FACILITATORS
2020
Clifford Favell
Creative Expressions Printing LLC, Owner
Clifford "Born Zeal" Favell is a small business owner and native of St. Louis MO, with an educational background in Business Management and Leadership. Favell owns and operate Creative Expressions Printing LLC custom T-Shirt business/clothing boutique which represents originality, and self expression. Clifford Favell is part of the 2020 TEACH-Him team.
Jerome Handford
Serial Entrepreneur
Jerome Handford is a talented barber, photographer, DJ, also currently pursuing a major in Psychology from University of Missouri St. Louis. Jerome enjoys sharing his wealth of knowledge and personal experience of his pursuit of happiness with youth across the metropolitan St. Louis area. Jerome is also a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated. Jerome Handford is part of the 2020 TEACH-him team.
Brian Hurd
CDTA Partners LLC, Founder
From lifelong personal experience, and with over 20 years of professional practice, Brian H. Hurd is a dynamic thought leader and subject matter expert at the center of equitable planning and development. As the Managing Principal and Founder of CDTA Partners LLC, Mr. Hurd’s work involves equity, urban planning, housing, and community economic development. His firm helps communities and clients work toward their full potential in government, businesses, nonprofits, institutions, universities, and philanthropic organizations. Mr. Hurd understands the choices made today about the future must be driven by equity: intentional, just, and fair inclusion. He continues to be a leader and provides strategic guidance and informed approaches to inclusively support the needs and opportunities for communities of color, young people, those experiencing poverty, and recent immigrant populations. Brian Hurd is part of the 2020 TEACH-Him
Korey Johnson
The Korey Johnson Foundation
Korey Johnson has worked in the medical field as a Histotechnician for 18 years and is also the Director of The Korey Johnson Foundation 501C3. Korey has also co-produced and worked along with nationally recognized storyteller Bobby Norfolk in the mini docu-series, "Autism Talks" which aired on a local television channel. The "Autism Talks" series took a closer look into the lives of parents of children living with disabilities and provided parents a positive platform to share personal experiences about our children with disabilities. Since inception, Korey’s organization has sent 13,000 cases of water to Flint Michigan. His annual event, Can Skate, has given away over 40,000 non-perishable food items and over 5000 backpacks and school supplies to children and families in the St. Louis region. The Foundation has also aided in distributing over 2 million dollars in toys during the holidays, as well as 200,000 pairs of shoes at the Urban League back to school event in 2018 and 2019. Korey feels very blessed to have earned the trust of many people to do the right thing for the people of St. Louis, Missouri. Korey Johnson is part of the 2020 TEACH-Him team.
Bernard Quinn III
Sole to Soul Charitable Foundation, President
Bernard Quinn, III is a father, husband, educator, football coach, former professional athlete, poet, actor, personal trainer, community advocate, entrepreneur, motivational speaker and most importantly a man of GOD and a Christian. Bernard and his wife LaQuesha actively serve in their church and in the community. He founded and serves as President of Sole to Soul Charitable Foundation, (www.soletosoulfoundation.org), a 501(c) 3 organization established to service the needs of the less fortunate in his community. He is also a member of The 100 Black Men of St. Louis, MO Metropolitan Chapter. Bernard is a native of St. Louis, MO, and a graduate and an alum of Pattonville High School (St. Louis, MO) and Southeast Missouri State University, where he received both of his Bachelor’s degrees in Education. Bernard is also a highly decorated and recruited member of the high school football and track team which led to numerous scholarship offers to play football at the Division 1, collegiate level. After a brief stent in NFL free agency, Quinn would eventually land an opportunity to play professional indoor football, in the AFL, AIF, CIFL and the X-League, (All X-League Defensive Lineman 2014) from 2012 - 2018. Bernard Quinn is part of the 2020 TEACH-Him team.
