The National Professional Women's Network

Outstanding Black Woman In Business

Meet Aarie Wade

Aarie Wade was born, raised, and currently resides on the southeast side of Grand Rapids, MI. She graduated from Grand Rapids Public School's Creston High School and holds a Master's of Social Work: Policy, Planning, and Administration Degree from Western Michigan University.  Aarie currently serves as Director of Education at Baxter Community Center and works tirelessly to educate, advocate and create ways to promote high-quality and equitable learning opportunities for the children and adults in her community. 

Aarie serves as Vice President of Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education, Michigan Association for the Education of Young Children's Western Chapter Member at large, Board of Trustees for Kent School Services Network, Camp Roger, and numerous city and neighborhood committees. Aarie has also been recognized for promoting literacy in her community. In 2019 she founded the Black Book Exchange Box, a non-profit organization that highlights black and brown literature by making it easier to read, discover and share books that represent black stories and culture by placing free library exchange systems in Grand Rapids neighborhoods. Aarie is also a real-estate investor, she is the owner of Black Eden Tiny Cabins, Vacation Rentals located in Idlewild, Michigan. 

Aarie is most proud to be a mother of 2 young women one attending her sophmore Year at Texas Southern University and the in the graduating class of 2025 at Grand Rapids Catholic Central Highschool.

Website: https://blackedentinycabins.my.canva.site

Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/share/1FR6yBYXct/

Outstanding Black Woman In Business

Meet Tara Jones-Williamson

I’m Tara Jones-Williamson, a Financial Success Coach and Lifestyle Designer who is dedicated to helping people pay off all of their debt in two years or less. Over 14 years ago, I created and executed a plan that allowed me to press reset and go from financial struggle and failure to financial success and freedom.

With my daughter on my lap, I paid off over $60,000 of debt as a single mother. I then launched Your Pretty Pennies, this online financial lifestyle brand, where I educate and empower women to move from making poor financial choices to using their income to manifest their best lives. I am also the author of The Ultimate Financial Planner and the creator of The Financial Reset™ Online Academy.

Today, I am married and mothering 3 wonderful children! When I am not coaching, speaking, or mommying, you can find me laying down on my green velvet coach surrounded by my plant babies (#plantmom), eating chocolate and popcorn while binge-watching a good documentary!

Outstanding Black Woman In Business

Meet Tamara Gooch

When many think about taking the leap from Corporate America into full-time

entrepreneurship, it can be a scary idea. However, when Tamara Gooch left and

embarked on her entrepreneurship journey, it wasn’t about her at all. She envisioned

building a legacy for her children, and children’s children, and helping others take the

leap and reach new heights in their journey to lifestyle, time, and financial freedom.

What makes Tamara a force to be reckoned with in the marketplace is the fact that her

ultimate success is strategically tied to the success of those she works with. Unlike most

Master Certified Coaches who build and strategize from the sidelines, her clients walk

away with clarity around their next life and business move. Moreover, who their target

market is, and how to generate recurring revenue – but they also gain a heightened

sense of confidence & clarity in their abilities.

After publishing her first book in 2012, then, it landed in the right hands to be mentioned

on NPR, which led to multiple speaking engagements, & facilitating workshops, Tamara

knew she’d tapped into an innate ability that she – and the world around her – so desperately needed. She went on to author multiple interactive self-help workbooks, co-

authored four bestselling anthologies, and one international bestseller with great literary greats of all calibers. Her work has also been featured in Black Couples Getaway

Magazine, Self-Care Magazine, various other online magazines, and blogs such as

Mom Life Happy Life, Redefining Mom Blog & WIC (Women, Infants & Children) Blog.

Tamara is on a strategic mission to alleviate generational poverty with her advanced

programs & courses. These programs yield a rinse and repeat proven system that helps

her clients produce products and services and provides a much-needed jolt to the

overall state of the economy.

So, who is Tamara C. Gooch? She is a multi-passionate serial entrepreneur, Master

Certified Coach and Coach Trainer, Transformational Speaker, International Bestselling

Author, Podcast Host and recent In-home Daycare Provider. I empower busy moms to

unlock their superpower, overcome mental blocks, and turn their clutter into clarity and

that clarity into coins. With my guidance, they discover their true potential, launch their

dream business, and achieve success on their own terms, all while maintaining a

fulfilling family life, but most importantly w/o sacrificing time with self.

