VICTORIA WILLIAMS
Is a junior at Ames High School, where she excels as both a dedicated student-athlete and an influential student leader. She serves as a leader of the school's Black Student Union (BSU), a student-led organization focused on empowering and uplifting the community.
Victoria’s commitment to service and leadership began in third grade when she joined Hip-Hope, igniting her passion for encouraging peers and making a meaningful impact. Through her involvement with Hip-Hope, Victoria has participated in the Many Shades of Colour Young Women’s Conference, organized and led large group activities, and served as Co-Facilitator for youth and mentor workshops alongside her mentor, Dr. Annissa Roland. This year, she is honored to be the keynote speaker, where she shares her experiences and inspires others. In addition to Hip-Hope, Victoria has engaged with Jewels Academy, where she explored STEM, and Investing In My Future, which deepened her focus on education. Victoria is developing a strong interest in psychology and is committed to advocating for teen mental health. She strives to be a positive influence, lead by example, and uphold her values in all she does. Above all, her relationship with God remains central to her identity, and she aims to reflect His love and guidance throughout every aspect of her life.
EMCEE
Courtney Maxwell Greene works as UnityPoint Health’s Director of External Partnerships and Community Engagement and a parttime storyteller at WHO-13 News, Des Moines’ NBC affiliate.
Courtney worked for 15 years in television broadcast news as a producer, reporter, and anchor in Des Moines and Kansas City. She spent several years in Iowa state government as the Governor’s press secretary, public information bureau chief and spokesperson for the Department of Public Safety, and communications director and division administrator for Iowa Workforce Development. Courtney has nonprofit and private sector experience in communications and public relations.
She serves on the Iowa PBS Broadcasting Board and completed McKinsey & Company’s Black Executive Leadership Academy in 2021.
Courtney’s a member of the Wampagnoag Tribe of Gay Head – Aquinnah, and the proud mom of two adult daughters, Rachel and Samantha.
LEADERSHIP
Dr. Petrouchka Moïse is an assistant professor and cultural & community-based digital curator at Grinnell College Libraries. As an artist/scholar, she teaches classes on visual and material culture and curatorial studies, with a focus on the Caribbean. In her role as Cultural and Community-Based Digital Curator, Dr. Moïse is responsible for developing interdisciplinary initiatives to enhance the learning experience of the academic and cultural community. Her goal is to invest in community-based documentarians who will expand public memory with new perspectives, design student internships and fellowships for research projects, engage the next generation interested in digital humanities and curation, and create a range of digital engagements to connect with underserved communities and institutions.
Ebony Anderson is a Commercial Specialist with Nationwide Insurance and brings more than 25 years of experience in the insurance industry. Her professional background also includes service with the Department of Corrections and Youth Emergency Services & Shelter (YESS). She holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Outside of her professional work, Ebony is an avid reader, a dedicated gym enthusiast, and deeply passionate about working with youth. She is married with adult children and proudly embraces her role as “MiMi.” Community service is central to who she is—she actively assists her husband with local youth programs and has been a longtime volunteer with Hip Hope Inc. and Many Shades. Ebony is excited to be part of this conference and looks forward to growing alongside fellow participants as they focus on Setting Boundaries to Create a Growth Mindset.
Shamia Holloway is a dedicated 14-year-old 8th grader at Weeks Middle School who is passionate about leadership and personal growth. She is actively involved in various after-school groups, including Young Women’s Resource Center Group, Ella EmpowHer, Art Club, 8th Grade Social Media Ambassador, Volleyball, Sister’s for Success, and Sigma Delta Academy. This past summer, she had the opportunity to attend the HIP HOPE retreat, further enriching her experiences outside of the classroom. Beyond her academic and extracurricular commitments, Shamia enjoys reading, singing, dancing, drawing, and cherishes spending quality time with her cousins and family. Inspired by her family, teachers like Ms. Price, and facilitators such as Ms. Ebony, Shamia strives to be a strong leader for both herself and others. Her core values include family, friendship, growth, and maintaining strong morals. Looking to the future, Shamia aspires to become a police officer or lawyer so she can make a positive impact and help others through the leadership skills she has learned. She is excited to participate in this year’s conference, hoping to inspire younger students about the importance of leadership and personal development. Shamia is committed to gaining new knowledge, building lasting friendships, and proving to herself and others that with determination and heart, anything is possible.