Arthur Shivers
Author/Coach/Fitness Trainer/Generation 3 Fitness Owner
Arthur Shivers III is a successful Author, Business Owner and Founder of Generation 3 Fitness in Hazelwood Missouri. As a coach and fitness trainer with over 10 years of experience, his vision is to motivate people around the world to reach their health and wellness goals. His passion for fitness and helping others began from his time as a volunteer football coach at his alma mater Parkway North High School in Creve Coeur, Missouri. Arthur then realized that he wanted to fuel that desire to establish and maintain his own business. Arthur graduated from Southern University in Baton Rouge La. and received his training certification through the National Association of Sports Medicine (NASM). He specializes in strength and conditioning, cross-fit training, one on one and small and large group training. At the tender age of 18, he and his childhood friend established Showroom Shine Auto Detailing which has won the “Best Car Wash” award four times at the Steve Harvey Hoodie Awards in Las Vegas, NV. They also wrote and published “The Young Entrepreneurs Guide To Success”, which has been used to teach entrepreneurship in classrooms across the nation. Arthur's success in business has encouraged him to become a motivational speaker and mentor as well. Arthur has been featured in local commercials and several national publications including The Wall Street Journal as well as Essence, and Ebony Magazines. Arthur is diligent in his commitment to promote fitness and entrepreneurship using the concept “you can create yourself into whatever you want to be”. Arthur Shivers is part of the 2020 TEACH-Him team.
Artis "Keith" Turner
TurnGroup Technologies, Founder
Once cited in Black Enterprise magazine as a “prototypical entrepreneur,” Artis “Keith” Turner has literally built his entire career on that definition. Artis can be described as a serial entrepreneur with 20 years of entrepreneurship experience. A high energy, fiscally conscious, and goal-driven technology entrepreneur, Artis “Keith” Turner approaches each new business challenge with his intrinsic flair for innovation, creative problem-solving, and measured risk-taking to drive consistent bottom-line improvements. Keith also founded TurnGroup Technologies, H is for Hope Books, iChurch Phone Apps, and Better Volunteering. Keith Turner is a member of the 2020 TEACH-Him team.
Andre N. Walker
MANUPSTL/Obsidian Marketing Group
Andre Nehemiah Walker also known as “Motivationaldre” is an Digital Marketing Strategist born and raised in St. Louis, Mo. Andre attended Arkansas State University where he competed on the D1 level for Collegiate Track and Cross Country. In 2016 Andre graduated with his bachelors in Business Finance and Sport Management. Andre is the Founder of Obsidian Marketing Group, & the CFO & Co-Founder of MANUPSTL, a male mentoring organization focused on the empowerment of all men, all ages! Andre, alongside his co- founder Co-founder Chris Hill, published their first book “The Re-Factor” in September of 2019. Andre lives his life with one mission in mind: To positively impact as many people as humanly possible. Andre Walker is a part of the 2020 TEACH-Him team.
Dr. Xaivier Tipler
Evoke Chiropractic Coaching, Co-Founder
Dr. Xaivier Tipler received a B.S. in Biology from Central Methodist University and a second B.S. in Human Anatomy and a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Logan University, in Chesterfield, MO. Driven by an intense passion for helping underserved communities, and a desire to change the current health paradigm of a suffering people, Dr. Xaivier T. Tipler is dedicated to sharing his passion for Chiropractic and improving the health and wellness of anyone who seeks better health. Dr. Tipler has been in private practice with close colleague and friend, Dr. Edgar Everett for 12 years at Proficient Chiropractic in Overland, MO. Since being in practice, Dr. Tipler has received numerous accolades including being recognized as a Power 100 “Who’s Who recipient in Business in St. Louis, Minority Business of the Year Award, Iota Phi Lambda Outstanding Achievement in Business Award, and ABCA Chiropractor of the Year Award, among others. Dr. Tipler is an Iraq War Army Veteran where he received a Bronze Medal for his meritorious service during his 2 years in Iraq. He is a Co-founder of Evoke Chiropractic Coaching, a member of the American Black Chiropractic Association, the American Chiropractic Association, the Missouri Chiropractic Association, and a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. Dr. Tipler resides in St. Louis with his beautiful wife, and 4 beautiful children.
