Meet Our Founding
Board
The Becoming Love Project is guided by a dedicated group of passionate individuals who share a common goal: to inspire healing, connection, and transformation through the power of love and storytelling. Our Board of Directors brings together diverse talents, unwavering commitment, and a shared belief in the profound impact of this mission.
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Leadership Team
The heart of the Becoming Love Project lies in the collective vision of our founding board members. These remarkable women and men have come together to bring a God-given mission to life, leveraging their unique skills and experiences to foster growth and meaningful change. As the cornerstone of our organization, their leadership drives every initiative, ensuring our work reflects the values of love, compassion, and community.
Founding Chair
Bio
Tamala Baldwin is the founding chair of The Becoming Love Project, a nonprofit media organization she established to harness the transformative power of storytelling. Launched in 2016 as an online conference called 14 Hours of Love, the project has evolved into a dynamic platform committed to inspiring self-love, healing, and personal growth. In 2024, Tamala relaunched The Becoming Love Project as a nonprofit with a bold mission: to create a space where individuals can share their personal stories and experience deep, transformative healing through creative expression.
As a filmmaker, writer, and creative visionary, Tamala has seen firsthand how media can shape individuals and communities. Drawing from her own journey of healing and personal growth, she is dedicated to empowering others—especially those from underrepresented voices—to use storytelling as a tool for transformation. Under her leadership, the nonprofit is focused on bridging the gap between personal development and the power of media, providing a nurturing environment for emerging storytellers. Through writing, filmmaking, and other creative forms, The Becoming Love Project encourages self-expression and fosters collective healing.
The project recognizes the urgent need for a shift in consciousness, especially in light of the events of recent years. In response, The Becoming Love Project offers a space for personal narratives to be heard, creative expression to flourish, and healing to take place. By empowering individuals to share their stories, the organization is paving the way for a collective transformation that begins with love, understanding, and authenticity.
Tamala Baldwin’s work as a director and producer further complements the mission of The Becoming Love Project. Her credits span HBO, Disney/ABC Television, and Hulu. In 2023, Tamala made her directorial debut with Blended Christmas, a holiday film starring Jennifer Freeman, Victoria Rowell, and Anthony Dalton, streaming now on BET+. Tamala’s vision for the nonprofit is rooted in her belief that storytelling—whether in film, writing, or other mediums—holds the profound power to change lives, uplift communities, and foster a more compassionate world.
Through The Becoming Love Project, Tamala is leading the charge to inspire a global movement of love, one story at a time, while continuing her work as a passionate advocate for personal and collective transformation.
Community Co-Chair
Bio
Tene Manning, who resides in the Greater Atlanta Metro area, is a distinguished educator and leader in Career and Tech Education with Gwinnett County Public Schools. With a robust background in education leadership, marketing, project management, and small business development, Tene brings a wealth of experience to her role as the Community Outreach Chair for Becoming Love. Her commitment to fostering collaboration and driving transformative growth aligns seamlessly with the organization’s mission to empower individuals and communities through love, creativity and support.
Originally from San Jose, California, Tene earned her Bachelor of Science Marketing degree from Hampton University, followed by a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. These academic achievements laid a strong foundation for her career, where she specialized in marketing, project management and small business development for over 13 years before transitioning into education in 2014.
Recently earning a Coaching Endorsement, Tene currently serves as a Marketing and Entrepreneurship Educator, Marketing Content Lead and Marketing Education Cluster Coach for Gwinnett County Public Schools. Additionally, Tene is an Ambassador for the Teach Empowered program, where she facilitates workshops and training sessions, both in-person and online, aimed at enhancing educational practices and promoting entrepreneurship among educators and students alike. Tene also integrates co-curricular programs like DECA and Teach Empowered into her curriculum, providing students with practical experiences that bridge classroom learning with real-world applications.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Tene is a devoted wife and mother of three. She cherishes family time and has a zest for life that includes traveling, reading, enjoying live music, participating in wine tastings, and exploring new culinary experiences. Her creative pursuits led her to author a children’s book titled “What is God’s Favorite Color,” under the pseudonym Thelma Elizabeth (the names of both paternal and maternal grandmothers), reflecting her belief in the power of storytelling to inspire and empower young minds.
