Mia Able
Newton, MA
Franchise Stage: Explorer – open to all franchising opportunities and eager to learn
With 15 years of experience in talent acquisition, Mia Able has built a career on connecting great people with great opportunities. She has worked with well-known companies like McKinsey & Company and Etsy, leading recruitment strategies for a wide range of roles, such as communications, marketing, legal, finance, and more.
Known for her approachable style and collaborative mindset, Mia blends strong operational know-how with a genuine passion for creating a positive experience for both candidates and hiring teams. At McKinsey, she partnered closely with global colleagues to lead fair, unbiased hiring decision meetings and close offers. At Etsy, she balanced a high-volume hiring load with process improvements that made recruiting more efficient and inclusive. Mia’s skills go beyond the office. As a mother to three busy children, she successfully coordinates the schedules of a household of five, manages a variety of projects, and volunteers her time. Whether building relationships, keeping complex projects on track or shuttling children around, Mia brings organization, adaptability, and warmth to every challenge.
LinkedIn profile
Benedict Amoo
Jersey City, NJ | Investment Lead, Baylis Emerging Markets
Franchise Stage: Explorer – open to all franchising opportunities and eager to learn
Benedict Amoo is currently an Investment Lead at Baylis Emerging Markets, a private equity investment firm focused on digital infrastructure. Prior to Baylis, Benedict worked for over five years at Dorilton Capital, a private investment firm focused on lower middle market investments in the United States.
Benedict began his career in the Equity Research department of Morgan Stanley where he spent almost seven years and rose to the position of Vice President. Benedict holds a degree in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.
Ranette Bryant
Chesapeake, VA
U.S. Veteran
Franchise Stage: New Owner – early-stage franchisee actively seeking mentorship & support
Ranette Bryant has 18 years of professional experience in administrative, security, and operations roles. She has worked as a supervisor and manager, assisting departments, single individuals, or multiple individuals across various departments. She aims to bring the knowledge and insight gained through these diverse experiences to the cohort.
Ranette offers extensive knowledge, experience, and professionalism developed through military service. She has had the opportunity to learn advanced database entries, advanced information and physical/intel security, and human resource administration, including fundamentals in documentation processing, training, and selecting individuals for job placement and advancement. Through her work, she has honed strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work with speed and accuracy. In both past and current positions, Ranette has gained experience in research, collection and collation of technical studies, and analytical problem-solving. She is prepared to bring the same entrepreneurial spirit and value-added vision to the team.
Catrina Burgess
Silver Spring, MD | Franchise Owner, AlexWright LLC
Franchise Stage: New Owner – early-stage franchisee actively seeking mentorship & support
Catrina Burgess is a seasoned consultant with 20+ years of experience delivering strategic business and IT solutions. She has worked across industries including federal government, financial services, healthcare, and nonprofit, partnering with senior executives to address complex organizational challenges. Catrina has successfully led high-profile initiatives that enhanced organizational visibility, improved operational performance, and generated significant client growth. Recognized for her innovative thinking and strategic insight, Catrina develops and implements solutions that produce measurable and sustainable results. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Howard University and her Master of Science in Project Management from the George Washington University School of Business. Her academic achievements have expanded her understanding of diversity and culture while refining the business acumen that underpins her professional success.
In early 2025, Catrina realized her long-term goal of franchise ownership, launching a Kitchen Studio concept that reflects her passion for food, community, and inclusivity. This dynamic, welcoming space brings people of all ages together to share experiences, build connections, and explore creativity in a fun, social setting. Through her franchise, she continues her mission of inspiring learning, fostering relationships, and strengthening communities—all through the universal language of food.
LinkedIn profile
Quiana Cloud
Atlanta, GA | Founder (exit), Barazzo
Franchise Stage: Seeker – Zeroing in, researching specific brands and industries
Quiana Cloud is a marketing and business strategist with 15+ years of experience across corporate consulting, high-growth startups, and entrepreneurship. She has led brand strategy, digital marketing, and experiential activations for Fortune 500 companies, global brands, and emerging ventures. Her corporate work spans multi-million-dollar campaigns, data-driven marketing systems, and high-performing team leadership. Additionally, Quiana founded, launched and scaled ventures in experiential marketing and B2B gifting and brand activations.