Etoya R. White
The Etoya R. White Brand, LLC
Etoya White is the Intervention Coordinator for the Riverview Gardens School District, where he leads 26 Professional School Counselors and School Social Workers, in supporting 5,600 students across 13 schools. Etoya earned his Bachelor and Master degrees from the University of Missouri - St. Louis and also owns a tshirt brand called Thera-tees. He also has more than 15 years of experience in education, juvenile Justice, and adolescent and adult mental health, and is a requested speaker and trainer. Etoya White is a member of the 2020 TEACH-Him team.
Dorlita Adams
Passions 4 Pink Change, CEO
Dorlita Adams is a native of St. Louis and one of the CEO's of the Passion 4 Pink Change non-for profit organization. This west side native earned an undergraduate degree in Elementary Education and Behavior Disorders from Harris-Stowe State University. Eventually, Dorlita earned a M.A. in Education Administration from UMSL and completed her Education Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership at Missouri Baptist University. Adams has been employed in the Ritenour School District for the past fifteen years and is currently the Director of Alternative Education. Prior to this position, Dorlita was the Principal of Kratz Elementary and has in several other roles within the school. She has also worked in the St. Louis Public Schools and Ferguson-Florissant School District in similar roles. Dorlita takes pride in being active within the community and loves being able to provide positive support to children and their families Dorlita is a member of the 2020 TEACH-Her team.
Arriel Biggs
Young Biz Kidz CEO/Founder
Arriel is the Founder of Young Biz Kidz a Nonprofit organization. She uses the tools of Entrepreneurship to reach the masses to help families see that entrepreneurship is an option.
As the momager of Mikey..The Kid who knows the Biz, Arriel believes that teaching financial education through entrepreneurship is a great way to introduction smart money habits to our youth. Arriel has helped hundreds of youth see that entrepreneurship is an option. She also believes that entrepreneurship teaches effective communication, personal responsibilities, problem solving skills, builds self-esteem and builds strong relationships. Arriel is also a Parent Engagement Specialist and offers services to educate, empower and equip parents with the self-confidence to support their Biz Kid. She has won many awards for being a phenomenal woman. She is a 3 time Bestselling Author and part of the 2020 TEACH-Her team.
Denetrica Davis
Exquisite Cakes & Treats LLC, Owner
Denetrica Davis is owner of Exquisite Cakes & Treats LLC. Her love for designing cakes started as a cashier at a cafe/catering company. There she became the bakery manager and also discovered her special talent. God has blessed Denetrica with the ability to bring customer's vision to life. Denetrica started out wanting to be a nurse but also realized the joy her cake designing talents brings to people. Her special occasions designs have been known to bring tears to some clients eyes. Denetrica also enjoys sharing her talents with the youth. You can follow Exquisite Cakes & Treats LLC on Facebook and Instagram. Dentrica Davis is a memebr of teh 2020 TEACH-Her team.
Tamia Hawkins
Mia's Treats Delight, Owner
Tamia, founder & CEO of Mia’s Treats Delight, is a 13 year old baker from St. Louis, MO. She started her business in 2015 at the young age of 8 years old. She bakes gourmet cookies, brownies, & cupcakes all from scratch. Tamia currently sits on the 2019-2020 Kids Board of Directors for KIDBOX in addition to Dreams for Kids. She has won numerous awards for her philanthropic work and entrepreneurial achievements.
Tamia’s mission in life is to combat homelessness & inspire young girls and boys to dream BIG!
Tamishio Hawkins
Momager, Author, Philanthropist
Tamishio Hawkins is a mother, philanthropist, best selling author of #MomBoss, and momager to Tamia Hawkins. Currently, Tamishio spends most of her free time helping her 13 year old daughter run her business called Mia’s Treats Delight where she bakes cookies, brownies, & cupcakes.
Tamishio also serves on the Board of Directors for Young Biz Kidz as the parent recruiter. She attended the University of Missouri-Columbia where she studied Social Work & Psychology and often organizes events that focus on feeding the homeless and passing out clothing and toiletries.
Tamishio’s passion and mission is to help others and aspires to start her own non-profit serving the homeless population.