Let’s Connect Or DM me personally to learn more about me.

FB: https://www.facebook.com/TamaraCGooch/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/coachtamaracgooch/

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tamaragooch7?lang=en

Outstanding Black Woman In Business

Meet Iryonna Hogan-Davis

Iryonna Hogan-Davis is the founder and CEO of Meaning in Colors, a non-profit organization that empowers families and individuals to achieve greater independence through a holistic approach combining education, housing, and employment support. Having experienced housing instability firsthand, Iryonna is deeply familiar with the systemic barriers that many face and now dedicates her efforts to helping others navigate the path to sustainable housing. Her leadership is focused on equipping people with the tools and resources they need to overcome obstacles and thrive. 

Iryonna has a special passion for working with youth, young adults, and families to help them discover, visualize, and achieve their goals toward independence. Her areas of expertise include minority empowerment, career development, and financial literacy, all aimed at breaking down barriers and creating pathways for success. Since founding Meaning in Colors in 2017, she has led initiatives in mentoring, transitional housing, community outreach, life coaching, and youth development, all designed to uplift underserved populations. 

In addition to her work with Meaning in Colors, Iryonna is the founder of 2 Teach and Reach LLC, where she offers one-on-one and group coaching, career mentorship, and motivational speaking under the name "Iryonna The Legacy Leader." Her entrepreneurial spirit also led her to create Perfect Fit Boutique in 2020, a business providing affordable, quality clothing for all body types. The following year, she co-founded Davis Extreme Party Rentals, a family-owned business providing event rentals and services throughout the community. 

Iryonna's impact extends beyond her organizations. She has been featured on several news outlets and media platforms for her community work in housing and financial education. Her advocacy and expertise have earned her recognition, including West Michigan Women Brilliance Award for West, the Fox 17 Path Forward Finalist,the Grand Rapids Area Black Business, the Linc Up Community Spirit Award, and recognition from the Young Non-Profit Professional Network of Grand Rapids. 

Iryonna serves on several influential committees, including the City of Grand Rapids'  Grow 1000 Employers of Community Practice, where she works to bridge gaps between employers and those seeking to work with you. Her advocacy efforts focus on helping individuals transition from homelessness to homeownership, providing access to the tools and support necessary for long-term success. 

In her personal life, Iryonna enjoys dancing, spending quality time with her husband and children, and hanging out with friends. She continues to be a beacon of hope and empowerment in her community, using her personal experiences and professional expertise to inspire others to reach their full potential.

Outstanding Black Woman In Business

Meet Shantell Streur

Owner | Wine and Wick, The Candle Experience & Exquisite Stone Candle Co.

Founder | Destiny'z Closet

Shantell Streur is a driven entrepreneur and philanthropist, known for her ownership of Wine and Wick, The Candle Experience, and Exquisite Stone Candle Co., businesses that reflect her passion for luxury, creativity, and connection. In addition to her entrepreneurial ventures, Shantell is dedicated to giving back to her community, particularly through her nonprofit work.

As the founder of Destiny'z Closet, a nonprofit organization focused on providing name-brand clothing to foster youth, Shantell is committed to helping young people build self-esteem and confidence through the power of fashion. Destiny'z Closet serves as a vital resource for children in foster care, offering them a sense of dignity and belonging through carefully curated, high-quality clothing.

Shantell’s expertise extends to business development, sales, mentorship, networking, and connecting individuals to the resources they need for success. She has a unique ability to build relationships and empower people, ensuring that they not only thrive in their professional lives but also in their personal growth. Her focus on creating networks of support and resource-sharing has made her an invaluable asset to the communities she serves.

In addition to her nonprofit work, Shantell is deeply committed to serving those in need, with an annual tradition of providing meals to the homeless every Thanksgiving. Her dedication to both her businesses and charitable endeavors reflects her mission to uplift others and make a meaningful impact in the lives of those around her.

Socials: @exquisitestonecandleco

Facebook: exquisitestonecandleco

Outstanding Black Woman In Business

Meet Crystal Hardley

Crystal T Hardley, a Native of Grand Rapids, MI, and graduate of Ottawa Hills High School., has over 25 years of experience in the funeral industry. She is a graduate of Worsham College of Mortuary Science in Wheeling, IL, and has a BA in Psychology from Grand Valley State University.  

