Gain invaluable tools and actionable tips to supercharge your sales and marketing efforts! Colaeb's inaugural Conference! Our goal with this conference is to simplify activities and problem-solving that lead to growth and equip aspiring entrepreneurs, small businesses, scaling startups, and thriving enterprises with the tools to make the most of 2024 and beyond! Marketing (definition): the activity or business of promoting and selling products or services, including market research and advertising. Sales (definition): the exchange of a commodity for money; problem-solving. PS: Connect with attendees, speakers, and Colaeb members December 6-10 in Miami, Florida. Check out the events on techbaselweek.com 10 Questions That Business Owners Will Be Able to Answer After this Conference:
Join us at the inaugural Sales and Marketing Conference presented by Colaeb, where you'll gain invaluable tools and actionable tips to supercharge your sales and marketing efforts. With over a 25 Expert speakers who have collectively generated millions in sales, this conference is a goldmine of knowledge and expertise! |
 | After a setback with her first niche social network startup, Kim embarked on a new venture in 2015, giving rise to CurlMix – a novel concept centered around Do-It-Yourself boxes for curly hair. Following two years of experimentation and research, Kim orchestrated a pivotal shift for CurlMix in January 2018 to focus on ready-made Flaxseed Gel as CurlMix's hero product. She ingeniously transformed their best-selling boxes into a comprehensive hair-care line, creating the first 4-step Wash and Go System to help you master your curls in 21 days. |
In a noteworthy episode on Shark Tank in 2019, Kim and Tim turned down a substantial $400,000 deal, demonstrating their conviction in their vision.
The Lewises secured coveted spots on Forbes' prestigious "30 under 30" list, while Crain's Chicago Business duly acknowledged Kim as one of the remarkable "20 in their 20s." Notably, after gaining endorsement from Oprah's esteemed "Favorite Things" list, CurlMix proudly claimed the 93rd position on the illustrious Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing, privately-owned companies in the United States.
Continuing to captivate headlines, CurlMix made a groundbreaking move by extending investment opportunities to its customers through equity crowdfunding. Launching their crowdfunding campaign in April 2021, CurlMix garnered an impressive $4.5 million from nearly 7,000 investors.
The subsequent year, they witnessed an astounding surge in CurlMix's sales, soaring to a remarkable $10 million annual revenue and an impressive cumulative lifetime sales figure of over $30 million – all exclusively conducted online.
2023 is a pivotal milestone in CurlMix's extraordinary journey with its expansion into retail. CurlMix is just one brand of the Listener Brands portfolio, and Kim remains resolute in her determination to make stellar brands that listen.
The Lewises secured coveted spots on Forbes' prestigious "30 under 30" list, while Crain's Chicago Business duly acknowledged Kim as one of the remarkable "20 in their 20s." Notably, after gaining endorsement from Oprah's esteemed "Favorite Things" list, CurlMix proudly claimed the 93rd position on the illustrious Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing, privately-owned companies in the United States.
Continuing to captivate headlines, CurlMix made a groundbreaking move by extending investment opportunities to its customers through equity crowdfunding. Launching their crowdfunding campaign in April 2021, CurlMix garnered an impressive $4.5 million from nearly 7,000 investors.
The subsequent year, they witnessed an astounding surge in CurlMix's sales, soaring to a remarkable $10 million annual revenue and an impressive cumulative lifetime sales figure of over $30 million – all exclusively conducted online.
2023 is a pivotal milestone in CurlMix's extraordinary journey with its expansion into retail. CurlMix is just one brand of the Listener Brands portfolio, and Kim remains resolute in her determination to make stellar brands that listen.
Eva Chan
 | Eva is the co-founder of Launch Pop - A venture studio working with founders to build eCommerce brands that dominate their category. Some notable companies built from our research, design and growth include: 1) More Labs/Morning Recovery (morelabs.com) $8M Series A 2) Rael (getrael.com) $17.5M Series A led by Soft Bank, BAM and Toni Ko (NYX Cosmetics) 3) GEM (dailygem.co) $750K, presently $10M+ seed 4) Topicals (mytopicals.com) $2.6M, presently $12M+ series A |
Teneshia Carr
 | Teneshia Carr started her career in 2005, working as a photographer, creative director and then consultant across various brands based in London, New York, and Tokyo. These services also included leading internal discussions on (EDI) Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion helping companies have the tough conversations. |
Carr started Blanc Media and Blanc Magazine in a small London studio in 2011 with an eclectic group of creatives and influencers looking for a new way of working within the fashion industry. Blanc began as a ray of hope for those creative influencers feeling underserved, underrepresented, unheard, and in need of authentic inspiration and a media platform that celebrated otherness. From the time she was 15 years old, she knew that she wanted to tell the stories of people who looked like her and those around her, although she didn't see them represented in the visual world of fashion that she loved. With Blanc Magazine, she hoped to change that. Blanc Media now engages in innovative projects with global brands such as Gucci, Tiffany and Co, Dior, and Louis Vuitton. Blanc Magazine is Internationally distributed four times per year.
Aside from her work with Blanc, Carr is a part of several programs and initiatives to champion creatives of color, including a partnership with Camera Nazionale Della Moda Italiana and the Fashion Minority Alliance. She is also currently a Contributing Editor Inc. Magazine writing about Diversity and Inclusivity with a focus on exploring the experiences of black business owners. The culmination of this work is a channel found on Inc.com called All the Hats, where she curates the trials, triumphs, tips, tricks, thoughts, and, of course, the jam-packed days of Black women entrepreneurs.
Aside from her work with Blanc, Carr is a part of several programs and initiatives to champion creatives of color, including a partnership with Camera Nazionale Della Moda Italiana and the Fashion Minority Alliance. She is also currently a Contributing Editor Inc. Magazine writing about Diversity and Inclusivity with a focus on exploring the experiences of black business owners. The culmination of this work is a channel found on Inc.com called All the Hats, where she curates the trials, triumphs, tips, tricks, thoughts, and, of course, the jam-packed days of Black women entrepreneurs.