Kamiah Hoffman
Entrepreneur
Kamiah Hoffman started her jewelry business as a result of participating in the 2019 TEACH-Her Youth Initiative. Kamiah is a spirited, thoughtful and creative teen who enjoys school, writing, sports and socializing with her peers. Kamiah is empathetic towards others and a very rational thinker. She is a positive role model to her siblings and enjoys giving back to others. Kamiah Hoffman is one of our youngest 2020 TEACH-Her facilitators.
Deletra Hudson
Deletra Hudson LLC, President
St. Louis native, Deletra Hudson, MBA, is a woman on a mission to help people with financial literacy and has previously worked with the youth as a 2019 TEACH-Her facilitator. Deletra is also known as “The Financial Educator” is the owner of Deletra Hudson, LLC, a financial coaching and consulting firm in St. Louis, Missouri. Deletra is also an author and speaker who possesses over 25 years of financial experience working with corporations, municipalities, non-profit agencies, small businesses, churches and professionals. Deletra is the founder of the Financial Wellness Institute of America, an online financial academy created to help increase financial knowledge for small business owners, professionals and youth through seminars, courses, books, educational systems, and workshops. Deletra is most passionate about her work as a youth financial literacy advocate and is on a mission to fill the financial education gap as well as making women more money wise through her Money Wise Women Wealth Club. Deletra has published several books including, Money Matter$, her debut children’s book, Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees and AJ Discovers the $2 Bill. She became a best-selling author for her adult inspirational empowerment book collaboration #BossMoms. Deletra Hudson is also a wife and a mother of three children, whom she affectionately refers to as her “Legacy Keepers”. Deletra is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and a member of the 2020 TEACH-Her team for a second time around.
Brandy A. Gates
Legacy of Wealth CEO
Brandy Gates is a 10 year Navy Reservist, experienced 8.5 years as a Law Enforcement Officer, public speaker, financial educator, real estate investor and tax professional. She’s the Author of “Through My Eyes” which shows you how to go to from bitter to better which has sold over 600 copies. She helps other’s to persist past their emotional pain.
Brandy specializes in conflict resolution, financial education, and leadership development. As a survivor of child molestation and being bombed in Afghanistan in 2014, She spent her time helping others learn how to turn their pain into profits. Learning how to recreate myself after experiencing traumatic events in my life has allowed me to grow through the emotional pain I have endured.
Vision Statement:
“Creating a better self is not about getting to one place in your life and staying there; however, it’s about continuous evolution of self and forever growing to be a better human being!”
Brandy has been booked as a speaker by Better Family Life, Girls Holla Back Organization, Kwame Foundation, Youth Lifeline Organization, Rowley Residence Group Homes, Man Up Program, Father Support Center, Got Lyrics, Hustle & Flow, Legacy Books and Café (Spoken Word Events), and Vashon High School.
If you are ready to be FREE from the mental prison that is keeping you in bondage and from being great, Brandy is the expert for you to work with to learn how to free your mind so that you can begin walking and fulfilling your purpose, vision and dreams.
Tamara Lewis
Pink Pearl Hero Non Profit, Founder
Tammy (Brown) Lewis, hails from the mighty “ Show Me State” of St. Louis, MO! This married, mother of two beautiful girls, visions herself as a “Servant Leader” to her community and any work capacity that she has been in. Tammy started her career as a Health Educator, carrying on various roles in the community sector, research and development, as well as the corporate setting. She has a total of twelve (12) years experience in pharmaceuticals from Pfizer Pharmaceuticals and Novo Nordisk combined. In the most recent years, Tammy took a 360 career change from corporate America and jumped into the world of entrepreneurship as a Regional Vice President, in Primerica. A life change of being diagnosed with breast cancer, has led her to help women find their “Inner Pearl” and founded the Pink Pearl Hero Non Profit that focuses on Self Awarene$$, Self Love, and Self Care. Combining both career and community, her focus is to help people “ make money and save money” by becoming their own boss and put a financial game plan in place to help people succeed at the money game. With a continuous focus on community service, she is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and Girl Scouts of America. Tamara Lewis is also a member of the 2020 TEACH-Her Team.
