“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: Dr. Mark A. Harrison, LCSW
Mark received my undergraduate degree from Morgan State University with a Bachelor of Science in Communications and a master’s degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix and his EdD in Urban Leadership Development from Morgan State...
Speaker: Natasha Paris St.Amand
Let me introduce myself, my name is Natasha Paris St.Amand. I am a passionate Mental Health Therapist Expert and an Empowerment Strategist. I am a native of Brooklyn, NY, born to Haitian parents. As a trained Licensed Clinical Therapist, there is a strong...
Speaker: Dr. Masica Jordan-Alston
Dr. Jordan Alston graduated from the University of Maryland’s Bowie State University in 2003 with a B.S. in Sociology and 2005 with a M.A. in counseling psychology. After that, she completed a Doctorate of Education in counseling/psychology in 2010. Dr. Jordan Alston...
Speaker: Chris Bolden
I’m Chris Bolden, an entrepreneur from Washington DC. After leaving the military and working several years for WMATA as a track repairer. I started my business after my younger brothers untimely death in December 2016. Which started off with just family and friends in...
Speaker: Tiffiney Hall
Tiffiney L. Hall stands as a recognized figure acknowledged by the United States Department of Justice, Office of Victims of Crime, for her relentless dedication to supporting victims and survivors as well as raising awareness about domestic violence. Tiffiney...
Speaker: Dr. Simone Blanchard
Dr. SIMONE BLANCHARD is currently the CEO for Innerlight Network Mental Health Charities located in the metropolitan Washington DC area. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and currently holds her LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) in Maryland and...
Speaker: Sabrina Wiggins
Sabrina Wiggins is a dynamic advocate for youth empowerment and community service, serving as the CEO of Little Aiden Press. With a passion for nurturing young minds and fostering positive change, Sabrina co-founded the award-winning organization Hip Hop Education,...
Speaker: Brandon Johnson
Brandon J. Johnson, M.H.S., MCHES is a tireless advocate for positive mental health and suicide prevention services for youth and adults across the country. Brandon earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from Morgan State University in 2008 and a Master of Health...
Speaker: Mark Sturdivant
Mr. Sturdivant believes that growth is the evolution of changing your mindset on a daily basis. Mr. Sturdivant began his academic career by earning his high school diploma from Springbrook High School in Silver Spring, Maryland and earned full athletic scholarship to...
Speaker: Marsha Evans, LPC
Marsha Evans, founder of Willow Tree Counseling and Educational Center, LLC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor renowned for her holistic approach to mental health. With seventeen years of experience, she expertly guides women, children, and families through life's...