Person of the Year Claudia Jones Honored in Times Square!

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MARIA DEL CARMEN GARCIA

 A Life of Gratitude, Service, and Transformative Action

MaryKar García, originally from Mexico and now residing in Florida, is a passionate activist, community leader, and visionary whose mission is to create lasting impact through gratitude, connection, and service. From a young age, MaryKar actively participated in various organizations and volunteered for multiple causes, experiences that shaped her unwavering commitment to helping others. While living in San Diego, she collaborated with local organizations, including mentorship roles at the Women’s Business Center.

Before founding Gratitude Giving, MaryKar dedicated years to collaborating with various foundations, contributing her time and expertise to strengthen community projects in education, well-being, and support for vulnerable populations. These experiences inspired her to create a platform to enhance nonprofit efforts.

The Gratitude Giving Foundation focuses on three core pillars: capacity building, increasing visibility, and fostering meaningful interconnections. Under MaryKar’s leadership, the foundation has amplified the impact of many organizations by connecting them to resources and expanding their reach. Through the "Vistiendo Sueños" program, Gratitude Giving has sent clothing to children in nine countries across Latin America, bringing dignity and hope to thousands of families.

In addition to her work with Gratitude Giving, MaryKar is a mentor and speaker, offering workshops on the art of gratitude and emotional well-being. She is also the author of a gratitude journal, a practical tool born from her workshops that helps individuals integrate gratitude into daily life, enhancing resilience and fostering growth.

Academically, MaryKar holds a degree in Business Administration, a master’s in Human Resources, and certifications in Executive Coaching and Values-Based Relationships. She is currently pursuing a specialization in Positive Psychology and Emotional Intelligence, enriching her ability to inspire and guide others.

MaryKar is a proud collaborator and ambassador for More Latinoamérica, a platform empowering communities through education and connection. Additionally, as a volunteer for the First Coast Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (FCHCC), MaryKar supports the Hispanic community and fosters professional opportunities.

She is also the creator and host of the podcast "Voces que Inspiran", a space that highlights the incredible work of nonprofit organizations, social leaders, and

changemakers. Through compelling stories, she inspires listeners to take meaningful action and support impactful causes.

In December 2024, MaryKar received the prestigious Doctor Honoris Causa for her outstanding activism. This honor reflects her profound impact and her ability to inspire others to join her mission for meaningful change.

Her philosophy, "Gratitude is the seed that grows into service, strengthens connections, and generates impact," drives every step of her journey, reminding her and others that intentional actions can create profound transformations.

Through Gratitude Giving, her mentoring, and collaborations, MaryKar continues to empower foundations, uplift underserved communities, and amplify the voices of those making a difference. Her work demonstrates that true transformation begins with a heart committed to service and the belief that together, we can create a better world.

EARNEST DIAZ

 Earnest began sewing at age 5 and designing at age 12. He has designed casual wear, evening wear, handbags, shoes, jewelry and home accessories for a wide range of people. At the age of 18, Earnest sold her first wedding dress, which marked the beginning of her career as a fashion designer.

1982 Earnest began redesigning Weddings for the gay community

1990-1998 Earnest designed wedding attire, floral arrangements, tuxedos and coordinated weddings for three Houston brides.

1999 Worked with the world-renowned Carl Lewis.

2000 Worked with Phil Kempt, who was an Astroworld's headlining magician at Fright Fest.

2002 Designed a space suit collection for Mars Society. Designs were on exhibit August 2002 in Colorado.

2006 “Thankful” A Journey of Life Loss and Living again, is published.

2006 Sk’n Underwear for men premiered at Houston’s LGBT lounge Meteor and launched a new website featuring Sk’n underwear, earnestdiaz.com.

2007 Appeared on the Emmy award-winning Tyra Banks show.

2007 Began designing for Grammy nominated Tamar Davis.

2011 The Granadino men's tie from the Bella Flor collection was worn by Mr. Jonathan Sandys (Sir Winston Churchill’s great grandson) while providing live commentary on the Royal Wedding on ABC and CCTV.

2012 Began designing for Mykel and Ruth Hawke on garments for future projects.

2013 Elite Tactical Unit hosted by Mykel Hawks and Lost Survivor with Mykel Hawke and Ruth England aired on the Travel Channel. Some clothing provided by Earnest Diaz Co.

2013 Locked in as the official designer for the Jumper Maybach brand clothing (suits, vests, shirts).

2014 Scheduled to become clothing brand designer for Navy Seal sniper Chris Kyle, five days before his untimely demise.

2015 After the Supreme Court ruling Marriage Equality Act, Earnest began compiling 33 years of ideas, sketches, and notes into: Unity - New Traditions for LGBT Nuptials.

