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Previous Restoration Contributors
Stacy Hawkins Adams, Author
Stacy Hawkins Adams has a gift for weaving tales in both fiction and nonfiction that help readers grow confident in their own stories. She has penned 11 books - nine women's fiction novels, a faith-based devotional book and a compilation of original inspirational quotes.
Her fiction features themes related to personal growth, matters of faith, friendship and family, and some of her novels have been featured reading selections in high school and college courses. They include Coming Home (a Target stores Recommended Read); The Someday List (an Essence magazine bestseller), and Dreams That Won't Let Go (a Library of Virginia Literary Award finalist). Stacy's nonfiction work includes Abound! Principles for Next Level Living, a compilation of original quotes through which she inspires readers to live authentically.
Stacy is the recent recipient of the 2021 Motivational Author of the Year award from the National Black Book Festival. She also was honored with a 2021 Central Virginia Communications & Leadership Award that Toastmasters International gives to non-members.
Kayla Tucker Adams, Author | Public Relations Executive | CEO of KTA Media Group
Kayla Tucker Adams is a highly sought-after public relations and media expert whose clients include best-selling authors, movie producers, educational, religious and non-profit leaders and corporate executives.
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She has pitched and secured coverage from some of the top media professionals in the world, including Oprah Winfrey, Dr. Phil, Soledad O’Brien and Roland Martin. Ms. Adams is an expert at creating and executing strategic communications plans that have landed her clients in national and local media outlets such as CNN, Oprah Winfrey Network, TIME Magazine, The Washington Post, USA Today, TV One, Ebony, Essence and JET.
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Kayla Tucker Adams is also a successful author and motivational speaker who moves audiences to action. Her children’s book, titled “There's Beauty in the Rainbow,” focuses on self-esteem, self-love and self-respect and empowers young girls to love themselves and the skin they’re in.
Toya Beasley, Radio Personality
Most recently, Ms. Beasley was the inspirational format content director and on-air personality for InspireU with Toya Beasley at Radio103.9FM in New York City. She also hosted the weekly In Focus community affairs talk show and was heard in 48 markets across the U.S. through her Westwood One syndicated show, Sunday Inspirations.
Prior to joining Radio103.9FM, Ms. Beasley was the well-loved voice of New York WRKS-FM, better known to fans as 98.7 KISS-FM. She hosted New York City’s number one Sunday morning gospel program, KISS Inspirations, as well as KISSFM’s weekday gospel show, Morning Glory. With the station since 1989, Ms. Beasley started as a programming assistant and worked her way up to Program Director, a position she held for 10 years.
Additionally, she is the Creator and Executive Producer of the annual Stellar Women of Gospel™ Awards, honoring outstanding women in the gospel music industry. Ms. Beasley is also Founder and CEO of SistaFriendz™, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established to educate, equip and empower women for success in their personal and professional lives.
Ms. Beasley has received numerous accolades and awards for her work in the media industry and in the community, including Keys to the City of NewYork for producing her Night of Healing events, which took place each year for 10 years after 9/11. Ms. Beasley’s professional accomplishments are many, but nothing drives her more than her passion for God and His people. She works diligently to communicate that passion into the urban community.
April N. Daniels, TV Personality, Entreprenuer, Author
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April Daniels is the epitome of resilience, strength, and wisdom. Having been known to the world as a TV personality, an empowerment vessel for women, the wife of the late Lashawn Daniels and still a devoted mother to three amazing young men - April is a boss in her own right.
Today, April is exploring new avenues of creativity and influence. Author is the newest title added to her list. In her book, slated to be released in 2021, April allows you to peer into her life from the very beginning. In addition to being an author, she’s a speaker, freelance writer and business owner who still makes time to encourage, empower and be a source of hope and inspiration to others. The evolution of April takes you from heartfelt advice within The Girlfriend’s Corner, by April Daniels inside MB Magazine to her newest venture in the Health & Beauty industry and much more.
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Sheree Zampino, Actress
Sheree Zampino is a dedicated mother, entrepreneur and artist. She married a prominent Hollywood actor in 1992, and the two had their son, Trey, before divorcing in 1995. Sheree has famously maintained a close relationship with her ex-husband and his second wife and is considered a proud advocate for blended families and successful co-parenting after divorce. She has traveled the country as an inspirational speaker. While studying at the Fashion Institute of Technology, Sheree developed her natural fashion sense and artistic flair into a booming business. She is founder and CEO of Whoop Ash (Body Butter brand) and online fashion and accessory boutique Sheree Elizabeth, all under the umbrella of Sheree Elizabeth Inc. Sheree is also a renowned cook, noted for hosting sold-out pop-up meals featuring her infamous mac ‘n’ cheese.
