2023 Auntie Karen Young Entrepreneurs Conference Program Book
Dear Future Billionaire,
Welcome to the 18th Annual Auntie Karen Foundation's Young Entrepreneurs Conference! We're absolutely thrilled to have you with us today as we embark on a journey under the theme, "Bridging the Entrepreneurial Divide: Merging Traditions with Innovation." This conference is a unique platform where you'll have the chance to connect with a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, each straddling the exciting world of business in their distinctive way. Our dynamic gathering will introduce you to individuals who cherish and uphold timetested business traditions. These entrepreneurs have honed their craft through years of experience and continue to thrive by preserving the best practices of the past.
Concurrently, you'll also encounter those pioneering the future of entrepreneurship. These innovators leverage the transformative power of e-commerce, digital marketing, and cutting-edge technologies to propel their ventures into new frontiers. It's a captivating blend of age-old wisdom merging seamlessly with modern ingenuity, creating a dynamic tapestry of entrepreneurial success.
We're incredibly excited to be back at Benedict College after a brief hiatus in 2019. Our enduring partnership with Benedict College spans 16 years, and we're deeply grateful for their continued support. A special thanks go to Dr. Tracy Dunn and the Tyrone Adam Burroughs School of Business and Entrepreneurship for their unwavering collaboration. Dreams, as you'll discover, can take flight at any age. Today, we are privileged to showcase entrepreneurs ranging from elementary school students to college scholars. Some of our former young entrepreneurs have returned to share their inspiring journeys with you.
In 2001, our dream was simple but profound: to shine a spotlight on the brightest young minds in our region. Thus, we created this conference to showcase their immense talent and creative abilities. Today, you will have the extraordinary opportunity to meet and converse with these outstanding young entrepreneurs who have not only made their mark on a national but also on a global scale.
The Auntie Karen F.A.I.T.H. principles (Find a purpose or goal; Ask for help; Invest in your mind; Take time to plan; Help someone else) have been my guiding star on my own towards realizing my dreams. It is my heartfelt wish that you will embrace and integrate these principles into your own life. You'll witness these principles in action throughout the day, serving as a source of inspiration.
I extend my sincere thanks to the Auntie Karen Board and the dedicated 2023 Conference Committee for their tireless efforts in crafting this day, meticulously planned for your benefit.
I hope you leave this conference with renewed motivation and a clear vision of your entrepreneurial path. Always remember every grand achievement begins with a single idea. Embrace this day, absorb the knowledge, and let your aspirations soar. Your journey as a successful entrepreneur commences right here, right now.
Enjoy the day!
Sincerely,
Karen Alexander-Banks President & CEO
2023 YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS
Kaitlyn Counts
Kaitlyn’s Creations
Kaitlyn Counts, an 18-year-old native of South Carolina, is the proud owner of Kaitlyn’s Creations, a thriving enterprise that reflects her passion for creativity and culinary delights. Her diverse interests span art, music, baking, and more, showcasing her multifaceted talents and unwavering dedication to her craft.
A recent graduate of Columbia High School, Kaitlyn now pursues her academic journey at Midlands Technical College. However, her entrepreneurial spirit has been evident since her 7thgrade year when she embarked on her venture with Kaitlyn’s Creations. Over time, she has evolved from traditional art and selling art prints to the delectable world of desserts and decorated treats. Kaitlyn’s love for baking and decorating, combined with her profound understanding of design stemming from her artistic background, guarantees the creation of visually stunning and delectable treats for any occasion. Kaitlyn’s Creations, based in Columbia, South Carolina, has flourished for six remarkable years and counting. Specializing in a delightful array of desserts and tasty treats, Kaitlyn’s Creations is your go-to source for enhancing parties, commemorating special events, gifting, or simply indulging in the joy of scrumptious confections. From exquisitely handcrafted candy roses to elegantly decorated sugar cookies and perennial favorites like cake pops, Kaitlyn’s Creations consistently leaves customers yearning for more.