2017 Earnest’s first self-published book, Thankful, received the prestigious International Publisher Award for Best Inspirational Book of 2016.

2019 Unity soundtrack, the first song is released Let Them Eat Cake. Ranking in the top 10 for three weeks. Landing in third place on Trend City Radio.

2020 Earnest began making Anti-Microbial mask with Silvadur. Which kills off bacteria on the fabric after 10 minutes.

2020 December, FilmFreeway informed Earnest that Let Them Eat Cake was the most chosen video in its category over the last five months.

2022 Young film creator asked if Earnest would compose a song for her upcoming animated spy movie. Earnest accepted, within 10 hours he composed, Spy Z.0.

2022-2024 Earnest was awarded 7 Honorary Doctorates of Fine Art. From various film festivals associated with ICC- International Cinema Community, Istanbul.

Research indicates that Earnest is the first and only fashion designer in history to receive this honor.

2023 Earnest releases sophomore track Beauty and Grooming Official Video. Along with the Official Unity Journal.

Decorations to date:

Let Them Eat Cake: 103

Beauty and Grooming: 52

Unity Journal: 3

Thankful (Screenplay): 92

Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts: 7

DR. ALEXANDRA ELINSKY

 Dr. Alexandra Elinsky: 2X #1 Best Selling Author, Celebrity Keynote Speaker, Entrepreneur, Leadership Coach, Mother, and 12X Business Award Winner with 15+ years’ experience coaching and training professionals globally. With clients in 20+ countries around the world, Dr. Elinsky has helped individuals achieve personal and professional excellence. Recognized time and again for business mastery and meritorious performance, she has been awarded Top International Empowerment Coach of the Decade 2025 by IAOTP, Top International Empowerment Coach of the Year 2024 by IAOTP, Empowered Woman of the Year 2025 by IAOTP, Best Coaching Services in the USA by Stellar Business, Top 5 Most Aspiring Businesswomen by CIO Today, Global Recognition for Leadership Excellence by Global Awards, University of Akron Leadership Excellence Award, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology Distinguished Alumni Award, Empowered Woman 2024 by Empowered Magazine, and Woman of the Year 2025 by the CIO Times. Gracing the front covers of business magazines the CIO Today, Passionate Magazine, Conglomerate Magazine, and The Business Fame with additional recognition in ABC, NBC, and Fox news outlets, Dr. Elinsky’s message of tenacity and transformation continues to expand globally. She was selected as part of World Magazine’s 40 under 40 Emerging Leaders to Watch in 2023. Her first book GIRL GRIT: SAVAGE NOT AVERAGE was released on November 8th, 2024. The second book in the series, GIRL GAME: BALLS OUT, is in production now. Dr. Elinsky is determined to spread her message of human empowerment and self-esteem globally, spreading her fire everywhere she goes. 

JOHN TICE

 Dr. John “Coach” Tice, the author of the Famous Faces series, is a living testament to the power of determination and resilience. His remarkable journey, chronicled in the second book of the series, is an awe-inspiring autobiography that unveils the extraordinary life of Coach Tice.

From a young age, Coach Tice defied all odds. His doctors had once doubted that he would ever walk, but not only did he walk, he soared. In high school, he emerged as a track star, team captain, and MVP, setting the stage for an illustrious athletic career.

Coach Tice’s exceptional talent earned him the first athletic scholarship for cross country at Liberty University, where he once again shone as the MVP and team captain. His dedication to his sport and his leadership abilities were evident from the outset.

Beyond his personal achievements, Coach Tice’s coaching career spanned over three decades. His legacy in the world of high school basketball in Brevard County is truly remarkable, as he stands as the record-holder for the most wins in the county’s history.
But Coach Tice’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. In his early years, he faced speech impediments that led to his being held back in the first grade. However, this setback only fueled his determination to overcome obstacles and inspire others to do the same.

Throughout his career, Coach Tice had the privilege of addressing thousands of teenagers, sharing his story of triumph over adversity and motivating young minds to reach for the stars. His unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on his community eventually led him to the prestigious role of Deputy Mayor in his hometown. 

ZANETA JOHNS

Zaneta Varnado Johns, Women Speakers Association (WSA) Poet Laureate, is an internationally recognized poet and author of three poetry collections (Poetic Forecast, After the Rainbow and Encore), and the What Matters Journal. She is a contributing author in WSA’s collaborative Voices of the 21st Century book series (2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024). Her poems are featured as the Dedication page in these international bestselling publications.