An early adopter of AI-powered marketing, Quiana integrates generative AI, predictive analytics, and automation to optimize campaigns and business, streamline workflows, and increase revenue. She is implementing AI apps, building data-driven go-to-market strategies, and implementing scalable tech systems that enhance customer engagement and market reach. Blending corporate discipline, startup agility, and tech innovation, Quiana delivers future-ready strategies that drive growth, impact, and long-term brand equity. She’s excited to expand her knowledge in areas like business acquisition, commercial real estate investment, business law, licensing, franchising, and more.
Julian Dickenson
Miami, FL | Founder, Quiet Bay Group
Franchise Stage: Seeker – Zeroing in, researching specific brands and industries
Julian Dickenson is an entrepreneur and investor with experience spanning private equity, search funds, and small business operations. He is the Founder of Quiet Bay, launched in 2025 to acquire and grow small to mid-sized businesses, providing owners with a fast, structured, and personalized exit.
Previously, Julian was Vice President at Pacific Lake Partners, a private equity firm dedicated to backing search fund entrepreneurs, where he partnered with operators to source, evaluate, and grow acquisitions. He began his career as a credentialed actuary and later as an associate at a hedge fund.
Guided by values of integrity, collaboration, grit, and consistency, Julian brings expertise in financial modeling, business underwriting, strategic growth planning, and negotiation, with a disciplined focus on value creation. A Stanford Graduate School of Business alumnus and former Division I soccer player at the University of Pittsburgh, he blends analytical rigor with a competitive, growth-oriented mindset.
LinkedIn profile
Alysha Dozier
Louisville, KY | Account Executive, Uberall, Inc.
Franchise Stage: Seeker – Zeroing in, researching specific brands and industries
Alysha Dozier holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business from the University of Kentucky and an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University. She brings over 10 years of experience in software sales, with the past five years focused specifically on supporting franchises and multilocation businesses. Through this work, Alysha has developed a strong understanding of the unique needs and growth strategies of franchise operations.
In addition to her corporate experience, Alysha is an active real estate investor, managing both short-term and long-term rental properties. This hands-on involvement has strengthened her skills in business management, customer relations, and financial planning.
Alysha is now excited to join the FAI program and is looking forward to leveraging its resources, mentorship, and network to launch her journey into franchise ownership. With a strong foundation in sales, operations, and entrepreneurship, Alysha is well-positioned to succeed in the franchise space.
LinkedIn profile
Alaa El-Bashir
Rochester, MN
Franchise Stage: Explorer – open to all franchising opportunities and eager to learn
Alaa El-Bashir is a seasoned public health and international development professional with fifteen years of experience working across Africa and the Middle East for the U.S. Government, the United Nations, and NGOs. She has managed complex programs and created innovative solutions to challenging problems. Alaa has managed multimillion-dollar humanitarian and health portfolios, led diverse teams, and delivered impactful programs in health, nutrition and food security, as well as emergency response.
Passionate about financial independence and building generational wealth, Alaa is a novice entrepreneur, having discovered her love for business after successfully flipping her first home three years ago. She is excited to grow her entrepreneurial spirit, learn from IFA’s network and get matched with mentors who will help guide her in her franchise journey.
Based in Minnesota, Alaa enjoys traveling, learning languages, gardening, and playing tennis. She is committed to community service and actively volunteers in her community, mentoring first-generation college applicants through the admissions process. Alaa cares about food justice and volunteers at local community gardens that donates their produce to food banks.
Sylvester Everhart
Decatur, GA | Director, Market Revenue Strategy, Marriott International
Franchise Stage: Seeker – Zeroing in, researching specific brands and industries
Sylvester Everhart is a second-generation hotelier with over a decade of experience driving revenue strategy across some of the world’s most recognized hospitality brands, including Marriott, Starwood, and IHG. A graduate of Georgia State University with a degree in Hospitality Administration, Sylvester began his career through a competitive internship with Starwood Hotels & Resorts, which launched him into revenue management roles of increasing responsibility.
Passionate about expanding ownership access for underrepresented groups, Sylvester has invested heavily in his professional growth, attending industry conferences, building a diverse network, and acquiring several professional certifications from Emory and Cornell Universities. In 2025, he achieved a long-standing personal goal becoming a limited equity partner in his first hotel franchise investment.
Sylvester’s career and entrepreneurial journey are guided by a commitment to operational excellence, strategic growth, and creating pathways for the next generation of owners. His vision is to build a portfolio of hospitality assets that deliver both financial returns and lasting community impact.
