“We all have the need to feel special, this need can bring out the best in us yet the worst in us. This need created The Velvet Rope”. This quote is one that I live by every day. It symbolizes being self-aware but conscious and empathetic to the struggles we all face as humans. As a native Washingtonian but raised in Prince George’s County, I take pride in who I am and the experiences that have shaped me. After graduating from The University of Maryland Eastern Shore in 2015, I soon got into HIV prevention and education. My passion behind this work simply stemmed from the desire to be a voice and face for those in the community who felt they didn’t have one of their own. As a Health Impact Specialist for DC Health, I was able to connect with many community-based organizations in the area to provide holistic sexual health services and education, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community. In 2020, I moved to Atlanta, GA to further my career in Public Health. There I worked with a faith-based organization providing HIV prevention and educational services to an even more specific demographic of people, homeless and underpaid. Currently back in my hometown, I work as an EIS Patient Navigator for Washington Health Institute. In my spare time, I enjoy music, attending concerts, car karaoke, binge watching Law and Order SVU and traveling. As a long time member of the DMV based organization, Models INC, I enjoy modeling, dancing and coaching a new generation of fearless and fierce young men and women.
Speaker: pastor stephawn lindsay
Pastor Stephawn Lindsay is also known by his stage name, “Showtime,” given to him during his tenure serving in a gogo band who touched stages such as constitution hall, stadium armory, showplace arena, and several colleges. Months after encountering Christ at the age...
Speaker: Candace Vanderwater, MS Ed, MNA, LMFT
As Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Candace Vanderwater has responsibility for strategic growth and stability of the organization. She provides the leadership, management, and vision necessary to ensure that the organization has the proper...
ENTERTAINMENT: CHYLER SMITH
My name is Chyler Smith and I'm an 18 year old graduate from Duval High. I've been doing things that involve public speaking for most of my life and it's something I love to do! I also enjoy spending time helping out within my community and working with the elderly. I...
Entertainment: Chiagoziem “CJ” Chukwuocha
Chiagoziem "CJ" Chukwuocha is a Senior student at DuVal High School.A proud African-American nearing graduation, "CJ" enjoys dancing, music, singing and songwriting.
Speaker: Warren E. Leggett, Jr. Ph.D., MS, MAC
Dr. Leggett received his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from North Carolina A&T State University and received his Master’s of Science Degree in Counseling from the University of the District of Columbia. He earned his Doctoral degree from Capella...
Speaker: Chardelle Moore
Chardelle Moore is a multidisciplinary artist, speaker, tv personality, writer, producer, director, poet, and visionary. She is the founder and CEO of the award-winning multimedia communications and production company Motivational Moore. With an emphasis on elevating...
Speaker: Erica Moltz, MA, NCC
For over 30 years, as part of Adoptions Together/FamilyWorks Together, Erica Moltz, MA, NCC has supported families to achieve permanency, build the bonds of attachment and help their children heal from trauma As a Clinical Trainer, she also facilitates workshops for...
Entertainment: Patrice LIVE
PatriceLIVE is a singer, songwriter, entrepreneur, and philanthropist from the Washington, DC/ metropolitan area. A rising superstar and budding icon, PatriceLIVE has set the bar for new artists by combining the soul of R&B music, the appeal of pop music, and the...
Entertainment: Bowie Models Inc.
Bowie State Models Inc. is a college-based modeling organization that specializes in runway, dance and entertainment model performance. We stand tor Inclusion, Networking, and Culture. We embrace the development of collegiate models of all ages and gender. This...
Entertainment: Dem Raider Boyz Step Squad
Dem Raider Boyz Step Squad was founded in 2001 as the first successful All-Male step team at Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Greenbelt, Maryland. For the past 22 years they have remained the premier step team in the DMV, sustained 9 undefeated seasons and earned 4...