Founders Capital Campaign Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Innovation , Opportunity & Community
After 8 weeks of hard work and determination , two words come to mind : YES and AMEN ! The Fall 2025 cohort embraced the opportunity to learn , grow , and accelerate . With grace and determination , they tackled assignments head - on . It ’ s truly humbling to be surrounded by such talented leaders who are investing in their dreams and communities . I ’ m honored and grateful for your investment in me as a leader and in SHEBA as a minority - owned business . Entrepreneurship is both challenging and rewarding . It reflects the faces of many people like you and me , yet can feel unrecognizable in moments of adversity . Entrepreneurs are the backbone of our communities , often carrying them on their shoulders — an incredible and crucial task . As you look ahead to the future , know this : YES , you did it ! Many of you faced your fears and pursued your dreams , and I ’ m incredibly proud of each of you . Take a moment to exhale and celebrate yourselves as you step into new beginnings . Always remember your “ WHY ” and keep pushing forward . SHEBA looks forward to seeing you and your businesses thrive !
Sonserae is dedicated to advocating for fair employment opportunities for justice - involved individuals through various re - entry programs . She is a Board of Trustees member for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Hartford , an advisory board member for Goodwin College ' s Supply Chain and Manufacturing program , and the CEO / Founder of the Society of Human Engagement and Business Alignment , where she also serves as a trusted business relationship advisor and brand ambassador . Sonserae previously chaired the U . S . Women of Walgreens supply chain , supporting their diversity and inclusion initiatives across the country . In March 2021 , she received an Inspiration Award for International Women ’ s Day from the U . S . Women of Walgreens Boots Alliance Business Resource Group for her leadership with supply chain field champions nationwide . Her passion for ending period poverty remains a driving force in her work . Sonserae was recognized by the NAACP as one of Connecticut ’ s 100 Most Influential Individuals of Color in 2018 and was honored by the U . S . Black Chamber as a 2022 Woman of Power . She is also a proud member of The Links Incorporated ( Springfield chapter ) and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc . ( Western Massachusetts chapter ). Additionally , Sonserae is the proud mother of a Navy veteran son .
Sincerely ,
Sonserae Cicero SHEBA CEO / Founder
Program Overview:
The SHEBA Business Accelerator is an intensive 8–10-week program designed to help minority and women-owned businesses scale, grow, and prepare for their next phase of capital access. Through a structured blend of guided discussions, mentoring, and funding strategy development, participants emerge with a with a clear roadmap to secure their next round of financing. Upon completion, each founder will be positioned for long-term success with direct connections to financial institutions and tailored capital structures. Finalizing this chapter of our Founder’s journey is not only a true testament of their fearless dedication, but a genuine celebration of all of their hardworking accomplishments .
Program Highlights:
8–10-week intensive accelerator experience Expert-led sessions, collaborative workshops, and personalized coaching Creation of a full funding application package Capital connections and guidance on securing funding Pitch competition with self-care grants and post-program funding opportunities
Program Referral & Intake Process:
Participants may be referred by past cohort members, community leaders, partners, or through word-of-mouth. All referrals must complete the business intake form located on SHEBA’s website. Once submitted, our Business Development Coordinator will follow up to conduct a brief screening to ensure program fit. Final onboarding includes a commitment confirmation with SHEBA’s CEO prior to the program start.
Cohort by Gender
10 Participants are Female 5 participants are Male
Male 33.3%
Female 66.7%
Cohort by Race
15 Participants are African American
African American 100%
Cohort by Age
60's 8.3%
20's 8.3%
1 participant in their 20s 3 participants in their 30s 5 participants in their 40s 3 participants in their 50s 1 participant in their 60s 5 businesses from Hartford 3 businesses from West Hartford 1 business from Bloomfield, Bristol, New Britain, New Haven, Vernon, Wethersfield, and West Haven
50's 25%
30's 41.7%
40's 16.7%
Cohort by City
New Britain 6.7%
West Hartford 20%
Bristol 6.7%
Wethersfield 6.7%
Vernon 6.7%
New Haven 6.7%
Hartford 33.3%
West Haven 6.7%
Bloomfield 6.7%
MARLENA ANDERSON NICHOLAS BURGESS ALRICK ELLIS
YVONNE FRANCIS KEIYANA GRANT DR. VANCE HARPER BERNICE HAMILTON EARTHA HENRY CHARMAINE MCBEAN RICHARDS SHAWN MCDONALD LARUE MCNISH NATALIE MITCHELL M. LYNN ROACH TASHA ROSE JAMAIA SMITH NARELLE THOMAS
Join Us in Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Innovation, Opportunity, and Community .
Every great business starts with a spark — an idea, a vision, a moment of courage. But too often, early- stage founders lack the resources, mentorship, and networks to bring those ideas to life.
The “Fuel the Future” challenge bridges that gap. We equip aspiring entrepreneurs — especially youth, women, and minority founders — with:
•Business training and mentorship •Startup development resources •Networking and investor access •Micro-grants to fund their first projects
This campaign will directly support 50+ entrepreneurs over the next calendar year accelerator cycle — helping founders build startups that create jobs, strengthen communities, and drive sustainable innovation.
We’re making fundraising fun — and impactful!
Participants will compete to raise funds, each representing a specific founder story (e.g., tech innovation, sustainable fashion, community health, education access). the SHEBA Virtual Leaderboard will capture every donation in real time, adding excitement and motivation to each business.
Leaderboard Prizes will be awarded at the conclusion of each campaign awarding the following:
•Top Fundraiser: “Founder Champion” Award + media feature •Most Creative Campaign: Spotlight in our digital showcase •Community Choice: Selected by donor votes and social engagement
By joining this challenge, you’ll help founders rise to the top of the leaderboard, ultimately helping to fund the future.