Jon Victoria Furgess
Adriana Rodriguez Artist, Fashion Designer
Adriana Rodriguez, an accomplished artist and skilled seamstress, boasts nearly seven years of creative experience. Over this time, she has undertaken various personal artistic commissions for clients and contributed captivating illustrations to upcoming publications, including the children’s book “Mr. P Did It!” and the YA novel “Dreams of Prophecy.” Adriana’s designs have earned her recognition in state competitions, such as SkillsUSA, TSA (Teacher Student Association), and NCDA (National Career and Development Association). Her unwavering passion for art drives her to seek opportunities for growth and advancement in her artistic career.
Jon Victoria Furgess is the daughter of John V. Furgess, Jr. and Dr. Tracie Smith Furgess. She is also the granddaughter of John and Alexzena Furgess, Sr. of Columbia, and Emmett and Luerusha Smith of Springfield, SC. As a Freshman at Dreher High School, Jon distinguishes herself as an Honor student, a Gifted/Talented dancer, and a Junior Varsity Cheerleader at Dreher.
Jon’s devotion to her faith is evident through her membership at Trinity Baptist Church, where she actively participates as a Praise dancer and a youth choir member. Known for her outgoing nature and lack of shyness, Jon relishes engaging with others, and she has a passion for crocheting, cheering, and shopping. Regarding her future aspirations, Jon aspires to pursue a career as a Mortician and/ or Lawyer. Her determination and vibrant personality make her a promising and driven individual.
2023 YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS
Jasmine Johnson
Opera Singer
Jasmine J Johnson is the 15-year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Percy Johnson. She attends a Christian School in South Carolina and enjoys horseback riding, listening to a variety of movies, and making short videos. Shortly before her seventh birthday, Jasmine was visiting her maternal grandmother who was repeatedly playing a gospel spiritual CD sung by renowned opera singer Kathleen Battle.
She excitedly let her grandmother know that she could “sing just like that lady!” When her grandmother heard her sing, she quickly realized that Jasmine was a “natural”!
Jasmine is in love with Jesus Christ, and knows Him as her personal Savior! She has great faith in Him, and knows she is able to love Him because He first loved her! In fact, the Lord showed His love for all humanity by His shedding of His blood as He died on the cross, was buried in the tomb and rose from the dead in His new glorified body on the third day!!!
That is the gospel of the grace of God which Jasmine believes and sings about, spreading it to all who will listen! She, as God’s servant, prays that others will hear, believe and put their trust in Jesus Christ and be saved for all eternity!
Charis Rhea
Benedict College Art Student
Charis Rhea hails from the vibrant city of Seattle, Washington, where she spent her entire upbringing. As the eldest among seven siblings, her natural affinity for the company of children and animals shines through. Charis leads a diverse array of hobbies, ranging from the art of drawing to the rhythmic joy of dancing, the thrill of culinary exploration, and the excitement of travel.
With an unwavering passion for artistic expression, Charis aspires to carve out a career as an illustrator, specializing in creating captivating graphic novels tailored for young adult audiences. She is pursuing a major in Studio Art and complementing her studies with a minor in Mass Communications at Benedict College. Charis’s journey is a testament to her dedication to transforming her artistic visions into reality, solidifying her position as an emerging talent in the realm of graphic storytelling.
Elia Allen
Benedict College Art Student
Elia Allen is a Benedict College senior pursuing a degree in Studio Art with a minor in Mass Communication. Originally hailing from Sacramento, California, Elia currently calls Decatur, Georgia, her home. She possesses a profound passion for creativity and storytelling and is dedicated to crafting her unique personal brand in art and communication. In addition to her academic pursuits, Elia boasts an impressive background with over two years of experience as a Senior Advisor in sales and marketing, demonstrating her prowess in the business world. Her commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond corporate endeavors, as she has also served as an instructor at a summer camp catering to individuals with disabilities alongside neurotypical individuals. Through these diverse experiences, Elia has honed her exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, gaining valuable insights into the intricacies of the world. As she approaches graduation, Elia harbors ambitious aspirations of establishing her own animation studio in the future. In the meantime, she is determined to embark on a fulfilling career path as an illustrator for major corporations, utilizing her artistic talents to contribute to various creative projects. Elia Allen is thrilled to have found her niche within the artistic and design realm and is eagerly looking forward to more collaborative endeavors with fellow professionals in the field.