Dujon C. Smith
 | Dujon is a visionary leader with a profound commitment to empowering marginalized communities and championing innovation. Dujon is the Global Co-Lead for Accenture's Black Founder's Development Program, aiming to amplify wealth creation in Black communities and usher in the next wave of entrepreneurs. His expertise in linking corporations and startups was refined as the Midwest Lead for Accenture Open Innovation, where he fostered collaborations between major companies and dynamic startups. Outside this role, he is the Founder & CEO of My Block Skin, where he's transforming sun care for melanin-rich individuals, ensuring access to quality SPF protection. |
Rooted in his passion for uplifting BIPOC entrepreneurs, creatives, and academics, Dujon also serves on the Global Inclusivity Board for Soho House and the University of Birmingham's Business School Advisory Board, promoting global diversity and inclusion.
Having traveled and worked in 55 countries, Dujon possesses a rich understanding of the synergy between technology, culture, and education. This global outlook drives him to advocate for equity and growth for BIPOC communities. Dujon's leadership is a beacon of positive transformation, fueling global innovation and community empowerment.
Having traveled and worked in 55 countries, Dujon possesses a rich understanding of the synergy between technology, culture, and education. This global outlook drives him to advocate for equity and growth for BIPOC communities. Dujon's leadership is a beacon of positive transformation, fueling global innovation and community empowerment.
Dianna Moore
 | As a seasoned Business, Career & Life Coach with over 20 years of business leadership experience, Dianna Moore leverages her diverse aerospace, startup and wellness background in supporting her clients. She has held pivotal roles in Financial Planning, Corporate Audit, Program Management, Risk Management, Operations, and Investor Relations. Following her aerospace career, Dianna served as the founding consultant and later as COO for a venture-backed startup. Additionally, she has been coaching clients for more than a decade in leadership, life and wellness, making an impact on over 500 individuals across 14 countries. Dianna's multifaceted background uniquely positions her to assist clients in accelerating their growth and achieving remarkable results. |
Derrick L. Maultsby Jr.
 | Derrick L. Maultsby Jr. is a Senior Associate Attorney at Frost Brown Todd LLP where he is a member of the Data Digital Assets and Privacy, Corporate and Intellectual Property practice groups. His practice includes corporate transactional and business advisory services in the tech, privacy, private equity, venture capital, startup/small business, and sports & entertainment industries. Derrick has been invited to speak on various topics at the intersection of the law and technology at the University of Dayton School of Law, Minority Innovation Weekend, FounderX Global Summit, University of New Hampshire School of Law, and Black Tech Week 2022. |
Aside from his practice, Derrick is also committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive environment within his law firm through serving on the firm's Diversity Equity and Inclusion committee. In addition to serving on the Regional Advisory Board of Venture for America, Derrick also serves on several community boards including his role as Vice President of the Duquesne Black Alumni Network Board. In 2021, Derrick was named a Trailblazer in the Law by the American Lawyer Magazine and during the Summer of 2022 he was named a Lawyer on the Fast Track by the Legal Intelligencer. Most recently, Derrick was named a 2023 Rising Star by Super Lawyers and a 2023 Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America.
A Pittsburgh native, Derrick’s college career began at Jackson State University where he was a member of the football team. Eventually, Derrick would receive his Bachelor’s Degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and his Juris Doctorate from Duquesne University School of Law. In the Fall of 2022, Derrick was selected to receive the Young Alumni Award from Indiana University of Pennsylvania as well as accept an invitation to become a fellow in the National Bar Association’s Associate Academy for Excellence. More recently, Derrick was named a 2023 Duke of the Last Decade honoree by Duquesne University. Derrick is also a graduate of the Advanced Leadership Institute’s Emerging Leaders Program at Carnegie Mellon where he was the Pittsburgh Legal Diversity and Inclusion Coalition Leadership Scholar. In the Fall of 2023, the Maultsby Diversity in the Law Scholarship, established by Derrick, will launch at his alma mater of Indiana University of Pennsylvania. The scholarship will provide financial assistance as well as networking opportunities and mentorship to black pre-law students at the university.
A Pittsburgh native, Derrick’s college career began at Jackson State University where he was a member of the football team. Eventually, Derrick would receive his Bachelor’s Degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and his Juris Doctorate from Duquesne University School of Law. In the Fall of 2022, Derrick was selected to receive the Young Alumni Award from Indiana University of Pennsylvania as well as accept an invitation to become a fellow in the National Bar Association’s Associate Academy for Excellence. More recently, Derrick was named a 2023 Duke of the Last Decade honoree by Duquesne University. Derrick is also a graduate of the Advanced Leadership Institute’s Emerging Leaders Program at Carnegie Mellon where he was the Pittsburgh Legal Diversity and Inclusion Coalition Leadership Scholar. In the Fall of 2023, the Maultsby Diversity in the Law Scholarship, established by Derrick, will launch at his alma mater of Indiana University of Pennsylvania. The scholarship will provide financial assistance as well as networking opportunities and mentorship to black pre-law students at the university.
Destin George Bell
 | Destin George Bell is the founder & CEO of Card.io, a gamified app turning outdoor cardio into a team game of turf war. He has also started businesses in content & real estate. He was recently honored with Forbes 30U30, AustinInno 25U25, and Austin Black 40U40. |
Jamie McKee
 | Jamie McKee currently holds the position of CEO at StormImpact Inc. and serves on its board of directors. Before assuming the role of CEO in July 2022, Jamie served as the director of operations at Crimson Cup Coffee. In this capacity, he oversaw all aspects of the company's I.T. administration, customer service, production, and warehouse operations. Jamie demonstrated end-to-end management of Crimson Cup's supply chain and played a pivotal role in shaping strategic objectives and supplier relationships, ensuring adaptability to a rapidly evolving marketplace. |
Prior to joining Crimson Cup, Jamie served as the chief operating officer at EngageHealth, a healthcare I.T. startup. In this role, he handled corporate governance matters, business development, and negotiations with both government and private entities. Before EngageHealth, Jamie held the position of chief operating officer at Apportis, another healthcare I.T. startup.