As a licensed embalmer\funeral director, Crystal has dedicated her career to supporting families through some of their most challenging times.  Crystal is committed to providing

Personalized services with the utmost respect. She has been publicly recognized

for her compassionate approach and attention to detail.

She believes each person’s story deserves to be remembered with dignity and care. Her role goes beyond funeral planning; it’s about creating a space where families can find comfort, celebrate memories, and begin healing. Her goal is to meet each family’s unique

needs with sensitivity and professionalism. Under the leadership of many before her,

she began Crystal Funeral Service in 2013.

Crystals owns Toombs by Crystal Funeral Services in Muskegon Heights, MI, and Grand Rapids, Michigan. (In which she is the first Black female owner in the industry in GR) 

She is honored to serve her community. Crystal loves her supportive Husband, Children, and church during her free time if there is such a thing.

Outstanding Black Woman In Business

Meet Tanya Powell-May

MISSION: TO TRANSFORM LIVES by building careers worth having, businesses worth owning, lives worth living, experiences worth giving, and legacies worth leaving.    

VISION: To be the real estate team of choice for new and experienced agents and their clients. We will help 2,000 families to become homeowners and/or investors by 2031.

VALUES:  God, Family, then Business (CARE)

Community Engagement & Philanthropy

Accountability to One Another and Those We Serve

Respected Professionals

Exceptional Service

OUR BELIEFS:

Win-Win:  or no deal

Integrity:  do the right thing

Customers:  always come first

Commitment:  in all things

Communication:  seek first to understand

Creativity:  ideas before results

Teamwork:  together everyone achieves more

Trust:  starts with honesty

Equity: opportunities for all

Success:  results through people

Contact Tanya at: 

Direct: 616 3083556

Tanya@legacyhomesgr.com

www.LegacyHomesGR.com

Outstanding Black Woman In Business

Meet Nicole Rhodes

Meet Nicole Rhodes, an experienced healthcare leader, wellness-entrepreneur, and certified Xtreme Hip Hop Step instructor. Her mission is to empower individuals to become their best selves by inspiring them to embrace their unique health and wellness journey and find happiness in all aspects of life. Her dynamic classes and motivational guidance are designed to help her students reach their full potential. Her personal journey of defying the odds and working to reverse the curse of type 2 diabetes makes her a beacon of hope for many.

Nicole is shifting the face of healthcare and fitness and proving that health success is about more than size and stamina. Her personal journey is a testament to the power of hard work and dedication. So far, Nicole has released more than 60 pounds and continues to champion her brand statement of growing, glowing, and losing inches.  Her vision extends beyond the studio as she collaborates with community partners to share the joy of wellness with women through the Cole Marie brand. Her love of this lifestyle is evident in her creation of a luxury activewear line that caters to stylish, curvy women who deserve to feel confident and comfortable while pursuing their fitness goals. Join Nicole on a transformative journey towards a healthier, happier, and more fulfilled life by connecting with her on social platforms and becoming part of the Cole Marie community.

Nicole’s healthcare journey began in 2003 while studying at East-West University in Chicago, Illinois. A Grand Rapids native, she returned to her Michigan roots to pursue her passion in the field with positions spanning medical billing, revenue cycle training, and coding instruction all while demonstrating leadership in supervisor and manager roles and mentoring the next generation. 

During her 20 years of experience, Nicole earned her Masters in Healthcare Administration from University of Phoenix and continually sharpens her skills, having earned multiple certifications: CRCR Certified Revenue Specialist from Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA) and Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) from National Healthcare Association (NHA). 

Nicole is also the co-owner of Revenue Cycle Business Solutions, a HIPAA complaint revenue cycle management company.  With over 30 years of combined experience, Nicole and Tina Jones (business partner & co-owner), have the drive, efficiency in business processes, and operational excellence that will ensure customers are provided a revenue cycle solution that is unmatched.  Revenue Cycle Business Solutions partners with health care providers to capture maximum reimbursement through excellent revenue cycle management. 