Johns is an editor for Fine Lines Journal and coeditor of Social Justice Inks, Dear Heart and Cadence anthologies. She received the 2024 Side Hustle Honors award in Poetry and Writing and was recognized by Denver Dress for Success as a “Your Hour Her Power” 2024 Honoree. Fueled by passion and purpose, Johns’ expressions offer hope as she stirs the reader’s consciousness about life and living. Her thought-provoking poem, “What Matters,” was nominated by her publisher for a Pushcart Prize. Two of her publications are recognized by the American Writing Awards as 2024 Finalists: Encore in the Contemporary Poetry category— and Cadence (coedited with Lisa Tomey-Zonneveld) in the Poetry Anthology category. Encore was also submitted for Pulitzer Prize consideration.

In March 2024, the Museum of Boulder (Colorado) invited Johns to be featured in the Oral History Program segment of its award-winning “Proclaiming Colorado’s Black History” exhibition. Johns also holds a Guiness World Record as a US contributor to Russia’s Hyperpoem, a book featuring over 1,700 esteemed poets from ninety-two countries. Regularly sought out for recitations and creative collaborations, her creative expressions appear in over one-hundred anthologies and international publications.

In addition to her commendable body of work, Johns’ impactful mentorship of other creative writers will have a lasting ripple effect on the literary world for generations to come. www.ZanExpressions.com

DR. HENRY OH

 Dr. Henry Oh is an accomplished academic and healthcare leader with over 15 years of progressive experience in leadership, management, and teaching within higher education. With a proven track record in building and leading teams, Dr. Oh has held key director-level roles, including Professor and Director of Health Sciences at Logos University International and Executive Director & Department Chair of Health Occupations at Idaho State University. These roles reflect his expertise in program development, strategic planning, and management. Dr. Oh currently serves as the International Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MACCA, an international accreditation agency based in Brazil. He is also the Regional Director for North America for International Association for Quality Assurance in Pre-tertiary and Higher Education (QAHE), a non-governmental, independent quality assurance agency in education and training based in U.K. Recognized for his commitment to innovation and continuous improvement, Dr. Oh has received several prestigious awards, including the 2022 Continuous Improvement Professional Award from the Management & Strategy Institute and the 2020 U.S. Professor of the Year in Health Sciences from the Extraordinary People’s Awards. These accolades underscore his dedication to advancing institutional excellence. He is a past president of Lambda Beta Society, which is the national honor society for respiratory therapists in the U.S., past president of the New Mexico State Society of American Medical Technologists, and former Chairman of the Board of the NM Respiratory Care Licensing Agency. Dr. Oh holds a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) in Healthcare, and a PhD in Leadership, and is a Certified Project Manager (CPM), Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) and Certified Behavioral Health Specialist (CBHS). He is a sought-after speaker at state, national, and international conferences. A strong advocate for professional development, he has designed and implemented strategic initiatives that promote critical thinking, collaboration, and learner responsibility. His leadership philosophy centers on inspiring learning, fostering equity, and driving meaningful outcomes for students and communities alike. Dr. Oh continues to shape the future of education and workforce development, earning respect as a transformative leader dedicated to excellence. 

DR. DEEPAK MOHOLKAR

A highly qualified professional, 75 years of age, holds memberships in numerous prestigious professional institutions and organizations worldwide. He serves as an Advisory Board Member of the Asian Society of Academic Research and the Society of Advance Academic Research and Development (UK). He is also a Fellow of the Management and Business Research Council (USA) and an Honorary Fellow of the International Association of Research Scholars & Administrators Corporation (USA). Additionally, he holds memberships in the International Literacy Association (USA), the American Society of Administrative Professionals (USA), the Research Foundation of India, and the Federation of Leadership Academic Research and Development (UK).

He is an Honorary Member of the Indian Council for Technical Research and Development (Nagpur, India) and a VIP Member of the International Association of Teachers (Thailand). Further affiliations include memberships in the International Council for Research and Development and the Association of North American Higher Education International (USA). He is also an Advisory Board Member of the Society for Academic Research (Africa) and a Fellow of the Royal University of the Kingdom of Atlantis (Singapore).

Among his numerous accolades, he has received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Excellence Award Council and holds a world record recognized by the Harvard Book of Records (London, UK). He previously served as the State Advisor for Gujarat to the National Human Rights and Social Justice Commission (New Delhi, India) and is currently the Country Director for India at IARSAC (USA). Additionally, he has been awarded a Doctorate degree by the Royal University of the Kingdom of Atlantis (Singapore).

With a total of 37 years of professional experience, including 7 years in the teaching field, his career reflects a remarkable commitment to academic and professional excellence.

DR. SANTARVIS BROWN

Dr. Santarvis Brown, a Distinguished Professor and Changemaker, boasts two decades of impactful experience in the realm of education. Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Brown has seamlessly woven together the elements of faith, service, education, and visionary leadership, shaping both his professional endeavors and personal ethos.