- Twintastic Lemonade - London Lyons Other Featured YEs
2023 YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS
Lee Central Media Literacy
Videographers
(Don Patterson)
The Lee Central Middle School and the Bishopville Primary School Media Literacy Programs were developed in 2014 by the Lee County School District Office of Instruction and Professional Development. The purpose of the program is to show students how to utilize multimedia to enhance their education while exposing them to different career opportunities in the multimedia field. The program gives students a chance to develop and use their media skills to document events occurring at their schools, the district and their community. The Lee County School District Media Literacy program starts in grade three and continues to grade twelve. The program has been very effective in showing students how to analyze and create media content effectively, while at the same time, encouraging them to think critically about the different forms of media they encounter.
2023 SPEAKERS / PRESENTERS
Lee Livingston, also known as Kevin Cupree, is a multifaceted individual with diverse talents and interests. Lee’s deepseated affection for animals, particularly dogs, became evident from a young age. This affection blossomed into a thriving enterprise known as K9IFind, which specializes in locating specific dog breeds for discerning clients. Notably, Lee has expanded the scope of K9-IFind to encompass international searches, demonstrating his dedication to the pursuit of excellence.
Lee’s involvement with The Auntie Karen Foundation commenced in 2012 when he was just 12 years old, and he continued to be an active contributor to the foundation during his high school years at Spring Hill High School in Chapin, South Carolina. During this period, Lee cultivated diverse hobbies, including reading, participating in track and field, dog training, and collecting Jordan sneakers. Rooted in his unwavering faith, Lee attributes much of his success to his faith in Christ, embodying his favorite motto: “No matter where I am or what I am doing, I know that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!”
Guided by this mantra, Lee has persevered with unyielding determination, spurred on by the unwavering support of his family, particularly his mother, Lilly. Now, as a senior at Newberry College, Lee is poised to embark on the next chapter of his journey—pursuing a career as a Veterinarian, with plans to attend graduate school upon graduation in the spring.
In addition to his passion for veterinary medicine, Lee has discovered a newfound enthusiasm for modeling and acting. His journey in the entertainment world began when he was discovered on Instagram, subsequently taking him on a global adventure to chase his dreams. In the realm of modeling and acting, he goes by the name Kevin Cupree, firmly believing that the future belongs to those who dare to believe in the boundless creativity of their most audacious dreams.
For further information or inquiries, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Lee Livingston, also known as Kevin Cupree, at 803-920-3496 or find him on Facebook @KevinCupree.
