Kamesha Blessed
A proud native to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Kamesha Blessed known to wear many hats while fulfilling her civic and individual commitments in the community. Promoting positive community and economic growth and a passion for knowing that her quality of life is determined by the quality of her relationships.
As a professional powerhouse, Kamesha has worked in various industries that have allowed her to leverage her knowledge and expertise. Kamesha Blessed is a partner at one of Milwaukee’s best known childcare facilities Children’s Knowledge Learning Center “Where Learning Is Fun” I, II & III, where they prepare children to become lifelong learners by meeting them where they are; allowing them to be creative, innovative, and successful, so when they are ready to begin school, they are ready to learn. Kamesha has 25 years of extensive experiences in management and leadership from the “Golden Arches” of McDonalds, to Seek Careers & Staffing, on to becoming a serial entrepreneur. Kamesha is all things “FAITH”, and does Kingdom work at her church home New Restoration Christian Church.
Kamesha is author of Gracefully Broken “How God turned Pain into Purpose” and recently infused her talents and passions for Blessed by Design Clothing & Accessories, Blessed by Design Home Interior Decorating & Design and Blessed by Design Home Cooking & Catering in 2020. With aspirations to be the leading boutique in Milwaukee; Blessed by Design mission is to uplift, inspire, and encourage individuals to tap into their God given talents so they can live in purpose on purpose. Kamesha’s “LOVE” language is travel and she’s known for creating the ultimate experience in Jamaica for her clients.
Kamesha received her Leadership Credential from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee and her bachelor’s degree in Human Services with a minor in Early Childhood Education as Magna Cum Laude. She’s a Board Director of the Villard Avenue Milwaukee Business Improvement District 19, a recent SPARC graduate, a member of the African American Chamber of Commerce (AACC), a member of the National Black Child Development Institute (NBCDI), a Technical Assistance Professional, Registered Tier Trainer through the Wisconsin Registry and a CBRF Instructor.
Meet The Dents
From humble beginnings to an entrepreneurial powerhouse, De Von D. has defied the odds to become an example of success to all that watch. Born and raised in the heart of Milwaukee, WI, De Von D. witnessed the stark realities of limited opportunities and a yearning for something more. This early exposure to the harsh realities of life ignited a spark within him, a burning desire to create his own path, one paved with innovation and success. With an entrepreneurial spirit that blossomed at the tender age of 14, De Von D. embarked on a journey of relentless pursuit, transforming his dreams into tangible realities. His journey has been marked by a diverse array of ventures, each testament to his unwavering drive and unwavering belief in his abilities. From state-of-the-art recording studios to a thriving marketing agency, entertainment company, restaurants, tax firm, real estate, consulting business, and a successful clothing line, De Von D. has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the ever-evolving world of business. De Von D.’s entrepreneurial journey is not merely about amassing wealth and achieving recognition; it’s about inspiring others to break free from the shackles of conformity and pursue their passions with unwavering determination. His story serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path for aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide, demonstrating that with grit, resilience, and an unwavering belief in oneself, anything is possible.
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From the gritty streets of inner-city Milwaukee to the forefront of mental health advocacy, Mickell D. has emerged as a beacon of hope and inspiration. A licensed clinical therapist, the host of the empowering "Let's Talk Therapy" podcast, and the founder of the transformative GLOW 414 Inc., Mickell is a force to be reckoned with. Her mission is to shatter the stigma surrounding mental health and guiding individuals towards their full potential. She is a catalyst for transformation, a champion for mental well-being, and a testament to the indomitable human spirit.
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Meet The Ropers
Chad Roper is the founder of ​#DreamsNeverExpire, a nonprofit organization that has been serving communities nationwide since 2016. Also a Grammy nominated engineer and vocal producer, Chad “C-Note” Roper, goal is to be a liaison between communities of color and healthcare professionals. #DreamsNeverExpire hopes to bridge the gap by creating programs that educate people of color on health and wellness while assisting with their healthcare needs.