As a sought-after speaker and esteemed researcher, Dr. Brown has graced numerous community and educational platforms with his insightful keynote addresses. His written contributions, spanning various articles addressing civic service, faith, and education, culminated in the recent publication of his book, "Leading While Limping," released in March of this year.

Currently, Dr. Brown serves as the Chair of Graduate Business Programs at Excelsior University. With a rich background in both K-12 and higher education, he has held instructional and administrative positions, enriching the educational landscape at institutions such as the University of Virginia, Florida International University, Cornell University, and other institutions around the world.

Complementing his academic pursuits, Dr. Brown has also dedicated twelve years to pastoral service in the AME Church, currently leading the congregation at Greater Mt. Pleasant AME Church in Hollywood, FL. Under his guidance, each pastorate has witnessed growth while successfully managing and eliminating debt.

Dr. Brown's contributions have garnered widespread recognition, including accolades such as being named one of the Top 100 Global Leaders in Education, receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award from President Biden, and being honored as an Innovator and Change Maker in Education. His academic achievements include doctorates in educational administration and business administration, alongside a Juris Doctorate. Furthering his expertise, he has pursued advanced studies in leadership at prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Yale, and the Copenhagen Business School.

Actively engaged in community service, Dr. Brown sits on numerous boards and holds memberships in esteemed organizations, including the Minority Freedom Community Fund Board of Trustees where he serves as Chair. Additionally, he takes pride in his lifelong memberships with the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, King James #15 Masonic Lodge, and the 100 Black Men.

JESSICA BAUGHMAN 

 Jessica Baughman, 36, is a devoted wife, proud mother of two boys, and a dedicated public servant. She works as a police officer for the City of Camdenton and serves as a school resource officer for the Camdenton R-III School District. Jessica primarily serves in three school buildings, working with students ranging from pre-K through 6th grade, while also providing occasional coverage for the middle and high school buildings. She is committed to ensuring safety and fostering positive relationships with students and staff at every level. Jessica is also a United States Marine Corps veteran, having served from 2007 to 2011. During her military service, she received numerous awards, including the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. Her exemplary service was recognized with a Letter of Appreciation for valorous conduct and performance of duty in reopening a fouled airfield runway without significant degradation to combat support operations. She earned a second Letter of Appreciation for volunteering on a security detail at the annual Marine Corps Air Station Yuma Air Show, where she helped manage and direct more than 7,000 vehicles. Jessica was further commended with a Certification of Commendation for designing and creating the Marine Air Control Squadron 1 (REIN) logo on “T” Barriers, which inspired esprit de corps and enhanced morale within the unit. Her dedication to duty was honored with a Meritorious Mast for her contributions to over 50,000 mishap-free tower operations and the coordination of critical flight information for arriving and departing aircraft, along with assistance during airfield emergencies. In 2023, Jessica earned her National and Missouri State EMT certification, further expanding her ability to serve and protect her community. In 2024, she became a safety educator and an advocate against trafficking, using beauty pageants as a platform to raise awareness about this critical issue. Through her advocacy, Jessica works to educate and inspire others to join the fight against trafficking and promote safety in her community and beyond. Her career and advocacy reflect a lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and making a difference in the lives of others.  

DR. CALYNN LAWRENCE

Dr. Calynn Lawrence aka "The Faith Doctor", is a passionate mental + spiritual wellness expert and social scientist with an affinity for the people of under-served communities. Her two highest degrees are a Doctorate in Pastoral/Faith-Based Counseling and a Master of Science in Management & Leadership. Her doctoral research project was "The Wonders of Using Trauma Informed, Spirit Led Programming in Rehabilitating The Incarcerated and Reducing Recividism" exploring how an integrative approach to psycho-social services for felons could increase successful reentry to society. She is a triple board certified specialist in Acute Traumatic Stress, Clinical Trauma and Religious Trauma.

She has several years of experience in working with and advocating for members of marginalized groups and at-risk populations! She has always had an undying love for and commitment to underprivileged communities coupled with her fascination in societal advancement through legal system reform, education equity, accessible healthcare and effective spiritual support for people of all religions or faith-based groups.

Growing up in a low income community on the Southwest side of Chicago her entire life exposed her to countless people, young and old, who were good at heart but sadly just didn't have the resources to break the cycle of poverty. Getting caught in the systemic black and brown prison pipeline OR struggling to obtain stable employment and postsecondary educational/training opportunities OR lack of proper wellness tools and support are all major threats to happiness and healthiness. These trialsome barriers are exacerbated by having marginalized, often intersectional, identities, which is why those are the communities she chose to focus on. Also, her own lived experience navigating a chronic mental health condition and going on a spiritual healing journey as a lifelong (now nondenominational) Christian lets her connect with others on a personal level and empathize deeply.