It would be an honor to have you partner with us in making a lasting difference. feel free to contact us to discuss customized options that align with your organization’s goals and impact areas.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to invest in our community’s future. We look forward to working together to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Call To Action!
1. Donate to a Founder You Believe In - Support a participant or team to help them top the leaderboard — every dollar fuels future entrepreneurs!
2. Share and Challenge Others - Nominate friends, businesses, or alumni to join the challenge. Tag them using #FuelTheFutureChallenge.
3. Become a Mentor or Sponsor - Your experience can help shape a founder’s future. Reach out to join our mentor network or matching sponsor program.
#fuelthefuture Campaign kicks off on December 1 and will run through December 31st st
Campaign winners and fundraising totals will be announced week of January 2, 2026
What's Next??
Scan the following QR code
Select a founder to donate to by clicking on their business name
Then make your donation and watch our founders goals grow!! 🙂
Just Like That!! we #fuelthefuture
MARLENA ANDERSON - HARRIS IS THE FOUNDER OF TINY FOOTPRINTS IN HEAVEN , A CREATIVE AND HEALING - BASED BUSINESS THAT SUPPORTS GRIEVING PARENTS THROUGH MEMORIAL ART , JEWELRY , AND GUIDED JOURNALS .
SHE EARNED HER DEGREE IN FASHION AND MERCHANDISING FROM GIBBS COLLEGE IN 2005 , WHICH LAID THE FOUNDATION FOR HER PASSION FOR DESIGN AND MEANINGFUL CRAFTSMANSHIP . HER PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND INCLUDES WORKING AS A BUYER FOR EBLENS CLOTHING STORE IN TORRINGTON , CONNECTICUT , OWNING AN ALTERATIONS SHOP IN WATERBURY , CONNECTICUT , AND UPHOLSTERING MEDICAL TABLES — SKILLS THAT HAVE SHAPED HER EYE FOR QUALITY , DETAIL , AND ARTISTRY . MARLENA STARTED TINY FOOTPRINTS IN HEAVEN BECAUSE SHE IS AN ANGEL MAMA OF THREE AND THE MOTHER TO TWIN RAINBOW GIRLS . HER PERSONAL JOURNEY THROUGH LOSS AND HEALING INSPIRED HER TO CREATE A SPACE WHERE LOVE , MEMORY , AND CREATIVITY INTERTWINE . THROUGH THIS BUSINESS , SHE HOPES TO HELP OTHER FAMILIES HONOR THEIR BABIES AND FIND COMFORT THROUGH REMEMBRANCE .
SHE JOINED THIS BUSINESS COURSE TO STRENGTHEN HER ENTREPRENEURIAL SKILLS , LEARN HOW TO GROW A MISSION - DRIVEN BRAND , AND CONNECT WITH OTHERS WHO ARE BUILDING BUSINESSES ROOTED IN COMPASSION AND PURPOSE .
NICHOLAS BURGESS IS THE OWNER OF DUDLEY DEVELOPMENT COMPANY AND A PROUD FAMILY - ORIENTED , GOD - FEARING MAN . HIS GREATEST JOY COMES FROM HIS FAMILY — HIS WIFE , CHAVON HAMILTON - BURGESS , AND THEIR TWO CHILDREN , HAILEY AND REAGAN BURGESS — WHO CONTINUE TO INSPIRE AND MOTIVATE HIM EVERY DAY . NICHOLAS ’ S CAREER IS FIRMLY ROOTED IN THE ELECTRICAL FIELD . HE STUDIED AT A . I . PRINCE TECHNICAL SCHOOL , WHERE HE GAINED A STRONG FOUNDATION IN ELECTRICAL CIRCUITRY AND BECAME WELL - VERSED IN THE CODES AND STANDARDS OUTLINED IN THE NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE ( NEC ). HIS EDUCATION INCLUDED TWO YEARS OF CLASSROOM INSTRUCTION , FOLLOWED BY 8 , 000 HOURS OF ON - THE - JOB TRAINING REQUIRED TO QUALIFY FOR THE NEC JOURNEYPERSON EXAM . AFTER SUCCESSFULLY EARNING HIS JOURNEYPERSON LICENSE , NICHOLAS COMPLETED AN ADDITIONAL TWO YEARS OF FIELD EXPERIENCE , PREPARING HIM FOR THE MASTER ELECTRICIAN AND ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR EXAMS — BOTH OF WHICH INCLUDE A BUSINESS COMPONENT AND ARE ESSENTIAL FOR OBTAINING AN ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR LICENSE . WITH MORE THAN 15 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE , NICHOLAS IS HIGHLY SKILLED IN BOTH RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL WORK , AS WELL AS BUILDING MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS ( BMS ). HIS EXPERTISE AND PROFESSIONALISM REFLECT HIS DEDICATION TO QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP AND CONTINUOUS GROWTH IN HIS FIELD . NICHOLAS ’ S ULTIMATE GOAL IS TO BUILD A BUSINESS THAT CREATES GENERATIONAL WEALTH — NOT ONLY FOR HIS OWN FAMILY BUT ALSO FOR THE YOUNGER GENERATION WITHIN THE GREATER HARTFORD COMMUNITY . THROUGH DUDLEY DEVELOPMENT COMPANY , HE IS COMMITTED TO HIRING AND MENTORING LOCAL YOUTH TO HELP CHANGE THE NARRATIVE THAT HAS SHAPED THE COMMUNITY FOR GENERATIONS .