Revenue Cycle Business Solutions has experience with numerous insurance providers, including Medicaid, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), Priority Health and many others. The services offered include; medical billing, credentialing, insurance verification, medical coding, payment posting, and denial management.

The mission is to help healthcare providers optimize their time by providing unbeatable revenue cycle management, allowing their clients to focus on serving the community, one patient at a time.  

Contact Nicole at:

www.thecolemariebrand.com

www.revenuecyclebusinesssolutions.com

Outstanding Black Woman In Business

Meet Dr. Gaynel Nave

Meet Dr. Gaynel Nave, the dynamic CEO and founder of FullJoy Wellness, a pioneering force in holistic health. Dr. Nave stands out among outstanding Black women in business, dedicated to empowering BIPOC female clients to thrive in every stage of life. At FullJoy Wellness, Dr. Nave's mission is crystal clear: to provide detailed, convenient, and research-verified care tailored to each client's goals and unique lab results, ensuring they feel amazing as they age. 

Driven by her vision of a world where every woman lives joy-filled lives, looks forward to, and enjoys aging through the menopause transitions and beyond, Dr. Nave brings passion and expertise to her work. With a focus on psychoneuroendocrinology, she sheds light on the intersection of hormones, the nervous system, and psychological well-being, guiding clients to holistic wellness. 

In this media feature highlighting outstanding Black women in business, Dr. Nave's innovative approach and commitment to empowering women shine brightly. Through FullJoy Wellness, she's transforming lives, shaping a future where women embrace aging with confidence and vitality. Join Dr. Gaynel Nave on the journey to fulljoy and thriving at FullJoy Wellness.

For more information about her business, visit www.fulljoywellness.com. 

Outstanding Black Woman In Business

Meet Kenisha Dorsey

My name is Kenisha Dorsey and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Master of Social Work from Grand Valley State University. I was raised in Benton Harbor, Michigan and moved to Grand Rapids to attend graduate school.  I am also a proud mother of two young adults, Marlon and Kaylece. 

I am an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated (31 years) and currently serve as the President of the Grand Rapids local chapter, Theta Chi Omega. Leading the charge while focusing on our program initiatives brings me joy as we work to improve the lives of individuals in our community. 

I had the opportunity to serve as President of the Greater Grand Rapids National Panhellenic Council for four consecutive years and lead many community initiatives. I stand behind the motto “We Are Stronger Together” and those that know me can attest to how much I love the Divine Nine unity in our great city. 

I currently work for the Department of Health and Human Services and my area of expertise includes over 26 years of professional experience working with children and families involved in the child welfare system. I am also an Adjunct Professor at Grand Valley State University in the School of Social Work where I have the opportunity to work directly with students who have a strong interest in working in the child welfare arena. 

It was through my various experiences that I concluded that I wanted to pursue private practice and be a support while encouraging individuals to grow beyond the challenges that are sometimes thrown their way.   In 2021, Extended Arms Counseling, LLC was born.  I am passionate about working with adolescents and young adults who may be dealing with life experiences related to self-esteem, depression, anxiety, substance use, physical abuse, trauma and other challenges that seem overwhelming and difficult to manage alone. My empathy for others allows me the ability to walk alongside them as they find healing and hope.

I am currently contracted with Alliance Counseling Group and accepting new clients.  Feel free to call (616) 222-0631 or send an email to kenisha@alliancecounselinggroup.com

Outstanding Black Woman In Business

Meet Raven Hancock

Hello my name is Raven Hancock also known as Poca!!! (short for Pocahontas of course). Born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. 

As a child being able to help my mom out with doing my 2 little sisters hair at such a young age showed me I had a gift to make life a little more easier for others that couldn’t maintain their own hair or just didn’t have the time or energy to do so themselves..Since the age of 7 when I had gotten my first paying adult client , being a stylist/salon owner has always been a dream of mine… 

During the year 2012, a few months after graduating empire beauty school and having my first child, I started working in at “Ace of fades barber/beauty” at the age 20. Participated in a few of the biggest hair shows in Grand Rapids, MI and had my first VH1 celebrity client and my clientele increased tremendously. A few yrs after I started a salon partnership outside of Ace of fades and it didn’t work out like expected so I returned back to “Ace of fades”…Had my second child and ventured off sometime in 2018 as the owner of my very own salon, which has been going strong.. 