With a decade-long tenure at Aviagen Turkeys Inc., Jamie served as the sales and export compliance manager in his final role. Here, he led production planning, corporate import/export compliance, and logistics management for the global operation. His responsibilities extended to collaborating with sister companies in Europe, Asia, and South America.
Drawing from his experience of living in six countries, Jamie brings an international perspective to his leadership role, emphasizing the importance of diversity. Committed to fostering an inclusive workforce, he has also been actively involved in volunteerism, dedicating his time to school, sports, and faith-based organizations. Jamie further showcased his dedication to community service through a five-year presidency role at Mitsy's Wings Nonprofit, a cancer therapy support organization.
Jamie holds an MBA from Franklin University in Columbus, Ohio, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Management from Cardiff Metropolitan University in Wales, UK.
With a decade-long tenure at Aviagen Turkeys Inc., Jamie served as the sales and export compliance manager in his final role. Here, he led production planning, corporate import/export compliance, and logistics management for the global operation. His responsibilities extended to collaborating with sister companies in Europe, Asia, and South America.
Drawing from his experience of living in six countries, Jamie brings an international perspective to his leadership role, emphasizing the importance of diversity. Committed to fostering an inclusive workforce, he has also been actively involved in volunteerism, dedicating his time to school, sports, and faith-based organizations. Jamie further showcased his dedication to community service through a five-year presidency role at Mitsy's Wings Nonprofit, a cancer therapy support organization.
Jamie holds an MBA from Franklin University in Columbus, Ohio, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Management from Cardiff Metropolitan University in Wales, UK.
Amjed Osman
 | Amjed Osman is a Founding General Partner at GreenLight Venture Partners and Strategic Business Partner to global Fortune 500 companies. He is also the Co-Founder and Executive Producer of the podcast and TV show, Inside the Green Room with Danny Green. Amjed is a graduate of the Ohio State University's Fisher College of Business and serves on the Alumni Board at the College. Amjed has previously worked for LinkedIn, Ernst & Young LLP, Lingo Live Language Services, and Abbott Laboratories. |
Charron Leeper
 | Charron Leeper is a versatile creative and entrepreneur. She serves as the Founder and CEO of Agency Thirty-Three, a startup creative agency, and the creator of Perfect Pineapple®, a head wrap and hair accessory brand established in 2018. Charron is dedicated to building equity for underrepresented and marginalized communities. Her fervor for fashion and modeling has led to styling features in New York Magazine's "Women in Power issue" (October 2018), Essence Online, and New York Fashion Week Street Style. |
As a signed model at Docherty Agency, Charron has graced campaigns for JoAnn Fabrics, Big Lots Purell, Mustard Seed Market, Sysco, Jbolin Collection, and more. Beyond modeling, she is a passionate creative, artist, and community advocate, drawing inspiration from her various creative disciplines to bring a fresh, artistic approach to all her endeavors.
Evan Leaphart
 | Evan Leaphart is the founder and CEO of Kredit Academy! He creates online curriculums for schools, organizations, and families to teach children about the fundamentals of finance. 43North, a nonprofit accelerator and incubator, recently awarded Kredit Academy $1 million at a 5% stake. Read more from Biz Journals. |
About Kredit Academy
- Founded in: 2023 (The company was founded in 2018 but its app launched in 2023)
- What it does: The comprehensive financial literacy platform gives customers, particularly young adults and teens, white-label, credit-based solutions to provide information and tools to build sound credit, as well as giving financial institutions a way to grow and engage.
- What need is the company serving? "The biggest problem with credit? We don’t discuss it until it’s too late," said Leaphart.
Chase Crawford
 | Chase A. Crawford, the 27-year-old founder of Four by Three, launched his career by creating viral fake Taco Bell commercials in his hometown of Monroe, OH. He rose to prominence writing and directing commercials for the real Taco Bell while still in high school. After high school, he began producing feature films under the Four by Three moniker, working with stars such as Adam Conover, Joe Chrest and Cody Kearsley, to bring nearly 20 independent films to life between 2017-2020. |
In response to the pandemic, he expanded Four by Three beyond production and into distribution, securing deals with Tubi, AppleTV, Prime Video among others. It was also at this time Crawford decided to launch Four by Three Comedy. He has since produced over 70 comedy specials, hundreds of millions of views on social media, and worked with comedy legends such as Mark Normand and Wayne Brady. His next film, Steven Soderbergh Presents The Quiet Maid, premieres 11/10 at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival in Estonia. Crawford is a Forbes Next 1000 alumni and serves on the advisory board of BLINK. He lives with his wife and 3 daughters in a mysterious cave with a butler and two guys who wear costumes all day. His favorite movie is School of Rock
James Chapman
 | James Chapman is the Founder and CEO of Plain Sight - they help event sponsors, hosts, and attendees reach their desired outcomes through our data-driven technology. James has dedicated his entire career to providing access to capital and professional networks. Before starting Plain Sight, he co-founded Detroit Demo Day - which has now provided over $5 million in funding to businesses throughout the city of Detroit. |
Prior to both ventures, he started an evening hours workspace for side-hustlers to collaborate and build community. He's raised over $1M in capital for Plain Sight from notable investors like Dan Gilbert, Majority Owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers.