Sabrina Fulton, Activist
Sybrina Fulton is dedicating her life to transforming family tragedy into social change. Since the death of her 17 year old son, Trayvon Martin, during the violent confrontation in 2012, Fulton has become an inspiring spokesperson for parents and concerned citizens across the country. Her book co-authored with Tracy Martin, Rest in Power: The Enduring Life of Trayvon Martin, shares the intimate story of a tragically foreshortened life and the rise of a movement that awoke a nation’s conscience.
A Miami native, Fulton graduated from Florida Memorial University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in English. A proud mother, Fulton worked for the Miami-Dade County Housing Development Agency for over 25 years, and is a member of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church of Miami Gardens.
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Currently, Fulton is running for office in Miami-Dade, but is still looking forward to speaking.
Shon Gables, Journalist
Shon Gables is an Army veteran, news anchor and skilled storyteller with expertise in growing brands on multiple social and digital platforms. She's a hands-on leader in the newsroom as a collaborator, coach and mentor.
Tony Gaskins, Motivaional Speaker | Author | Lifestyle Coach
After speaking out about how weak and insecure men control women in relationships in 2009 on several globally televised shows, Tony Gaskins launched his career as a life coach and relationship counselor. Since then, Gaskins, who has been a faithful and committed husband for over a decade, has counseled thousands and inspired millions online, becoming one of America’s foremost experts on love and relationships.
Sybil Amuti & Brandice Daniel, Hosts of The Great Girlfriends Podcast
The Great Girlfriends Show, hosted by Co Creators Sybil Amuti and Brandice Daniel is a podcast conversation series created to connect women with daily tips and solutions for living a passionate everyday life and building thriving business.
Serving up conversations that matter to women, this sensational podcast ranges in topics from starting a thrilling business to forgiving double crossing friends, to building an amazing love life and MORE!
Sybil brings you candid, authentic, vulnerable conversation while also serving expertise, passion, inspiration, ambition, laughter, and solutions that can push every woman to the next level.
From building businesses from the ground up, to marriage, raising kids, surviving hardships, to building friendships, Sybil fearlessly kickstarts the conversations and shares every facet of her world.
The Great Girlfriends reaches listeners from over 178 US markets and 87 countries each week through the show; and over 21,000 women through their Facebook Group (The Great Girlfriends).
Dr. Tiffanie Davis Henry, TV Host | Media Personality | Intimacy Coordinator for TV/Film | Licensed Psychotherapist | Certified Sex Therapist
As a multi-hyphenate in the media industry, I am intimately engaged in production, both in front & behind the camera. As an IPA-trained Intimacy Coordinator, I provide safe and affirming environments on set that ensure the facilitation of creative and realistic scenes involving nudity, simulated sex and multiple expressions of intimacy and sexuality. I am experienced in the negotiation of nudity riders, choreography and ensuring that actors feel empowered and safe; all while bringing the creative vision of the production to life. As a licensed mental health clinician and sexuality expert, I am confident in my ability to engage and affirm the space in which my clients hold and assist them with managing their emotions in a therapeutic manner.
Dr. Vikki Johnson, Author | Speaker | CEO& Founder of Girl Talk Unplugged | Spiritual Wellness |Founder & Author SOUL WEALTH® | Emmy Award & NAACP Image Award Winner | Host, The Soul Wealth Radio Show (DC Radio.Gov)
For more than 35 years, Vikki has worked in music, sports, entertainment, and community advocacy. She was blessed to work on several impactful campaigns, including the Emmy-award winning Rap-It-Up Campaign for BET Networks, it’s HIV/AIDS initiative. Over the years, her career has brought together her love of media, public service, and advocacy and has opened doors in a variety of industries. It is this expertise that helps to fuel and energize her entrepreneurial endeavors while allowing her to invest in the empowerment of others through Soul Wealth.
Vikki’s mission is to empower and equip women to invest in their Soul Wealth. Vikki has the ability to influence thousands of women through her work with corporations, nonprofits, conferences, groups, and more.
As the author of 12 books, Vikki provides insight for women on their spiritual, mental, emotional, and relational well-being.