ALRICK ELLIS IS A DEDICATED PROFESSIONAL WITH EXPERIENCE SPANNING PUBLIC SERVICE , TECHNICAL EXPERTISE , AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP . A GRADUATE OF BLOOMFIELD HIGH SCHOOL , HE EARNED AN ASSOCIATE ’ S DEGREE IN AUTO MECHANICS FROM NEW ENGLAND TECH INSTITUTE . HIS CAREER BEGAN IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY , WHERE HE WORKED AT LIA HONDA IN ENFIELD , CONNECTICUT , FROM 2014 TO 2022 . DURING THIS TIME , HE HONED HIS TECHNICAL SKILLS , ATTENTION TO DETAIL , AND COMMITMENT TO DELIVERING HIGH - QUALITY SERVICE — QUALITIES THAT CONTINUE TO DEFINE HIS PROFESSIONAL APPROACH . IN 2022 , ALRICK TRANSITIONED INTO PUBLIC SERVICE AS A CORRECTIONAL OFFICER . IN THIS ROLE , HE IS RESPONSIBLE FOR MAINTAINING SAFETY , ENFORCING REGULATIONS , AND FOSTERING ORDER WITHIN A CORRECTIONAL ENVIRONMENT . THE POSITION REQUIRES RESILIENCE , INTEGRITY , AND STRONG LEADERSHIP — ATTRIBUTES ALRICK CONSISTENTLY DEMONSTRATES . THROUGH THIS WORK , HE HAS DEVELOPED EXPERTISE IN CRISIS MANAGEMENT , CONFLICT RESOLUTION , AND TEAM COORDINATION , ALL WHILE UPHOLDING THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF PROFESSIONALISM . BEYOND HIS PUBLIC SERVICE CAREER , ALRICK IS A PASSIONATE ENTREPRENEUR . HE IS THE FOUNDER OF ELLIS SOLUTIONS LLC , A COMPANY PROVIDING RELIABLE ASSEMBLY AND DELIVERY SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS AND BUSINESSES , AND THE OWNER OF EUPHORIA LOFT , A LUXURY EVENT VENUE DESIGNED TO HOST WEDDINGS , MILESTONE CELEBRATIONS , AND COMMUNITY GATHERINGS . BOTH VENTURES REFLECT HIS COMMITMENT TO INNOVATION , EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE , AND CREATING SPACES THAT BRING PEOPLE TOGETHER . WHAT DRIVES ALRICK ACROSS ALL HIS ENDEAVORS IS A STRONG SENSE OF COMMUNITY AND PURPOSE . THROUGH ELLIS SOLUTIONS AND EUPHORIA LOFT , HE STRIVES TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE WHILE FOSTERING SUSTAINABLE OPPORTUNITIES AND SUPPORTING LOCAL GROWTH . HE TAKES PRIDE IN COMBINING THE DISCIPLINE OF HIS CORRECTIONAL CAREER WITH THE CREATIVITY OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP TO MAKE A LASTING IMPACT . LOOKING AHEAD , ALRICK PLANS TO EXPAND HIS BUSINESSES , CREATE NEW JOB OPPORTUNITIES , AND CONTINUE CONTRIBUTING TO HIS COMMUNITY THROUGH INNOVATION , SERVICE , AND LEADERSHIP . HIS MISSION IS TO BUILD A LEGACY DEFINED BY HARD WORK , EXCELLENCE , AND DEDICATION TO THE PEOPLE HE SERVES .
DR . YVONNE COACHMAN FRANCIS IS A VISIONARY EDUCATOR , ADMINISTRATOR , AND REAL ESTATE DEVELOPER COMMITTED TO TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH EDUCATION AND AFFORDABLE HOMEOWNERSHIP . WITH OVER TWO DECADES OF LEADERSHIP IN EDUCATION , SHE HAS NOW EXPANDED HER IMPACT INTO HOUSING - FOCUSING ON HELPING MODERATE - INCOME FAMILIES ACHIEVE THE DREAM OF OWNING A HOME SHE HOLDS A BACHELOR ’ S DEGREE IN EDUCATION AND A MASTER ’ S IN ADMINISTRATION & SUPERVISION FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF HARTFORD , A MASTER ’ S IN EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY FROM CAMBRIDGE COLLEGE , AND A DOCTORATE IN EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP FROM NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY . SHE IS CERTIFIED BY THE STATE OF CONNECTICUT IN BOTH TEACHING AND EDUCATIONAL ADMINISTRATION . DR . FRANCIS CURRENTLY OWNS SIX PROPERTIES AND IS LEADING THE DEVELOPMENT OF A GROUNDBREAKING PROJECT : A 22 - UNIT TINY HOME COMMUNITY IN BLOOMFIELD , CONNECTICUT , BUILT ON THE VERY LAND HER FAMILY HAS OWNED FOR GENERATIONS . THIS INITIATIVE IS DESIGNED TO PROVIDE AFFORDABLE , HIGH - QUALITY HOMES FOR PURCHASE - SPECIFICALLY AIMED AT SUPPORTING WORKING INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES WHO OFTEN FALL BETWEEN THE CRACKS OF TRADITIONAL HOUSING MARKETS . BY REDUCING ENTRY BARRIERS TO HOMEOWNERSHIP , DR . FRANCIS IS HELPING TO ADDRESS ONE OF THE MOST PRESSING CHALLENGES IN TODAY ’ S HOUSING LANDSCAPE : ACCESS TO SECURE , DIGNIFIED , AND AFFORDABLE LIVING FOR PEOPLE WITH MODERATE INCOMES . HER MISSION IS TO BUILD NOT JUST HOUSES - BUT OPPORTUNITY , EQUITY , AND LEGACY . A LIFELONG LEARNER AND COMMUNITY BUILDER , DR . FRANCIS BLENDS HER EDUCATIONAL EXPERTISE WITH A BOLD VISION FOR COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION . OUTSIDE OF HER PROFESSIONAL LIFE , SHE ENJOYS READING , BIKE RIDING , AND INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL - EXPERIENCES THAT CONTINUE TO SHAPE HER GLOBAL AND INCLUSIVE APPROACH TO LEADERSHIP .