LinkedIn profile
Kendrick Faison
Odenton, MD | President, SpatialGIS/KOLF Real Estate Services
Franchise Stage: Seeker – Zeroing in, researching specific brands and industries
Kendrick Faison, President of SpatialGIS and KOLF Real Estate, is a dynamic leader committed to advancing franchise business growth. At SpatialGIS, Kendrick spearheads innovation in geospatial intelligence, integrating cutting-edge geographic information systems (GIS) and data management solutions that place the company at the forefront of the industry. His strategic vision and commitment to excellence drive the company’s success in leveraging technology for impactful solutions. Leading KOLF Real Estate, Kendrick applies his extensive knowledge of real estate and market trends to develop a strong franchise business model.
His focus on the Franchise Ascension Initiative 2025 reflects his ambition to build scalable and robust franchises that meet evolving market demands and consumer needs. Kendrick’s leadership is characterized by strategic planning and the fostering of strong partnerships, essential for sustainable franchise growth. By blending his technological expertise with business acumen, Kendrick navigates the complexities of franchise development, ensuring the creation of a resilient and expansive franchise network. His forward-thinking approach and dedication to excellence position him as a pivotal figure in both geospatial technology and real estate, poised to drive significant advancements in franchise business models.
LinkedIn profile
Gibran Grant
Brooklyn, NY Fundraising & Development Professional
Franchise Stage: Explorer – open to all franchising opportunities and eager to learn
Gibran Grant is a Brooklyn native and dedicated development professional with 5+ years of experience securing philanthropic support through strategic fundraising, donor engagement, and development-focused consulting. He is skilled in building collaborative relationships and has a demonstrated history of helping clients achieve and surpass their goals.
Gibran is deeply committed to advancing philanthropy, particularly as it relates to social advocacy and community development.
LinkedIn profile
Aaron Hall
Huntsville, AL | Owner, KFG North Alabama
U.S. Veteran
Franchise Stage: New Owner – early-stage franchisee actively seeking mentorship & support
Aaron Hall is a retired Army Major with 20 years of service. Aaron attended the University of South Alabama for his undergraduate business studies and received his gradate business degree from Grand Canyon University.
Aaron brings experience in accounting and management from his time working for the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS). Aaron has owned and managed his own national residential rental property portfolio.
Demarco Harris
Louisville, KY | Community Engagement Manager, Home of the Innocents
Franchise Stage: Explorer – open to all franchising opportunities and eager to learn
Demarco Harris is an accomplished nonprofit leader, entrepreneur, and community advocate with more than nine years of experience in the nonprofit sector. He is the Founder and Executive Director of Worth the Words Inc., an organization that empowers youth through creative expression, music production, and writing. As Community Engagement Manager at Home of the Innocents, Demarco strengthens community partnerships, coordinates volunteer engagement, and connects vital resources to youth and families.
Holding an MBA and a franchise certification, Demarco combines his expertise in leadership, business development, and social impact to create scalable, sustainable initiatives. He is actively pursuing franchise ownership with a company that aligns with his work and values, with the goal of building generational wealth and expanding economic opportunities for underrepresented communities. Known for his strategic vision, collaborative leadership, and deep commitment to community, he continues to bridge business and social impact to foster equity, empowerment, and opportunity.
LinkedIn profile
Rocki Harris
Alpharetta, GA | Senior IT Project Coordinator, UPS
Franchise Stage: Explorer – open to all franchising opportunities and eager to learn
With over 21 years of experience at UPS Supply Chain Solutions, Rockquetta Harris, affectionately known as Rocki, has built a distinguished career in operations, analysis, and project management.Throughout her tenure, she has held several leadership roles—including Senior Business Analyst, Security Analyst, Project Coordinator, and Solutions Architect Review Manager—demonstrating a consistent ability to lead cross-functional teams, implement strategic solutions, and drive operational efficiency in complex environments.
Now, Rocki is ready to transition from corporate leadership to business ownership. Her interest in franchising is rooted in a desire to be in business for herself, but not by herself. She values the proven systems, support, and scalability that franchising offers, and she sees it as a pathway to create long-term impact within her community. Deeply passionate about service and social contribution, Rocki is particularly drawn to franchise opportunities that support and uplift senior populations. She envisions building a business that not only meets a market need but also makes a meaningful difference in people’s lives. By joining the Franchise Ascension Initiative, Rocki hopes to expand her knowledge of the franchising world, connect with mentors, and take intentional steps toward launching and growing a mission-driven franchise business.