Charreah Jackson, International Speaker | Coach | Lifestyle & Relationships Editor at Essence
Charreah K. Jackson serves as an international communications strategist and executive coach. She is the bestselling author of Boss Bride: The Powerful Woman's Playbook for Love & Success published by St. Martin's Press and available in libraries in more than 70 cities globally including Australia, New Zealand and her hometown of Atlanta.
Charreah has been featured by Good Morning America, Business Insider, and Fast Company and is a contributor for Money magazine and the New York Times. She has been a speaker at BookCon, SXSW, BlogHer, Steve Harvey’s Vault Conference, Soar presented by Bishop T.D. Jakes and the Pennsylvania Women’s Conference featuring Serena Williams. Her clients include Uber, Chase, Bumble and Warner Bros. Charreah previously served as ESSENCE Senior Editor where she worked for a decade empowering millions of women around the world. The National Association of Professional Women named her a Woman of the Year.
Dee Marshall, Founder of Girlfriends Pray | Certified Coach | International Speaker | TV Lifestyle Expert
Dee C. Marshall is an award winning business owner, influencer, and thought leader on equity, diversity and inclusion across industries, sector and globally and Named Top 50 People of Color Influencers by ROI
• Named Future of Black America Top 50
• Named Top 25 Influential Black Women in Business by Network Journal
• Named Top 25 Leading Women Entrepreneurs by LWE
• Board Chair, National Association for Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
• 2nd Vice Chair, WBENC Forum Engagement
• Founder of D&I Honors: where Congress meets culture inclusion & belonging
• Curator of Diversity on The Hill and The Diversity Tipping Point™
• A Google’s Tech Policy Fellow
• Appointed to Governor-Elect Phil Murphy’s Transition Team 2017
• Named United State of Women Changer Maker in 2016
• She’s advised top women leaders in US Congress and Bermuda including their First Lady)
• A Wall Street alumna who trained million dollar producers
• An ICF Certified Coach, Gallup Certified and Kolbe Certified
• Featured on CNBC, Forbes, Fortune, Financial Times, Inc. Magazine, Entrepreneur and HR Executive
Sonia Jackson Myles, Founder, President & CEO at The Sister Accord, LLC dba The Accord Group, LLC
Sonia Jackson Myles has over 20 years of experience (managing $20 Billion) in Corporate America, working for top Fortune 500 companies such as Ford Motor Company, The Gillette Company and Procter & Gamble. Her last role at Procter & Gamble was Director Global Packaging for the company with a responsibility of $6 Billion.
She is the Founder, President & CEO of The Sister Accord LLC dba The Accord Group LLC. She is also the Founder & CEO of The Sister Accord Foundation. Her global movement, titled The Sister Accord, has 3 areas of focus: Educating girls and women, Enlightening girls and women of the Power of Sisterhood and Eradicating bullying and violence against girls and women. She is on a mission to have 1 Billion girls and women learn how to love themselves and each other.
Sonia is the author of The Sister Accord: 51 Ways To LOVE Your Sister, which was nominated for a 2013 NAACP Image Award. Her 2nd book, 51 Ways To LOVE Your Children, focuses on building strong families via loving relationships. Sonia has numerous media appearances and mentions from local TV & radio networks across the country to national/international platforms such as Disney, Fortune Magazine, CNN.com, New York Times, Essence Magazine, Black Enterprise Magazine, Today Show, Good Morning America, Bloomberg, Businessweek and The Huffington Post. Sonia is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Her mantra is “There is always a seat at the table for excellence—focus on being excellent.”
Award Winning Corporate Leadership & Diversity Trainer|Speaker|Author|Journalist CNN Political & Legal Commentator|Adjunct Professor Christopher Newport Univ.
Sophia A. Nelson is a CNN Legal & Political commentator, a USA Today opinion writer, and an award-winning journalist and the author of three non-fiction books.
Sophia was the first African American woman to serve as a US House of Representatives Republican Congressional Committee Investigative Counsel. After a stint in private practice at the International law firm of Holland & Knight, LLP Nelson went on to cover the Obama White House as a correspondent for the iconic JET Magazine 2010-2012, and after that, writing award winning columns for Essence Magazine. She is the author of Black Woman Redefined: Dispelling Myths and Discovering Fulfillment in the Age of Michelle Obama, The Woman Code:20 Powerful Keys to Unlock Your Life, and, most recently, e Pluribus One: Reclaiming Our Founders' Vision for a United America.