WHETHER IN THE CLASSROOM OR ON A CONSTRUCTION SITE , DR . FRANCIS IS UNWAVERING IN HER COMMITMENT TO EMPOWERING OTHERS - ONE STUDENT , ONE FAMILY , AND ONE HOME AT A TIME .
KEIYANA GRANT IS A LICENSED COSMETOLOGIST , ENTREPRENEUR , AND THE VISIONARY OWNER OF CALLIDORA HAUS OF BEAUTÉ — A LUXURY BEAUTY BRAND REDEFINING SELF - CARE THROUGH ELEGANCE , EMPOWERMENT , AND ELEVATED EXPERIENCES . WITH OVER FIVE YEARS IN THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY , KEIYANA HAS ESTABLISHED A REPUTATION FOR PROVIDING PREMIUM HAIR AND BROW SERVICES THAT COMBINE ARTISTRY , PRECISION , AND A TRANSFORMATIVE CLIENT EXPERIENCE . HER PASSION FOR BEAUTY WAS SPARKED IN HER AUNT ’ S BRONX SALON , WHERE SHE WITNESSED HOW TRANSFORMATION IN APPEARANCE CAN DEEPLY IMPACT CONFIDENCE AND SELF - WORTH . TODAY , SHE CONTINUES THAT LEGACY BY OFFERING EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE AND CURATING A LUXURIOUS ENVIRONMENT FOR EVERY CLIENT . AS A CERTIFIED EXTENSION AND BROW SPECIALIST , KEIYANA ’ S MISSION IS TO CREATE SPACES WHERE WOMEN FEEL RENEWED , EMPOWERED , AND CONFIDENT — WHILE EXPANDING HER BRAND TO INTRODUCE HIGH - END SALON SUITES THAT OFFER OTHER PROFESSIONALS THE OPPORTUNITY TO BUILD THEIR OWN LUXURY BEAUTY EXPERIENCES . HER VISION EMBODIES SOPHISTICATION , PURPOSE , AND SUSTAINABLE GROWTH WITHIN THE EVOLVING BEAUTY INDUSTRY .
DR . VANCE HARPER IS A PROUD HARTFORD NATIVE WHO BRINGS BOTH ADVANCED TRAINING AND A PATIENT - CENTERED APPROACH TO DENTISTRY . HE EARNED HIS BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN MOLECULAR AND CELL BIOLOGY AND A MASTER ’ S IN APPLIED GENOMICS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT AT STORRS BEFORE COMPLETING HIS DOCTOR OF DENTAL MEDICINE DEGREE AT TUFTS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF DENTAL MEDICINE IN BOSTON . HE WENT ON TO FURTHER REFINE HIS EXPERTISE THROUGH AN ADVANCED EDUCATION IN GENERAL DENTISTRY RESIDENCY AT NYU COLLEGE OF DENTISTRY IN MANHATTAN . DR . HARPER IS HIGHLY SKILLED IN A WIDE RANGE OF TREATMENTS , INCLUDING DENTAL IMPLANTS AND RESTORATIONS , SINUS LIFTS , ROOT CANALS , SOCKET PRESERVATION , CROWNS AND BRIDGES , VENEERS , PRF , DENTURES , EXTRACTIONS , AND INVISALIGN . HIS COMMITMENT IS NOT ONLY TO RESTORING SMILES BUT ALSO TO EDUCATING PATIENTS ABOUT THEIR ORAL HEALTH AND TAILORING CARE TO EACH INDIVIDUAL ’ S UNIQUE NEEDS . OUTSIDE OF THE OFFICE , DR . HARPER ENJOYS SPENDING TIME OUTDOORS , READING , SKETCHING , AND EXPLORING DIVERSE CUISINES . DEEPLY FAMILY - ORIENTED , HE VALUES TIME WITH HIS LOVED ONES AND CARRIES THAT SAME SENSE OF CARE AND DEDICATION INTO THE RELATIONSHIPS HE BUILDS WITH HIS PATIENTS .
DR . HARPER BELIEVES THAT DENTISTRY IS MORE THAN TREATMENT - IT ’ S ABOUT HELPING PATIENTS REGAIN CONFIDENCE , ENHANCE THEIR QUALITY OF LIFE , AND FEEL PROUD OF THEIR SMILES .
BERNICE HAMILTON LOVES PEOPLE . A DEVOTED MOTHER OF TWO AND A COMPASSIONATE NURSE , SHE HAS DEDICATED HER LIFE TO ENSURING THE CARE AND COMFORT OF THOSE AROUND HER . ALWAYS READY WITH A SMILE , AN APPETIZER , OR A WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT , BERNICE NEVER HESITATES TO LIFT OTHERS ’ SPIRITS AND CREATE EXPERIENCES GROUNDED IN LOVE AND UNDERSTANDING . WHETHER ORGANIZING A TRENDY THEMED EVENT OR BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER THROUGH COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT , SHE EMBRACES CONNECTION AND JOY ONE EVENT AT A TIME . BERNICE ACTIVELY VOLUNTEERS THROUGH BHCA , MENTORING AND COACHING ASPIRING NURSES TO HELP THEM REACH THEIR GOALS . CURRENTLY PURSUING HER PATH TO BECOME A NURSE PRACTITIONER , SHE REMAINS COMMITTED TO MAKING A DIFFERENCE - ONE PATIENT AT A TIME . HER ENTREPRENEURIAL VISION INCLUDES CREATING A RELAXING SPACE FOR MATURE WOMEN , WINE , WOMEN , AND CIGARS , A SOPHISTICATED LOUNGE DESIGNED TO PROMOTE RELAXATION , CONNECTION , AND RETAIL THERAPY IN AN EMPOWERING ENVIRONMENT THAT CELEBRATES WOMEN .