Tene’s role as Co-Community Outreach Chair for Becoming Love is a testament to her passion for community service and empowerment. In her capacity as Community Outreach Co-Chair, Tene envisions expanding Becoming Love’s impact by building robust partnerships with local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations. Tene’s multifaceted background, encompassing education, business development, and community service, positions her uniquely to help lead Becoming Love’s outreach efforts.
Secretary
Bio
Programming Co-Chair
Bio
Robyn Hill is a speaker, author, licensed therapist, and personal growth teacher with a personal focus on Emotional Wellness and Soul-Care. Robyn studied at Ashland Theological Seminary, where she obtained a Master of Arts in Clinical Pastoral Counseling and received her license as a Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) from the State of Ohio. She is currently a doctoral candidate (Ed.D.) at Liberty University, studying Community Care & Counseling with a focus in Traumatology. With over 16 years of clinical experience, Robyn has worked with all populations from single mothers, families, youth, alcohol and drug recovery, Religious Clergy, and Executive Professionals. In 2011, she started her own private practice where she provides culturally and spiritually sensitive counseling and workshops specializing in depression, anxiety, and trauma recovery. She is also very involved in the Northeast Ohio communities, providing workshops, trainings, and serving as keynote speaker to various institutions focused on improving the mental health of their populations, and taught as an adjunct professor at Cleveland State University. Robyn is an active member of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS) and is a cofounder of the Professional Black Christian Therapist Network (PBCTN), a professional organization that supports the development of private practices and provides supportive services to churches and ministries across the country. Additionally, she has authored 3 books, is the founder of the Great Lakes Black Authors organization and has newly launched SuccessInBalance.com an online wellness publication for leaders and entrepreneurs.
Doris is extremely passionate about the Pinke Loved Institute’s primary programs: “Sista I Got You”, which is a sisterhood focused on the development of meaningful friendships, women’s empowerment/encouragement and participating in unique bond-building activities, and the “REFESHED” Yoga, where she provides individual, group and/or community mindfulness and meditation sessions. Doris also uses her social media platforms to engage, encourage and elevate thousands on a weekly basis. She has been a frequent speaker in many arenas and her partial client list includes but is not limited to the following: Federal TRiO Programs, Fulton County Schools (Ga), The “I’m Possible Institute,” Raising Be.You.tiful Butterflies, the South Fulton Arrow Youth Council, 2020 Enterprises, and the “Relationship Advice for Women,” Facebook group. She is also a frequent guest on social media platforms, and other media, such as Sisters Empowerment Movement and the Sisters Empowerment Network. Her community service includes the following: Facilitating and founding of the Parents of Langston Hughes High School Facebook page, Top Contributor to the Black Women’s Divorce Group, and partnering with Sisterhood-On-The-Go to provide public service throughout the community. Doris also released her first self-published book “REFRESHED”: A Journey of Reflections and Connections in June 2022. She is currently working on her second literary offering with hopes to release by the end of 2025.
A native of Atlanta, Georgia, and a proud graduate of Tennessee State University (BA) and University of Phoenix (MMgt), Doris is the proud mother of three children, all of whom are pursuing individual passions, and are servant leaders in their own right. She is a member of Southlake Church of Christ in Morrow, GA where she serves as a core member of the Women’s Ministry.
Marketing Co-Chair
Bio
Naiyana Johnson is a devoted wife, mother of five, entrepreneur, and lover of creativity. Originally from the Bronx, New York, she grew up frequenting the vibrant art hubs of Manhattan and Hunts Point. Immersed in tap, jazz, and ballet while attending a STEM/Arts school, Naiyana was inspired at a young age to push the boundaries of her creativity to reflect the dynamic world she experienced.