“Pocastylez Beauty Lounge”, where we provide top quality products and top tier services giving you the confidence everyone wants and deserves. We are known to have the best Top quality bundles lasting up to 5yrs long, Top quality wig installs, luxury silk press, luxury extension installations and more.. Pocastylez beauty lounge is a space where you can come relax, grab a glass of wine and let us enhance your beauty!! You can come in having a bad day and leave out feeling like a movie star. You’ll end up forgetting about all your problems!! 

Pocastylez Beauty lounge has been in business making it 5yrs this coming November 2024.. I’ve graduated from Spring Gr’s business training course In 2021 to help grow my business and learn the tools I needed to accelerate.. While In business I’ve done free back to school hair styles for the youth, a small business pitch comp giveaway, hair classes, Mother’s Day brunch events, news interviews and more to come.. 

As a salon owner I plan to expand and be more involved in the community.. We’re also looking for a few more beauty exports to join our team.. If interested you can contact us on all social media platforms below or email us at Pocastylez@yahoo.com.. 

Fb:PocastylezBeautyLoungeLLC

IG:PocastylezBeautyloungeLLC

Outstanding Black Woman In Business

Meet Maneeka Beasley

Maneeka Beasley is a remarkable individual wearing multiple hats, with grace and determination with her passion for baking, teaching, coaching, business, and family.  Holding five degrees, Maneeka's academic pursuits are matched only by her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to family.

Maneeka's journey into the world of baking began two decades ago, igniting a passion for creating exquisite cake jars. In 2014, she completed Spring GR’s business program, laying the groundwork for her entrepreneurial ventures. Subsequently, in 2016, she founded *Flavorful Pound Cakes and Treats (FPC)*, a home-based business specializing in custom cakes, treats, and cake jars. During the pandemic, Maneeka took the opportunity to reflect on her aspirations. Drawing upon her graduate education and the insights gained from Spring GR's business program in 2021, she pivoted FPC towards a long-term, sustainable business model. This led to the birth of *Cakes by the Jar*, where Maneeka's 20-plus years of baking experience culminated in offering savory, sweet surprises to customers in a convenient jar format. Through *Cakes by the Jar*, Maneeka has created unforgettable experiences for her customers, spreading joy one jar at a time.

At *Cakes by the Jar*, We believe that every sweet moment deserves to be celebrated with a burst of flavor and joy. We're dedicated to crafting delectable, high-quality cake jars that not only satisfy taste buds but also create memorable experiences. From using the finest ingredients to embracing creativity in our creations, we're committed to delivering indulgence in every bite. Our philosophy revolves around customer satisfaction, sustainability, and a relentless pursuit of continuous improvement in both taste and presentation. With a passion for making life's celebrations a little sweeter, we are devoted to sweetening life's journey, one jar at a time. 

Outstanding Black Woman In Business

Meet April Ruiz

April Ruiz is a seasoned professional with a diverse background spanning engineering, city government, nonprofit philanthropy, education, and business. With over 20 years of experience in education, she is deeply committed to promoting academic excellence and educational equity.

Throughout her career, April her roles have ranged from serving as a substitute math teacher and professional tutor to working as an adjunct professor, offering her expertise in a multitude of subjects. Holding a bachelor’s degree in international business and a master’s degree in business administration, April brings a wealth of knowledge to her endeavors.

As the Founding CEO of Mosaic Masterminds, April leads a dedicated team focused on empowering learners of all ages to enhance their academic performance and critical thinking skills. Through personalized learning experiences tailored to individual needs, Mosaic Masterminds fosters personal growth and self-esteem. With proficiency in seven languages, April and her team have supported students and families across the United States, delivering professional tutoring services and facilitating skill development for career advancement among adults.

April’s passion for education extends beyond her business ventures. She has coordinated numerous academic programs and special projects in collaboration with esteemed institutions such as The Grand Rapids Student Advancement Foundation, Grand Rapids Public Schools, Great Minds in STEM, NASA, and various universities and community organizations. Her efforts have been instrumental in advancing educational initiatives and fostering community partnerships.

In addition to her role at Mosaic Masterminds, April is actively involved in mentoring youth and aspiring entrepreneurs. Whether speaking at conferences or engaging with students in the classroom, she seeks to inspire others to pursue their goals with determination and embrace the power of community collaboration.