EARTHA HENRY , LCSW , IS A LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER WITH YEARS OF EXPERIENCE PROVIDING COMPASSIONATE , EVIDENCE - BASED MENTAL HEALTH CARE TO INDIVIDUALS , FAMILIES , AND GROUPS . EARTHA ALSO TURNED HER PASSION FOR TRAVEL INTO A SECONDARY PROFESSION AS AN INDEPENDENT TRAVEL ADVISOR AND ACHIEVED PINNACLE AND TOP SALES ADVISOR STATUS SHORTLY AFTER JOINING THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY . EARTHA INTEGRATES TRAUMA - INFORMED , CULTURALLY RESPONSIVE , AND STRENGTHS - BASED APPROACHES TO HELP CLIENTS RECLAIM THEIR SENSE OF SAFETY , SELF - WORTH , AND EMPOWERMENT . DRAWING FROM MODALITIES SUCH AS COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY ( CBT ), SHE WORKS COLLABORATIVELY WITH CLIENTS TO HEAL FROM THE PSYCHOLOGICAL AND EMOTIONAL IMPACT OF INTERGENERATIONAL , SYSTEMIC , SITUATIONAL , AND ENVIRONMENTAL STRESSORS WHILE FOSTERING RESILIENCE AND SELF - COMPASSION . EARTHA EARNED HER MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK FROM SOUTHERN CONNECTICUT STATE UNIVERSITY AND HAS WORKED IN DIVERSE ENVIRONMENTS , INCLUDING RESIDENTIAL , INPATIENT , AND COMMUNITY SETTINGS . CURRENTLY , SHE PROVIDES MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE USE CONSULTATION TO SOCIAL WORKERS IN CHILD WELFARE TO ENSURE INDIVIDUALIZED AND APPROPRIATE SERVICES FOR FAMILIES AND CHILDREN . ADDITIONALLY , EARTHA OWNS AND OPERATES A CLINICAL PRIVATE PRACTICE , WHICH ALLOWS HER TO STAY ENGAGED WITH THE EVOLVING NEEDS OF CLIENTS ON A MICRO LEVEL . EARTHA IS COMMITTED TO FOSTERING A SAFE , INCLUSIVE , AND EMPOWERING THERAPEUTIC ENVIRONMENT WHERE CLIENTS FEEL HEARD , RESPECTED , AND SUPPORTED IN THEIR HEALING JOURNEYS . SHE HAS A PARTICULAR INTEREST IN EXPANDING HER PRIVATE PRACTICE TO INCLUDE WELLNESS RETREATS THAT INTEGRATE MINDFULNESS , RESTORATIVE PRACTICES , NATURE - BASED HEALING , AND GROUP CONNECTION . THE GOAL OF THESE RETREATS IS TO OFFER PARTICIPANTS THE OPPORTUNITY TO PAUSE , REFLECT , AND NURTURE THEIR MENTAL , EMOTIONAL , AND SPIRITUAL WELL - BEING . THROUGH BOTH CLINICAL WORK AND WELLNESS RETREATS , EARTHA ’ S OBJECTIVE IS TO EMPOWER INDIVIDUALS TO RELEASE WHAT NO LONGER SERVES THEM , RECONNECT WITH THEIR INNER STRENGTH , AND MOVE TOWARD A MORE GROUNDED , FULFILLING LIFE . EARTHA ’ S COMBINED SKILL SETS ALLOW HER TO BLEND HER MENTAL HEALTH EXPERTISE WITH THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF TRAVEL AND WELLNESS .
VISIONARY CHARMAINE RICHARDS FOUNDED TASTY TREATS & JUICES WITH THE INTENTION OF PROVIDING COMMUNITIES SEEKING HEALTHIER LIFESTYLES WITH HIGH - QUALITY , NATURAL , NUTRIENT - DENSE , AND REASONABLY PRICED PRODUCTS . GUIDED BY A STRATEGIC FOCUS ON PURITY , SUSTAINABILITY , AND FUNCTIONAL BENEFITS , SHE HAS POSITIONED HER BRAND AT THE INTERSECTION OF FLAVOR AND WELLNESS , OFFERING HANDCRAFTED JUICES AND TREATS THAT DELIVER BOTH . WITH THE HELP OF STRATEGIC ALLIANCES , CAPTIVATING STORYTELLING , AND AN EXPANDING ONLINE PRESENCE , CHARMAINE ' S ENTREPRENEURIAL LEADERSHIP KEEPS PROPELLING BRAND GROWTH . ROOTED IN AUTHENTICITY , QUALITY , AND MEANINGFUL CUSTOMER CONNECTION , HER MISSION REMAINS CLEAR : TO MAKE EVERYDAY WELLNESS ACCESSIBLE , INTENTIONAL , AND INSPIRING FOR ALL .