F. Allen Boseman Jr.
 | F. Allen Boseman Jr. is an experienced litigator and negotiator who has represented a broad range of clients from individuals to Fortune 500 Companies with a singular focus on delivering excellence regardless of the circumstances. Allen has practiced at some of the largest and most powerful firms in the country specializing in a variety of practice areas ranging from Labor & Employment to Complex Commercial Litigation and this invaluable experience has helped shape him into one of the sharpest legal minds in the profession. |
While Allen is acutely aware that his “big firm” experience has played a significant role in his success, he understands that it is his personal touch and pragmatic approach to legal issues separates him from the pack. Allen provides best practices and policies to significantly reduce litigation exposure and timely and smart advice to protect legal rights. In providing sophisticated and comprehensive legal guidance, Allen specifically tailors his approach to meet the particularized needs of each client to bring about the desired result whether an aggressive stance in litigation or negotiations, speed for emergency situations or a calm, cool hand when necessary. There is no problem too big or too small for Allen to tackle. He is truly dedicated to always choosing the path paved with the best results for each client.
In addition, Allen has built and maintained strategic relationships critical to how he delivers superior service to clients. Indeed, Allen understands that providing clients with the most sophisticated legal advice requires the use of specialist and professionals in various capacities to maximize the efficiency and quality of legal advice. Allen is also in rhythm with the business, political and social community around him. He is actively involved in important civic duties, he owns small businesses, he sits on the board of various non-profits, he provides guidance to leaders, he builds networking platforms for professionals and entrepreneurs, and he is actively involved in building relationships between the public and private sector in meaningful ways. Allen genuinely values being a well-rounded lawyer and consultant who believes his approach to analyzing and solving problems is a game-changer for clients because of his unique and proven perspective.
Through relentless dedication to his clients, expert negotiations and the instillation of smart and sensible strategies, Allen provides his clients with a one-of-a-kind legal experience focused on delivering excellence and tangible results.
In addition, Allen has built and maintained strategic relationships critical to how he delivers superior service to clients. Indeed, Allen understands that providing clients with the most sophisticated legal advice requires the use of specialist and professionals in various capacities to maximize the efficiency and quality of legal advice. Allen is also in rhythm with the business, political and social community around him. He is actively involved in important civic duties, he owns small businesses, he sits on the board of various non-profits, he provides guidance to leaders, he builds networking platforms for professionals and entrepreneurs, and he is actively involved in building relationships between the public and private sector in meaningful ways. Allen genuinely values being a well-rounded lawyer and consultant who believes his approach to analyzing and solving problems is a game-changer for clients because of his unique and proven perspective.
Through relentless dedication to his clients, expert negotiations and the instillation of smart and sensible strategies, Allen provides his clients with a one-of-a-kind legal experience focused on delivering excellence and tangible results.
Carrie Aguilar
 | A proud midwesterner, Carrie Aguilar has spent the last 13 years building a successful Sales Enablement career- starting as a top salesperson at Yelp and evolving into leadership positions at various high- growth tech startups. She most recently spent the last 5 years as head of Sales Training and Enablement at DoorDash where she built and oversaw the scaling of their sales team from less than 100 to over 1000 through series C to post IPO. She currently helps startups do the same through her business Innov8 Growth Partners that specializes in connecting founders and startups from where they are, to where they want to go. |
Thomas McClure
 | Thomas McClure believes in bringing heart, authenticity, and diversity to the fashion world, helping to lead the way into the future of fashion regionally, nationally, and globally. Thomas McClure is the founder of the non-profit Columbus Fashion Council and its flagship program Fashion Week Columbus. Since 2010, Thomas has produced over 170 fashion shows & events, working with over 230 fashion designers, 2000 models, and 1000 fashion industry professionals, while also raising almost $60,000 in scholarship funds for fashion design students. Thomas helped put Columbus, Ohio on the map within the fashion industry, as Columbus is ranked #3 in the nation for the number of resident fashion designers. Thomas McClure has been featured in the bestseller “Our Towns” as well as The Atlantic, Columbus Dispatch, Columbus Monthly, Columbus ALIVE, City Pulse, 614 Magazine, Who’s Who GLBT Columbus, Good Day Columbus, WBNS 10TV, ABC6/Fox28, NBC4, Power 107.5, The CW Columbus, and the podcast “Conquering Columbus”. |
John Delia Jr.
 | John Delia Jr. is a prolific real estate investor, entrepreneur and author. He specializes in redeveloping 100 year old properties and now new construction across the American Midwest. An expert deal maker and strategist, he owns residential, apartments and industrial. He is the author of “Life, Liberty n’ Property: A Guide to Successful Real Estate Investing” and “Metropolis: A Novella”. John Delia, Jr resides in Columbus, Ohio with his wife Richelle, their son Baron and miniature Goldendoodle. |
Megan Fitzpatrick, MBA
 | Megan always knew she wanted to be a teacher. This passion solidified when her high school Math teacher changed her life. When Megan was 16 she tragically lost her mom and it was her 10th Grade Math teacher, Ms. Carmenate simply asked: "How are you doing?" Megan then realized how important teachers could be for their students. After 8 years in the classroom she founded The Fitz Solution and took the leap of full time business ownership. In 2019 she curated, The Ultimate Selfie. This signature program is designed to empower teens to confidently answer the question: "What's Next?" She works with teens to define their strengths, values, and passions to create a guide for after high school. In addition to running The Fitz Solution, Megan is the CEO of Studlytics, a EdTech platform designed to help students create positive study skills while learning online. This software helps students to see how and where to best support their learning through positive psychology and gamification. |