Drawing on her expertise in educational advocacy, April excels in guiding strategic efforts for students, families, and businesses seeking to adopt innovative educational practices. Her dedication to transforming the learning experience and empowering students to think differently about education is evident in all facets of her work.

For additional information, please visit April’s LinkedIn profile.

Outstanding Black Woman In Business

Meet Ruth Etta Coleman

I survived 60 years in Holland Michigan, a Dutch community that fought to keep Black culture on the outskirts. In 1992, my husband and I started the first African American Support Group. In 1995, I opened the first black hair care store in Holland. Witnessing the increasingly dropout rate of African American Students from high school in 1998, I implemented a Learning Enhancement Achievement Program for middle school students. When one of the students from the program stole a Doo Rag from my store, I asked what was needed to avert this type of behavior. “We need a place of our own,” the student replied. After discussing the matter further with my husband, we decided to implement a Juneteenth Festival in Holland in 2000. A few years later after the success of the Juneteenth Festival, I felt Black students deserved more and opened the Center of African American Art and History Museum in 2012. With support waning, I could not imagine letting such an iconic vision dissipate. My husband and I moved CAAAH to Grand, Rapids, Michigan in 2014. My husband and I worked diligently with community leaders over a 3 to 4 year period to establish a board and find a location and open what is now called the NIA Centre in Downtown Grand Rapids, MI. Robert Upton and a magnificent group people have worked tirelessly to develop niacentre.org. NIA is a Swahili word meaning purpose, a center for everybody’s history. However, when talking about the qualities of one’s life, many aspects of which are hidden and not always obvious. 

My name is Ruth Etta Coleman. I have MSW, a MCJ, and a BAS. I have been married to Edward Wayne Coleman for over 30 years. We have 3 children, Charles Edward Kyles, Kristina Anne Kyles Smith, and Josiah Deion Coleman. In the spring of 2006, IMagazine named me as one of West Michigan 50 Most Influential Women. I was surprised and very thankful for the recognition. One thing I know of myself is that I am a woman of action. Joining the Leadership Holland Team taught me that if there was something needed in the community that was unfulfilled and I could fill it, it was my responsibility to do something about it! That is what leadership is all about! That is what my life is all about. Every morning, I wake up, that is my goal. My four most important beliefs are...belief in God, belief in self, belief in family, and belief in your community. 

During the 3-year shutdown of Covid-19, I wrote my first book, Skillet Truth. Skillet Truth is a book about over 60 years of a life filled with lies, deceit, attachment disorder, incest, poor self-image, depression, brutality, a debilitating car accident, a life changing move, a prolonged rash over my entire body, and on top of everything else, Covid-19. Life’s harsh realities and all its unpleasantries set in like a cast iron skillet. When the hard truth of reality hits you, you lose faith not just in God, but in your hopes, 

and in your dreams. That was when God made me realize I wasn’t in this world alone, and that He gave my life’s purpose. A purpose that I couldn’t do alone. But, through Him and with Him, I could do better, be better, be stronger, and understand what this life of pain He gave me was all about. But I had to be transformed from the inside out. I had to face some hard cold facts. 

Skillet Truth teaches you how not to succumb to your worst self, even when that person tempting you to do bad is you. God taught me that great wisdom comes from great struggle. I wrote Skillet Truth with the intention of helping others experiencing the same disillusionment I faced with life. Skillet Truth is short sayings and phrases that express my truth. Facing these truths helped me to spiritually mature. Woman, particularly mothers, are in the greatest battle ever. Life shifts repeatedly from servant to warrior, good to bad, happy to sad. I found out that God has never lost a battle, and with Him, you won't either. You can overcome anything that is thrown your way. A woman of strength knows God will keep her from falling. That's how God set it up from the beginning. You don’t have to be a victim of misfortunes. I pray Skillet Truth will be a blessing and help your wounds from the past and present heal as you are struggling through your dark days. 