Amath Dau is a junior at Ames High School with a strong passion for STEM and aspirations to pursue a career in a STEM-related field. She is an active member of several school organizations, including Ames High Key Club, DECA, and Uplifting Spirits Club. As the social media manager for Eco Tips, a student-led nonprofit, Amath helps promote environmental awareness and sustainable practices. Beyond her academic and extracurricular commitments, she enjoys volunteering in her community, playing the guitar, and spending time on the tennis courts with friends. Recently, Amath attended Hip-Hope’s Many Shades of Colour Lead-Her-Ship Retreat, where she strengthened her leadership and presentation abilities. She looks forward to co-facilitating Hip-Hope’s Many Shades of Colour Conference in March 2026, eager to inspire and empower others.
SOCIAL & EMOTIONAL
Rachelle is a skilled community advocate, entrepreneur, and leader dedicated to empowering individuals and building connections within her community. With broad experience in promoting diversity, inclusion, and workers' rights, she effectively combines her academic knowledge with practical expertise to implement impactful programs and initiatives. After a successful 30-year career in telecommunications, Rachelle founded her bakery, Chellie's Sugar Shack, in 2011. What began as a small venture selling baked goods from the trunk of her car to local barber shops and salons has since transformed into a thriving licensed home bakery, renowned for its community collaborations. Rachelle has partnered with notable organizations, including the Des Moines Metro Opera, the Des Moines Civic Center, and Disney's The Lion King. She is featured as a VIP Experience vendor for DSM Food, Beer, Wine Showcase, and in the PIOWA Documentary for her mouthwatering Sweet Potato Pie. Through these initiatives, she has collaborated with Living HIstory Farms and over 100 businesses and built a loyal local customer base. In 2013, Rachelle launched the nonprofit Taste of the Junction, which promotes community building, cultural education, and preservation. It started as a Valley Junction Neighborhood Reunion. It has now morphed into a three-day Multicultural Festival over Labor Day Weekend that boasts over 30 vendors, attracting over 10,000 attendees from more than 11 states for local jazz performances, food, crafts, and family-friendly activities that celebrate the rich history and diversity of the Historic Valley Junction District. Last year, The Junction Speaks took place at the iconic Val Air Ballroom, which hosted a full-capacity crowd that enjoyed storytelling, delicious food, and engaging slideshow presentations. Featured in the Business Record and Catch Des Moines Top 3 things to do over Labor Day Weekend, the festival continues to experience exponential growth. The organization has a physical location featuring a cultural gallery and a pop-up history museum on the John & Barb Long Honorary Roadway.
Alicia Hilligas has over 15 years of experience in higher education. She began her career in admissions and now works in academic advising, where she draws on her admissions background to help students and families navigate academic planning, degree requirements, and institutional processes. She currently serves as the Assistant Director of Advising at Drake University. She is passionate about helping students build confidence, communicate effectively, and feel supported throughout their educational journey. Mrs. Hilligas earned her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Economics from Wellesley College. In her current position she works closely with students from diverse backgrounds to support their academic and personal success. She is married and is the proud mother of two young men and two Chihuahuas.
Johanna Dunlevy is the EAP Operations Director at Employee & Family Resources, a Des Moines-based non-profit organization that serves communities, schools, and workplaces to help people overcome life’s challenges to reach their full potential. Johanna earned degrees from the University of Northern Iowa and Drake University. She has been an advocate for self-care and holistic wellbeing for over 20 years working in and with a variety of organizations. Johanna is a native Iowan and roots for the Drake Bulldogs alongside her nine year-old daughter, Audrey.
Naomi Thames is a passionate high school senior whose life is guided by her deep faith in God and a steadfast commitment to uplifting those around her. Naomi finds joy in singing, writing, dancing, and constantly seeking new knowledge. She cherishes connecting with people and strives to bring love and positivity wherever she goes. Naomi’s dedication to making a difference is evident in her experience as a co-facilitator, presenting several workshops at the Hip Hope Many Shades of Color Conferences. She is a youth Board Member for Hip-Hope, Inc. Naomi has also attended the Hip-Hopes Lead-HER-Ship Retreat, where she enhanced her leadership skills through both traditional and non-traditional approaches. Through these experiences and her education, Naomi has developed strong presentation and leadership abilities, fueling her lifelong goal of inspiring and supporting others in every environment she enters.