Megan is also a community leader with many different organizations throughout South Florida. She is an Educational Ambassador for Web3Equity, working to on board more women into WEB3. A mentor for Women of Tomorrow, empowering young high school girls both personally and professionally to achieve their goals. She has traveled all over the world with some of her favorite destinations being Haiti, Amazon Rainforest and Bali. Immersing herself in different cultures and societies is a key component to how she runs her businesses. Being an advocate and an educational champion for those that need it most. Her 2023 mantra is “Align and Achieve”
Ibrahim Mohmed
 | Ibrahim Mohmed is the founder of CourtSide Media, a digital media agency for influencers between 1 million to 75 million followers across all platforms. Some of his clients include Kevin Garnett and Lauren Fitzmaurice. Ibrahim works with his clients to organically boost their views. Ibrahim recently co-founded Taja AI, a tool that helps creators optimize their titles, descriptions, hashtags, and thumbnails in order to save time and maximize discoverability. Ibrahim also just raised a pre-seed, Six Figure investment ~ click here to watch the video! |
Kailah Ware
 | Kailah Ware is a mixed media artist and entrepreneur who focuses on community activism, women's issues, and social justice. She creates people-centered art and values the process as much as the final product. She graduated from Wright State University with her degree in Motion Pictures Production with a minor in Studio Art. Ware has produced and managed a plethora of multi media campaigns throughout the Midwest for nonprofits that focus on race-based community advocacy work and has won two Public Relation Society of America (PRSA) Black Smith awards for her work with her creative agency SunnyBlu. |
Oscar Di Pasquale
 | Oscar is a Business Automation Expert who helps teams save time and focus on high-level activities. His passion for marketing flourished in 2018 when he was selected for an exclusive program connecting young talents with Silicon Valley's tech giants. That year, he started to offer several services to international companies such as a Gartner-recognized SaaS company and an e-learning startup backed by a prominent Italian impact investment fund. Since 2020 he specializes in streamlining business processes and has helped several teams save up to 30% of their time and drive substantial revenue gains. |
Jabez El Israel
 | Jabez el Israel is a trailblazing figure in the realm of natural weight loss. As the best-selling author of “Life Matters So Let’s Eat Like It,” his innovative approach has transformed countless lives. Successfully shedding 100 pounds himself while relishing the foods he loves, Jabez’s methods are both effective and sustainable. His mission is not just personal transformation; he aspires to help over a million people step into their natural body sizes and sustain it for life. Beyond his achievements in health and wellness, Jabez is also recognized by the name Jabez Mango Seeds. He harbors a profound passion for the environment and agriculture. With an audacious goal of bringing over a million fruit trees to America, Jabez aims to inspire many to delve into agriculture, emphasizing self-sufficiency and the production of natural food options. |
At the heart of it all, Jabez is a dedicated family man, having been a devoted husband in a relationship with his amazing wife Nicole for 15 years!
They are raising their five healthy, talented kids together. His brand and business are built upon foundational principles that resonate deeply with him: morality, healthiness, happiness, unity, financial literacy and all of these things in abundance!
They are raising their five healthy, talented kids together. His brand and business are built upon foundational principles that resonate deeply with him: morality, healthiness, happiness, unity, financial literacy and all of these things in abundance!
Patrice Chappelle
 | Patrice Chappelle is a serial entrepreneur and mother of one. She is the co-founder of MelanBrand Skin, LLC, a Black-owned children’s skin care line, providing natural and safe products for melanated skin. A published author and freelance writer, her work has appeared in Black Enterprise, Huffington Post, Upscale, Essence, Sheen, Curly Nikki, and MadameNoire. She is an alumna of Fisk University and Trevecca Nazarene University, and an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. for the past twenty years and counting. She resides in the DMV area with her son Bron. |
John B. Johnson
 | Principal, Identity Architect at a small studio John leads an identity-driven design company that deploys the diversity of perspective and brilliance of gifted creatives from all over the world. While building communities to empower emerging designers, he works with local businesses, Startups and Unicorns to discover “Who they really are”- their identity, and translates it into compelling narratives, design systems, digital touch-points assets that set them apart from the clutter, for impact. |
Manny Larcher
 | Manny is a first-generation St. Lucian American born in Columbus, Ohio, who enjoys digging deep into new technologies and nourishing ideas, and understands the ups and downs of building a successful business. In 2017, he co-founded Stopwatch Creative, assisting startups, artists, professional athletes, and brands with various marketing services. When the pandemic created unforeseen complications for entrepreneurs, Manny created Colaeb aka Collaborate and Elevate, a SaaS platform now helping 500+ businesses around the world connect to resources and opportunities. |
Kent Depwe
 | Kent was born and raised in Dallas Texas, before Graduating from Texas Tech university and shortly after settling down in Austin Texas. In 2019 Kent joined TwentyAI, a full service search firm based in Austin, Texas. In 2021 Kent became the #1 ranked recruiter globally at TwentyAI, bringing in $1.05M in revenue across 70 successful placements at his clients across the US. Kent continued his success into 2022 bringing in over $1.1M in revenue with 82 placements and shattering multiple company records along the way. |
In 2023 Kent ventured out on his own joining an intrapreneurship platform called TEEMA where he runs his own company with back office support from the TEEMA platform.
Kent specializes in recruitment for executive search, sales, engineering and product positions across a variety of industries for his clients that range from hyper growth VC backed startups to fortune 500 companies.
In his free time Kent is an avid golfer and gym goer, he also enjoys spending time with friends and family.
Kent specializes in recruitment for executive search, sales, engineering and product positions across a variety of industries for his clients that range from hyper growth VC backed startups to fortune 500 companies.
In his free time Kent is an avid golfer and gym goer, he also enjoys spending time with friends and family.