Nicole Ari Parker, Actor | Producer & Creator of The Gymwrap
Nicole Ari Parker is an American film, TV, and stage actor, known for her performance as the spirited attorney ‘Teri Joseph’ in the ‘Showtime’ series ‘Soul Food.’ Following her marriage, she is also known as Nikki Kodjoe. Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, she showed an inclination toward acting since childhood and received a “Best Actress” award in a Maryland high-school competition. After working in theater and ‘The Washington Ballet Company,’ she earned a degree in acting from ‘New York University.’ Her first major role (in ‘The Incredibly True Adventure of Two Girls in Love’) fetched her immense admiration. This was followed by movies such as ‘Boogie Nights,’ ‘Spark,’ and ‘Blue Streak.’ Her performance in the TV series ‘Soul Food’ was immensely appreciated. She also appeared in TV series such as ‘Second Time Around’ and ‘Empire.’ Earlier in her career, she appeared in a number of stage productions. Parker, who takes active interest in politics, is married to actor-model Boris Kodjoe. They have two children.
Scott Parker, Celebrity Fitness Expert | Founder/CEO of TruFit & ScottPFit.com
Scott Parker is the founder and CEO of TruResults, a personal fitness company specializing in holistic approaches to create and maintain a healthy mind, body and soul and a second year in uencer of #GoRedGetFit. Established in 2006, the workout regimen of the TruResults system, like the #GoRedGetFit challenges, does not require the use of traditional gym equipment. TruResults has attracted many celebrity clients and others on the move. Scott focuses on the best way to help people reach their fitness goals within the context of their individual lifestyles.
Based on the foundations and principles of proper nutrition, good exercise and a positive attitude, Scott works with clients to increase their knowledge of healthy diets and wellness, increase their self-con dence and stimulate their desire to improve physical appearance and presentation. These same principles are applied in workouts and nutritional guidelines that Scott helps to create for the members of #GoRedGetFit.
Scott has used his science-based education and professional experience to become a much sought-after personal trainer and trusted fitness and nutrition expert of the American Heart Association. While a student at Florida A&M University, he studied biology and chemistry, and completed his graduate work in pharmacology. With over 15 years of personal training and martial arts practice, Scott has used those skills and his science background to become a well- rounded expert in total body fittness.
Based in Los Angeles, California, Scott helps clients achieve total wellness. His past/current celebrity clients include Jill Scott, Niecey Nash, David Banner, Jill Marie Jones, Tasha Smith and D’Angelo.
Kelly Price, 9X Grammy nominated Singer | Songwriter | Producer | Actress | Author
Kelly Cherelle Price (born April 4, 1973) is an American R&B and gospel singer. She started her singing career in 1992.[1] Price originally garnered attention by singing backing vocals for Mariah Carey on multiple songs, including her Billboard Hot 100 number one singles: "Fantasy" and "All I Want for Christmas Is You"; before rising to greater prominence after making uncredited guest appearances on the number one single "Mo Money Mo Problems" by The Notorious B.I.G., as well as "Feel So Good" by Mase, which prompted her to release her own music. Her debut album Soul of a Woman (1998), was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America.
The album's lead single "Friend of Mine" reached the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. In 1998, Price was featured on the Whitney Houston single "Heartbreak Hotel" alongside Faith Evans, which peaked at number two and earned the trio a nomination for the Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. Her second album, Mirror Mirror (2000), and her fourth album Priceless (2003), both reached the top ten on the Billboard 200 chart. In 2016, she made an uncredited appearance on Kanye West's song "Ultralight Beam" from his album The Life of Pablo.
Price has won a Soul Train Music Award, and has received nine Grammy Award nominations.
Lisa Price, Founder of Carol's Daughter
Beauty products entrepreneur Lisa Price was born on May 18, 1962 in Brooklyn, New York. She is the founder of Carol’s Daughter, one of the first African American-owned product lines with a flagship store. During her childhood, she remembers the smell of the soap her grandmother made at their Brooklyn brownstone. Price attended public schools in New York, where she received her high school diploma.
In 1990, Price began making creams and lotions based on natural materials in her kitchen. Encouraged by family members and friends, she began Carol’s Daughter from her home in 1993. Her customers soon multiplied. By 1999, Price added mail-order, website and walk-in customers and her business moved from the parlor floor of her brownstone to a formal store in Brooklyn’s upscale Fort Greene area.
