Meet the Organizers

Meet Sonja Brooks, a dynamic entrepreneur and community leader dedicated to securing futures and fostering unity through a comprehensive range of financial solutions. Starting her career as a skilled hairstylist, Sonja’s path led her to establish Rest Assured Life Solutions, a company committed not just to providing life insurance but to offering a variety of financial protection strategies tailored to the unique needs of individuals, families, and businesses. Sonja believes in the power of collaboration and mutual support and actively works to unite and empower her community. Through community engagement and networking events, Sonja strives to build a strong, interconnected community, enhancing resilience and creating a network of support that benefits everyone involved. Sonja’s vision extends beyond mere business transactions; she is dedicated to making a lasting impact, ensuring that every client not only understands their financial options but feels genuinely supported in their journey towards securing their future.

Meet Shemeka Valencia, a multi-passionate corporatepreneur. Owner of Your Purpose Travels travel agency, Founder of the Black Beauties United community for black female business owners to support, educate and empower one another. Under Legacy Pusher Consulting, she offers career and business mentoring leveraging her degree in Business Administration from Pitt Community College & Women's Entrepreneurship Certificate from Cornell University. plus multiple years of entrepreneurship research and experience. Shemeka is a published author of self-help journals, affiliate marketer and event planner. With over 20 years of combined management, leadership, training, project management and mentorship experience, she empowers career and business driven women to create the impact, income, freedom, and legacy they desire. Through genuine networking and a willingness to share what she has learned, Shemeka is committed to helping aspiring entrepreneurs & career driven women ignite success. 

This year's keynote speaker is a figure of profound transformation and steadfast dedication to community service. Having overcome personal challenges early in life, they found a unique calling that led to significant personal changes in the mid-90s. Their journey includes leadership roles and impactful contributions through various expressive mediums. They spearhead initiatives aimed at personal liberation and community engagement. Known for their dynamic communication skills and compassionate leadership, they are committed to making a meaningful impact. Their life's work is dedicated to inspiring others towards achieving personal freedom and fulfillment. As a devoted family person, they balance professional achievements with deep personal commitments. Their unique blend of experience and passion makes them the perfect keynote speaker for our 2nd annual Business Empowerment Gala.
Get ready for an evening of empowerment with the stars!

Kenneth Joyner holds a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. He is a licensed clinical social worker. He has over 15 years of experience providing direct care services to individuals with mental health and development disorders. Mr. Joyner has a passion and clinical interest in working with young men who have experienced significant trauma in their life. He currently operates as the owner of Therapeutic Interactions Counseling Services in Greenville, NC, a private owned mental health practice. In the past, Kenneth has served as the Coordinator of the Minority Male Success Initiative Program at Pitt Community College, which is a Federal program on Community College Campuses across the state that helps minority males graduate from college. Mr. Joyner has extensive experience as a mental health outpatient therapist focusing on anger management, behavioral and trauma-related issues.

Carlina Shotwell, hailing from Greenville, NC, is a beacon of hope and resilience. As a former foster youth, she navigated the complexities of the foster care system to become the first in her biological family to earn a high school diploma, later acquiring two Associate's degrees from Pitt Community College and a Bachelor’s degree with Cum Laude honors from North Carolina Central University. Carlina developed a Life Skills Curriculum for Youth, aiming to equip underserved individuals with crucial knowledge for making informed life decisions, managing finances, and fostering healthy relationships. Her entrepreneurial journey is rooted in her core values of honesty, transparency, and a relentless drive to educate, motivate, inspire, and mentor others. Carlina’s work has not only allowed her to inspire audiences with her empowering talks but also to collaborate with state and government officials. 

Don Brown, licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer in North Carolina, is the owner of Don Brown Funeral Home in Ayden, NC. With an Associate of Applied Science in Funeral Service from Fayetteville Technical Community College. He has served as President of both the Eastern District and the statewide Funeral Directors and Morticians Association of North Carolina, and held significant roles in the National Funeral Directors and Morticians Association. Additionally, Don has been instrumental in the Epsilon Nu Delta Mortuary Fraternity and serves on the NC Board of Funeral Service. His commitment extends to community service through affiliations with the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Shriners, and other local organizations. Don's creativity, leadership skills, resilience, community devotion and extensive network will add immense value as a panelist at to the 2nd annual Business Empowerment Gala.

What is it?

The Business Empowerment Gala is a formal small business networking event featuring keynote speakers, a live Q&A panel, dinner, prizes and more! Awards coming soon!

Who is it for?

The Business Empowerment Gala is for aspiring, new or established small business owners of all ages and races who are looking to network with like-minded individuals.

Where is it held?

The Business Empowerment Gala originated in Greenville NC. Future events will be held in Greenville, NC and surrounding areas to expand the event reach. 

How does it work?

Secure your seat by purchasing a ticket. Ticket holders are also added to an exclusive Facebook* group for ongoing networking and exclusive event notifications.

When does it start?

This is an annual event with accompanying events scheduled throughout the year. Get your ticket or sign up for notifications for the next event to ignite success!

Why does it exist?

The Business Empowerment Gala exists to ignite success and a thriving community where success flourishes through collaborative efforts and shared wisdom!

Why limit your experience to a single event?

The private Facebook* community ensures that the bonds you forge during the Business Empowerment Gala, the insights you gain, and the memories you create, extend far beyond the gala.

Don't let these valuable connections slip away.

Together, we'll elevate each other's businesses, nurture inspiration, and propel ourselves to new heights. Ticket holders will receive an exclusive invitation to join our community of like-minded individuals, where empowerment knows no limits.

Together, let's ignite new opportunities for success.

Seize this opportunity to be part of a community where dreams are nurtured, resilience is celebrated, and success is achieved together. Act now and unlock a world of empowerment and endless possibilities!