SHAWN MCDONALD FOUNDED JERK SHACK CUISINE IN 2020 , LOCATED IN PARKVILLE MARKET IN HARTFORD , CT . HIS JOURNEY AS A CHEF AND RESTAURANT OWNER BEGAN WITH A PASSION FOR SERVING AUTHENTIC JAMAICAN DISHES , BUILT THROUGH DEDICATION , CONSISTENCY , AND HARD WORK . WITH THE LOYALTY OF HIS CUSTOMERS AND THE SUPPORT OF THE COMMUNITY , SHAWN WAS ABLE TO OPEN A SECOND LOCATION , JERK SHACK 1 STOP , IN STATEHOUSE SQUARE , HARTFORD , CT . THROUGH HIS COMMITMENT AND EXCELLENCE , JERK SHACK HAS BECOME ONE OF THE MOST RECOGNIZED AUTHENTIC JAMAICAN RESTAURANTS IN HARTFORD . SHAWN ATTENDED THE AMERICAN CULINARY FEDERATION , WHERE HE DEVELOPED THE SKILLS THAT SHAPED HIM INTO THE OUTSTANDING CHEF HE IS TODAY . HIS DEDICATION IS EVIDENT IN THE AUTHENTIC TASTE AND USE OF TRADITIONAL JAMAICAN SPICES IN EVERY DISH . FOR OVER FIVE YEARS , HE HAS SUCCESSFULLY OPERATED BOTH LOCATIONS WHILE MAINTAINING THE SAME PASSION HE BEGAN WITH IN JAMAICA . SHAWN TAKES PRIDE IN ENGAGING DIRECTLY WITH CUSTOMERS AND CONTINUALLY GROWING HIS BUSINESS . PASSION AND DISCIPLINE ARE TWO OF SHAWN ’ S STRONGEST TRAITS — QUALITIES THAT STEM FROM HIS EARLY LOVE OF COOKING FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY IN JAMAICA AND HIS EXPERIENCE AS A PROFESSIONAL SOCCER PLAYER , WHERE HE LEARNED THE VALUE OF DISCIPLINE . HE CONTINUES TO INNOVATE , ADDING NEW OFFERINGS SUCH AS SEAFOOD WEDNESDAYS TO KEEP HIS MENU FRESH AND EXCITING . SHAWN ’ S JOY EXTENDS BEYOND THE KITCHEN TO HIS FAMILY , ESPECIALLY HIS CHILDREN , WHO ARE HIS GREATEST SOURCE OF PRIDE . WHEN HE ’ S NOT COOKING OR DEVELOPING NEW IDEAS FOR EXPANSION , SHAWN ENJOYS FISHING AND REFINING HIS VISION TO FRANCHISE AND BUILD A LASTING LEGACY .
LARUE MCNISH IS A SEASONED CORRECTIONAL PROFESSIONAL AND LICENSED CLINICIAN WITH NEARLY TWO DECADES OF EXPERIENCE IN THE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES FIELD . SHE HOLDS A BACHELOR ’ S DEGREE IN PSYCHOLOGY , A MASTER ’ S DEGREE IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE , AND A MASTER ’ S IN SOCIAL WORK , EQUIPPING HER WITH A POWERFUL , MULTIDISCIPLINARY LENS TO SUPPORT INDIVIDUALS IN RECOVERY AND TRANSFORMATION . IN 2023 , SHE FOUNDED HER PRIVATE PRACTICE , PEACEFUL PATHWAYS , TO OFFER COMPASSIONATE AND STRUCTURED SUPPORT TO INDIVIDUALS NAVIGATING SUBSTANCE USE RECOVERY AND MENTAL WELLNESS . AS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND PEACEFUL PATHWAYS , LARUE BRINGS A UNIQUE BLEND OF CORRECTIONAL INSIGHTS , CLINICAL EXPERIENCE , AND COMMUNITY FOCUS TO HER COUNSELING AND GROUP FACILITATION SERVICES . SHE IS PASSIONATE ABOUT CREATING SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENTS , EVIDENCED BY HER DEDICATION TO DEVELOPING TAILORED GROUP CURRICULA , SUICIDE PREVENTION INITIATIVES , AND COMMUNITY - BASED RESOURCES . IN HER PRACTICE , LARUE BLENDS PROFESSIONAL EXPERTISE WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH , ENSURING THAT EVERY CLIENT FEELS HEARD , RESPECTED , AND EMPOWERED ON THEIR JOURNEY TOWARD LASTING WELL - BEING .
“ BAKING IS LIKE THERAPY FOR THE SOUL . TAKE A MOMENT TO CONNECT WITH GOD — HE ’ S ALWAYS DOWNLOADING NEW RECIPES .”
SPADAZZELS COFFEE LLC WAS FOUNDED BY NATALIE MITCHELL , A DEVOTED WIFE , MOTHER OF SIX , AND ENTREPRENEUR FROM CONNECTICUT . HER LOVE FOR COFFEE AND BAKING IS DEEPLY ROOTED IN HER FAITH , CREATIVITY , AND FAMILY . BEFORE LAUNCHING SPADAZZELS , NATALIE BUILT A SUCCESSFUL CAREER IN THE DENTAL FIELD , DEVELOPING PRECISION , PROFESSIONALISM , AND STRONG COMMUNICATION SKILLS . WHEN HER TWIN CHILDREN BECAME ILL , HER PRIORITIES SHIFTED , INSPIRING HER TO CREATE A LIFE CENTERED ON FAITH , FAMILY , AND FLEXIBILITY . THAT EXPERIENCE SPARKED A NEW PURPOSE — TO BRING COMFORT AND JOY TO OTHERS THROUGH COFFEE AND BAKING . DRIVEN BY DETERMINATION AND GUIDED BY FAITH , NATALIE LEFT DENTISTRY TO FOLLOW HER PASSION . SPADAZZELS COFFEE WAS BORN — A WARM , WELCOMING SPACE WHERE PEOPLE CAN FIND CONNECTION , COMFORT , AND INSPIRATION OVER HANDCRAFTED DRINKS AND BAKED GOODS . SPADAZZELS IS A TRUE FAMILY EFFORT , BUILT ON LOVE AND TEAMWORK . NATALIE ’ S