Supported by a staff of twenty-three, the Carol’s Daughter line boasts more than 300 aromatic products for the face, hair, body and home. Her clientele include celebrities like Jada Pinkett Smith, Will Smith, Halle Berry, Chaka Khan and Oprah Winfrey. In 2002, Carol’s Daughter grossed more than $2.25 million in sales. In 2004, Price along with Hillary Beard wrote her memoir, entitled Success Never Smelled So Sweet: How I Followed My Nose and Found My Passion. In 2005, a group of investors assisted her in opening a flagship store in Harlem on 125th Street.
Sheri Riley, Speaker | Author | Lifestyle Strategist
Sheri Riley is a wife, mother, and daughter who serves as an empowerment speaker, high-performance life coach, and award-winning author. She's the President of Exponential Living® a personal, professional, and leadership development company.
Her book, Exponential Living® - Stop Spending 100% of Your Time on 10% of Who You Are (Penguin Random House), is a Porchlight Books Business Bestseller, nominated for an NAACP Image Award, garnered several self-help “Book of the Year” awards, and has been translated to Romanian, Vietnamese, and French. John Maxwell featured an excerpt from Exponential Living in his 2019 Best Seller, LeaderShift and interviewed her for his 2020 Best Seller, The Leader’s Greatest Return. She has been featured on national media outlets like The Marie Forleo Podcast/MarieTV, The Steve Harvey Show, NPR, Huffington Post, and Essence.
Rachel Roff, CEO of Urban Skin Rx
Celebrity Esthetician Rachel Roff is the Founder and CEO of Urban Skin Rx®, a clinical skincare brand for diverse skin tones. An established licensed aesthetician, Rachel is a game-changer in the beauty space and prides herself on bringing inclusivity to the clinical skincare industry. Her journey began in 2006 when she founded Urban Skin Solutions Medical Spa in Charlotte, NC. After treating thousands of clients for common skincare conditions related to melanin-rich skin, Rachel founded Urban Skin Rx skin care line in 2010® and has continued to grow a notable roster of high caliber, celebrity clientele. She has been featured in numerous publications and recognized as a leading beauty innovator by Forbes and WWD.
Urban Skin Rx® is sold nationwide in over 10,000 locations at Walmart, Walgreens, Target, Ulta, CVS, dermstore.com, HSN.com, QVC.com and direct-to-consumer at urbanskinrx.com.
Mary Searight, Co-Pastor of Abundant Life Family Worship Church
Lady Mary, affectionately known as Pastor Mary, is the Pastor of the Abundant Life Family Worship Church in New Brunswick, New Jersey, where she serves with her husband, Bishop George Searight, Senior Pastor and Founder.
Called to ministry over 25 years ago, Pastor Mary began walking in her calling as a powerful intercessor, preacher and teacher. After ‘growing up’ in the Pentecostal church, she equipped herself for ministry by attending the Bethel Bible Institute.
God continued to elevate her, and after spending more than 20 years in Corporate America, she now leads a congregation of more than 2,000 members and manages the church’s operations on a daily basis.
As an extension of her leadership in the New Brunswick community, she serves in the Supervisory Ministry of the New Brunswick Theological Seminary where she helps oversee interns and seminary students.
Felicia Scott, Certified Empowerment Coach | Speaker | Author | Trainer
The author of Thrive! 7 Strategies for Extraordinary Living and a bi-weekly column, Living the Empowered Life, Coach Felicia reaches an audience of over 250,000 women from all walks of life with her wit, wisdom and uncanny ability to “TEACH, TOUCH and TRANSFORM.”
Blending the power of her personal experience, academic training and professional career, Coach Felicia’s message of personal promise and potential reaches the at-home-mother raising children, the college student preparing to start their career, the transitional professional planning to change careers or gears and the CEO running a multi-billion dollar enterprise. Her compelling, personal and professional narrative has lead to engagements with clients such as P&G, Ketchum, National Association of Black MBAs, National Association of Black Journalists, Kaplan, Pearson Education and Fordham University.
Mikki Taylor, Editor-at-Large at Essence Magazine | President at Mikki Taylor Enterprises, LLC
Mikki Taylor is the quintessential authority on all matters regarding beauty and style. From A-list celebrities and world-renowned cover models, to women-in-the-know, Mikki influences all types of women with her vision of beauty and style. She has devoted a lifetime to helping women manage their inner and outer beauty and inspiring them to own their lives to the fullest.
