BIANCA CRAWFORD
Bianca Crawford – Summed up into one word, it is nothing short of POWERHOUSE. Born in Cleveland, OH, and hailing degrees in ‘Justice Studies’; ‘Criminology” and ‘Master of Human Development/Family Services’ this powerhouse is on a mission to change lives and pave the way for others to do the same -thus making her an undeniable household name.
As a Speaker, Teacher, Preacher, Mentor, Mother of 3, Wife, Entrepreneur, and Philanthropist, she does it all and is just getting started. Bianca Marie is currently the Founder of Motivated and Empowered Inc which is a nonprofit organization for girls across the globe. She is also the CEO of Purpose Consulting which help Faith Based Business Owners launch six-figure organizations and create sustainability. In the last 2 years, Bianca has helped start 255 Nonprofits, Secure 6.5 Million in grants and so much more. She is also the CEO of Bianca Marie Ministries and COO alongside her husband of Crawford Mortuary Transportation Services.
KOFI B.
From Akron to accolades, Kofi B., the 24-year-old Ohio-born 2x Emmy® Nominated pianist, producer, and actor, has captivated the world with his innovative approach to music and public speaking. His creative endeavors have resonated globally on social media, drawing the attention of millions. In 2018, Kofi won a Silver medal in the NAACP ACT-SO National Competition, joining the ranks alongside notable figures like actor Anthony Anderson, and songstresses Lauryn Hill, Jennifer Hudson, & Alicia Keys.
While music remains at the core of his artistic expression, Kofi’s achievements transcend the stage. In 2021, he established BlaBoak Ventures, his media production company, earning two Emmy® Nominations by 2022 for outstanding interviews and musical content produced under his company.
In 2022, Kofi clinched victory at the Apollo Theater’s “Amateur Night At The Apollo” Competition, earning the coveted official winner title and a $20,000 Grand Prize from the renowned theater.
DR. NICKY M. MILLER
Dr. Nicky M. Miller is a distinguished Social Impact Entrepreneur, Innovation Leader, and self-help author whose work empowers women and adolescents through inspiration and action. She is the visionary founder of I AM: Mirror Messages, a nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals master their mindset, harness their energy, and build their self-esteem through the transformative power of “I AM” affirmations and mindfulness.
In 2017, Dr. Miller made history as the first Chairwoman of Women in the NAACP for the Cleveland Branch, serving under President Judge Michael Nelson Sr. Her groundbreaking initiatives continued in 2019 with the launch of I AM Connected Trucking & Leadership Academy. This unique masterclass program, introduced as the first and only CDL program in a high school in Cleveland, Ohio, provides high school seniors with the opportunity to obtain their Class A CDL permit along with six endorsements, bridging education, and vocational training.
RAS ASAN
Ras Asan is a financial technology pioneer, investor, author, and co-founder honored in the Inc. 30 Under 30 list. A 2013 Morehouse graduate, Asan serves as the inaugural Entrepreneur-In-Residence for Cleveland’s Economic Development Department, bringing over 10 years of experience as a tech entrepreneur.
He and his team have raised over $1M in startup capital, creating $30M economic impact in Black communities. Ras is also a certified Unani Herbalist and released his first book, Heal Thy Hustle: Wellness Guide For Go-Getters, which has been studied at Xavier University of Louisiana, an HBCU. Every Thursday from 11a to noon, Ras Asan hosts the All Things Money radio show on WOVU 95.9 FM discussing wealth, wellness, access, and equity.