Shaun Crawford
 | Varsity House Founder and CEO, Shaun Crawford, former Notre Dame football Captain and current media talent. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio and a proud alumni of St. Edward High School. His athletic career included many highlights but also setbacks, including 3 season-ending injuries Battling back from each injury, he was able to earn all All ACC and Mayo Clinic Comeback Player Of The Year honorable mention along with the honor of being names team captain for the program and a Bachelor's and Master's Degree from the University. After my college career, he fulfilled his deam of making it to the NFL, spending time with Las Vegas Raiders. The obstacles he faces as a football player gave me a unique perspective on the complexity of an athlete's life that I intend to share through Varsity House. |
Aleksandra Brankov
 | Aleksandra Brankov, Founder and CEO of Cafilia, is an innovative entrepreneur known for spearheading a groundbreaking in-shop subscription service that connects coffee enthusiasts with local coffee shops, while championing sustainability in reducing disposable cup waste. Her visionary leadership not only propels business success but transforms coffee consumption into a sustainable and community-driven experience. With a blend of top-tier education from IE Business School and experience in strategy implementation consulting and startups, Aleksandra is a compelling panelist on innovation, sustainability, and effective leadership in shaping the future of consumer tech and B2B2C platforms. |
Terry Green
 | Terry Green is the CEO and Lead Consultant of Breaking Statistics LLC, a social justice consulting firm. He is the Founder and Executive Director of Think Make Live Youth non-profit organization as well as the Founder of the Social Justice Awards, an award ceremony dedicated to honoring outstanding social justice leadership. Terry has over 10 years of experience in professional public speaking and has provided over 150 presentations in more than 11 cities throughout the United States. He provides effective solutions and strategies to support diversity, equity and inclusion, youth empowerment, community enrichment for companies, organizations, schools, and community groups. He is a national social justice consultant providing a hallmark experience in developing innovative equity strategies. |
Terry is a graduate of Franklin County YouthBuild and received the national YouthBuild Outstanding Commitment to Leadership and Social Justice Award. He is an active alumnus of the United Way of Central Ohio Neighborhood Leadership Academy. As a young community activist, Terry also served as a Community Organizer for America Forward Today’s Student Campaign.
He serves on the Supreme Court of Ohio Subcommittee on Responding to Child Abuse, Neglect and Dependency. Recently he has been appointed to serve as a Board Member for Franklin County’s Rise Together Innovation Center which is an organization aiming to decrease poverty within Central Ohio.
Currently, Terry is leading a local youth Community Action Team in Central Ohio in partnership with Opportunity Youth United, a national movement of young people and allies working to increase opportunities and decrease poverty in America.
Terry is a young man who has experienced poverty, overcame the justice system, youth homelessness as well as loss of family members and friends. Terry has pushed through many challenges in his life and now he is dedicated every day to provide more innovative strategies and opportunities for youth and returning citizens to thrive in today's society.
He serves on the Supreme Court of Ohio Subcommittee on Responding to Child Abuse, Neglect and Dependency. Recently he has been appointed to serve as a Board Member for Franklin County’s Rise Together Innovation Center which is an organization aiming to decrease poverty within Central Ohio.
Currently, Terry is leading a local youth Community Action Team in Central Ohio in partnership with Opportunity Youth United, a national movement of young people and allies working to increase opportunities and decrease poverty in America.
Terry is a young man who has experienced poverty, overcame the justice system, youth homelessness as well as loss of family members and friends. Terry has pushed through many challenges in his life and now he is dedicated every day to provide more innovative strategies and opportunities for youth and returning citizens to thrive in today's society.
Chad Porter
 | Founder and CEO of CHVD JUSTIN and innovative brand. Degree in Economics, Graduate of The Ohio State University. Has developed, trademarks and patented and launched 6 figure product lines. |
Bijan Machen
 | Bijan Machen is an interdisciplinary fine artist and educator. He earned his MFA at ArtCenter College of Design and maintains a thriving art & design practice in Los Angeles, California. Machen has exhibited at museums and galleries around the country and his work is collected internationally. He is also the founder of the We Uplift The World Foundation, a 501C3 Art & Technology Education organization focused on empowering creative entrepreneurs with expert training, internships and job placement opportunities. Bijan's mission is to uplift everyone in life through positive artistic expression and evangelizing the abundance mentality. |
Bo Sijuade
 | Bo Sijuade is the Founder and CEO of On Touch Go. On Touch Go is an self-serve advertising platform that enables advertisers to target and reach location-based audiences street-level via in-car media. The platform offers millions of impressions a day across 45 U.S. cities. |
Chef Stephen Miller
 | Executive Chef & Owner of “To Go For Your Soul” LLC. Curated custom Dining experiences for our clients for any occasion. Buffet set up or Private Chef Multi-course Dining is more than feasible to bring to your reality for your special occasion as me and my Chefs raise the standard of Culinary through several Cuisine options. Established in 2020, the goal is to always give every client their own experience to create intimacy and a unique memory for them and their guests. Chef Stephen Miller aka “Chef Mills” has trained under numerous Chefs since 2016 to pimp his own style of culinary art to express to the world. The Purpose is to serve and leave a lasting impression on those that appreciate the craft of a Private Chef and leave an imprint of black excellence and inspiration. A memory lasts for a lifetime and we’re here to touch your soul through your tastebuds and your heart for any event you desire to host. |
Andrew Tasker
 | Green Entrepreneur with a track record of successful strategic and tactical leadership driving sustainable growth. As the Chief Strategist of Global Business at goProdigii, LLC, Andy has over 20 + years of experience in designing and developing platform innovation ecosystems that enable corporations, impact investors and purpose-driven entrepreneurs to efficiently orchestrate new high-performance solutions to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) problems. Prodigii was formed in 2022 as a joint venture with global data science consulting powerhouse, Soothsayer Analytics, to empower Fortune 1000 & Global 2000 companies to achieve success in sustainability. |
The firm is currently working on leading edge sustainability solutions involving applications of technologies such as Graph Data Science, Generative A.I., Natural Language Processing (NLP), Predictive and Prescriptive Analytics using A.I. Optimization, Geospatial Data, IoT and Big Data, among other data science technologies and methods. More information can be found at goprodigii.com
Johnnie Turnage
 | Johnnie Turnage is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of EvenScore. Johnie is also the CO-Founder of Black Tech Saturdays. With nearly 15 years of experience, Johnnie is an award-winning grassroots activist, campaign manager, and tech entrepreneur. Born in Detroit and raised in the metropolitan area until his stepfather joined the army, where he would spend most of his high school years in Fort Stewart, Georgia. Johnnie began his career in social justice and grassroots organizing early on going from volunteer to GOTV leader during the 2008 Presidential campaign when he was 14. |
He led local youth in neighborhood canvasses and voter registration efforts. He later joined MOSES (Metropolitan Organizing Strategy Enabling Strength) as a GOTV intern leading their entire campaign and contacting more than 25,000 Michigan voters. During his tenure, Johnnie led organizing efforts for Detroit’s first council by Districts election and was also responsible for leading civic engagements, organizing clergy coalitions to strengthen ties with African-American leadership, and staff development. In 2012, he founded their youth organizing project, Crossing Boundaries, Building Bridges, with other young leaders from the metropolitan area. In 2014 he was awarded a Campaign for Black Male Achievement award, which funded leadership development for Johnnie and a dozen youth leaders in CB3. He also was a member of the executive steering committee to raise the minimum wage when he was just 20 years old.