Her passion for creativity led her to Savannah State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication with a concentration in Television and Radio Production, along with a minor in Africana Studies.
Throughout her life, Naiyana has balanced her entrepreneurial pursuits with a career in education. As an educator, she found her true calling, dedicating herself to enriching the lives of her students and fostering a vibrant school culture. Working exclusively in socioeconomically disadvantaged schools, she prioritized exposing students to diverse ideologies, perspectives, and experiences through carefully curated cultural events. Her role as a project manager and event coordinator for numerous school-wide initiatives allowed her to develop key leadership skills that have since fueled her entrepreneurial journey.
After the birth of her youngest child, Naiyana took a leap of faith to focus full-time on her custom cakes and desserts business. Her dedication paid off, leading to full-time success. Acting as the sole force behind her businesses’ marketing and public relations efforts, she created targeted campaigns that significantly boosted sales and brand visibility.
The success of these campaigns ignited a new passion for helping other businesses with their marketing, public relations, and overall branding strategies. By understanding the connection between a brand’s identity and its audience, Naiyana has been able to assist several businesses in enhancing their brand presence and driving sales.
As her personal and professional relationships continue to flourish, Naiyana is thrilled to contribute her expertise, support, and enthusiasm to The Becoming Love Project. With exciting opportunities unfolding in 2025, she looks forward to making an even greater impact.
Sponsorship Co-Chair
Bio
Marketing Co-Chair
Bio
Doris “Pinke Loved” Pinkett is the founder and visionary of the “Pinke Loved Institute,” an institute focused on equipping, empowering, and educating women in areas that impact their personal lives and family structure, and where she empowers individuals to live their best PINKE lives (Purposeful, Inspiring, Nurturing, Knowledgeable and Empowered). A Speaker, Women’s Empowerment Coach, Trainer, Certified Divorce Recovery Coach, Parent and Community Engagement Facilitator, and recently Certified Yoga Instructor and Social Emotional Learning Facilitator, Doris is passionate about helping women in general, and single and divorced women in particular, meet everyday life challenges, enhance their lives, their children’s lives, and maximize their purpose.
Doris is extremely passionate about the Pinke Loved Institute’s primary programs: “Sista I Got You”, which is a sisterhood focused on the development of meaningful friendships, women’s empowerment/encouragement and participating in unique bond-building activities, and the “REFESHED” Yoga, where she provides individual, group and/or community mindfulness and meditation sessions. Doris also uses her social media platforms to engage, encourage and elevate thousands on a weekly basis. She has been a frequent speaker in many arenas and her partial client list includes but is not limited to the following: Federal TRiO Programs, Fulton County Schools (Ga), The “I’m Possible Institute,” Raising Be.You.tiful Butterflies, the South Fulton Arrow Youth Council, 2020 Enterprises, and the “Relationship Advice for Women,” Facebook group. She is also a frequent guest on social media platforms, and other media, such as Sisters Empowerment Movement and the Sisters Empowerment Network. Her community service includes the following: Facilitating and founding of the Parents of Langston Hughes High School Facebook page, Top Contributor to the Black Women’s Divorce Group, and partnering with Sisterhood-On-The-Go to provide public service throughout the community. Doris also released her first self-published book “REFRESHED”: A Journey of Reflections and Connections in June 2022. She is currently working on her second literary offering with hopes to release by the end of 2025.
A native of Atlanta, Georgia, and a proud graduate of Tennessee State University (BA) and University of Phoenix (MMgt), Doris is the proud mother of three children, all of whom are pursuing individual passions, and are servant leaders in their own right. She is a member of Southlake Church of Christ in Morrow, GA where she serves as a core member of the Women’s Ministry.