Clarence Herry
White Plains, MD | Owner, Pool Scouts of Southern MD and Annapolis
Franchise Stage: New Owner – early-stage franchisee actively seeking mentorship & support
Clarence Herry is the owner and general manager of Pool Scouts of Southern MD and Annapolis, operating under Urbani Integrated Solutions, LLC, which he established in November 2022. Clarence has built his pool service business from the ground up, transforming it from a startup generating $119,676 in 2022 to an operation projected to reach $722,000+ in revenueby 2025. Specializing in providing comprehensive swimming pool and hot tub services, his company offers professional cleaning, maintenance, chemical balancing, seasonal openings and closings, preventativemaintenance, and specialty repairs. Clarence has systematically scaled his operation from a single-territory business to a multi-territory enterprise, implementing structured growth stages that include strategic hiring, operational efficiency improvements, and technology integration.
Clarence demonstrates strong business acumen through his use of advanced planning tools like LivePlan for financial forecasting and ServiceMinder.io for customer management. His commitment to quality service is evident in his detailed operational procedures, employee training programs, and customer satisfaction initiatives. Mr. Herry continues to expand his business while maintaining high service standards and building strategic partnerships within the pool service industry.
LinkedIn profile
Talayah Jackson
Washington, DC | Owner/Principal, Building Roots DC
Franchise Stage: Seeker – Zeroing in, researching specific brands and industries
Talayah Jackson is a seasoned project management leader with over 15 years of experience guiding high-stakes initiatives in healthcare, government, and digital sectors. Known for her ability to bring order to complexity, she has managed diverse teams, navigated competing priorities, and delivered results that balance vision with execution. Her professional skill set took on new meaning when she launched Building Roots DC—a construction company focused on creating green, resilient, and healthy housing in the communities she knows best. Drawing on her expertise in planning, operations, and relationship-building, Talayah applies the same disciplined approach she used in the corporate world to deliver sustainable, well-crafted spaces that serve both people and the environment.
Now, she is expanding her entrepreneurial path into franchise ownership as a way to build a business with strong systems, long-term stability, and community impact. She enters the Franchise Ascension Initiative ready to leverage its mentorship, network, and structure to accelerate her pivot from corporate leadership to business ownership.
Brooke McGilvery
Lancaster, TX | Founder/Owner/CEO, Brooke of Life Montessori Academy
Franchise Stage: Seeker – Zeroing in, researching specific brands and industries
Brooke McGilvery is an accomplished educator and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in Texas public and charter schools. She has served in leadership roles including Dean of Instruction, Curriculum Coordinator, and Campus Administrator, and she currently supports future educators as a Field Supervisor with Texas A&M UniversityCommerce. As Founder of Brooke of Life Montessori Academy in Lancaster, TX, Brooke blends her passion for early childhood education with strong business acumen. She also leads The Learning Lab, an innovative academic support program, and BDM Notary Services, offering professional notary and document services. These ventures reflect her expertise in business development, operations, and community engagement.
Brooke holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and master’s degrees in Counseling and Educational Administration. She lives in Lancaster, TX with her husband and son and is committed to advancing education, entrepreneurship, and community impact.
LinkedIn profile
Lisa Mulrain
Bethesda, MD | CEO & Founder, Legacy Building LLC
Franchise Stage: Explorer – Open to all franchising opportunities and eager to learn
Lisa Mulrain is the CEO and Founder of Legacy Building LLC, a boutique financial literacy firm dedicated to empowering minority communities, small business owners, and young professionals with the knowledge to build lasting wealth. With over 30 years of experience in the financial services sector, Lisa brings a unique blend of legal expertise, executive leadership, and a deep commitment to education.