After winning the Mario Savio Youth Activist Award in 2015, Johnnie accepted a position with the United Food and Commercial Workers Union (UFCW Local 876). At UFCW, he worked his way from Organizer to Organizing Director, Political Director, and ultimately Contract Director and right hand the Union President, where Johnnie managed multiple departments and led staff training and development. As a labor organizer, Johnnie led numerous unionization campaigns and unionized the first two marijuana dispensaries in Michigan. One of Johnnie's favorite parts of his work in labor was the opportunity to develop leaders, training and developing members from rank and file to staff roles.
During his time at UFCW, Johnnie brought his passion for community organizing to the world of technology, developing the concept for EvenScore - a new impact-focused technology platform that will provide a safe and trusted space for small-dollar donors to support the causes and candidate's most important to them and the communities they call home.
Johnnie is the youngest person to ever graduate from Michigan State University’s Great Lakes Leadership Academy. Over the course of his career, Johnnie has worked through four Presidential and three Gubernatorial cycles. He serves on the Detroit Action Advisory board, the Transforming Power Fund Community table, and their 2023 Giving Project He is a proud advisory board member of the Michigan Founders Fund, an avid public speaker, and technology competition host and judge. Johnnie is also a mentor for the University of Michigan's School of Journalism Knight Challenge team project.
In October of 2022, Johnnie represented EvenScore and helped win Michigan’s first-ever Tech Week Venture competition leaning into collaboration as the model for long-term success. EvenScore won the 2022 Campaign and Elections Newsletter Reed Award for Pioneering use of Digital.
After winning the Mario Savio Youth Activist Award in 2015, Johnnie accepted a position with the United Food and Commercial Workers Union (UFCW Local 876). At UFCW, he worked his way from Organizer to Organizing Director, Political Director, and ultimately Contract Director and right hand the Union President, where Johnnie managed multiple departments and led staff training and development. As a labor organizer, Johnnie led numerous unionization campaigns and unionized the first two marijuana dispensaries in Michigan. One of Johnnie's favorite parts of his work in labor was the opportunity to develop leaders, training and developing members from rank and file to staff roles.
During his time at UFCW, Johnnie brought his passion for community organizing to the world of technology, developing the concept for EvenScore - a new impact-focused technology platform that will provide a safe and trusted space for small-dollar donors to support the causes and candidate's most important to them and the communities they call home.
Johnnie is the youngest person to ever graduate from Michigan State University’s Great Lakes Leadership Academy. Over the course of his career, Johnnie has worked through four Presidential and three Gubernatorial cycles. He serves on the Detroit Action Advisory board, the Transforming Power Fund Community table, and their 2023 Giving Project He is a proud advisory board member of the Michigan Founders Fund, an avid public speaker, and technology competition host and judge. Johnnie is also a mentor for the University of Michigan's School of Journalism Knight Challenge team project.
In October of 2022, Johnnie represented EvenScore and helped win Michigan’s first-ever Tech Week Venture competition leaning into collaboration as the model for long-term success. EvenScore won the 2022 Campaign and Elections Newsletter Reed Award for Pioneering use of Digital.
Tushar Kulkarni
 | As the CEO and Co-Founder of BKLabs, Tushar Kulkarni is a seasoned visionary with over 25 years of experience at the helm of diverse projects and teams. With a dynamic background spanning from small startups to large-scale enterprises, Tushar's journey is a testament to his commitment to harnessing the power of technology for innovative solutions. Under his leadership, Big Kitty Labs (BKL) has emerged as a trailblazing force in the tech landscape, marking its presence across industries and domains. Tushar's profound expertise is grounded in his master's degree in eBusiness, a cornerstone that empowers him to offer profound insights and deep comprehension of project conception, definition, and execution. |
His relentless pursuit of transformative tech solutions has culminated in a remarkable portfolio, with over 14 years of dedication in shaping ideas into reality.
The inception of BKL in 2009 ushered in a new era of tech innovation. Tushar, in partnership with Dan Rockwell, embarked on a mission to bridge the gap between startups and the ever- evolving enterprise tech landscape. Their collective experience and entrepreneurial spirit paved the way for BKL's emergence as a tech incubator, catalyzing growth and recognition. Within a year, BKL's products were making waves in tech journals, a testament to their impactful contributions.
Steering BKL's evolution, Tushar and his team pioneered a tech consulting arm in 2010. This pivotal step propelled them into designing and implementing groundbreaking solutions for a spectrum of clients, ranging from startups to Fortune 100 giants. Their diverse client roster spans sectors like healthcare, education, automotive, government, aviation, and beyond. Notably, BKL's reach extends to the agtech industry, where they own and operate a large-scale product used by prestigious institutions including Harvard, Yale, and Colorado University, alongside numerous for-profit and nonprofit entities.
At the core of Tushar's leadership is a dedication to collaboration. Working hand in hand with a team of innovation enthusiasts, software developers, designers, and strategists, Tushar fosters an environment where ideas take shape, are tested, refined, and ultimately launched. His passion lies in empowering both first-time entrepreneurs and established companies with fresh ideas, providing transformative solutions and outsider perspectives to propel businesses forward.
