MOMS ON THE MOVE BRUNCH

Dr. Felicia Young is a distinguished professional with nearly two decades of experience in higher education. As the owner of Higher Minds of Education and Dr. Fe Speaks, she has made significant strides in both the educational and personal development sectors. Her dual roles as an educator and life strategist have allowed her to influence countless individuals and institutions positively.

At Higher Minds of Education, Dr. Young focuses on empowering students and institutions through tailored educational consulting services. Her expertise spans a wide range of areas, including FAFSA assistance, college readiness programs, and career counseling. Her dedication

to improving educational outcomes has made her a sought-after consultant and a trusted advisor to many schools and colleges. Dr. Young's passion for personal development is equally impactful. Through Dr. Fe Speaks, she

provides life strategy coaching, helping individuals navigate life & it's challenges and achieve them personal and professional goals. As a motivational speaker, she has inspired audiences with her compelling insights and practical advice, drawing from her rich professional background and

personal experiences.

In addition to her professional achievements, Dr. Young is a proud mother of two, balancing her

career with the demands of parenthood. She is also an accomplished author, sharing her knowledge and experiences through her writings. Her works reflect her commitment to education

and personal growth, offering readers valuable guidance and inspiration.

Dr. Young's multifaceted career and personal life embody her dedication to making a difference in the world. Whether through her work in education, her motivational speaking, or her life

strategy coaching, she continues to leave a lasting impact on those she serves.

Virginia Dale Manning, LPC-S is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor with 18+ combined years of experience in education and therapy. She is the CEO of GinMan Consulting and Counseling Associates, PC, a therapeutic corporation and the founder of Prosper Under Pressure, a community of empowered professional women with a main purpose of waking up every day to work in a career they love.

As a powerful and authentic mental wellness advocate for over 10 years, she stands firm against stigma, statistics and strife. Her mission is to share knowledge and the keys to help you live your dream life.

Her passion is to motivate, inspire, guide and support others to overcome life’s common challenges.

She is the mother of four outstanding adult children and the granny of seven adorable and awesome grandchildren. She enjoys cooking, traveling and family time. She lives each day of her life purpose driven and dedicated to living a life according to God’s will.

Get to know Virginia on Facebook and Instagram @ginmanconsulting and @prosperunderpressure

Most importantly she also coaches professional women of color to dive deeper into rocking in their career like never before. Join the PUP Professional Women of Color Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/PUPprofessionalwomen

Karen Hamilton: Transformational Educator, Community Leader, and Advocate Karen Hamilton is a powerhouse in education and leadership, dedicated to shaping the future of students and educators alike. With 18 years of experience in teaching and instructional leadership, she has mastered the art of developing, implementing, and monitoring best practices to empower both students and teachers. Her passion lies in fostering a thriving school culture where academic excellence and personal growth go hand in hand. As a former Principal in Residence at Helix Academy Baton Rouge, Karen played a pivotal role in shaping school leadership and instructional strategies. She worked diligently to establish a positive school climate, ensuring that students were nurtured, empowered, and equipped to achieve high levels of academic and social success. Beyond the classroom, Karen has dedicated 13 years to supporting learners in their collegiate pursuits, ensuring they are equipped with the tools they need for lifelong success. A firm believer in mentorship and professional growth, she has coached countless educators, helping them refine their craft and build stronger, more effective learning environments.

Karen’s influence extends far beyond the walls of education. As a devoted community leader, she serves on the board of Outstanding Mature Girlz, an organization dedicated to uplifting and mentoring young women. She is also an active member of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Metro Baton Rouge, where she contributes her expertise to two committees, tirelessly advocating for Black women and girls.

Her unwavering commitment to education and community impact has propelled her to launch her own business as an educational consultant, where she continues to drive excellence in schools and beyond.

Above all, Karen is a dedicated wife to Jermaine Hamilton and a loving mother to their four children. She embodies the values of leadership, service, and empowerment—leaving an indelible mark on every life she touches.

Dr. Kaia S. Simmons is a Manager of Public Affairs at Atmos Energy, overseeing stakeholder engagement in six northern river parishes in Louisiana. She holds a master’s in public administration and a PhD in Public Policy with a focus on education policy. Alongside her corporate role, Dr. Simmons is an accomplished singer-songwriter, published author, and founder of Genesis Research and Consulting, LLC, specializing in grant writing services snd nonprofit consulting, and serves on the board of Knock Knock Museum. Driven by a passion for education, public policy, and the future of energy, she actively engages in projects that support these areas. She is also a dedicated mother to her bright 9yo daughter, Genesis who is the driving force of her accomplishments.

Ms. Shenedria Whorton, M.S., is the Director and Owner of Whorton Credit Institute (WCI). WCI provides credit education on establishing and maintaining excellent credit

for life. Mrs. Whorton was a former Branch Manager and Loan Officer at a Credit Union for 8 years. Currently, she is a Law Administrator at an all-woman law firm. WCI has been providing clients with the education needed to establish and maintain excellent credit since 2019.

Before establishing Whorton Credit Institute, Ms. Whorton was an instructor of Criminal Justice at Baton Rouge Community College for (5) five years. Mrs. Whorton holds a Master’s and bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Southern University and A&M College. Her foundation in teaching and her knowledge of credit has allowed

her to master the art of teaching all generations and become very successful.

Whorton Credit Institute motto is “Why repair your credit when you can get it right the first time?”

 Tonya Gordon Smith is a dedicated entrepreneur and community advocate based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She is the founder of 225 Sweets, a family-owned dessert company established in 2016 alongside her youngest daughter, Paige Antoine. The business originated from their shared passion for baking and offers a variety of dessert-flavored candied popcorn, pecan pralines, turtle brownies, peach cobbler, bread pudding, and cookies. Their products are available through their website, select local stores, and markets like the Mid City Makers Market.
In addition to 225 Sweets, Tonya is spearheading the development of Valley House Market, a grocery store aimed at addressing the food desert in the 70802 area of Baton Rouge. The market's mission is to provide fresh fruits, vegetables, and healthier food options to support a more active, healthier lifestyle. The store will feature specialized sections such as the "Wall of Freedom" for sugar-free and gluten-free items, the "Shop Local Wall" to support local small businesses, a "Grab N Go" refrigerated section with quick meals and snacks, and the "TRAINing Wall" dedicated to fitness-related products. 
Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, Tonya is actively involved in the community, serving on several nonprofit boards. Her commitment to social causes is evident in her efforts to alleviate food insecurity and support local businesses. Balancing her roles as a full-time employee, business owner, and community leader, Tonya exemplifies dedication and service to the Baton Rouge community.
Above all, Tonya is a loving mother to two adult daughters, a devoted friend, and a caring daughter. Her passion for entrepreneurship and service is deeply rooted in her love for family and community.