A licensed attorney in Maryland, Massachusetts, and the District of Columbia, Lisa currently serves as Associate General Counsel of the Office of Financial Law, where she provides strategic legal counsel on complex structured finance transactions and oversees matters related to Ginnie Mae’s $2 trillion mortgage-backed securities portfolio. Previously, she led HUD’s Office of Finance, Procurement, and Administrative Law, guiding teams on procurement, grants management, debt collection, and enforcement. A Harvard-trained executive and Wharton-certified in mergers and acquisitions, Lisa is a visionary leader passionate about financial empowerment and legacy creation. LinkedIn profile
Antoinette Nelson
Washington, DC | President, SpatialGIS/KOLF Real Estate Services
U.S. Veteran
Franchise Stage: Explorer – open to all franchising opportunities and eager to learn
Dr. Antoinette Nelson is a biomedical engineer, scientist, global health expert, and entrepreneur dedicated to creating solutions that empower marginalized communities worldwide. With 15 years of combined experience in biomedical research and development, international development, global health, and public policy, she brings a unique blend of technical expertise and strategic vision to every endeavor. She currently serves as Associate Director for Vaccine Program Management in the pharmaceutical industry and previously led biomedical technology initiatives as a Senior Technical Advisor at USAID, advancing research on innovative HIV prevention tools for women and girls, globally. As a former AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellow, she also worked to promote women’s economic empowerment and gender equity in more than 30 countries.
In addition to her career in science and policy, Dr. Nelson is a passionate entrepreneur and investor. Her portfolio spans real estate, small business ventures, and strategic investments, reflecting her commitment to building wealth as a pathway to job creation, community reinvestment, and inspiring others to pursue their own entrepreneurial goals. A first-generation Jamaican-American from Queens, Dr. Nelson earned her Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from Rutgers University and is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.
LinkedIn profile
Melina Owusu
Bloomfield,
NJ | Owner/Certified Senior Advisor, CarePatrol
Franchise Stage: New Owner – early-stage franchisee actively seeking mentorship & support
Melina Owusu is a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) and the proud owner of a CarePatrol franchise, where she helps older adults and their families navigate the complex decisions surrounding senior living. From independent living to assisted living and memory care, Melina provides guidance with empathy, clarity, and purpose, ensuring families feel supported every step of the way. Melina began her professional journey in franchise sales, where she built a foundation in client relationship management, business development, and negotiation. After several successful years, she pivoted into tech sales, bringing her expertise to enterprise sales development. Over seven years in sales, she most recently served as Senior Enterprise SDR Manager at RollWorks, a division of NextRoll, leading high-performing teams and developing strategies in demand generation, pipeline management, and sales leadership. Her ability to listen, empathize, and execute with precision has been central to her success.
A recognized mentor and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, Melina has been featured on Fairygodboss’s “Black Women Leading the Way in Corporate America” and Self Made Millennial’s YouTube Channel, sharing her insights on sales leadership, career transitions, and DEIB. Today, Melina leverages her sales experience and passion for service to make senior care accessible, empowering, and beautiful—for families, caregivers, and communities alike.
LinkedIn profile
Andrew Oyedeji
Charlotte, NC | Franchise Owner, Pink’s Window Services
Franchise Stage: New Owner - early-stage franchisee actively seeking mentorship & support
Andrew Oyedeji is an operator and entrepreneur with expertise in building scalable service businesses and leading high-performing teams. He is the founder of Facient, a boutique consulting firm that supports underrepresented small business owners through fractional advisory and leadership services. Andrew’s career has been defined by driving sustainable growth through operational excellence, financial strategy, and servant leadership.
Before founding Facient, Andrew served as General Manager and Head of Operations & Strategy at a fast-growing distribution and logistics startup, where he scaled operations, optimized processes, and led strategic initiatives. He also spent nearly a decade in corporate America in leadership roles spanning Aerospace, Healthcare, Renewable Energy, and Oil & Gas, where he led cost and risk strategies for a $50B portfolio and delivered over $1B in financial impact across global markets.
Currently, Andrew is a multi-unit franchise owner of Pink’s Window Services in the Piedmont Triad area of North Carolina. His long-term vision is to build a holding company that buys, builds, and scales dynamic service-based businesses, creating opportunities for individuals from communities that have been historically overlooked. Through this work, he aims to create jobs, grow leaders, and open access to ownership.
Ashish Patel
Bee Cave, TX | President/CEO,
Aaviaasa Company
Franchise Stage: New Owner – early-stage franchisee actively seeking mentorship & support
Ashish Patel is a passionate entrepreneur with a strong vision for building impactful businesses through franchising. With a background in operations and customer engagement, he brings a proven ability to create memorableexperiences that drive community connection and brand loyalty. Ashish has successfully navigated the challenges of small business ownership and understands the importance of scalability, consistency, and innovation in achieving long-term growth. He is committed to leveraging the Franchise Ascension Initiative to refine his strategic planning, strengthen his leadership skills, and gain deeper insights into franchise development and management.