Dr. Kennesha Woods is an educator, entrepreneur, student and family advocate whose life and leadership embodies the true meaning of resilience. Over the past 3.5 years, she has faced significant adversity—including job loss, workplace challenges, and the loss of employer benefits—while caring for a one-year-old and her two bonus teenagers. Instead of allowing these obstacles to define her, Dr. Woods used them as fuel, rising with determination, clarity, and purpose. During this period of transition, Dr. Woods demonstrated remarkable strength and perseverance. She successfully closed on a rental property and expanded her business ventures—turning a season of uncertainty into one of powerful growth. Alongside her entrepreneurial achievements, she prioritized her mental health and remained deeply intentional about being present for her family, modeling holistic resilience in action. Through her professional work, Dr. Woods channels these lived experiences into transformative workshops and programming that empower students and communities. Her Activate Your Resilience framework teaches practical strategies for navigating setbacks, building emotional strength, and approaching challenges with confidence. With a leadership style rooted in authenticity, compassion, and real-world wisdom, Dr. Woods inspires others to rise, rebuild, and reclaim their power. To choose life, to count it all joy, and to see it through. Today, Dr. Woods offers intensive and intentional mentorship to high school students —proving every day that resilience lives in you, you just have to choose to activate it.
ACADEMIC
Amara Luth is a 17-year-old junior at Ames High School, recognized for her vibrant leadership and commitment to building inclusive communities. As an active member of DECA and Key Club, Amara leads with purpose, balancing academics with hands-on experience working in the service industry. She is a dedicated dancer and tennis player, drawing on her athletic journey to foster discipline, confidence, and perseverance. Passionate about uplifting women, Amara brings a positive and empowering voice to her work with Many Shades of Colour. In August 2025, she attended the Hip Hopes Many Shades of Colour Lead Her-ship Retreat, further developing her leadership and presentation skills through both traditional and innovative approaches. Amara’s dedication inspires those around her, making her a role model for peers and the wider school community.
Victoria Knight is an experienced education leader with a strong commitment to helping high school students excel academically and thrive personally. As the Dean of Students and Head Administrator at Empigo Academy, she brings over 13 years of administrative expertise and several years of hands-on experience working directly with students, families, and educational teams. Her background spans private, public, and home-school environments, giving her a broad understanding of diverse learning needs and the support systems that help students succeed. Victoria’s approach blends compassion, structure, and data-driven insight, allowing her to help students recognize their strengths, overcome challenges, and gain confidence in their academic journey. In the Zealous Pathways workshop, she draws on her leadership experience, curriculum understanding, and long-term work mentoring youth to give high schoolers clear, practical guidance for academic success. Her goal is to help students not just navigate high school, but thrive in it with purpose, motivation, and a plan.
Jeyda Newton is a senior at Empigo Academy where she serves as Student Council President and has distinguished herself as one of the most improved students in her graduating class. Currently pursuing her esthetician license, Jeyda balances her academic and professional goals with active involvement in varsity cheerleading, volleyball, and numerous student-led activities. As a leader of the Bible and Business Networking group, she helps initiate new ideas and programs for students at the school. Her leadership, dedication, and remarkable growth exemplify her commitment to excellence both in and out of the classroom.
Heather M. Jones-Brown (she/her) is a lifelong Des Moines resident and proud East High School graduate. She holds a BA in International Relations and Political Science (William Jewell College), a Masters in Business Leadership (William Penn University), along with certifications in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (University of South Florida MUMA College of Business), Compensation and Benefits (eCornell), and Nonprofit Leadership. She is also an ATIXA trained investigator and IDI Administrator. Heather’s career reflects a commitment to equity, community building, and global connections. Her journey spans roles such as Executive Director of Iowa Sister States, Deputy Campaign Manager for Deidre DeJear’s historic Secretary of State campaign, and Financial Education Coordinator at the Evelyn K. Davis Center. She has worked internationally, including teaching in Japan and aiding a South Korean firm’s U.S. expansion. Currently, Heather serves as Assistant Chief Diversity Officer for Staff Equity at Grinnell College and Board Chair for Vision Leads. Her community involvement includes leadership roles with the Iowa Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., NAACP Des Moines, and Des Moines Y-Camp. She is a 2020 Des Moines Business Record 40 Under 40 honoree, a 2020 LeadDSM graduate, and a sought-after speaker on authentic community support, equity, and belonging.
Abigail George, affectionately known as Abby, is a 13-year-old entrepreneur and creative force from Des Moines, IA. As one half of the energetic duo Abbagabbtwinz, Abby stands out for her vibrant personality, innovation, and unwavering determination. She inspires peers and adults alike through her passion for leadership and creativity, consistently proving that age is no barrier to achievement. Abby's entrepreneurial spirit shines in pitch competitions, mentoring fellow young dreamers, and sharing innovative ideas. Her influence is growing, with ambitions that include gracing the cover of Des Moines magazine and building a lasting legacy of excellence alongside her twin sister, Gabrielle. Together, they exemplify teamwork and serve as role models for aspiring young entrepreneurs everywhere. Abby’s commitment to community and empowerment is evident in her longstanding involvement with Hip-Hope’s Many Shades of Colour initiative. The upcoming 2026 conference will mark her fourth attendance and her second role as a workshop facilitator. Additionally, Abby has participated twice in the Many Shades of Colour Lead-Her-Ship retreat, further demonstrating her dedication to growth, mentorship, and leadership among youth.