HUSBAND AND CHILDREN PLAY ACTIVE ROLES IN THE BUSINESS , WITH HER SON JAVON , A FORMER STARBUCKS SUPERVISOR , BRINGING HIS LEADERSHIP AND BARISTA EXPERTISE TO ENSURE EVERY BEVERAGE MEETS THE HIGHEST STANDARDS . TOGETHER , THE MITCHELL FAMILY EMBODIES THE SPIRIT OF SPADAZZELS — FAITH , STRENGTH , AND UNITY . NATALIE ’ S ARTISTIC TOUCH SHINES THROUGH HER HANDCRAFTED PASTRIES AND DESSERTS , EACH MADE WITH CARE AND CREATIVITY . BEYOND THE CAFÉ , SPADAZZELS HAS GROWN TO INCLUDE A COMMUNITY EVENT SPACE FOR CHILDREN ’ S PARTIES , FAMILY GATHERINGS , AND SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS — A REFLECTION OF NATALIE ’ S BELIEF THAT JOY , LAUGHTER , AND GOOD FOOD ARE MEANT TO BE SHARED . WITH A STRONG FOUNDATION IN MANAGEMENT AND CUSTOMER CARE , NATALIE BALANCES HER ROLES AS WIFE , MOTHER , AND BUSINESS OWNER WITH GRACE AND FAITH . EVERY PRODUCT AND EVENT AT SPADAZZELS TELLS A STORY OF FAMILY , FAITH , AND PERSEVERANCE . AT SPADAZZELS COFFEE , THE MISSION IS SIMPLE : TO CREATE A COMMUNITY - CENTERED CAFÉ AND EVENT SPACE THAT UPLIFTS , INSPIRES , AND DELIVERS EXCELLENCE IN EVERY CUP , COOKIE , AND CELEBRATION . BUILT ON FAITH , FAMILY , AND RESILIENCE , NATALIE AND HER TEAM ARE MORE THAN BARISTAS AND BAKERS — THEY ARE STORYTELLERS , DREAMERS , AND BUILDERS OF CONNECTION . THROUGH EVERY SIP AND SHARED SMILE , SPADAZZELS COFFEE SPREADS WARMTH , HOPE , AND JOY THROUGHOUT THE COMMUNITY .
FOUNDED IN NOVEMBER 2024 , SKIN C . R . A . C . K . IS A PREMIUM SKINCARE BRAND DEDICATED TO PROVIDING HIGH - QUALITY , ALL - NATURAL , AND ORGANIC PRODUCTS THAT PROMOTE SKIN HEALTH AND REJUVENATION .
SKIN C . R . A . C . K . WAS CREATED OUT OF LOVE AND NECESSITY AFTER EXPERIENCING IRRITATION AND DRYNESS CAUSED BY COMMERCIAL SKINCARE PRODUCTS FILLED WITH HARSH , NON - NATURAL INGREDIENTS . AFTER COUNTLESS TRIALS , WE DEVELOPED A FORMULA THAT PROVIDED DEEP NOURISHMENT AND RELIEF . SEEING THE POSITIVE RESULTS , WE SHARED OUR PRODUCT WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY — MANY OF WHOM WERE UNDERGOING CHEMOTHERAPY , SUFFERING FROM ECZEMA , DEALING WITH MINOR BURNS , DRY PATCHES , AND OTHER SKIN ISSUES . THEIR FEEDBACK WAS OVERWHELMING , AND THAT ’ S HOW SKIN C . R . A . C . K . WAS BORN ! AS A PROUD NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY ALUMNA WITH A MASTER ’ S DEGREE , I ’ VE COMBINED MY PASSION FOR EDUCATION , WELLNESS , AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP TO BRING EFFECTIVE , CHEMICAL - FREE SKINCARE TO THOSE WHO NEED IT MOST . BASED IN WEST HARTFORD , CT , SKIN C . R . A . C . K . IS MORE THAN JUST SKINCARE — IT ’ S A LIFESTYLE . OUR PRODUCTS ARE DESIGNED TO DELIVER DEEP HYDRATION , PROTECTION , AND LASTING REJUVENATION FOR ALL SKIN TYPES . WE ARE ACTIVELY EXPANDING OUR REACH THROUGH VENDING EVENTS , ONLINE SALES , AND RETAIL PARTNERSHIPS , WITH A VISION OF SECURING PLACEMENT IN MAJOR CONSUMER CHAIN STORES SUCH AS TARGET , CVS , FAMILY DOLLAR , AND WALGREENS .
JAMAIA SMITH IS A SEASONED COMPUTER ANIMATOR AND CREATIVE DESIGNER WITH OVER 20 YEARS OF PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE IN COMPUTER GRAPHICS . BEGINNING WITH 2D PRINT AND WEB DESIGN IN THE EARLY 2000S , JAMAIA ADVANCED INTO 3D AND MOTION GRAPHICS , DEVELOPING A DEEP UNDERSTANDING OF PIPELINE PROCESSES AND ASSET PRODUCTION . HE HAS DESIGNED GRAPHICS AND BRAND IDENTITIES FOR MAJOR LIVE TELEVISION SHOWS SUCH AS SPORTSCENTER , ESPN , AND BASEBALL TONIGHT , AND HAS SUCCESSFULLY MANAGED BOTH SHORT - AND LONG TERM - PROJECTS FOR ESPN , WHERE HIS WORK EARNED HIM AN EMMY AWARD . BEYOND BROADCAST DESIGN , JAMAIA HAS EXPERIENCE IN EDUCATION AND YOUTH PROGRAMMING , CREATING CURRICULUM AND TEACHING GRAPHIC DESIGN TO YOUNG ADULTS , ADULTS , AND SPECIAL NEEDS LEARNERS . PROFICIENT IN ADOBE CREATIVE SUITE , MAYA , CINEMA 4D , AND BLENDER , JAMAIA BRINGS A VERSATILE SKILL SET SPANNING ILLUSTRATION , RIGGING , SHOW PRODUCTION , AND IDENTIFY DESIGN . HIS CAREER REFLECTS A BLEND OF CREATIVE VISION , TECHNICAL EXPERTISE , AND A COMMITMENT TO EMPOWERING OTHERS THROUGH VISUAL STORYTELLING AND DESIGN .