Marketing Co-Chair
Bio
Lauren aka Laur’e Pen is a multifaceted artist, music professional, and passionate advocate for social justice, currently based in Atlanta, Georgia. Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, Lauren has spent over 10 years in the music industry, building a diverse career that spans singing, songwriting, music production, and post-production for TV and broadcasting.
Her journey began with a love for music that quickly evolved into professional work. As a celebrated background singer, Lauren has had the honor of performing alongside top celebrities and touring internationally, gaining a unique perspective on the music industry and honing her vocal talents. But her expertise extends far beyond singing—she is also a skilled music producer and arranger with a deep passion for crafting meaningful lyrics and melodies across a wide range of genres.
A proud graduate of SAE Institute of Atlanta with a degree in Audio Engineering, Lauren has placed several jingles on local radio stations, reached thousands of listeners through viral music videos on social media, and built a solid reputation as a go-to professional in the music industry.
In addition to her creative work, Lauren is deeply committed to advocacy and social change. She is a strong voice for mental health awareness, recognizing the importance of breaking the stigma and encouraging open conversations about mental well-being. Lauren advocates for domestic violence awareness, using her platform to educate, support, and empower those affected by abuse. As a champion for the empowerment of black women, she strives to amplify the voices of marginalized communities, promoting equal opportunities and representation in both the creative industries and beyond.
With a positive outlook on life, Lauren is a go-getter who continues to inspire others through her work, advocacy, and personal growth. Focused on cultivating a healthy lifestyle and expanding her artistic brand, she remains committed to using her platform to create meaningful change, support others, and build a lasting legacy of empowerment.
Programming Co-Chair
Bio
Gerri Aldridge is an event planner, actor, author, retired special education teacher, and a 25-year breast cancer survivor. She is a co-author in “His Grace is Sufficient” where she gives advice on how to triumph after tragedy and Gerri’s a co-author in the bestselling books “Her Story” and “Her Story too”. In these books, she candidly speaks about the struggles from the loss of a child and being bullied as a young girl growing up in the inner city. Gerri is passionate about inspiring others to live their best life! Gerri is currently working on a project that will provide other breast cancer survivors with a platform for telling their stories. She holds Med. degrees from Temple University and University of West Georgia.
She is a leader within her family, the community, and her church, “Word of Faith Family Worship Center”. Using real life experiences, Gerri provides inspiration to everyone she encounters. If you need a speaker who has the special talent for inspiring others to reach their highest level of satisfaction from life, she is your person!
She was appointed to the Cobb County Historic Preservation Committee several years ago by Lisa Cupid, the current chair of Cobb County Commissioners in Georgia and is a past member of the Ministry of Education at Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral, headed by Bishop Dale C. Bronner.
Before the pandemic, Gerri volunteered as an English Second Language (ESOL) teacher for the Catholic Charities of Atlanta. She is the HOA president of the Silver Creek subdivision in Georgia and has dedicated many hours as a CASA worker for the Juvenile Justice Court in Cobb County. Gerri enjoys
planning events both small and large, writing, acting, cooking, community involvement and uplifting the spirits of others!
Community Co-Chair
Bio
Shalèt Monique is a multi-faceted Afro-Cuban actress, stunt-woman, writer, producer, and mental health advocate who is quickly making her mark in the entertainment industry. Known for her ability to infuse truth, depth, and authenticity into every role, Shalèt brings a refreshing energy to the screen. Whether she’s delivering a heartfelt performance or taking on daring physical stunts, she captivates audiences with her undeniable talent and infectious personality.
A rising star, Shalèt has showcased her impressive range in some high-profile projects. She is set to appear in Tyler Perry’s upcoming Netflix feature Straw, and she’s been seen in standout roles in HBO’s We Own This City, BET Her’s The Pink Fight, and the Marvel blockbuster Wakanda Forever. Shalèt’s commitment to her craft and her ability to create dynamic, multi-dimensional characters has made her a standout.
