Community & Guest List
Michelle Mekky has more than 20 years of experience as a broadcast journalist and public relations executive, leading award-winning marketing and PR campaigns for some of the nation’s biggest and most diverse brands and businesses. After her years as a veteran journalist, Michelle launched her own company, Mekky Media Relations Inc., in 2016, to bring her brand of PR to the market and deliver powerful publicity. Michelle has led her company through a fast-paced launch and high-profile successes, including winning a prestigious 2018 Stevie Award for Women in Business, receiving a bronze medal in the Entrepreneur of the Year category. In 2020 Mekky Media won a Stevie Award for Public Relations Agency of the Year receiving a bronze medal and Bulldog Award for Best Not-for-Profit/ Association Campaign for Komen Chicago's Race for the Cure. Also in 2018, Michelle and Mekky Media were selected to be part of the Forbes Agency Council, a prestigious organization for owners and executives of PR, media strategy, creative and advertising agencies. In 2019, Michelle was named a Crain’s Chicago Business Notable Entrepreneur, and Mekky Media was honored with two Publicity Club of Chicago Golden Trumpet Awards, in the categories of Advocacy (for its work with Komen Chicago) and Media Relations (for its work with Abt Electronics). The agency also was named a PR News Agency Elite Award Finalist for Media Relations in 2019.
and consistent in everything he does."
Calloway Cook is the founder and President of Illuminate Labs, a dietary supplements eCommerce business located in Northampton, Massachusetts.
Andre Oentoro is the founder of Breadnbeyond, an award-winning explainer video company, and Milkwhale, an infographic production company that has been trusted by many internet publishers.. He helps business increase conversion rates, close more sales and get positive ROI from explainer videos and other digital marketing strategy.
Gwendolyn is a recognized authority in her industry and a champion who lifts others as she climbs."
Paula Orezi is the Author of a motivational poetry book titled: From Me to You and Co-Author of the #1 International Best Selling book: Experts & Influencers: Women's Empowerment Edition. She earned a Master’s in Business Leadership from Huizenga School of Business at Nova Southeastern University and a Bachelor's degree in Organizational Management from Palm Beach Atlantic University. She has a passion to speak and help people get inspired to make a change that will create a positive and win-win outcome. Her experience includes mentoring others and leadership development. Her messages are for business-minded professionals or anyone wishing to start their own business and need help to overcome mindset beliefs, being organized, and conducting sales through relationship-building.
Danielle Desir is an author, speaker, podcaster and the founder of WOC Podcasters, a community of 2,300 women of color podcasters looking to connect, share resources and learn. She is also the founder of The Thought Card, an award-winning affordable travel finance blog and podcast empowering people to make informed financial decisions – travel more, pay off debt and build wealth.
Anthony Bolognese is a full-time entrepreneur who has planted himself firmly and forcefully in the DC area by founding both Capitol Hill Photo and Capitol Hill Clothiers. He has taken photos for brands such as Nike, Coca-Cola, and Walmart and his work has been featured in publications including DC Modern Luxury, Capitol File Magazine, and Washingtonian. He has also created custom suits for DMV executives, members of congress, and the occasional local athlete.
Former Professional basketball player (6'8" 240") turned Sustainable Health & Fitness coach (I'm also vegan and have been for some time now) Ended pro career in 2011 and opened my first gym in 2013 and onto my second gym in 2016. Lots of highs and lows. From a massively growing gym and community, to losing my vehicle & going days without eating. My passion is sharing the happiness that being healthy and fit can bring to anyone of any journey. Currently i've transitioned to mainly online systems allowing me to reach and support even more people.
Bria Taylor is not your average buttercream queen. Her graphic design influenced cakes make her one of the most sought out cake decorators in the DMV. She continues to surprise us with her amazing flavors and cake designs, but it is her perseverance as a young entrepreneur that keeps her going. She hopes to open a cake studio and classroom in the future to bring Killa Cakes to every baker enthusiasts home.