For 30 years, Taylor served as ESSENCE Magazine’s groundbreaking Beauty & Cover Director, and is now Editor-at-Large for the publication. In addition, she is the Founder and President of Mikki Taylor Enterprises, LLC, which serves as a holding company for a number of vertical businesses, including Satin Doll Productions, a full-service image building and consulting division, and MT Communications, a strategic communications and branding company.
Taylor has offered beauty and style advice through all types of media, including broadcast, digital and of course, print outlets, which culminated in her wildly successful book, Self-Seduction: Your Ultimate Path to Inner and Outer Beauty (Ballantine Books/One World). This triumph left readers craving more, therefore the sequel, Commander-in-Chic: Every Woman’s Guide to Managing Her Style Like a First Lady (Atria Books/Simon & Schuster), will be hitting store shelves on November 29, 2011.
Dr. Susan Taylor, Founder of Rx for Brown Skin
Dr. Taylor, a diplomat of the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Dermatology, is a leading voice for the scientific research, clinical care, and education for the dermatologic health of underserved populations. Dr. Taylor completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn), medical school at Harvard University, and dermatology residency at Columbia University. She was the founding director of the Skin of Color Center at St. Luke’s Hospital Center in New York City, NY, one of the first clinics in the nation specializing in the care of skin of color. She currently is an associate professor of dermatology and director of diversity of the department of dermatology at the Perelman School of Medicine at UPenn. She has served on the Board of Directors of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the Skin of Color Society (founder and president; SOCS), and the Women’s Dermatology Society (2020 Mentor of the Year; WDS) and previously served as vice president of the AAD.
Diann Valentine, Author | Internationally Acclaimed Wedding, Event and Interior Designer
Diann Valentine is a creator, innovator, entrepreneur, mother and wife. Still, there’s one title that anchors all of these relationships, and that’s the role of friend. Insightful by nature, Valentine has used her superb interpersonal skills to build an impressive brand around supporting women as they celebrate, nurture and find love as well as build their new homes. Most known for her jaw-dropping celebrity and television weddings, this industry veteran has expanded her array of clientele across four continents through servicing corporate clients and high net worth individuals. Be it designing fish tank dance floors, visceral transformations or opulent private estates, Valentine is always providing new visual adventures for her clients and the industry.
As a Love Expert, Diann takes women on a journey that will prepare them for a true happily ever after. Diann gets you ready to heal hurts, mine for the best version of yourself and find the courage to try something new whether you are unhappily single, or married. Diann helps you identify the root causes of unhealthy relationship cycles and begin working towards truly having it all.
As a Television Host, Diann has been a dream fulfiller, hosting three wedding shows and serving as a featured expert on an array of celebrity, lifestyle, interior design and news programs. Her latest stint is Bravo TV’s Love Expert on To Rome For Love. As a media talent and speaker, Diann is electrifying, inspirational and insightful.
Malinda Williams, Actress | Author | Entrepreneur
Malinda Williams one of the entertainment industry’s most well respected actresses.
Armed with a license in cosmetology and a few small acting roles, Malinda Williams left her home state of New Jersey and ambitiously set her sights on Hollywood.
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Twice nominated for an NAACP Image Award for “outstanding actress in a drama series”, the determined young beauty made a name for herself, grabbing lead roles in films such as “The Wood “(MTV/Paramount), “High School High” “A Thin Line Between Love and Hate” and the television series SoulFood.
Dondre Whitfield, Actor | International Speaker | Restoration Coach | Leader in the Manhood Movement
Dondré Whitfield is a dynamic speaker with a powerful message that comes from a powerful testimony. Born and raised in the battle tested streets of Brooklyn, Mr. Whitfield has the life experience of a man poised for greatness. Balanced with the toughness of the street and the vulnerability of a discipled man, he has become a model that men, young and old, should mirror.
Mr. Whitfield’s coming out party in the entertainment industry started thirty years ago on the most watched show in television history; The Cosby Show. He has worked with a veritable who’s who in film, television and theater. Mr. Whitfield’s career boasts a list of accomplishments including three Emmy nominations. He is currently featured as a leading man on the critically acclaimed series, executive produced by Oprah Winfrey and created and executive produced by Ava DuVernay, Queen Sugar.
Husband, father, philanthropist, mentor and coach, Mr. Whitfield is destined to change and enhance the lives of males and transform them into men.
A multi-talented entertainer and healer, Mr. Whitfield is a renaissance man cut from the cloth of yesteryear.