Valencia Goodwin
Visual Artist, Auntie Karen YE Alum
“Like life, in art, there are no mistakes, only magic.” “Thou shalt not live without Art.” These are the mottos she lives by as a mother, creative visual artist, art educator, model and owner of her own creative arts company, SoulSweet Avenue. Valencia M. Goodwin, born on October 21, 1983, in Hopkins, South Carolina, is a multifaceted creative force whose life and work are guided by the profound belief that there are no mistakes, only magic in art. A proud alumna of Lower Richland High School, graduating with the class of 2001, she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree from Benedict College in 2007. Valencia’s journey as a creative visual artist, art educator, model, and entrepreneur has been inspiring. She proudly owns her creative arts company, SoulSweet Avenue, where she channels her passion for art into meaningful projects and endeavors.Beyond the canvas, Valencia’s life revolves around her family. You’ll often find her painting vibrant murals, sharing quality time with her children, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. Valencia began her relationship with the Auntie Karen Foundation as an intern in 2005, where she worked closely with Karen Alexander herself. This formative experience laid the foundation for her deep connection to the organization. Her dedication and talent were quickly recognized, leading to her inclusion as a featured artist at the Young Entrepreneurs Conference, a platform where she showcased her artistic prowess and passion. Her dedication to nurturing artistic talent extends to her role as an art educator with the Auntie Karen Foundation’s Artprenuer program, where she imparts knowledge and skills to aspiring artists. She also extends her artistic talents to the community by conducting classes and private events and providing delightful face paintings at various local events, including the Sweet Potato Festival and numerous gatherings in and around Richland County, South Carolina. Her commitment to beautifying communities through her art is unwavering. Valencia has made significant strides in her career by becoming the first Arts Educator Director at the Cecil Williams Civil Rights Museum in Orangeburg, where she passionately shares the rich history of South Carolina, which has played a pivotal role in shaping America. Valencia’s love for art has been a lifelong affair, beginning at the tender age of three. Her elementary school “When I Grow Up” form revealed her dreams to become the most famous artist in the world, a fashion model, the founder of her own art school, a lifelong art creator, and a parent to many children.During her formative years at Lower Richland High School, under Mr. John Johnson Jr.’s tutelage, Valencia discovered the uniqueness of her artistic gift. His guidance and mentorship inspired her to pursue higher education in the arts. In 2001, she achieved recognition by winning a Black history poster contest with her powerful illustration titled “My History,” which remains one of her most beloved creations.
Lee Livingston Model, Auntie Karen YE Alum
2023 SPEAKERS / PRESENTERS
Sheneka Jackson-Kinsey
Visual Artist, Auntie Karen YE
Sheneka Jackson-Kinsey is a talented freelance artist hailing from South Carolina, renowned for her expertise in portrait artistry. With an impressive artistic journey spanning over 24 years, Ms. Jackson-Kinsey has consistently demonstrated her passion and commitment to the world of visual art.
Born on January 30, 1989, to a supportive and nurturing family, Sheneka Latrell JacksonKinsey was fortunate to have her creative spark ignited at a young age. Her exceptional talents began to shine through at the remarkable age of three, and they have continued to flourish and evolve with time. A pivotal period in her artistic development occurred during her tenure at Benedict College, where she had the privilege of studying under the esteemed guidance of Ms. Gina Moore in the Fine Arts Department. After graduating from college in 2013, Ms. Jackson-Kinsey ventured into the world of illustration, leaving her indelible mark on the literary realm. She has contributed her artistic prowess to creating two remarkable books: “A Hug While I’m Away,” a delightful children’s book by Ms. Karen Alexander, and “Memoirs of Alabama,” a captivating poetry collection penned by Ninamarie.
Sheneka Jackson-Kinsey attributes her boundless creativity to her Creator and holds steadfast to a motto that guides her daily life: producing art that glorifies God while uplifting and edifying the people of God. Her commitment to the arts extends beyond her work, as evidenced by her collaboration with the Auntie Karen Foundation during a summer initiative to revitalize the arts within the Lee County School District. In this role, she had the privilege of imparting her knowledge and expertise to young, aspiring artists, teaching them the principles of professionalism in art and fostering an appreciation for the world of creativity. With a deep-rooted passion for art and an unwavering commitment to her artistic mission, Sheneka JacksonKinsey inspires and enriches the world through her creative endeavors.