The inception of BKL in 2009 ushered in a new era of tech innovation. Tushar, in partnership with Dan Rockwell, embarked on a mission to bridge the gap between startups and the ever- evolving enterprise tech landscape. Their collective experience and entrepreneurial spirit paved the way for BKL's emergence as a tech incubator, catalyzing growth and recognition. Within a year, BKL's products were making waves in tech journals, a testament to their impactful contributions.
Steering BKL's evolution, Tushar and his team pioneered a tech consulting arm in 2010. This pivotal step propelled them into designing and implementing groundbreaking solutions for a spectrum of clients, ranging from startups to Fortune 100 giants. Their diverse client roster spans sectors like healthcare, education, automotive, government, aviation, and beyond. Notably, BKL's reach extends to the agtech industry, where they own and operate a large-scale product used by prestigious institutions including Harvard, Yale, and Colorado University, alongside numerous for-profit and nonprofit entities.
At the core of Tushar's leadership is a dedication to collaboration. Working hand in hand with a team of innovation enthusiasts, software developers, designers, and strategists, Tushar fosters an environment where ideas take shape, are tested, refined, and ultimately launched. His passion lies in empowering both first-time entrepreneurs and established companies with fresh ideas, providing transformative solutions and outsider perspectives to propel businesses forward.
Darrell Spencer
 | CEO/Founder King’s Crowning & Digital Marketing Expert Darrell Spencer is a successful entrepreneur who has made an indelible impact in the corporate world and the hair and beauty industry. With a humble beginning and an unwavering drive, his journey is an inspiring testament to what you can accomplish through determination and passion. Raised in Chicago, Darrell's formative years exposed him to diverse urban and suburban influences, shaping his unique perspective on life. His father instilled the enduring values of perseverance and hard work, which proved invaluable in his journey to success. After earning a bachelor's degree in economics from Connecticut College, Darrell entered the digital advertising industry, significantly contributing to the growth of numerous businesses. He worked at prominent tech giants such as Meta, Google, and LinkedIn, where he helped smaller companies scale through digital advertising strategies. However, Darrell's drive derives from a grander vision. |
With a deep understanding of the unique qualities of black hair and beauty, he founded Kings Crowning, recognizing a void in the market. Kings Crowning has garnered recognition for its innovative products, including the flagship "The Crown," designed to provide an alternative to traditional bonnets for hair protection. Darrell's story is about more than just entrepreneurship. He is passionate about empowering and educating black men and emphasizes the importance of a robust support system for personal and professional growth.
Darrell Spencer's remarkable journey reflects his unwavering vision, dedication, and passion. He has emerged as a trailblazer, inspiring a more inclusive and equitable future in the world of hair and beauty. As a young entrepreneur, he continues to achieve new heights and make a profound difference. Darrell Spencer is one to watch as he continues to lead and innovate in various facets of life and business. Stay tuned for more of his remarkable successes.
Darrell Spencer's remarkable journey reflects his unwavering vision, dedication, and passion. He has emerged as a trailblazer, inspiring a more inclusive and equitable future in the world of hair and beauty. As a young entrepreneur, he continues to achieve new heights and make a profound difference. Darrell Spencer is one to watch as he continues to lead and innovate in various facets of life and business. Stay tuned for more of his remarkable successes.
Rob Richardson
 | Rob Richardson is co-founder and CEO of Disrupt Art, a Global Market Place, studio, and technology company created to revolutionize the impact of Art, Music, Fashion, and Film. Richardson is also the founder of Disruption Now Media, a platform that connects entrepreneurs, artists, and leaders through interactive events, educational content, and podcasts. The Disruption Now Podcast hosts conversational podcasts with disruptors focused on impact. Past guests have included: NY Times bestselling author Robert Greene, Monique Woodward, Jewel Burks Soloman of Google Startups and Collab Capital, Arlan Hamilton of Backstage Capital, and many others. In 2016, Richardson was appointed chairman of the University of Cincinnati’s Board of Trustees, becoming the youngest person to serve in this role in the University’s history. In his tenure, he established the 1819 Innovation Hub where industry and talent collaborate to spark groundbreaking ideas. |
His education includes a Juris Doctor and Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from the University of Cincinnati. He established the first student chapter of the NAACP at the university and was elected student body president. He received the University of Cincinnati Presidential Leadership Medal of Excellence, Jeffrey Hurwitz Young Alumni Outstanding Achievement Award, Nicholas Longworth Alumni Award from the College of Law, and an honorary degree Doctor of Laws.
Richardson has appeared on MSNBC, America this Week, and is a regular contributor to Roland Martin Unfiltered.
Richardson has appeared on MSNBC, America this Week, and is a regular contributor to Roland Martin Unfiltered.
John Yuskel
 | John Yuksel is a distinguished professional with a dual background in business and law, boasting degrees from the University of Arizona and Tsinghua University, where he excelled as valedictorian. In 2020, he co-founded a Silicon Valley-based company with his brother, dedicated to realizing their father's pioneering mobility invention of over four decades. As the CEO of Beltways, a venture-backed startup recently relocated to Northern Kentucky, John spearheads the development of the world's first high-speed pedestrian walkway for CVG Airport, slated to debut next year. |
Before his leadership role at Beltways, John held pivotal positions, notably as the inaugural American staff member at a local Chinese Bureau of Commerce. He led transformative soft infrastructure projects across Asia for LehmanBush, the PE firm associated with the Bush family, and also honed his expertise in cross-border M&A law in California.
Recognized as a foremost authority in accelerating moving walkway technology, John serves as a respected committee member on the national regulatory board for the industry, ASME A.17.
Recognized as a foremost authority in accelerating moving walkway technology, John serves as a respected committee member on the national regulatory board for the industry, ASME A.17.
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