Mia Wright, Co-Pastor of The Fountain of Praise | Author | Speaker | Founder of Metamorphosis
Mia is a powerful speaker, who encourages others with uplifting messages, relevant life stories and life skills that apply in both the faith based and industry sectors. Her messages are inspiring as well as encouraging. With a call to action, she elevates others to purposeful thinking with a higher mindset. People respond with testimonials of how Mia encouraged them to begin a new business, to complete school, or to be a better person. This makes her a sought after motivational speaker, women’s conference presenter, and corporate life synergy coach. As a speaker, Mia has shared transformational messages in churches, town halls, convention centers, hotels, corporate venues, schools, mud huts, and prisons around the world. People relate to her life experiences.
Previous Award Winning Restoration Glam Squad Contributors
Karen Dupiche, 4x Emmy Award-Winning Makeup Artist
A four time Emmy Award Winning Makeup Artist for Outstanding Makeup for the ABC television daytime show “The View,” Karen’s talents continue to grace the world of television and print media daily as she is recognized as one of the most respected celebrity makeup artists in the industry.
Chris Gees, Celebrity Hair Stylist | Makeup Artist | Entrepreneur
International Recording Artist, Chris Gees is a native of the City of Brotherly Love and a resident of the City of Angels, Los Angeles. He’s been performing for most of his life in addition to majoring in Music & Theatre at Florida A&M University (FAMU). Now blazing an amazing path in “Hollywood,” he’s ready to take the World by storm with his new music. In addition, he successfully built and retired from an extensive career in the Beauty Industry having worked with most of Hollywood’s Cream of the Crop. With TV, Film, Print, Runway, Red Carpet, Editorial and a local clientele of well over 1000 clients during his time as a Celebrity Hairstylist & Makeup Artist, he’s created a name for himself in the Industry that will hold its weight for the test of time.
Carla Gentry Osorio, Celebrity Hairstylist | Entrepreneur
Carla Gentry Osorio, celebrity hairstylist and owner of Styles Beauty Lounge nestled in midtown Manhattan. Carla’s self-described signature aesthetic is shiny, healthy hair with lots of movement. Affectionately known as one of the styling community’s best ‘track-stars,’ for her expertise in weaves, hair color and cuts, she is the ‘go-to’ stylist for many celebrities. As a member of Local 706 Makeup/Hairstylist Union, Carla works in film and television. As a Washington, DC native, Carla knew early in her career which path she wanted to take. This led her to move to New York City where her creativity and attention to detail catapulted her into the spotlight where she was able to showcase her talent. Although Carla has worked in media ranging from music videos to editorials and album packaging to commercials, her favorite bookings are personal appearances, where she has direct interaction with her clients and the final results of her work are tangible. Carla focuses her energy on maintaining her clientele and working with private celebrity clients. Carla is a stylist that prides herself in excellence and gives nothing less than 200%.
Toni Acey, Emmy Award Winning Makeup Artist | Entrepreneur
Aced Faces is a global cosmetics company that was developed by Emmy Award winning makeup artist Toni Acey. Toni Acey continues to be one of the most sought after makeup artists in the industry. With her extensive resume and vast experience of working with clients of various skin tones and assessing the needs of clients with various skin types, Toni has been able to use this expertise to aid in developing products that address the needs of both the artist and the consumer.
Dee Desalu is a Nigerian editorial, runway, & lifestyle international hairstylist. Inspired by her native country's hair trends, Dee's passion for hair design began at age 12. She then advanced and cultivated her love and passion for hair design into a career. After completion of her high school education she trained at the Prestigious Pivot Point International Academy in Chicago, USA & Rome, Italy and finished the cosmetology program at the Historic Lean Bryant's Beauty Academy on Chicago's South Side.
After completion of the cosmetology program, Dee completed advance training through Wella & Paul Mitchell becoming more exquisite in precision & conceptual hair design. Dee's accomplishments include, styling the tresses of Elite Celebs, Athletes, Artists, Models, Designers, & other Industry professionals. Among Dee's many accomplishments also include, Vh1 love and Hip Hop NYC, ATL & Hollywood, Mercedes Benz Fashion Week , BET Awards, The NEA Awards. Nevertheless Dee Desalu is an extraordinary Stylist & a working force in the Beauty industry.