Derek Anders-Turner US
Bank
Derek Tyree Anders-Turner is interested in developing teams, leveraging technology, and problem-solving. Derek is an Assistant Vice President at U.S. Bank, Corporate Payment Technology Systems - Quality Production and Systems (QPS) technology team. He is the technology leader on data for our clients and product teams.Derek Tyree has been with U.S. Bank for ten years serving in multiple technology roles and four years on the U.S Bank Twin Cities – African American Business Resource Group as the community liaison officer working to deepen our relationships with our community partners. Before joining the bank, he served eight years with the Minnesota Army National Guard Red Bulls – 34th Infantry Division Engineering Battalion. Derek has 20 years Product Management, Vendor Management, IT, and Retail Project Management. He served on several nonprofit boards including leadership roles on the Minnesota– National Black Police Association Community Liaison Officer, The City of Saint Paul –Neighborhood Star Board Chair providing loans and grants prioritizing women and minority small business growth, and 20 years with Red Cross disaster services and five years on the Red Cross leadership team. Derek Tyree traveled to approximately two dozen countries enjoying local music, cooking, and riding horses. He currently owns a property management group.
Najee Reese, a 24-year-old artist hailing from Hopkins, South Carolina, now calls Columbia her home. Her artistic expertise lies in the realms of acrylic and mixed media painting, a craft she has passionately pursued for the past five years. Her journey as a full-time artist has been marked by a deep appreciation for the spiritual and liberating aspects of artistic expression. Notably, Najee has earned recognition as an award winner at the South Carolina State Fair and has also contributed her talents as an art teacher in classroom settings
Joana Lagunes Arauz
Benedict College
Joana Lagunes Arauz (she/ her), is a Diversity Admissions Recruiter with an emphasis on the Latinx population. In addition to her full-time position on campus, she is also a research intern working alongside Dr. Adrian Gale, Assistant Professor of Environmental Engineering, and a Harvard Public Policy Leadership Conference Scholar. Her Research Fellow internship at the University of South Carolina highlights her database development skills. Joana’s leadership shines through her ocean conservation advocacy via the Rising Leaders Initiative and CoalitionWILD’s mentorship. Her proactive engagement with congressional members and dedication to innovation showcase her commitment to environmental preservation and prospective students.
Dr. Julian Owens
Dr. JuJu
Julian D. Owens, PhD, MPH
Dr. Juju [a.k.a. Dr. Julian Owens, PhD, MPH] is a Mediatrician who specializes in judicious uses of music and media for teaching, learning, enrichment, and therapeutic purposes. He is best known for MusicsEnergy: Life Literacy Curriculum™ [ME: LLC] - an evidence-basedapproach to engaging young people, ages 14 -26, in acquiring knowledge, skills, and abilities linked to health and media literacy, entrepreneurship, and wellness, ME: LLC is comprised of 1): ME: Songwriting with Young People™; 2) ME: Messages in Music™; and 3) ME:Reducing Dis-ease in America™. Dr. Juju also is a singer/songwriter and records musicunder the alias J’Dillian.
For more information, visit: www.freefeelgoodmusic.com Session Topic: MusicsEnergy™: Creative Education for the iGenerationissues.
Mikenzie Turner
Moderator
Mikenzie Turner is a distinguished alumna of the University of South Carolina, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in mass communications, specializing in sports media, and complemented her academic journey with a minor in theatre. During her tenure at the university, Mikenzie’s commitment to academic excellence earned her membership in Alpha Lambda Delta, a prestigious national honor society that celebrates outstanding scholarly achievements at the college or university level. Presently, Mikenzie holds the esteemed position of Social Media Coordinator at the Auntie Karen Foundation, where her skills and expertise in communication are put to valuable use. Her dedication to her field and her role in promoting the foundation’s initiatives underscore her commitment to making a positive impact through the power of media and communication.
2023 SPEAKERS / PRESENTERS
Christopher Campbell
Richland County Public Library
Christopher “Chris” Campbell has dedicated the past five years to serving the Richland Library in many capacities, showcasing his versatility and commitment. His journey within the library organization has seen him donning several hats, beginning as a Customer Service Specialist and steadily advancing to the role of Customer Service Supervisor. Presently, he holds the esteemed position of Edgewood Location Manager.