Some of the Black women I highly esteem include Sojourner Truth, Madame Walker, Mary McLeod Bethune, Maya Angelo, Shirley Chisolm, and Harriett Tubman. The woman I esteem most in my family is Ruth Kirby, my name’s sake! I never knew my paternal grandmother (Ruth Kirby). But from some of the stories I’ve heard of her, I’m impressed. My grandmother was not only a slave to the fields, but a slave to her husband as well. She could not sit on the porch facing the street. She was made to sit on the porch with her back to the neighborhood and the street. I would love to hear some of her thoughts as she sat facing the windows of her house. She eventually left her husband after being beaten and tormented numerous times, leaving behind seven young children to be raised by a tyrant. To me, she was some kind of hero. My grandmother died before I got a chance to get to know her. So many questions enter my mind regarding her journey while here on this earth. I often wonder what a conversation with her would be like. What would she say to me? What wisdom would she reveal? What I take away from her life is her strength and courage to be a free woman. She was a woman who was able to choose her own course of action and pattern of living. 

Outstanding Black Woman In Business

Meet Angel May

Angel May, the CEO of May’Amor Travel, brings a wealth of expertise and dedication to the travel and hospitality industry. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree from Western Michigan University, Angel has further augmented her skills through specialized trainings, staying at the forefront of cutting-edge technologies in the travel industry.

As a seasoned travel professional, Angel holds international certifications for select countries, such as Bahamas, Bali, and Dubai, to name a few. She is also a recognized Marriott Certified expert. What sets her apart is an unwavering commitment to evolution and expertise within her field. Angel goes beyond conventional practices by personally traveling overseas to establish profound relationships with vendors. 

This hands-on approach ensures a unique and unparalleled experience for May’Amor Travel’s clients with seamless ease. In her role as CEO, Angel has strategically built a small yet highly skilled and certified team. This team is instrumental in efficiently managing the operations of the business and contributing to its expansion. 

Through Angel's visionary leadership and commitment to staying ahead of industry trends, May'Amor Travel stands out as a distinctive force in the realm of personalized concierge travel services.

Mission

At May'Amor Travel, our mission goes far beyond being your travel companion - we serve as your personal concierge, dedicated to curating seamless and personalized experiences. With meticulous attention to detail, we ensure that every aspect of your encounter reflects your unique preferences. Trust May'Amor Travel to not only guide you through destinations but also to cater to your individual desires, and provide you with unparalleled travel experiences.

Outstanding Black Woman In Business

Meet Theresa Randleman

Theresa Randleman has always understood the importance of helping our youth reach their limitless potential.  What began as a mother’s innovative approach to providing enriching pass time alternatives for her children, soon transitioned into a desire to extend her support and encouragement to even more youth.  That desire led Ms. Randleman to partner with the Lansing Housing Commission and administer grant-funded programs promoting self-empowerment, education, career planning, and mentorship to Lansing, Michigan youth.  She also produced 'Daughters of Divine Purpose’; a conference series, for young ladies between the ages of 11 and 18, focused on increasing awareness in health and wellness, financial awareness, social etiquette, education, and self-esteem.

Ms. Randleman founded the T. ROSE Foundation/W.I.N.G.S. (Women Inspiring and Nurturing Girls' Self-Esteem) to further her community outreach.  The Foundation supports organizations with aspirations to build a strong, healthy, positive future for the youth.  Through her Foundation, Ms. Randleman has established and supported many initiatives dedicated to the continual support of girls and young women early in their social developmental years to promote positive self-esteem and self-image.

Through her Foundation, Ms. Randleman has successfully sponsored the Annual Girlpreneur Ex po; a forum that provides female entrepreneurs ages 18 and under the opportunity to showcase their craft and attend workshops.  The Expo was the launch of her teaching the foundation of entrepreneurship and business plan development through her Young Entrepreneurs Academy; a highly sought-after summer Academy for youth.  She lends her philanthropic support to the I A.M. H.E.R. (Influencing, Achievement, and Maximizing, Hope, Excellence, and Resilience) for the young ladies of the Abeadeze Kyeakor Village in Ghana, Africa.  And, she has helped to increase awareness of the educational, judicial, and societal disparities faced by African-American girls through her support, panel discussions, and promotional viewings of PushOut: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools.

Ms. Randleman continues to volunteer as a planner, programmer, and regional director for numerous local, national, and international youth-oriented nonprofit organizations.  She is the immediate Past President of Zeta Amicae of Detroit, an auxiliary of the Beta Omicron Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.  As such, Ms. Randleman upholds the principles of sisterhood, scholarship, service, and finer womanhood.
 