Ashish’s entrepreneurial drive is matched by his dedication to delivering exceptional value to customers and creating opportunities for team members to thrive. Through this program, he aims to establish a sustainable franchise model that not only achieves financial success but also contributes meaningfully to the communities it serves. Focused, resilient, and forward-thinking, Ashish embraces continuous learning and collaboration as keys to success. His ultimate goal is to build a franchise brand that stands out for its quality, culture, and positive impact, setting a benchmark for excellence in the industry.
LinkedIn profile
Roy Quezada
Providence, RI | Owner, RQX Logistics LLC
Franchise Stage: Seeker – Zeroing in, researching specific brands and industries
Roy Quezada is a driven entrepreneur from Providence, RI, with a strong work ethic instilled in him from an early age. With eight years of experience in supply chain management, he transitioned into entrepreneurship by founding a successful dump truck business after obtaining his commercial driver's license. His hands-on approach and dedication allowed the business to become self-sustaining, with a reliable team in place.
Not one to settle, Roy is now venturing into franchising, leveraging his business acumen to explore home services franchises. He attended expos and networked with industry experts to prepare for this next step. Committed to growth, he plans to expand into multiple territories, hire from underserved communities, and foster opportunities for others. Roy’s motto is to "go after what you want," and his journey reflects resilience, continuous learning, and a desire to uplift his community, particularly the growing Latino population in Rhode Island. He balances running his current business while laying the groundwork for future success in franchising.
LinkedIn profile
Ben Rogers
Charlotte, NC | Founder, Phroneo Holdings, LLC
Franchise Stage: New Owner – early-stage franchisee actively seeking mentorship & support
Ben is a lifelong student dedicated to mastering his craft through discipline, curiosity, and consistent growth. With a passion for learning, he immerses himself in books on philosophy, business, personal development, leadership, strategy, finance, and sales— drawing wisdom from each to sharpen both his mind and his work. After studying Business Administration with a concentration in Management at Fayetteville State University, Ben has built a career as a Senior Benefits Consultant, helping individuals make informed, confident decisions about their future.
His love for sharing knowledge extends beyond one-on-one consultations—he thrives in hosting seminars and engaging in public speaking, where he inspires audiences with topics ranging from personal development and leadership to insurance planning and the stoic mindset. With a calm yet compelling presence, Ben guides others toward self-improvement and resilience in both life and business. Driven by a belief in continuous learning and purposeful action, he blends strategic thinking with genuine care for people’s success, making him a trusted voice in his field and a catalyst for growth in the lives he touches.
LinkedIn profile
Shania Seibles
Columbus, GA | Owner, MassageLuXe, and physician
Franchise Stage: New Owner – early-stage franchisee actively seeking mentorship & support
Shania J. Seibles is a Maternal Fetal Medicine physician, who also completed a Juris Doctorate degree program, and now has over two years of experience as a single unit franchise owner of MassageLuXe Peachtree City.
She is actively looking to expand and grow within the franchise space.
LinkedIn profile
M. Denise Simmons
Miramar, FL | Franchisee, Wisdom Senior Care
Franchise Stage: New Owner – early-stage franchisee actively seeking mentorship & support
With over 15 years of caregiving experience for both her late father and now her mother, and three years as the owner of a Wisdom Senior Care franchise, M. Denise Simmons blends compassion, business leadership, and community impact. Recognized as one of South Florida’s Most Influential and Prominent Black Women in Business and Industry and recipient of The Legacy Builder Award 2021, Denise is a changemaker dedicated to improving the lives of seniors and families. She serves on the board of the South Florida Institute on Aging (SoFIA), advocating for expanded senior services, and an active member of The Bridge Church, where she, her husband of 16 years, and her three boys serve as well.
Through her agency, Denise provides personal care, companion services, and care coordination that allow seniors to age with dignity and independence. She is also the creator and instructor of Groovin’ in the Chair with Wisdom, a fun, movement-based program that brings music, exercise, and joy to seniors across the community. A teacher at heart, Denise uses her leadership, caregiving experience, and creative energy to build programs and partnerships that inspire, uplift, and serve. Her mission is to make a lasting difference in the lives of those she touches every day.
