John & Rebecca Fabanwo

Led by Rebecca and John Fabanwo, Heart of Compassion serves those in South Carolina and nationwide facing poverty and hardship by equipping churches/agencies to provide non-food essentials to families in need.  

    Founded in 1995 by Dr. Lyn Hughes, the museum stands as the only formally established Black Labor History Museum in the world dedicated to celebrating the legacy of Asa Philip Randolph, the BSCP, and the vital contributions of African American laborers in America.  

 Born in the midwestern community of Gary, IN, Dr. Beard professes that she was a failing student in high school.  Yet, she persevered and would become a first-generation college graduate, and the very first in her immediate family to own a business.  

 Originally from Salina, Kansas, Courtney graduated from Athens State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration.  She followed that feat with a Master’s in Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management with a concentration in Information Systems.  Despite navigating personal traumas and health battles—including being diagnosed with systemic.... 

   Linease Washington of Greensboro, NC, is a child of God, a minister, and a devoted mother.  She is also the owner of ACA Event Solutions, a full-service event and planning company that offers a comprehensive range of products and services.   These include rentals, floral arrangements, music, décor, catering, entertainment, transportation, and more.

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 Brandie Pearson of Boiling Springs, SC, is a wife, mother, educator, and small business owner.  She is the owner of Y.E.S.-Your Event Specialist, LLC, a wedding and event planning business.  Her company offers several packages for weddings and events, including a full package with catering, decor, sound, cake, photography/videography.....

For the last 30 years, Merry Green of Chicago, IL, has dedicated her life to helping and serving others.  She is the founder and visionary of the Black Women’s Expo, an annual event that draws thousands of black women and others to Chicago with the sole purpose of empowerment.  This year, on  Friday, August 1st through Sunday, August 3rd, 2025.....  

     Tojuanna Shippy of Greenville, SC, describes herself as a woman who builds, leads, and pours into people.  She is a mother of an incredible son, a teacher, an instructor, and a successful business owner, and finds joy in inspiring others to become the greatest versions of themselves.

     The Griot Museum of Black History was founded by Lois D. Conley, who also serves as President.  Lois D. Conley has dedicated many years toward researching African-American history, with particular emphasis on the Underground Railroad and Westward Expansion.

   The city of Nashville has long been famous for its famous Hot Chicken.  With establishments such as Prince’s Hot Chicken and Hattie B’s serving up their signature varieties, a delicatessen that is loved by many has made its way to the “Hot Seat”.  

     Keisha Saunders-Waldron is a licensed clinical mental health counselor, professor, coach, and co-author with over 18 years of experience in the mental health field.  Keisha offers an extraordinary holistic counseling approach to creating a safe and therapeutic environment for..

Tiffany describes her experience with Vitiligo as a long-going love/hate relationship. She adds, “Growing up, I didn’t really understand or know what I had. In Elementary school, kids would ask me why my fingertips and toes were lighter than the other parts, and I had no answer. I was insecure and didn’t want to draw attention to..