 15,000 on Instagram.
Shante Gilmore
Shante’, with 17 years in public service, is the Baltimore City Commissioner for the Maryland Healthcare Commission and Director of Health Equity Initiatives at the Patient Advocate Foundation. Focused on addressing social determinants of health, she has been instrumental in developing strategic initiatives and collaborative health networks to improve community health outcomes and reduce disparities.
Jennifer Harris
Jennifer Harris, a Marriage and Family Therapist and motivational speaker, thrives on guiding others through life’s challenges. As the founder of Chozen Counselors Inc., a 501(C)(3) non-profit, she empowers individuals and families with counseling, workshops, and events. A licensed minister and certified Christian counselor, Jennifer specializes in engaging communities through meaningful discussions and serves at-risk youth and families, motivating them to reach their potential while continually pursuing her own goals.
Dale Sharpe-Lee
Dale Sharpe-Lee, with over 20 years dedicated to spiritual service and 43 years at Wells Fargo Bank as VP in Human Resources, also leads DFG Associates and the nonprofit Teaching to Change Lives, Inc. She founded Women of Wellness (WOW), featured in the "Informer" magazine, and is married to Pastor Paul Lee.
Michael Pleasant
Michael W. Pleasant, a lifelong Philadelphian, has dedicated over 30 years to mentoring youth and serving in the media. With roles in organizations like Teen Haven and the Community College of Philadelphia, and contributions to major corporations, he has significantly impacted his community. Michael also produces content for radio and TV, including Comcast and WHYY, embodying his mantra to use one's gifts to uplift others.
Marquita Robinson Garcia
Marquita Robinson Garcia, a former cosmetic chemist who revolutionized her career to become the entrepreneur behind Philadelphia’s first all-natural skincare brand, DVINITI Skin Care. Known as Philly's 'Mad Scientist Gone Good,' Marquita leverages her extensive experience from working with multinational beauty brands like Chanel®, NARS®, and bareMinerals®. In 2018, she founded DVINITI to offer personalized, sustainable skincare solutions. Her guide, 'The Sustainable Beauty,' empowers consumers to become advocates for their skin health, combining her rich industry knowledge with a passion for tailored beauty care.
Taria Lynn
A professional makeup artist from Philadelphia, has enhanced natural beauty at events from FOX29 fashion segments to the American Nurses Credential Center Conference. Having worked with notable figures like Grammy winner LeAndria Johnson and pastor Cora Jakes Coleman, Taria recently expanded her expertise by graduating from The Beauty Institute in Skin Care & Esthetics. She rebranded her business to "TLC Esthetics," offering both makeup and skincare services under the ethos of "Treatment, Love, and Care." Taria aspires to inspire and uplift globally as a renowned makeup artist and esthetician.
Apostle Gilbert and Debi Coleman
Dr. Gilbert Coleman, Jr. serves as the Overseer of Freedom Christian Bible Fellowship and Presiding Bishop of Freedom Worldwide Covenant Ministries in Philadelphia. Transitioning from three decades of pastoring, he now empowers global church leaders, drawing from his extensive background as an author, vocalist, and songwriter. Alongside him, his wife, Lady Debi Coleman, affectionately known as "Mom Deb," hosts "Tea Time," a monthly gathering that fosters dialogue among women, blending faith, wisdom, and humor. Together, they navigate family life and ministry, deeply committed to uplifting and empowering their community.
Lavonne Nichols
Lavonne Nichols is a dynamic leader in Philadelphia, dedicated to fostering empowerment through arts, media, advocacy, and education. With over two decades of experience, she has been instrumental in driving positive change across the tristate area. As a former VP at NeXT Philadelphia and a current member of several advisory boards, Lavonne has been recognized by numerous organizations for her leadership and entrepreneurial spirit. Through her company, Say Something Good LLC, she supports trauma survivors and educational initiatives, using her talents as an award-winning performer and author to inspire and promote social justice and healing.
Ivana Thompson
A recent Virginia Commonwealth University graduate with a Bachelor's in Fine Arts, is an active Philadelphia-based actor. She performed in the Philadelphia premiere of "Father Comes Home from the Wars" at Quintessence Theatre and participated in the Philly Fringe Festival. Originally from Delaware, Ivana is also involved with Epiphany Fellowship in Philadelphia.