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Keisha Roper is the Founder of Roped In Love LLC, a mother’s advocacy organization that emerged as a result of deeply personal experiences related to fertility and maternal health challenges, With unwavering determination, Mrs. Roper endured a 13-year journey of resilience, overcoming obstacles and ultimately triumphing in 2021 with the birth of her son. However this triumphant moment was marred by a harrowing encounter with maternal health disparities that disproportionately affect women of color, nearly claiming her life.
Meet The Gates
The Yolanda & Fenay Gates have been making waves together starting in 1987, as young sweethearts, at the Young ages of 14 and 16. They have built multiple businesses including the Gates Family Daycare, Esperinolia's Jazz Cafe, Gates family catering and Gates Family Youth Center. They are proud parents of five children, four girls and one boy, and grandparents to 11. With numerous real estate properties under their belt, they are excited about expanding EFG Enterprises!
Meet The Upshaw's
Kjohnti Upshaw is a Family man, Entrepreneur and Husband. Kjohnti is the owner/operator of a transitional living facility for men overcoming substance abuse and skilled electrical locator. He is dedicated to making a difference in his community and the lives of others. Born and raised in Milwaukee, WI Kjohnti is committed to growth both personally and professionally. He currently volunteers at various homeless shelters and youth group homes throughout the city of Milwaukee. Kjohnti is a proud father of 4 and has two grandsons. He is married to his high school sweetheart and best friend Natasha. A quote that Kjohnti lives by is “Everything happens for a reason”
Natasha Upshaw has held the position of Project Director with Milwaukee Fatherhood Initiative for the last 10 years. With over 20 years of experience working in the community, she has held positions with Wisconsin Department of Corrections, Young Leaders Academy, Universal Academy and Milwaukee Public Schools using her teamwork, leadership and creativity skills. Natasha holds a Masters of Art degree in Management and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Natasha is a certified Master Trainer in the Nurturing Fathers Curriculum, Domestic Violence, Anger Management and a certified Employment Counselor. Natasha is credited for being the first woman to hold a direct leading role in the Milwaukee Fatherhood Initiative. She advocates for men/fathers in the city of Milwaukee on a daily basis and has co-created events such as Real Men, Real Talk and The Comeback Conference to address the issues that men face in their daily lives. She is also the founder/operator of Cesame Street Child Development Center, Executive Director of Project STOMP and CEO of Simple Steps LLC. Natasha’s personal traits and qualities are always positive and motivating. She volunteers with the March of Dimes and Salvation Army’s Homeless projects. Natasha is married to her high school sweetheart and best friend Kjohnti and is the mom of 5daughters and one granddaughter. A quote that Natasha lives by is “You can never tell me the sky is the limit when it's people walking on the moon!!”
Meet The James'
Mr. Melvin James, Sr. is the CEO of 414 Video Spotlight and 414 Spotlight Cares, Inc. He has many titles, but the ones he love best is husband and father. Melvin has a wife and five children, three of which are grown, and doing well. Melvin has always had a passion for people and music. He believes that music is like food, it brings people together. Melvin is a visionary, when a “mission” is placed on his heart; he goes for it…all of it! That is a characteristic that many admire about him. He has always been a mentor to men, young or older alike that admires his thought process and accomplishments. The desire to continue to give more of him to the music industry, the 414 Video Spotlight Show was created. Melvin, along with his wife, are the Owners and Founders of 414 Video Spotlight. Melvin, and his wife has also created 414 Spotlight Cares, Inc. After opening the FIRST African American Broadcasting studio that was over 6,000 square feet in the state of Wisconsin.
Tye James Growing up, she was so outgoing. She loved to laugh, make people happy, and serve. Tye had to learn early on, how to deal with
two people that you love just as much, but had to balance the relationship
where everyone feels the loyalty. That was hard for her, but she mastered
it, and uses that characteristic still today. She learned that someone else’
experience may not be hers, and to love everyone according to how they
treat her. Tye has been married to Melvin James for 23 years, together
they share four biological children (one in heaven), and 2 bonus children.