Tracee Lynn
The Fitness Boss, Founder
Tracee, The Fitness Boss, has always loved fitness and health and to follow this passion she became a Zumba instructor in 2010. She’s completely dedicated to self love, self care, and personal growth and development for both herself while sharing it with others! Tracee is a two time facilitator and is part of the 2020 TEACH-Her Team.
Sherri Nicholson
Always Love Yoga, Founder
Sherri Nicholson is a St. Louis native and an experienced 200 hours plus certified yoga instructor. She spent over 15 years as a social worker servicing at risk youth within various communities in St Louis City and County. Sherri began her yoga journey in 2008 while experimenting with self-care activities to help youth with eliminating stress. She began practicing Hot Yoga to learn more about finding ways to make yoga more accessible to children and families. Since completed the 200hr-YTT with Yoga Buzz Hip Hop Yoga in 2017 and currently owns Always Love Yoga LLC where she travels to teach kids, adults, and those with special needs. Nicholson travels to public, private and parochial school settings, grades ranging from 5th-12th, to teach yoga classes and provide professional developments during the school year. Sherri enjoys teaching various levels in Vinyasa, Gentle Flow, and Deep Stretch with emphasis on mindfulness, safe-care and self-love. Sherry is a two time facilitator and is part of the 2020 TEACH-Her team.
Michelle Robinson
DEMIblue Natural Nails, Owner
Michelle L. Robinson is the Owner of DEMIblue Natural Nails, LLC and creator of DEMI blue 7-Free Vegan Friendly Nail Polish Line. She has serviced the healthcare and education industries for over 18 years. Michelle was inspired to incorporate her research, experience, and love for servicing others in providing healthier manicures through the creation of her personal nail polish brand. It was then that DEMIblue was born! Understanding via her studies how toxins may impact the human body, Michelle takes this endeavor very seriously adding, “My mother is a cancer survivor. I understand seeking a healthier lifestyle is the key to cancer remission for my mother and possible prevention for others. The choices we make in our everyday life can have an impact”. Michelle Robinson is a two time facilitator and is a part of the 2020 TEACH-Her team.
Tamara Robinson
Financial Empowerment Coach
Tamara Robinson is an author, social entrepreneur, real estate investor, entrepreneur and financial empowerment coach. She started Street Smart Investments Group/Dream Chasers because her passion lies within helping children understand the value of money and how to spend responsibly. She also coaches youth and adults on financial literacy and investing. Tamara Robinson is a part of the 2020 TEACH-Her team.
Precious Simone
INNERStrength Coach/ Author/Speaker/Mentor
Precious Simone is a High-Spirited motivator who harnesses the power of love by confronting, provoking, and inspiring individuals to become the best versions of themselves thru INNERStrength coaching. She is an inspirational leader with a powerful presence and an infectious personality. Precious leads with empathy, compassion, and enjoys building authentic relationships. Precious Simone is a published author of her book titled: Confronting the Age-Old Question: Why Me? She is also the founder of INNERgized Coaching and Consulting LLC. Precious Smith is part of the 2020 TEACH-Her Team
LeeAnn Weeden
GLAM, Owner
LeeAnn is a woman of faith who inspires through beauty and fashion. Her hearts desire is to guide other women into their passions in life evolving into their purpose. LeeAnn believes that the opportunity to touch the hearts of youth exists thru her profession in the beauty industry. Allowing authentic moments of transparency and realness to connect and encourage youth to not to stay on the surface of life, but to walk boldly in who they are in Christ while pursuing destiny. LeeAnn is a part of the 2020 TEACH-Her facilitator team.
Dr. Ava Smith
SHEI Effect, Founder
Dr. Smith is an influential leader with a passion to evoke change. She is known for her passionate and inspirational messages. Dr. Smith has a B.A. in Psychology from Saint Louis University, a Masters in Sports Psychology from Capella University, a Masters in Education, specializing in Special Education, from the University of Missouri, Saint Louis, and she earned her Doctorate in Teacher Leadership from Maryville University, in Saint Louis, Missouri.