Thus, in her adulthood, after building a career in marketing and media with her firm, the Calynn Communications & Creative corporation, and founding a thriving nonprofit initiative to benefit aspiring creatives and entrepreneurs, The Fresh Faces Project, she decided to leverage her talents, interests and connections to directly support those who need it most with The Holistic Healing Source for Marginalized Society (launching soon in 2025). The Holistic Healing Source will be a virtual center filled with evidence backed educational resources (presentations, courses, articles, directories, and support groups) to help people thrive from the practitioner

standpoint and the individual standpoint, aiming to advance the life spans and life quality of BIPOC, women, LGBTQIA and disabled populations.

JESSICA BAUGHMAN

Jessica Baughman, 36, is a devoted wife, proud mother of two boys, and a dedicated public servant. She works as a police officer for the City of Camdenton and serves as a school resource officer for the Camdenton R-III School District. Jessica primarily serves in three school buildings, working with students ranging from pre-K through 6th grade, while also providing occasional coverage for the middle and high school buildings. She is committed to ensuring safety and fostering positive relationships with students and staff at every level. Jessica is also a United States Marine Corps veteran, having served from 2007 to 2011. During her military service, she received numerous awards, including the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. Her exemplary service was recognized with a Letter of Appreciation for valorous conduct and performance of duty in reopening a fouled airfield runway without significant degradation to combat support operations. She earned a second Letter of Appreciation for volunteering on a security detail at the annual Marine Corps Air Station Yuma Air Show, where she helped manage and direct more than 7,000 vehicles. Jessica was further commended with a Certification of Commendation for designing and creating the Marine Air Control Squadron 1 (REIN) logo on “T” Barriers, which inspired esprit de corps and enhanced morale within the unit. Her dedication to duty was honored with a Meritorious Mast for her contributions to over 50,000 mishap-free tower operations and the coordination of critical flight information for arriving and departing aircraft, along with assistance during airfield emergencies. In 2023, Jessica earned her National and Missouri State EMT certification, further expanding her ability to serve and protect her community. In 2024, she became a safety educator and an advocate against trafficking, using beauty pageants as a platform to raise awareness about this critical issue. Through her advocacy, Jessica works to educate and inspire others to join the fight against trafficking and promote safety in her community and beyond. Her career and advocacy reflect a lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and making a difference in the lives of others. 

DR. SPENCER M. DAYTON

Dr. Spencer M Dayton is a distinguished historical researcher, public policy expert, educator, and humanitarian whose career bridges history, government, and advocacy. Raised in California's Central Valley, his middle-class, union household instilled values of education, service, and advocacy, guiding his lifelong dedication to helping others.

Dr. Dayton has received numerous awards for his humanitarian work and public service, beginning in high school and continuing into adulthood. His advocacy focuses on veterans’ healthcare, security, and housing, ensuring dignity for those who have served. As a cancer survivor and patient, he draws on personal experience to champion healthcare rights and access, extending his influence globally by advising nations and royal houses on policy and human rights initiatives.

As a passionate historian, Dr. Dayton is a Fellow of prestigious Learned Societies, including the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland and the Royal Anthropological Institute. His work enriches understanding of historical events, cultures, and figures, blending research with dynamic historical reenactments that engage and educate audiences. A devout Catholic, he brings unique insights into the cultural and historical influences of faith, further connecting the past to the present.

An accomplished policy expert, Dr. Dayton has degrees in Government, Public Administration, and Public Health, along with a career spanning political office, nonprofit leadership, and service in the Executive Branch of the United States Government. His award-winning publications address critical social issues, offering practical solutions for global challenges.

Honored as a Nebraska Admiral and Kentucky Colonel, Dr. Dayton exemplifies the impact of service. Whether preserving history, advocating for underserved populations, or shaping public policy, he remains steadfast in his commitment to education, human rights, and dignity for all. His career reflects an unwavering dedication to improving lives and creating a sustainable, equitable future.

NATIA KHADURI 

 I am Natia Khaduri. Mathematician, diplomat, writer and poet. In two years, I have written three novels and about two hundred poems. My writings have received high praise in Georgia.

 I became Person of the Year 2021. I came to live in America in 2022. I translated my books into English. I registered with the American Book Festivals. All books have earned a special place. I was awarded the "International Impact Book Awards" in contemporary fiction. 

I became a finalist in the "Cantikleer Book Review and Media" project. Finalist - "Readers". Finalist - "American Writing Awards". 

I took an honorable mention at the New England Book Festival and also at the Southern California Book Festival. Among them, two of my novels took an honorable mention at the New England Book Festival. I had registered 2 novels and both took an honorable mention.

 All this is happening in just 4 years. It's been four years since I started writing.

 Inna Star awarded me for my exceptional talent

Right now, I'm working on two books at the same time, one of which is autobiographical, and the other is my fourth novel.