LinkedIn profile
Johanna Torres
New Brunswick, NJ
Franchise Stage: Seeker – Zeroing in, researching specific brands and industries
Johanna has a strong academic foundation and a growing interest in entrepreneurship. She received her bachelor’s degree from Columbia University and went on to earn a master’s degree from Carnegie Mellon University, both in mechanical engineering. With over four years of professional experience, Johanna has focused her career on project management and the execution of complex engineering initiatives, developing strong analytical, leadership, and problem-solving skills along the way.
Throughout her career, Johanna has demonstrated a passion for building efficient processes and collaborating across disciplines to deliver meaningful results. She views franchising as a compelling pathway to achieve her long-term goal of combining technical expertise with business leadership. She is excited to join the Franchise Ascension Initiative to learn directly from industry leaders, gain valuable mentorship, and develop long-lasting relationships with like-minded peers. Johanna looks forward to exploring franchise ownership opportunities and leveraging this program to expand her perspective, sharpen her business acumen, and positively influence her community through accessible and sustainable business models.
Beshon Trusty
Crofton, MD | Founder/ExecutiveDirector, Educator’s Empowerment Center
Franchise Stage: Seeker – Zeroing in, researching specific brands and industries
Dr. Beshon Trusty is a visionary leader and lifelong learner whose journey from a oncedisengaged student to an accomplished entrepreneur has fueled her passion for building opportunities that change lives. She is the Founder and Executive Director of the Educator’s Empowerment Center, a national consulting firm that partners with school districts to strengthen leadership, improve student outcomes, and create thriving school communities. With nearly three decades of experience in education and organizational strategy, Beshon has led large-scale initiatives, managed multi-million-dollar projects, and coached leaders to transform vision into measurable results. Her work has touched more than 28 school districts across the country, helping them design systems that last well beyond her involvement.
She holds a Ph.D. in Language, Literacy, and Culture and a Master’s in Public Administration, but her proudest achievements are rooted in resilience—overcoming personal and professional challenges to build a career defined by service, impact, and growth. Now, Beshon is hoping to expand her entrepreneurial footprint through franchising, seeing it as a powerful pathway to build generational wealth, create jobs, and bring vital resources to communities.
LinkedIn profile
Tierra Webley
Land O’ Lakes, FL
Military Spouse
Franchise Stage: Explorer – open to all franchising opportunities and eager to learn
Tierra Webley has over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry. Leveraging her experience, she is dedicated to strategically enhancing organizational performance by optimizing the use of human resources through improved talent growth programs. Additionally, Tierra provides specialized consultation in fitness and nutrition coaching, promoting overall employee well-being and productivity.
Tierra has a MBA in Business and advance insurance designations, is a certified coach, and recently published her Strength and Scripture journal.
LinkedIn profile
Raji Welch-Bey
Twinsburg, OH
U.S. Veteran
Franchise Stage: Explorer – open to all franchising opportunities and eager to learn
Raji Welch-Bey is a U.S. Army veteran and finance professional with more than 15 years of experience driving strategic initiatives in both public and private sectors. Serving as a supply specialist during Operation Iraqi Freedom, he honed the resilience, strategic thinking, and mission-first mindset that continue to define his leadership today. Holding a Bachelor’s in Finance from Cleveland State University, a Lean Six Sigma certification, and recognition as a Certified Knowledge Manager, Raji has built a career centered on solving complex problems, improving processes, and delivering measurable results. His ability to connect big-picture strategy with operational execution has made him a trusted leader and advisor across diverse organizations.
Known for his curiosity and commitment to excellence, Raji thrives in environments where leadership, analytical thinking, and efficiency converge. His combination of military discipline, financial expertise, and process improvement skills equips him to identify opportunities, optimize performance, and achieve sustainable growth. As a member of the 2025–2026 Franchise Ascension Initiative cohort, Raji looks forward to applying his experience, expanding his entrepreneurial knowledge, and building a strong foundation for his future franchise success.
Wen Yong
U.S. Veteran
Franchise Stage: Explorer – open to all franchising opportunities and eager to learn
Wen Yong is a seasoned professional with 20 years of experience across financial consulting, healthcare, and construction, bringing together financial acumen, leadership, problem-solving, and project management.
Potomac, MD