Rayana Henderson is a member of the graduating class of 2026 at Grinnell College. She hails from an island in the Eastern Caribbean called the Commonwealth of Dominica. At Grinnell College, Rayana is pursuing an undergraduate degree in Sociology with a concentration (minor) in Education Studies. Post-graduate, she intends to commence a professional journey into the realm of Education Administration, specifically Curriculum Development. Her interest in Curriculum Development stems from her curious inquiry on what content is deemed significant enough to be taught. Rayana understands our everyday stories and life testimonies to be just as meritable as canonical knowledge of Higher Education. Thus, Rayana aims to redefine the standards of curriculum development into a more inclusive and empowering framework that uplifts the stories of students’ lived experiences.
MENTOR
Dr. Annissa Roland is an educator, community leader, and entrepreneur. Annissa was born in Des Moines and began her service there as well as a director of educational programs at the Willkie House, teacher in Des Moines Public Schools, director of the then Tiny Tots Learning Center, and member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. before marrying and moving to Georgia. There she continued her work as an educator in Savannah Chatham County Public Schools. For the last 18 years she has been consulting and partnering with public school systems across the nation to focus on designing quality, challenging, interesting, and satisfying work for students with the nonprofit organization, the Schlechty Center. She is the owner and designer of AJ Stone Jewelry hand-making one of a kind semiprecious stone jewelry for men and women. Dr. Roland holds leadership roles in her church, is a founding board member of the Greater Savannah Black Chamber of Commerce, and serves on the Race And Equity Leadership Taskforce of Savannah. And she still maintains her Iowa roots as the Taste of the Junction Inc. Board of Directors Chair in West Des Monies and a curriculum designer and facilitator for the MSOC YWC and Lead-Her-Ship Retreat. Annissa will always be a Valley Tiger c/o 1991. An alumnus of Iowa State University Annissa earned two bachelors of science degrees in elementary education and early childhood education. Her masters degree in curriculum and instruction with an emphasis in integrating the arts is from Lesley University in Massachusetts. Dr. Roland studied organizational leadership at Nova Southeastern University in Florida. This proud mother of three, nana of five and wife to a veteran loves to learn and lives to teach.
Maliegha Page grows as a leader in all facets of her life. The National Society of High School Scholars recognized Maliegha’s academic excellence as an 11th grader at Valley High School. Two years in a row, Maliegha received an academic letter for a high grade point average. She has engaged in HIP-HOPE’s programming since 2020. Her first involvement with HIP-HOPE was the Hustlenomics program. Page saved the greatest amount of money in a years time. Since she saved the most money, Maliegha was invited to co-facilitate a Many Shades Of Colour Young Womens Confrence (MSOC YWC) online workshop with Ms. Debra Carr, sharing about saving and spending. The next two years, she participated in the MSOC YWC. Last summer at the Young Women's Lead-Her-Ship Retreat, Maliegha pursued her leadership development goal. Now Page utilizes those leadership skills to volunteer at Eternity Church in the kids' wing, to help the community with the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America, and to serve as an Olive Garden employee.