Every competition has given my books positive reviews.

ASHLEY NEVISON

Ashley’s passion for spreading kindness and making the world a better place for everyone is inspiring. What started as an 11-year-old sewing cat toys to honor her deceased cat has evolved into a 501(c)3 charity where she is the CEO, has raised over $245,000 and impacted over 80,000 individuals across the world.

She started a nonprofit (Sargeant’s Army) and donates hygiene Hope Bags. She has donated to 50 states and all 120 counties in Kentucky; in total donating over 31,000 Hope Bags. She has traveled over 33,000 miles making donations. In addition to Hope Bags, she has also donated hundreds of feminine hygiene products, books and art kits to senior citizens and youths in foster care, mental health and cancer treatment facilities.

Ashley is passionate about inspiring and encouraging other youths to give back and has engaged thousands of youth to give back. She provides packing parties for youths to pack kits. She hosts a podcast where she highlights changemakers. She has published, written and illustrated 6 children’s books that she reads to classrooms.

Since 2020 she has hosted a GivingTuesday project to show youths how a single act of kindness can add up to a big impact. In five years, 1,400 youths in 50 states and 9 countries donated 25,186 outerwear items. For her 5th year she also wanted to do something to help homeless veterans. She created the No Soldier Left Behind project to raise money to send outerwear kits to homeless veterans in all 50 states. Through corporate donations she raised enough money to send 850 outerwear kits across the country.

She turned 18 last week and she really shows that youth can change the world and make a big impact.

TOYA SMITH

Toya Smith was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, where she grew up alongside four siblings. She completed her schooling in Chicago, pursued business and marketing, and later became a board-certified clinical hypnotherapist.

In 2016, Toya embarked on her radio journey as an engineer, eventually transitioning into a producer role for shows like "News You Can Use" and "Election Central" on 92.7FM, 1370AM WLTH Radio based in Gary, Indiana. She co-hosts "Conversations Unlimited" with TeDora on Inspirational 13.90AM located in Chicago, IL, via iHeartRadio. In 2023, Toya became a founding member of National Black Radio, and in 2024, she was inducted into the National Black Radio Hall of Fame.

Driven by her passion for communication and community service, in 2002, Toya founded Making A Difference and Serving A Purpose INC (MADSAP), a non-profit organization operating across Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan, with a focus on enhancing community welfare.

Her dedication to philanthropy extends to advocating for breast cancer awareness by supporting initiatives dedicated to research and aiding those impacted by the illness. Her love for people also made Toya an advocate for the homeless and veterans.

Additionally, she holds commissioner positions on the Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals in Highland, Indiana, while also serving as treasurer on the Board of Directors for the Hammond Boxing Club, as well as being an advocate and sponsor for women in professional boxing.

Toya was nominated for a Shero Award by the Drifters Gary, Indiana Chapter. She also received nominations for the Northwest Indiana Influential Woman and Woman of the Year from the Lake County Women's Democratic Club, where she served as vice president and was reelected in 2024. In 2022, Toya became an honorary deputy sheriff for Lake County, Indiana. Additionally, she is an advocate for autism and an award-winning author of four children's books under her Arti series, titled "Arti the Super Kid," "Arti and Ken Friends in Harmony," "The Sun Didn't Shine," and "Arti The Super Kid's Furry Friend," all of which have been featured in 18 publications.

Toya is also an executive producer and writer and is known for "Can't Get Rite" (2023), "Improv Coming at Ya in Color" (2021), and "The Reynaldo Rey Story." In 2016, Toya assisted in producing a segment about heart health on NBC 5 Chicago.

In 2017, Toya made history as the first African American woman to serve as a Precinct Committeeman for Highland, Indiana, a role she continues to hold. Then, in 2022, Toya achieved another milestone by becoming the first woman to join the Highland Town Council in 112 years.

Toya's favorite quote is, "If everyone is sitting down, who will stand up?"

DASHANA JEFFRIES

Dashana Jefferies: Educator & Mental Health Professional Redefining Excellence

Dashana Jefferies is a leading educator, mental health advocate, and transformational leader whose work impacts lives globally. Completing a master's degree in just 12 weeks and becoming a doctoral candidate within six months, Dashana exemplifies perseverance and excellence.

Her accomplishments have earned her numerous accolades, including the 2024 Stellar Business Award for Best Consulting in the United States. She was also inducted into the prestigious Marquis Who's Who of America for her advocacy for mental health awareness. Dashana's work bridges education and mental health, creating innovative programs like "Degrees in a Dash," which empower individuals to achieve their dreams.