She is committed to her passion for empowering youth and assisting in the development of their sense of self-mastery as they build meaningful relationships with their gifts and talents, embrace their natural beauty, and step into their journey as future leaders and courageous change makers.  Her commitment has brought forth several awards from local and national organizations; her most recent and prominent award is the President Biden Lifetime Achievement Award; previously she was awarded for Business Excellence and Career Mastered Leadership from well-known and prominent women's organizations; to name a few additional awards.

Outstanding Black Woman In Business

Meet Emma Johnson

Renee Emma Johnson, who prefers to be called Emma, is the dedicated CEO and founder of the Asher Legacy Group. Her profound passion lies in helping underserved individuals overcome life's various struggles, providing them with opportunities to navigate challenges and live life to the fullest. The Asher brand, conceptualized in 2018, has flourished under Emma's leadership, growing into its present infrastructure.

Guided by the mantra "to whom much is given, much is required," Emma embodies generosity in its truest sense. Her giving spirit extends beyond monetary resources, encompassing her time and talents. A natural leader, Emma influences others through her respected demeanor, inspiring them to achieve a greater life.

Emma's elegance and grace find expression in her love for beauty through event planning, serving as the catalyst for Asher's educational programming. One program tailored for women over 50,  addresses a spectrum of concerns. The annual Health and Wellness Conference in March focuses on women's well-being, while additional programming delves into financial literacy and scholarships for high school students, paving the way for higher education.

Under the Asher brand, Emma and her dedicated staff organize events such as Watercolors, celebrating Black Culture and bringing JOY across West Michigan and surrounding areas. The Black Dress Event, another trailblazing event,  empowers women and supports those in domestic violence situations.

In addition to her outstanding professional achievements, Emma holds an impressive educational background. She earned a Bachelor of Business degree from Western Michigan University and a Master's MBA in Human Resource Management from the University of Phoenix. Simultaneously, Emma contributes her time to various boards and committees aligned with her life values and mission, including serving as the Vice President for the Muskegon Community College Foundation. Her “day job” is serving as a Resource Teacher for Grand Rapids Public Schools.

Beyond her professional endeavors and academic achievements, Emma is an active member of the Grand Rapids Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, INC. She resides in Kentwood, Michigan, with her husband Michael of 25 years. Together, they share a beautiful family with two wonderful adult daughters and a cherished grandson. For Emma, family is at the heart of everything, defining the purpose behind her remarkable journey.

Outstanding Black Woman In Business 

Meet Candy Morris 

CandyFaith is the Founder and CEO of The Candy Faith Lux Collection. By day, she is a licensed nail technician, and by night, she is a custom handbag designer. Candy takes pride in being an artist who caters to women of all backgrounds. With 13 years of entrepreneurial experience, she has served women from various walks of life, giving rise to The Candy Faith Lux Collection. This collection is renowned for empowering and instilling confidence in all women.

Candy is a wife and mother of five beautiful children, ranging in age from 11 to 21 years old. Her journey began in 2010 as a nail technician when she attended Empire Beauty School in Grand Rapids, MI. Starting her business from home, CandyFaith, like many others, soon expanded due to a growing clientele and a desire to establish her brand. Moving into a salon provided her clients with a more professional atmosphere, marking a significant turning point for CandyFaith and the Polished brand.

Having worked in various salons and suites, CandyFaith acquired the necessary tools to open her nail salon in 2017 – "Polished Nail Bar & Spa." This salon became home to some of Grand Rapids' most talented nail, lash, and makeup technicians, offering a full range of services.

In 2020, the global pandemic prompted Candy Faith to rethink her approach to meet the evolving needs of her clients and the market. This led to the creation of her luxury nail press-on line, "Pressed & Polished," which achieved significant success, enabling CandyFaith to ship press-on nails nationwide.

Today, CandyFaith operates from her well-established private salon suite, where she continues to provide nail services. Additionally, the suite houses a selection of handbags from The Candy Faith Lux Collection, available for on-the-spot purchases. If you or someone you know is in search of a luxury handbag, explore "The Candy Faith Lux Collection" at Candyfaithlux.com.