A profound commitment to customer service excellence characterizes Chris’s professional journey. His expertise extends beyond the confines of traditional library services, encompassing career coaching and team-building. With an unwavering dedication to helping others succeed, Chris has become a driving force for growth and development within his professional and personal spheres. In both his professional and personal life, Chris sets a singular goal at the forefront: to facilitate the growth, learning, and success of those around him. His leadership and exceptional skills make him an indispensable asset to the Richland Library and a catalyst for positive change in the lives of those he serves. the foundation’s initiatives underscore her commitment to making a positive impact through the power of media and communication.
Wendell Brown
Benedict College Art Director
Wendell Brown is a fiber artist and the Associate Professor of Art, Director of the Henry Ponder Gallery at Benedict College. He has been with Benedict College since 2008 and teaches undergraduate foundation courses in support of the B.A. Studio Art programs. commitment to making a positive impact through the power of media and communication.
TiffanyJ
Creative Entrepreneur
TiffanyJ presents a soulful approach to melodic art, triumphing over past battles with depression while embracing her individuality. Her journey spans from her early days at First Nazareth Baptist Church to her entrepreneurial venture with TJ’s Elements LLC, showcasing her diverse talents.
In 2012, TiffanyJ emerged as a solo artist, championing her self-esteem movement, “Beauty, You Are Boot Camp,” which empowers young queens and shares her own journey of conquering self-esteem challenges. She’s not just a musician, but also an accomplished author with “It All Starts with Me” and a mentee of Grammy Award-nominated R&B artist Angie Stone.
TiffanyJ’s latest album, “Solbird Sessions Live,” rocketed to #8 on the iTunes R&B/Soul charts. Beyond her musical achievements, she created the fictional characters, Super Beauty and Handsome Hero, and graced screens on BET’s Grand Hustle and Good Morning America. Her impactful presence is celebrated in publications like Black Enterprise, Essence, and Hype Hair.
In 2022, she earned the esteemed title of “Best Artist” at the Columbia Neighborhood Awards. TiffanyJ’s passion for giving back shines through her involvement in nonprofit work, including roles on committees and boards like Girls Rock Columbia, Jam Room Music Foundation, Palmetto Health Camp Kemo’s Advisory Council, and Historic Columbia’s Jubilee Festival Steering Committee. The City of Columbia honored her with a proclamation, declaring November 20, 2022, as “TiffanyJ Day” in recognition of her 10-year solo artist anniversary. Her commitment to continual growth keeps people eagerly anticipating her next creative voyage
2023 SPEAKERS / PRESENTERS
Marci
Auntie Karen Foundation Development
Marcia Benson joined the Auntie Karen Foundation in September 2022, bringing her expertise to enhance the Foundation’s fund development initiatives for its community outreach programs, which aim to educate, empower, and enlighten individuals through the arts. With a remarkable career spanning over twenty-five years, Marcia has honed her customer engagement and portfolio management skills. Her professional journey has been marked by a commitment to understanding her clients’ unique personal and professional goals, and she excels in crafting tailored solutions to meet their needs. Marcia’s dedication to the Auntie Karen Foundation is driven by her passion for promoting the transformative power of the arts in the community.
P’Laura Padgett
Benedict College
P’Laura Padgett brings over 10 years of experience in higher education, Human Resources, as Director of Student Services and Career Development Specialist. Her passion is working with young adults to realize their potential and to collaborate with students and employers to improve career outcomes. Her responsibilities include career planning, obtaining career employment, development of lifelong career management skills, and strengthening Benedict College’s professional and networking relationships.
Mrs. Padgett obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the University of South Carolina Aiken and a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership at Walden University and a earned a certificate in Higher Education Leadership for Student Success from Walden University in 2017. She is a member of the Pi Theta Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho, Sorority Inc.
A Special Thanks to our Benedict College Partners...