As the author of the award-winning "365 Love Notes to the World's Black Kings," Dashana has received the International Impact Book Award for advancing social justice and cultural awareness. Her thought leadership shines through dynamic speaking engagements at prestigious events such as the Global Research Conference at King's College Cambridge and the BSN Health & Wellness Summit. She inspires audiences to embrace their potential.

Dashana's passion extends to her writing and publishing endeavors, including being featured on the cover of Success Savvy Magazine (2025) and co-authoring "She Rises, She Leads, She Lives." Her insights are sought after on platforms like podcasts and summits, amplifying her influence on education and mental health.

A member of the American Psychological Association and Kappa Delta Pi Honor Society, Dashana exemplifies leadership, resilience, and commitment to transformative impact. Her unparalleled drive empowers individuals to thrive in mind and spirit, leaving an indelible mark on the world.

DR. HENRY OH

Dr. Henry Oh is an accomplished academic and healthcare leader with over 15 years of progressive experience in leadership, management, and teaching within higher education. With a proven track record in building and leading teams, Dr. Oh has held key director-level roles, including Professor and Director of Health Sciences at Logos University International and Executive Director & Department Chair of Health Occupations at Idaho State University. These roles reflect his expertise in program development, strategic planning, and management. Dr. Oh currently serves as the International Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MACCA, an international accreditation agency based in Brazil. He is also the Regional Director for North America for International Association for Quality Assurance in Pre-tertiary and Higher Education (QAHE), a non-governmental, independent quality assurance agency in education and training based in U.K. Recognized for his commitment to innovation and continuous improvement, Dr. Oh has received several prestigious awards, including the 2022 Continuous Improvement Professional Award from the Management & Strategy Institute and the 2020 U.S. Professor of the Year in Health Sciences from the Extraordinary People’s Awards. These accolades underscore his dedication to advancing institutional excellence. He is a past president of Lambda Beta Society, which is the national honor society for respiratory therapists in the U.S., past president of the New Mexico State Society of American Medical Technologists, and former Chairman of the Board of the NM Respiratory Care Licensing Agency. Dr. Oh holds a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) in Healthcare, and a PhD in Leadership, and is a Certified Project Manager (CPM), Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) and Certified Behavioral Health Specialist (CBHS). He is a sought-after speaker at state, national, and international conferences. A strong advocate for professional development, he has designed and implemented strategic initiatives that promote critical thinking, collaboration, and learner responsibility. His leadership philosophy centers on inspiring learning, fostering equity, and driving meaningful outcomes for students and communities alike. Dr. Oh continues to shape the future of education and workforce development, earning respect as a transformative leader dedicated to excellence. 

IRVIN RANDLE

 Mr. Irvin Randle was doing what he loved, teaching students at an elementary school in Houston. It was his students posting that brought the attention of their teacher’s dress and it triggered the uproar. After the attention was drawn, a young man from the East coast asked permission to post some of Mr Randle’s pictures upon approval and history was made!! In the first hour 33,000 were trending on the Internet and Twitter. Mr. Randle that very afternoon received a call from his daughter from California and an individual from Nigeria called informing him that his pictures went viral in the country of Africa. Mr. Irvin Randle is an influencer of equity and inclusion, a retired educator after years of teaching. He influenced his student regarding education and the important of being well dressed. His influencing crosses nationalities, disabilities, helping to stop ageism, mentoring young men, inspiring and impacting both men and women. He founded Silver Fox Squad where he unselfishly sought out men of senior ages with exceptional backgrounds. Men as entrepreneurs, models, health guru, professor, professional skater with Tourette’s syndrome, two clothing designers, former NBA basketball player now sport analyst, and a Veteran to form this group. Under his leadership he encourages and supports the group’s individual gifts combining to make a dynamic group to inspire and impact others. His partnership with Goodwill assists in a program called“Employable” assisting mentally challenged individuals to be employed and live a productive life. The Silver Fox Squad travels from state to host fundraisers to help those in need, individuals, non-profit organizations, and supporting breast cancer awareness. Mr. Randle’s appearances were on ABC News, The Wendy Williams, Steve Harvey, Tamron Hall, TMZ, and Inside Edition. He appeared in GQ magazine and on reels with Southern Gents (a young men clothing line), mentoring and influencing them. His love for modeling, he represents Taft’s brand shoes, Fashions Nova for men, his personal shoe line for men. The media has sought him, he has appeared in People Magazine, Essence, Cosmopolitan, Houston Chronicles, Texas Monthly, www.Naija News.com, and Wikipedia just to name a few. He has been interviewed and played on YouTube.com over 50 times. Mr. Irvin Randle ‘s social sites include Facebook, Irvin Randle- 11K followers, Irvin Randle- silver Fox- 4.8 K followers, the Silver Fox Squad official page- 16.3 K, The Official Silver Fox Squad- 341K followers Too Grown on X formerly called Twitter-2 K followers, 859 K followers on Instagram. It’s estimated the SFS has 500 million followers. Last month through his postings on Facebook he received 14,000 posts in 30 days. Mr. Irvin Randle is currently being nominated for Significant Men with Swaggar, Success with Significance Award where successful men and women are honored because the honorees use their success to reach back and help others and The History Makers @ www.HistoryMakers.org, a digital library archive of successful African Americans. Titles include: Mr. Steal Your Grandma, G.O.A.T of Style, Godfather of Style, The Boss, Hot Grandpa. Mr. Irvin Randle’s greatest loves are his mother, two children, and 2 grandchildren. 

