CEO of Epic Art Universe, a design and creative agency. Born and raised in Baltimore, MD, Dion has not let the negative stereotypes and stigmas of being a black man growing up in
One of Baltimore’s toughest projects, the Lexington Terrace projects, stops him from being a change agent for the next generation. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in graphic design from Salisbury University, he graduated and couldn’t find a job. This down time helped him gain momentum in building his first business, a clothing
brand called 'Loyalty Is Love'. As a result of his first business, Dion learned many lessons about the business world firsthand. He was later inspired to establish a creative agency that houses a number of brands that focus on providing equal opportunities for youth across the state of Maryland.

Nnamdi Olebara is a recent graduate of Howard University, where he earned a degree in Computer Information Systems, distinguishing himself as a forward-thinking and multifaceted
technology professional. With a strong foundation in data visualization and graphic design, Nnamdi creates innovative and impactful representations of complex data, turning insights into visually compelling narratives that drive informed decision-making. In addition to his technical prowess, Nnamdi is the founder of Nam Branding, a dynamic IT consulting firm. Under his leadership, Nam Branding delivers tailored, technology-driven solutions designed to empower businesses, streamline operations, and enhance their market presence. This entrepreneurial initiative reflects Nnamdi’s commitment to leveraging technology as a catalyst for strategic growth and transformation.

Shaneireė “Shay” Dames Founder & CEO of The Dames Group LLC, a woman-owned learning & development consulting house. With over 20 years of experience, I am a detail-oriented, innovative facilitator, executive coach, and process improvement subject matter expert. She partners with clients to resolve gaps in retention & engagement, business continuity, equity and inclusion, and process management by delivering a personalized innovative approach to learning, critical skills development, and coaching. With a proven track record in Big 4 Accounting, Healthcare, Hospitality, and Non-Profit industries, The Dames Group LLC offers innovative strategic planning in onboarding/offboarding, , manager training & development, and coaching. 

Tameka Henson is a distinguished youth entrepreneurship coach and businesswoman with over twenty years of experience in mentoring and empowering students across various roles. Her entrepreneurial journey reflects a diverse range of ventures, including successfully owning and operating a hair studio, launching an online children’s clothing boutique, and consistently pursuing innovative avenues to bring her visions to life. In 2020, Tameka founded Entrepreneurial Kidz, a business that encapsulates her
passion as a mother, mentor, and entrepreneur. Since its inception, Entrepreneurial Kidz has become a platform where she mentors and develops young entrepreneurs, equipping them with the skills and confidence to pursue their own business ambitions. This initiative embodies Tameka’s belief that success has no age limits. 

Mac James is a professional that lives by his companies motto of “Don’t Settle for Mediocrity, Strive for Excellence!” He has spent majority of his life proving naysayers wrong in athletics, education, and business. His desire to prove his worth is also a characteristic that makes him unique in the fitness market.  His background in education drives him to want to teach every individual he encounters something to better themselves’. His passion for fitness & entrepreneurship helped him to identify his true calling of working with individuals in a fitness and sports setting.

Dr. BJ Paige is a nationally recognized workforce development motivational speaker, specializing in empowering postsecondary youth. With a
diverse skill set as a motivational Influencer, Master Workshop facilitator, author, and Career Coach, he has earned numerous accolades for his dedication to serving at-risk and underserved youth and young adults. Based in Washington, DC Metropolitan area, BJ has been honored with the Inaugural Social Justice Trailblazer Award from the Washington Commanders and G-Unity Foundation, the
DMV 48 Men of Power award, and the Greater Washington Community Foundation Emerging Leadership Award. 

Mashia Grazes, a Buffalo, NY native, is a master cosmetologist, salon entrepreneur, and industry leader with 19 years of experience transforming hair care and entrepreneurship. From backstage at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week to magazine features and certifications with top brands like Ashtae, Influence, and Paul Mitchell, her expertise blends artistry with science. bAs a Hair Growth Specialist and Certified Hair Coach, Mashia prioritizes hair health over hype at her private salon, Life In My Hair. She also leads The Good Hair Tribe, a tech-driven community dedicated to hair care literacy and empowerment. 

Her journey proves that skill + passion + purpose = impact-driven success. 

Jason Boursiquot is a motivational speaker, podcaster, and youth advocate who empowers the next generation through positive words and actions in the DMV. Jason believes in being who he needed when he was younger and is nothing without God, family, and a support system. Leading the next generation through mentoring, programming, and workshops allows teenagers to engage and learn life skills such as mental health, public speaking, social advocacy, money management, creative writing, photography, film, and podcasting. Teens are allowed to have conversations about community, school and more.. Back to School Drives, Dave and Busters, and youth summit events, allow youth to have fun and earn community service hours for graduation.