Dr. Tracy H. Dunn, Dean of the Benedict College Tyrone Adam Burroughs School of Business and Entrepreneurship
Melvin Miller, Assistant Professor/ Department Chair Tyrone Adams Burroughs School of Business and Entrepreneurship
Loretta Charles, Administrative Assistant Tyrone Adams Burroughs School of Business and Entrepreneurship
Dr. Leon Geter, Dean of the Benedict College School of Communication, Arts and Social Sciences
Ayesha Driggers
City of Columbia, OBO
Ayesha Driggers is the Director for the City of Columbia Office of Business Opportunities. She is responsible for providing support, training, technical assistance, and capital assistance to small, minority and women owned businesses in the retail, services, and construction industries. Her duties also include overall management and oversight of the city’s commercial revolving loan funds, disparity study implementation, contractor and supplier diversity initiative, and the commercial retention and redevelopment program. With over 20 years as a public servant in state and local government, she serves as an advocate for our small business community.
Ayesha received both her Bachelors in Political Science and Masters in Public Administration from the University of South Carolina.
Kalenna P. Ginyard
City of Columbia, OBO
Kalenna P. Ginyard is a Program Compliance Specialist for the City of Columbia’s Office of Business Opportunities. Kalenna’s responsibilities include overseeing the City’s utilization of small/minority/ women-owned businesses and connecting potential small business owners with City departments and divisions. Also, she provides and maintains the citywide utilization goal that provides information on the City’s utilization of small/ minority/women-owned businesses. Kalenna also assists small business owners in participating in programs such as the Columbia Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (CDBE) and Local Business Enterprise (LBE) programs that allow small businesses to participate in City of Columbia solicitations. Kalenna is also the coordinator for the NxLevel for Micro Entrepreneurs and FastTrac Growth Venture courses that are held by the Office of Business Opportunities annually. She is also the liaison for the City’s Minority Business Advisory Council.Kalenna is a graduate of Webster University, having received her Bachelor of Arts in Management in May 2009 and a Master of Business Administration in Management and Leadership in March 2012.
2023 YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS TEAM
2023 Conference Planning Committee
Karen Alexander President
Diann Selph, Recruitment & Registration
Barbara Bowman, Sponsorship
Betty Etheredge, Printing
Mikenzie Turner, Social Media
Joan Mobley, Deborah Woodard Scholarship
Belinda Williams
Lisa Macon
Auntie Karen Board
Karen Alexander-Banks
Mildred Branch
Deborah Breedlove
Linda Paige
Toshia Addison
Volunteers
Linda Wilson
Kevin Banks
Andrew Campbell
Kim Hicks
Deloris Campbell
Patricia Colter
Robert Bacote
Kory Griggs
Stacy Wilson
Mikayla Turner
Brianca Beckford
Benedict College Students:
Sean Braniyah
Jaidyn McCarter
Marissa Tisdale
Shamiyia Hightower
Taylor Wilson
Yaharra Wise-Jones
Iyonah Green
Jasmine Alston
Shekinah Wshington
Andrais Hackett
Theresa Thompson
Braniyah Senn
Romale Reed
Bethany Wiley
Gabrielle Bennett
Vanya Cartwright
Volunteers con’t
Benedict College:
Gina Moore, Chair, Communication & Arts Department
P’Laura Padgett, Employer Relations & Career Development Manager, Career Development Services
Cedrick Love, Director of Student Activities, Office of Student Activities
Loretta Charles
Rosalyn Hammond
Lateefah Mckee, Student Activities Coordinator, Office of Student Activities
Brian Love, Executive Director, Career Development Services
Successville
Shayla Jones, Sound Queen T Gye Nyme Dance Ensemble
Richland County Public Library
Columbia College Place Fellows: Special thanks to Dr. Tamara Burke
DDCP Communications & Lee Central Media Literacy Program
Don Patterson, Coordinator Yvonne Brown
Student Sponsors:
A’ja Wilson Foundation
Judge Joseph A Wilson
Jack & Jill
Dr. Norma Lynn Brown, AIM HIGH Charter School
Dr. Sherri Rivers, AIM HIGH Charter School
2023 Conference Survey
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