Dr. Ava Smith believes “Education is Knowledge and Knowledge is Power.” She is currently a Special Education teacher in the Ferguson-Florissant School District. She also has her own small business, The SHEI Effect. SHEI stands for Strong, Humble, Effective, Influencer. Dr. Smith spends her time mentoring and molding young girls into becoming a SHEI. Understanding these principles has allowed Dr. Smith to be successful in her own journey in life.
Dr. Smith takes pride in educating others on the importance of academic achievement. Dr. Smith has published two books, Breaking Through to Increase Academics and The SHEI Principles. She uses her experiences, knowledge, and passion to teach other educators and individuals how to be successful leaders. She lives by the motto, “I was not built to break”.
Nancy Smith
N2-CraftS LLC
Nancy Smith is a veteran educator of 14 years. She has served as a high school mathematics instructor for the Normandy, and Hazelwood school districts here in Saint Louis, MO, as well as in the Fort Bend and Aldine Independent school districts in Houston, TX. Her tenure in education includes being a coach, curriculum writer, department chair and serving on various committees. Nancy began her entrepreneurial desires when she had her daughter in 2013. She has always dreamed of having something to call her own and having her daughter Brooklyn, just added more fuel to the fire. In the spring of 2019, N2-CraftS LLC became a reality. Through her business she creates personalized items such as t-shirts, tumblers, glasses, invitations, and just about anything else you can think of. She recently began a line of scented candles and wax melts under the name of “It’s Lit” by Brooklyn, so that her daughter can get in on the entrepreneurial train also. Nancy will continue to strive in the field of education because it is her passion to educate young people, but she will also share her entrepreneurial spirit with her daughter and other youth in her community. Nancy Smith is part of the 2020 TEACH-Her Beauty team.
Tonita Williams Smith
Founder St. Louis Prayer Project
Tonita Williams-Smith is a military wife, mom, grandmother, author of The Power of Shut up Grace and The Little Black Planner, co-author of Boss Moms, and owner of Fashion Remix Boutique. She enjoys helping others while promoting health, wellness, and prevention. One of her passions is working with the youth and believes they are the future, which is why she founded The St. Louis Prayer Project. Tonita was also a 2019 TEACH-Her facilitator and her compassion to pour love, wisdom, and guidance into children continues to make a difference. Tonita is also a member of the 2020 TEACH-Her Team.
JC Sykes
Director of Operations
JC Sykes is a mother, wife and entrepreneur who owns 90 Degree Construction in St. Louis, Missouri. She has a mission to teach women and youth essential skills to empower them to build their own dreams. Sykes is also a best selling author of a My A.R.R.A. Growing Into Me e-book which can be found on Amazon. She also offers DIY classes thru-out the year teaching women how to build custom furniture pieces. JC Sykes is a member of the 2020 TEACH-Her Facilitator Team.
Christian Tipler
Divinely Beautiful Non-Profit
Christian Tipler received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of Social Work with a concentration in Family and Children from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville. Christian has over 9 years of experience in reentry services and clinical care and is Founder and Executive Director of Divinely Beautiful; a non-profit organization empowering young girls and women through Godly wisdom and guidance. Christian is an educator, mentor and wisdom giver called to empower women of all backgrounds, ethnicity, etc., to embrace their true identity in Christ and reach their full potential in life. Christian is a proud wife and mother of children and her motto is “Greatness starts within and it takes the confidence of God to bring it out.” Christian Tipler is part of the 2020 TEACH-Her Team.
Samiyah Womack
Entrepreneur/Actress
Quick witted, highly intelligent and fun are just a few of the ways to describe our youngest TEACH-Her facilitator! Samiyah Womack has been acting since 18 months and interviewed on numerous shows. She is known for Cronies (2015) and Bixler High Private Eye(2019) and is a member of Alisha Sunshine’s African dance team, she practices archery, and was recently inducted into the National Honor Society. Samiyah is an invaluable member of our team because she can relate to the students on a more personal level and she has already tapped into her true gifts! Samiyah also launched her handmade accessories business called Visions of Love in 2019.