Beyond her work in front of the camera, Shalèt is a passionate advocate for mental health, especially within underrepresented communities. She dedicates much of her time to community outreach, focusing on supporting youth with special needs and disabilities. Her work as a producer and writer also reflects her desire to tell diverse and meaningful stories that resonate with audiences on a deeper level. With a fearless spirit, an unwavering dedication to her craft, and a genuine drive to make a positive impact, Shalèt Monique is one of the most exciting up-and-coming talents to watch in Hollywood today. Whether she’s acting, producing, or giving back to her community, Shalèt’s dynamic presence and commitment to making a difference set her apart as an artist and advocate.
Marketing Co-Chair
Bio
Sponsorship Co-Chair
Bio
Kerlyne Hyppolite’s life is a testament to the power of determination, growth, and the deep desire to give back to her community. Born in Haiti and immigrating to New York City at a young age, her journey has been one of both personal and professional transformation, rooted in her passion for education, healthcare, and leadership.
Kerlyne’s academic foundation began with a Bachelor’s of Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting. She spent 14 years in the financial district of New York City, gaining invaluable experience in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment. However, as she continued to grow, she discovered a new calling—one that would deeply align with her desire to make a tangible impact on people’s lives. This led her to pursue a career in nursing, where she could combine her sharp analytical skills with her compassion for others.
After earning her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, Kerlyne began her nursing career in Obstetrics at NewYork-Presbyterian Cornell, where she helped first-time parents care for their newborns. In this role, she found fulfillment in providing crucial education and guidance during one of the most transformative times in people’s lives. Her role as a mentor in this setting—helping new parents navigate the complexities of caring for their infants—marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to teaching and empowering others.
Her career in nursing didn’t stop at bedside care. Driven by her commitment to leadership and advancing nursing practice, she earned a Master’s degree in Nurse Leadership from Columbia University. This advanced degree allowed her to step into leadership roles, including her current position as a nurse leader at NYU Orthopedic Hospital. In this role, Kerlyne works to shape and guide nursing practice, ensuring that the next generation of nurses is equipped with the skills, knowledge, and critical thinking abilities they need to provide the best care possible.
Kerlyne’s passion for education extends beyond the hospital setting. As a certified Basic Life Support (BLS) instructor, she teaches healthcare providers how to effectively respond in emergency situations. Additionally, she has taught clinical nursing at Columbia University, passing on her years of experience and wisdom to aspiring nurses. This commitment to teaching and mentoring is central to her philosophy: that education is not just about knowledge acquisition, but about instilling values, building confidence, and empowering others to take on leadership roles themselves.
On her days off, Kerlyne gives back to her community by teaching healthcare classes at a local senior citizens center. Here, she is able to share her expertise with older adults, helping them manage their health, understand important medical concepts, and lead healthier lives. This dedication to lifelong learning and education demonstrates Kerlyne’s belief that everyone, regardless of age or background, deserves access to quality education and healthcare. Balancing these many roles—mother, nurse, educator, and advocate—can be challenging, but Kerlyne thrives on it. Her ability to juggle her professional commitments with her family life speaks to her strong sense of purpose and her unwavering commitment to both her career and her loved ones. She believes that her experiences as a mother and nurse leader complement each other, each role enhancing her ability to mentor, guide, and support others in their personal and professional growth.
At the core of Kerlyne’s journey is her deep commitment to advocating for education, healthcare, and empowerment. She is a passionate leader, mentor, and advocate, constantly working to improve the lives of those around her. Whether it is guiding first-time parents through the early stages of parenthood, teaching nursing students to be the best professionals they can be, or empowering older adults to take control of their health, Kerlyne’s impact is profound and lasting. Through her work and dedication, Kerlyne exemplifies what it means to be a lifelong learner and an unwavering advocate for those she serves. Her commitment to education and leadership continues to inspire those around her, and she remains a shining example of what it means to give back, to mentor, and to empower others on their own paths to success.