Debra Carr has more than 25+ years serving as an administrative leader overseeing federal, state, and locally funded programs, policies, and practices. She has broad industry experience working with international, federal, state, and local government agencies, corporations, public schools, colleges, universities, and nonprofit organizations. Debra is Principal Consultant and owner of Carr & Associates, and Edge Academy. These companies focus on helping individuals, organizations, and businesses to operate at their optimal best. Her work focuses on overall well-being – mind, body and spirit while helping businesses function efficiently and achieve equity. Previously, Debra served as director for the largest transitional housing and domestic violence shelter in Dallas, Texas. Prior to that time, she served as executive director for a Central Iowa nonprofit for more than (13) years. Lastly, Debra served as director of diversity, equity, and inclusion for the Iowa Department of Human Services where she led organizational efforts to improve organizational culture and climate while reducing barriers to achieving equity in all aspects of the organizations’ policies, practices, and procedures. Her work was nationally recognized by the White House in addition to her leadership efforts that led to assisting an organization to become the recipient of the Families Count Award from Annie E. Casey Foundation and National Points of Light Award. She has served as guest lecturer at schools of Social Work and as a practicum field supervisor. She has been active in volunteer and civic activities, including serving on several Boards and working with several community-based organizations. These organizations include: President, Cheatom Park Neighborhood Association, City of Des Moines Neighborhood Revitalization Board (NRB), Iowa Women’s Foundation Grant Reviewer, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Administration for Children & Families Advisor & Grant Reviewer, Vice President & Treasurer of Green Raisin Corporation, Former Member of City of McKinney – Community Grants Advisory Committee, Metro Dallas Housing Alliance, Past Member of Des Moines Area Community College Urban Campus – Advisory Committee; Member of National Female Executives, Former member of Citizens for Community Improvement (CCI) – Diversity Committee, Miss Black U.S.A. National Advisory Member, Certified HIV/AIDS Facilitator for American Red Cross, Alice Rodine – Community Service Award, Marshall Productions - City of Des Moines – Hall of Fame Inductee, Community Service & Outreach Award, IIMAWII – Founders Award and Directors Award – University of Iowa School of Social Work, Former ProTem for St. Paul A.M.E. Steward Board in Des Moines, IA. Honors include Outstanding Women of America Award, Honorary Doctorate of Letters Degree from Aspen Theological Seminary, member of Phi Alpha Honorary Society and Alpha Iota Honorary Sorority of Business, Betty Duncan Inspiring Women Award. Most recently, she received the National Association of Social Work – Lifetime Achievement Award – named after the legendary Catherine G. Williams given by the NASW – Iowa Chapter – Diversity Committee during their annual symposium meeting luncheon. Most recently she was recognized as Iowa Democratic Party – Women in Leadership. Currently Debra serves as Chair of the Economic Development Committee of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and is a member of City of Des Moines Neighborhood Revitalization Board. She has also volunteered with Hip Hope as workshop facilitator developing financial empowerment workshops and serves as workshop facilitator for Many Shades of Colour Conference. Ms. Carr attended the University of Iowa and holds a BA degree in Business Administration, Upper Iowa University BA degree in Human Services and a Master of Social Work from the University of Iowa School of School Work. Debra holds a Certificate of Nonprofit Management from Iowa State University, graduate of the Larned A. Waterman Nonprofit Management Institute, holds an Honorary Doctorate of Letters Degree from Aspen Theological Seminary, Human Resource Certificate from Collin College, and is certified as a domestic violence counselor specializing in trauma informed healing centered practice. Debra specializes in macrolevel integrated practice and is a Licensed Master Social Worker, Certified Financial
A.I. ACTIVITIES / FINANCIAL
Lynette Jordan is a change management and learning leader, entrepreneur, and community builder. Through her consulting company, Cornerstone Talent Consulting, Inc., she leads people-focused transformation work across complex environments and is passionate about practical, clear solutions that help organizations and communities thrive. She is also the founder of Pamper Me Crazy and PMC Home Design, creating natural bath and body products and distinctive home décor designed to help people feel cared for, confident, and inspired
Zoya Doan is a 9th-grade student at Edwardsville High School in Edwardsville, Illinois. She is an active and creative member of her school community, participating in the Color Guard and helping deliver the school’s daily morning announcements. Zoya is passionate about the performing arts—she dances, sings, acts in theatrical productions, and also plays guitar and piano. Outside the arts, she enjoys volleyball and staying involved in a variety of school activities. This year marks Zoya’s third time attending the MSOC Conference, and she is proud to be presenting at one of the conference workshops. Her involvement reflects her dedication to leadership, communication, and civic engagement. As a Christian, Zoya values compassion, integrity, and service, which guide her ambitions both in and outside the classroom. She aspires to attend an Ivy League law school and become an attorney, with hopes of eventually entering the world of politics.
ENTERTAINMENT / POET
Gabrielle Jackson is a 15-year-old young woman who loves God and strives to live out her faith every day. She is known for her kind heart, positive attitude, and her ability to encourage others to be their best selves. Gabrielle believes in leading with love and allowing her actions to reflect her faith. Highly creative, Gabrielle enjoys expressing herself through many talents, including drawing, crocheting, doing hair and nails, and using her creativity to bring joy to others. She also has a strong passion for worship and the arts, such as singing, praise dancing, and writing poetry that reflects her thoughts, emotions, and faith journey. Gabrielle demonstrates strong leadership by being confident, compassionate, and willing to step up when others need support. She enjoys learning, growing, and discovering more about who God created her to be. Gabrielle hopes to inspire other young women to embrace their gifts, walk boldly in faith, and believe in themselves. She is excited to be part of the Young Women’s Conference and looks forward to connecting, growing, and building lasting friendships with other young women of faith.