Amanda Wyatt
A.Marie Realty, LLC
Amanda Wyatt is dedicated to making the world a better place to live one home at a time. Amanda brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise about buying and selling real estate. One of her missions is to teach young people at an early age about the importance of having good credit and saving for home ownership. Amanda Wyatt is part of the 2020 TEACH-Her Team.
Aleisha Davis
XinMarie Styles Owner
Aleisha Davis is a licensed hairstylist and colorist in St. Louis and owner of XinMarie Styles. She is also a landlord and co-owner of G&A Davis Properties. Aleisha specializes in helping clients obtain and maintain healthy hair. Her specialty is also hair coloring and she invests a lot into education and perfecting her craft. Aleisha obtained a Masters in Business and considers herself very business savvy. She has been licensed since 2001 and has worked in both the world of corporate and hair and beauty. You can follow Aleisha Davis on Instagram @xinmariestyles and she is also a member of the 2020 TEACH-Her Beauty team.
Nicole McCray
Hidden Beauty Salon Owner
Nicole McCray was born and raised in St. Louis, MO. She has been passionate about cosmetology since she was 12 years old. By the age of 22, she received her license from Elaine Stevens Beauty College. Today, she is the owner of Ferguson’s “Hidden Beauty Salon” and she just vamped her new hair extension brand called, “Radiant Extensions” by SewNikki. Ms. McCray is known for her seamless work with sew-ins, and maintaining healthy hair. Every year in August, she gives back to the youth of her community with free hairstyles/cuts, and school supplies. Her mission is to enhance women’s beauty that is already within. Nicole McCray is part of the 2020 TEACH-Her Beauty team.
Tendai Morris
Whisper Whip and Texture Talk Creator
Based in St. Louis, MO, Tendai explains, “I was given the name The Hair Whisperer by my clients because of my ability to get hair to respond in a positive way under the seemingly most impossible circumstances. While a successful Barber/ Cosmetologist and Keratin trained master stylist, my real passion has been in educating consumers and other stylists on proper hair care and maintenance. This passion has lead me to develop trademark products and techniques such as Heat Interval Hair Straightening, which allows natural clients to wear their hair straight with the ability to go back to their natural curl pattern with little to no pattern loss, and of course the incredible Whisper Whip Hydration Product.” Tendai Morris had centered her focus on traveling abroad with her educational series, Texture Talk, where Tendai explains the ins and outs of healthy hair care. Tendai is part of the 2020 TEACH-Her Beauty Team.
Jibri Ross
Bundles by Passion Tha’Konnect, CEO
Jibri Ross is currently the CEO of Bundles by Passion Tha’Konnect where she sales Luxurious Hair Extensions, Customized Wigs and provides Cosmetic Consulting to her clients. With 15+ years of experience in hair care, Jibri’s concentration area is the rejuvenation of natural hair. She specializes in the health of her clients natural hair. She’s also received her Bachelors of Science in Marketing from the University of Central Missouri. She has applied her certification and professional skills into her businesses. She also enjoys sharing her road to entrepreneurship to inform and inspire others. Jibri Ross is part of the 2020 TEACH-Her Beauty team
Lauren Sanders
Mosaic Strands Salon, Owner
Lauren Sanders, born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri has worked in the hair and beauty industry for 20 years. She acquired her skills while volunteering with Grabber Hair Design Cosmetology College, where she obtained her license in 2000. In her spare time, she takes care of her daughter and is very active in all of her activities while also giving time to her church. Lauren is great at solving problems in the work place, creating, and also educating young hair stylists on healthy hair care and techniques. One of her greatest accomplishments is the opening of her business MOSAIC STRANDS HAIR SALON in 2018. Lauren Sanders is part of the 2020 TEACH Her Beauty team. Follow Lauren on Instagram @mosaicstrandshair.