Sponsorships Co-Chair
Bio
Jacqueline is a trailblazing social innovator and best-selling co-author of Joy 365. Jacqueline’s work has inspired people around the country and taken impact on investing from a pulling teeth concept to a rewarding phenomenon of making the world better for everyone.
Jacqueline’s introduction to fundraising began in 1998 working as an Administrative Assistant for INNterim Housing Corporation. INNterim was a transitional housing shelter for women with children. It was there that she discovered the importance of helping others achieve those goals. She saw the benefits of building relationships and uplifting the community. For Jacqueline, the fundraising bug had a hold onto her, and she developed a passion for improving lives. Jacqueline left INNterim in 2000, only to return in 2014 as the Business Manager. In that role, she began to interact with key Board members and gained so much knowledge on the art of fundraising. Jacqueline holds various events with regards to raising funds, such as costume karaoke, political events, and talent shows. The best part was having the clients at INNterim participate (both women and children). The events were so much fun, and it was a great opportunity for the clients and Board members to engage with each other. Each event became more successful over time.
Jacqueline is a person which shows in her career path. Jacqueline has been the Host/Creator of Intimate Connectionz podcast since 2017, where she provides relationship tips and shine the spotlight on various creators. She is also a cofounder of Baltimore’s Black Wall Street. Baltimore’s Black Wall Street recognizes business owners, activists, community leaders, politicians etc. for making an impact on the community they serve. As cofounder of Baltimore’s Black Wall Street, Jacqueline provides awards based on the Business Owner’s career path. Jackie’s motto is that everyone deserves to be recognized no matter how big or small their accomplishments are.
Jacqueline has been featured in several publications such as NY weekly, Los Angeles times, and other publications. In 2019, Jacqueline was featured on The Times Square Today show and interviewed by Emmy Award winner Nick Nanton. She was so honored, and the interview was live in Times Square, and Jackie’s name was featured on the Hard Rock Café’ marquee. Also in 2019, Jackie was awarded the Expy Award for Media and Communications, and Senator Ben Cardin award for Business/Community Development.
Jackie loves to do karaoke and dance in her spare time. She loves partying because it’s a great way to build relationships because it’s a much friendlier environment without pressure. In 2023, Jackie went hiking for the first time and fell in love with nature. Jackie now leads a hiking group of 15 people at various locations in Maryland, and it’s such an amazing learning experience. Jackie’s zest for living your best life began at the age of 20. Everyday is a great day to learn and inspire.
Co-Secretary
Bio
Star is a multifaceted creative, entrepreneur, actress, author, and filmmaker based in Atlanta, GA. As the founder of Piink Productions, she specializes in crafting compelling short films across various genres. With a background in digital cinematography from Full Sail University, Star brings a keen eye for storytelling to every project she undertakes.
Beyond filmmaking, she is also a music artist, blending her passion for creativity into multiple forms of expression. Dedicated to empowering women, and making a difference in the world. With a strong vision and a relentless drive, Star is on a mission to build her brand and leave a lasting impact in the entertainment industry and beyond.
Programming Co-Chair
Bio
Mental Health Therapist | Coach | Consultant | Author
Tracey Babb-Morman, MS, LCMHCA, is a dedicated mental health professional with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals and families through counseling, program management, and advocacy. As the founder of Tranquil Transitions Counseling & Consulting PLLC, she specializes in women’s issues, trauma-informed care, betrayal trauma, anxiety, and somatic/nervous system regulation.
Tracey’s commitment to mental wellness extends beyond her practice. She is the author of Healing from Betrayal for Black Women, a guide to resilience and self-restoration. Inspired by the mission of Becoming Love, she is honored to serve on the board, contributing her expertise in program development and holistic well-being. She is passionate about empowering individuals to take ownership of their healing journey and cultivate lives rooted in emotional and psychological wellness.