Tym Wallace, Celebrity Hair Stylist | Makeup artist
In ten years, Tym, with his gracious manner and breath-taking hairstyles, has managed to work with a plethora of top tier celebrities such as Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Kelly Rowland, Skai Jackson, Serena Williams, Chrisette Michelle, Brandy Norwood, Gabrielle Union, Nene Leakes, Niecy Nash, Natasha Bedingfield, Natalie Larose and most recently, Zendaya Coleman. These celebrities and more have been proud to have their tresses, 'Tossed by Tym."
Hailing from, The Windy City, this Chicago native matriculated from the well-known Dudley's Beauty College. With bi-coastal dreams, Tym continued his education and made is mark in New York and Los Angeles, thus widening his base to encompass the nation. His merits extend far beyond his stellar celebrity clients. He his also a driving force in television, where his network credits include: MTV, VH1, BET, and We TV. Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, Black Girls Rock, The BET Awards, and Project Runway have all taken advantage of the talent and gifts that he has to offer. Tym Wallace will continue tochallenge himself. He will continue to reinvent his clients. He will continue to share his vast knowledge through his hands-on instructional classes. Tym Wallace is the anomaly that has occurred within the realm of beauty.
Gabrielle Corney, Cosmetologist | Entrepreneur
A veteran licensed Cosmetologist and Healthy Hair Expert with 30 years experience in the beauty industry. She created Hair Is The ULTIMATE Accessory with the understanding that revitalizing your hair and scalp in between salon visits is essential to caring for your tresses.
Celebrity Makeup Artist, Monifa Mortis, has been working in the Beauty, Entertainment and Film industry for over 20 years. Her work with Celebrities like Queen Latifah, Alicia Keys and Gabrielle Union has appeared in publications such as Rolling Stone, InStyle & O Magazine. She is renowned for her clean, sexy, modern approach to makeup that embodies a distinctive glamour for all complexions.
In addition to her freelance career, Monifa Mortis makes numerous appearances as a Guest Speaker and Educator for beauty schools, makeup unions and professional panels for makeup artists. She has also hosted her own highly acclaimed training seminars across the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean, teaching her unique approach to beauty makeup to aspiring artists.
Monifa is also the Creator and CEO of her first beauty product, Glam Kitti. The Glam Kitti is the ultimate mini face kit for makeup touch ups. To learn more about Monifa and the Glam Kitti brand, visit: Instagram: monifamortis, www.glamkitti.com, Instagram: glamkitti,
DeeDee Kelly, Celebrity Makeup Artist | Entrepreneur
“Your face is my canvas” is the creative tag of celebrity makeup artist DeeDee Kelly. Her love for beauty and fashion called her to leave the hustle and bustle of corporate America with a dream, a plan, and a few brushes. “I just wanted something more, something creative.” says Miss Kelly. As a former model, of course she is beautiful, but Dee Dee has that little something extra, that THING, that makes people want her. She has a vibrant infectious energy, and a beautiful inner spirit, which serves as the real secret for her master strokes in the world of beauty and makeup.
She had her first encounter with a brush painting a children's mural in 1992. From there, it was onto modeling, where she out-painted the hired makeup artists, even beating the faces of fellow cat-walkers. Somehow, even that was still not enough.
She left the runway to enroll in makeup licensing courses at VonLee in Baltimore, MD. With her new credentials, DeeDee quickly landed a position with one of the leaders in the cosmetic industry, MAC Cosmetics. She instantly carved a name for herself and droves of customers would ask for her by name. In 2003, she began taking on a host of freelance opportunities in television and print.
Today you can find DeeDee living her dream in Los Angeles CA. She has painted some of the most highly acclaimed actors, actresses, singers and everyone in the spot light. Her future looks more and more brighter everyday. One thing she always says is "Don't Call it a dream, Call it a Goal"
As founder of Ketta Vaughn Cosmetics, a premier cosmetics and beauty service line, founder Ketta Vaughn is committed to creating iconic beauty. After years of the priceless grind on the retail floor working for one of the most popular beauty brands, doing makeup for events, bridal parties, editorial, film, television, and video projects, Ketta decided it was time to launch her own beauty brand. In addition to a strong retail background and understanding, Ketta Vaughn’s experience breeds creative collaborations and provides the foundation for her phenomenal line of cosmetics. With repeat client visits, the satisfaction and respect of her professional opinion and expertise, alongside great admiration of her makeup technique and style, Ketta Vaughn realized she could develop a beauty brand for global cosmetic lovers that reflected what her clients and colleagues love and admire about her makeup artistry.
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