NARELLE THOMAS IS A VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTIST , WRITER , VEGAN COOKIE BAKER , AND HEALING ARTIST FROM SPRINGFIELD , MA .
WITH OVER A DECADE OF PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE IN THE ARTS , HEALING , AND BAKING , SHE BRINGS AN OPEN MIND , DEEP DEDICATION , AND “ KNOW HOW ” TO EVERYTHING SHE DOES .
A PERPETUAL STUDENT OF THE CRAFT WITH BIG DREAMS , SHE SEEKS TO USE HER KNOWLEDGE BASE TO PROVIDE MORE RELEVANT , EXCITING OFFERINGS TO HELP CONNECT , HEAL , ENRICH , AND STRENGTHEN COMMUNITIES , AND HELP PEOPLE OBTAIN CONTENTMENT THROUGH ANY ASPECT OF THEIR JOURNEY .
NARELLE IS THE OWNER OF NARELLE ANKH KHEPERA CREATIONS LLC , A MULTIMEDIA ARTS BUSINESS WHERE SHE DOES CUSTOM PERFORMANCE WORK , WRITING , MAKES JEWELRY , CREATES ART , AND CURATES EVENTS .
UNDER THIS BRAND UMBRELLA , THROUGH " TOGETHER , HEALING ." SHE FACILITATES MINDFULNESS WORKSHOPS AND GUIDED MEDITATIONS , OFFERS INTUITIVE HEALING SERVICES , AND WILL BE OFFERING OTHER HEALTH SERVICES RELATED TO PRENATAL AND POSTPARTUM FAMILY CARE AND HOLISTIC HEALTH COACHING .
AND AS K COOKIES , SHE IS A VEGAN BAKER CRAFTING COOKIES THAT BLEND QUALITY INGREDIENTS WITH AMAZING TASTE TO SERVE THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS , COMPROMISING NEITHER . THE EVOLUTION OF YOUR AVERAGE COOKIE !
DR . TASHA ROSE IS A DEDICATED TRAUMA - FOCUSED THERAPIST SPECIALIZING IN TRANSFORMATIVE COUNSELING FOR WOMEN . AS THE OWNER AND CEO OF LET ’ S TALK ABOUT IT COUNSELING SERVICES , SHE EMPLOYS A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO HEALING THAT INTEGRATES SCRIPTURE , PRAYER , HUMOR , AND EVIDENCE - BASED CLINICAL TECHNIQUES . HER UNIQUE , FAITH - BASED METHODOLOGY FOSTERS A TRANSFORMATIVE EXPERIENCE , HELPING CLIENTS DEVELOP A POSITIVE OUTLOOK ON THEMSELVES AND THEIR LIVES . WITH A FOCUS ON TRANSPARENCY , AUTHENTICITY , AND COURAGE , DR . ROSE EMPOWERS HER CLIENTS TO CONFRONT AND OVERCOME SHAME , GUILT , AND UNFORGIVENESS . SHE GUIDES THEM TOWARDS AFFIRMATION , ASSURANCE , LIBERATION , SAFETY , AND INSPIRATION FOR MEANINGFUL , POSITIVE CHANGE THROUGH LOVE AND FORGIVENESS . HER IDEAL CLIENT IS SOMEONE SEEKING SPIRITUAL GROWTH AND WILLING TO EXPLORE AND ALIGN THEIR JOURNEY WITH GOD ’ S WILL . BY EMPHASIZING ACCOUNTABILITY AND ACTIONABLE STEPS , DR . ROSE FACILITATES LASTING TRANSFORMATION USING PILLARS SUCH AS FORGIVENESS , ACCOUNTABILITY , INTENTION , TRANSPARENCY , AND HOLISTIC HEALING . DR . ROSE ’ S PASSION FOR COUNSELING STEMS FROM A LIFELONG EMPATHY FOR OTHERS ’ PAIN . EARLY IN HER JOURNEY , SHE RECOGNIZED HER INNATE ABILITY TO OFFER SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE , WHICH LED HER TO PURSUE A CAREER IN MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING IN 2013 . WITNESSING THE INTERSECTION OF SPIRITUAL AND MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES , SHE RETURNED TO SCHOOL TO DEEPEN HER UNDERSTANDING AND SKILLS . SINCE 2013 , SHE HAS COUNSELED INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES , FOUNDING LET ’ S TALK ABOUT IT COUNSELING SERVICES , LLC IN 2019 , IN RESPONSE TO HER CALLING TO SERVE THOSE IN NEED OF SPIRITUAL AND THERAPEUTIC GUIDANCE . IN 2024 , DR . ROSE EARNED HER DOCTORATE IN HEALTH SCIENCE WITH A CERTIFICATION IN ADVANCED TRAUMA . HER PRIVATE PRACTICE , BASED IN BLOOMFIELD , CT , SERVES MEN , WOMEN , AND FAMILIES , PROVIDING A SAFE SPACE FOR HEALING AND GROWTH . HER UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO CONTINUOUS LEARNING , COUPLED WITH HER STRONG FOUNDATION IN SPIRITUAL PRINCIPLES AND CLINICAL EXPERTISE , EQUIPS HER TO GUIDE CLIENTS TOWARD SELF - ACCEPTANCE AND A LIFE ALIGNED WITH THEIR VALUES .
Sending a heartfelt thank you to all of our incredible sponsors for supporting the Fuel the Future Fundraising Challenge ! Your generosity helps empower emerging entrepreneurs and brings their innovative ideas to life. Thank you for believing in their potential and investing in the future of entrepreneurship.
THE PROSPERITY FOUNDATION OF CONNECTICUT THE PROSPERITY FOUNDATION OF CONNECTICUT
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