IRVIN RANDLE

 Mr. Irvin Randle was doing what he loved, teaching students at an elementary school in Houston. It was his students posting that brought the attention of their teacher’s dress and it triggered the uproar. After the attention was drawn, a young man from the East coast asked permission to post some of Mr Randle’s pictures upon approval and history was made!! In the first hour 33,000 were trending on the Internet and Twitter. Mr. Randle that very afternoon received a call from his daughter from California and an individual from Nigeria called informing him that his pictures went viral in the country of Africa. Mr. Irvin Randle is an influencer of equity and inclusion, a retired educator after years of teaching. He influenced his student regarding education and the important of being well dressed. His influencing crosses nationalities, disabilities, helping to stop ageism, mentoring young men, inspiring and impacting both men and women. He founded Silver Fox Squad where he unselfishly sought out men of senior ages with exceptional backgrounds. Men as entrepreneurs, models, health guru, professor, professional skater with Tourette’s syndrome, two clothing designers, former NBA basketball player now sport analyst, and a Veteran to form this group. Under his leadership he encourages and supports the group’s individual gifts combining to make a dynamic group to inspire and impact others. His partnership with Goodwill assists in a program called“Employable” assisting mentally challenged individuals to be employed and live a productive life. The Silver Fox Squad travels from state to host fundraisers to help those in need, individuals, non-profit organizations, and supporting breast cancer awareness. Mr. Randle’s appearances were on ABC News, The Wendy Williams, Steve Harvey, Tamron Hall, TMZ, and Inside Edition. He appeared in GQ magazine and on reels with Southern Gents (a young men clothing line), mentoring and influencing them. His love for modeling, he represents Taft’s brand shoes, Fashions Nova for men, his personal shoe line for men. The media has sought him, he has appeared in People Magazine, Essence, Cosmopolitan, Houston Chronicles, Texas Monthly, www.Naija News.com, and Wikipedia just to name a few. He has been interviewed and played on YouTube.com over 50 times. Mr. Irvin Randle ‘s social sites include Facebook, Irvin Randle- 11K followers, Irvin Randle- silver Fox- 4.8 K followers, the Silver Fox Squad official page- 16.3 K, The Official Silver Fox Squad- 341K followers Too Grown on X formerly called Twitter-2 K followers, 859 K followers on Instagram. It’s estimated the SFS has 500 million followers. Last month through his postings on Facebook he received 14,000 posts in 30 days. Mr. Irvin Randle is currently being nominated for Significant Men with Swaggar, Success with Significance Award where successful men and women are honored because the honorees use their success to reach back and help others and The History Makers @ www.HistoryMakers.org, a digital library archive of successful African Americans. Titles include: Mr. Steal Your Grandma, G.O.A.T of Style, Godfather of Style, The Boss, Hot Grandpa. Mr. Irvin Randle’s greatest loves are his mother, two children, and 2 grandchildren. 

ANDREW SCOTT

Andrew Scott, widely known in his circle for his adventurous spirit and love for exploring the world, embodies the essence of a modern-day traveler. Recognized as last year’s "Service Worker of the Year," Andrew has not only excelled in his professional life but has also turned his passion for travel into a source of inspiration for many.

Andrew’s love for traveling the world is deeply rooted in his belief that every destination has a story to tell and lessons to teach. From bustling urban landscapes to serene tropical beaches, he immerses himself in diverse cultures, cuisines, and traditions. His journeys have taken him to every corner of the globe, enriching his understanding of humanity and the beauty of our shared planet.

Among his favorite ways to explore the world is cruising. For Andrew, cruises offer the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery. He cherishes the unique opportunity to wake up each day to a new horizon, all while enjoying the comforts of a floating haven. The vibrant atmosphere of cruise life—filled with music, cuisine, and camaraderie—resonates deeply with his love for community and celebration.

Andrew’s travels are fueled by a desire to connect with people and experience the world’s wonders firsthand. Whether it’s marveling at ancient ruins, savoring street food in a bustling market, or simply enjoying a quiet sunset at sea, he finds joy and fulfillment in every moment.