Brittanie "Skye"
Mosaic Salon, Owner
Brittanie is a cosmetologist and has been working in the field for close to 15 years. Much of her career has also been as a salon owner and she strives to be a healthy hair advocate to ensure that all of her clients have nothing less than healthy heads of hair! Her portfolio includes styling models for photo and video shoots, as well as brides and bridal parties including the likes of a few celebrity clients. Brittanie Skye prides herself on maintaining a very professional and inviting atmosphere and is part of the 2020 TEACH-Her Beauty team.
Kaniya Slusher
Major Beauty House, Owner
Kaniya Slusher is an 18 year old St. Louis native, who is also a Fashion Designer and Beauty Professional. Kaniya has always been determined on fulfilling her purpose and being independent. She started her brand Major Beauty House at age 16 and it evolved into a brow/lash business. Kaniya has been a voice on MIX 95.5 and HOT 104.1 radio stations and enjoys networking, participating in fashion events and surrounding herself by like-minded people. Kaniya conducts a female workshop called "Design me a donut" in which she speaks on the importance of finding your purpose. Kaniya has a goal getter mentality and is part of the 2020 TEACH-Her Beauty team. Follow her Instagram page @majorslusher and Facebook page @Kaniyaslusher.
Toleta "Tee" Thomas
Formation Salon & Spa, Owner
Tee "askforthetee" Thomas; a name affectionately given by her empowered clients and enthusiastic students because she is always willing to talk about hair; and the beauty business. Tee is a wife and mother to 6 girls. Tee's niche and passion in the industry started while working in a private setting servicing women with children, and she ultimately earned her Cosmetology license in 2009. Tee makes it a priority to continue her technical education by attending trade shows and hands on classes with some of the most notable brands, stylists and educators worldwide. Her philosophy is that each one should teach many, so in 2012 Tee obtained an instructor license and uses her college degree and extensive technical ability to help develop great stylist and most importantly develop better business professionals within the Beauty industry. In 2018, Tee Thomas birthed Formation Salon and Spa; the perfect salon ecosystem with an extensive service menu. She has also submitted her qualifications for appointment to the Missouri Board of Cosmetology as a general member and aims the contribute to the regulatory changes that will help beauty professionals elevate the standards and expectations within the industry. Tee Thomas is a member of the 2020 TEACH-Her Beauty Team.
Pamela Williams
Che Salon, Owner
Pamela Williams has been a licensed professional stylist for over two decades and has been a salon owner for over 10 years. Throughout Pamela’s professional career she has enhanced her business while improving her skill set in the salon and outside of the salon. Pamela is the CEO and Founder of Che Cosmetics and owner of The Red Bag Experience. She specializes in cranial prosthetics and non-surgical; hair loss replacement. Pamela is also a beauty facilitator for Look Good Feel Better Organization at the American Cancer Center Creator of the Che Ready Sew in and creator of the Braid Less Method. Pamela prides herself on creating an experience each time a client enters the building and always make sure each client leaves feeling #CheReady! Pamela is an enthusiastic leader and entrepreneur who is always looking for opportunities to collaborate and grow. Pamela has added Che Chat and Chew events to her calendar to start having safe candid conversations about hair care. Pamela Williams is what TEACH-Her Beauty is about.
Leslie Christian-Wilson
Diversity GalleryOwner
Leslie was born and raised in St. Louis, where she currently lives with her husband AJ and youngest daughter, Skylar (10). Her family also includes two more daughters, Kamille (30) and Ashley (29). Before beginning her entrepreneurial journey in 2000, Leslie worked in healthcare administration and became a licensed Real Estate Agent. Since opening Diversity Gallery, Leslie has been very active within her community, consulting other local businesses and performing leadership roles. She wears many hats, including Natural Hair Stylist, Fashion and Jewelry Designer, Event Planner, Motivational Speaker and Lifestyle Coach. Leslie is grateful for her family, friends, and community for their unwavering support of Diversity Gallery. It's because of them that Diversity Gallery has continued to thrive for almost two decades. Leslie Christian Wilson is part of the 2020 TEACH-Her Beauty Team.