She strives herself on being a great person in whichever position she
plays in others life, while teaching everyone in her space the value of
good relationships. “They need to know how to treat people, and how to
discern who to stay away from.” – Tye James.
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Meet The Morris'
Victor and Ava Felecia Morris Victor and Ava Felecia Morris have 33 years of marriage under their belt. They both are Mississippi breed and proud of their southern heritage. Their philosophy for a strong marriage is keeping Christ at the center and believe that a family that prays together, stays together. They each pursued different career paths. Ava was a successful educator for Milwaukee Public Schools of over 30+ years turned entrepreneur (owner of Allure by Ava Boutique) and currently serves as a site supervisor for student teachers for Alverno College. Victor, a successful businessman, inventor and serial entrepreneur of over 30 years, is based here in Milwaukee. Together they own Morris Designer Blinds and are a dynamic duo, servicing commercial and residential homes across the nation. Ava is a public speaker/motivator/mentor to youth and Victor is a mentor and minister at New Testament Church. Under the leadership of Pastor Julius Malone, they have been members there for over 30 years. They have five children and four grandchildren. Their youngest grandchild, 3-year old, Noelle, lives here in the city and keeps them on their toes and ready for the next adventure. They are blessed to have thriving businesses but also enjoy traveling leisurely together. They believe that when you work hard, you should play harder. They seize every opportunity to minister together and encourage others that black love is authentic and still exists in our society.
Meet The Summers'
​Cameron Summers, also known as the “Money Coach”, made it his mission to help people understand that we should never be slaves to money but masters
of it. In 2020, Cameron partnered with Creditguymke Financial Solutions to assist with creditnrecovery. To date, Cameron Summers is the Vice President of Operations of CreditguymkenFinancial Solutions. In 2024 Creditguymke Financial Solutions was awarded the Governor’s Financial literacy award. To date Creditguymke Financial Solutions has assisted over thousands of Entrepreneurs with credit recovery in Milwaukee County.
Cameron Summers is not only a businessman, but he is a husband, a father of four beautiful children, a certified marriage coach, a licensed minister, a licensed life insurance agent and a man that serves God, his family, and his community.
​In 2014 God began to minister to Omorinsola in dreams. It was not until 2019 that she accepted the seer and prophetic calling on her life. In that same year, the Lord let her know that her ministry was founded on Isaiah 61. In 2021, Omorinsola became a licensed minister, accepted her gift of healing and became a certified Marriage coach. In 2021 Mrs. Summers launched her social media platform called Omorinsola the voice where she shares prayers and prophetic insight. Omorinsola loves to be about her Father’s business so in 2021 when God spoke, she listened and hosted her first women’s event called Sister Moments. In 2022, God spoke again and told Mrs. Summers to host another women’s event called, THE RELEASE. Omorinsola has been coined as the Release Coach. As a Release coach she gives wisdom, revelation, and insight.
Outside of her ministry duties, Omorinsola is the wife of Cameron Summers, a mother ofmfour: Ca’mara, Isabella, Amir and Nasir Summers and a business builder. In the community, Omorinsola is a serial entrepreneur operating multiple businesses. Mrs. Summers is also an author of four books, and she attends Unity Gospel House of Prayer where she serves as an intercessor and marriage coach.
Meet The Stricklin's
Not knowing what was in store for them or what the future was going to hold, the Stricklins started didn't know how or where they would end up. Terrance and Jennifer were two kids from different backgrounds, connected together to help better each other. They were in love and nothing else mattered, it was just Terrence and Jennifer against all odds.The Stricklins had every opportunity to watch each other grow mentally, spiritually and emotionally in their 35 years together as a couple. Being married for over 30 years, with 4 children, this power couple believes that communication is everything and everything that can be said, can be said clearly!
They've had good times and bad times, but they are still persevering! Things that have come to knock them down only made their love and connection stronger than ever! Their goal as a union is to be committed, loyal, and true to a mission!
