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.
Rated 5/5 by 12,000 Students
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 a media executive, writer-director, executive producer, and nonprofit founder with over a decade of experience leading film, television, and storytelling initiatives across commercial, cultural, and social impact sectors. She holds an MBA in Media Management and a Bachelor of Arts from Manhattan College, pairing creative authorship with operational, financial, and organizational leadership.
Baldwin has written, directed, and produced narrative, documentary, and branded content for major studios and platforms including HBO, Disney/ABC Television, Hulu, OWN, and Onyx Collective. In 2023, she wrote and directed the BET Original Movie Blended Christmas, starring Jennifer Freeman and Victoria Rowell, leading the project from development through union production and distribution. She is currently in pre-production on her next feature film, Day After Christmas, which she also wrote and will direct, in partnership with Worldwide Entertainment and Television Productions.
Her professional credits include contributing to The Hair Tales (OWN/Hulu), executive produced by Tracee Ellis Ross and Oprah Winfrey, and serving as an associate producer on a large-scale spiritual wellness masterclass in collaboration with Mindful. In the branded and impact space, Baldwin has served as a lead producer on campaigns for Chevrolet, the African American Policy Forum’s Say Her Name initiative, and TheGrio, translating complex cultural narratives into high-visibility media.
Baldwin is the Founder and Executive Director of The Becoming Love Project, a storytelling-centered nonprofit organization advancing narrative-based approaches to mental health, healing, and identity development through film and community-based programming. As executive leader, she oversees organizational strategy, program design, partnerships, budgeting, and governance, bringing a producer’s discipline to nonprofit operations. Under her leadership, the organization develops scalable public programs, youth storytelling initiatives, and film-centered interventions designed for long-term impact.
Her work has screened at leading film festivals, including the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival, and has received awards from the Newark International Film Festival, International Black Film Festival, Austin Revolution Film Festival, and the Micheaux Film Festival. She is also the creator, writer, and co-director of the digital series Bubbly Brown Sugar, currently streaming on Tubi.
Baldwin is widely engaged as a speaker and advisor on storytelling, media, and narrative-driven approaches to cultural and social impact. She is recognized for her ability to build high-performing teams, steward complex initiatives, and translate authored vision into executable, fundable programs with national reach.
Treasurer
Bio
Alana Tucker serves as Treasurer with over 20 years of experience in financial and tax preparation services, supporting cheer programs and programs within the community through responsible financial management and dedicated service. She oversees budgeting, fundraising funds, and financial records to ensure transparency and accountability. Passionate about supporting youth and community initiatives, Alana is committed to helping programs thrive by managing resources carefully, accurately, and responsibly.
Secretary
Bio
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.
Membership Co-Chair
Bio
Genetta Gray is a proud South Carolina native whose life’s work is rooted in service, education, and empowerment. As the Founder and Visionary of The ‘Keys and Deeds’ Coalition, she leads with purpose, aiming to change the trajectory of underserved communities through strategic, cross-generational education focused on real estate ownership as a foundation for building generational wealth.
As a graduate of Benedict College, Genetta holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Science and brings a uniquely analytical and solution-oriented mindset to her work in both real estate and nonprofit leadership. She is a licensed Realtor in both North Carolina and South Carolina, where she has cultivated a reputation as a trusted advisor, negotiator, and advocate for equitable access to homeownership.
Genetta is also the author of The ‘Keys and Deeds’ Workbook to Homeownership, a practical guide designed to demystify the homebuying process and equip aspiring homeowners with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions. Through this educational tool, she extends her mission of empowerment beyond one-on-one consultations to reach a broader audience.
At the heart of her work is a passion for acts of service and a deep commitment to uplifting others through words of affirmation, mentorship, and tangible resources. As a mother of one, professional, and community advocate, Genetta is dedicated to building stronger, more resilient relationships – one interaction at a time.
Memberships Co-Chair
Bio
Angela (Anji) Young is Director of People & Culture with Fair Trade USA, where she champions inclusive and equitable workplace practices for a sustainable development non-profit organization based out of Oakland, CA.
Anji is a proud HBCU graduate of North Carolina Central University (‘06) and a dedicated member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. With experience in various board roles, ranging from NCCU’s Charlotte Alumni Association to non-profit advocacy in education, Anji is excited to join The Becoming Love Project to fulfill her continued mission of being a part of an environment that supports the intimacy of community through love and healing.
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.
Partnerships Co-Chair
Bio
Melissa Pauline is a triple-board-certified Nurse Practitioner, entrepreneur, and mental-health advocate dedicated to helping others live with intention, healing, and self-love. As the founder and CEO of Nouveaux U Wellness and Nouveaux U Behavioral Health, Melissa leads a team devoted to whole-person transformation through integrative wellness, hormone optimization, medical weight management, and compassionate behavioral-health care.
With over 20 years of experience in healthcare, Melissa blends her expertise in critical care, primary care, and psychiatry to deliver evidence-based, heart-centered care. Her work focuses on empowering high-capacity women—especially Black women and entrepreneurs—to overcome anxiety, ADHD, and burnout so they can thrive in both their personal and professional lives.
Melissa’s approach to healing is rooted in the belief that wellness is not just physical or mental, but deeply spiritual. Through her clinical work, community outreach, and podcast The Mindful Pivot, she creates spaces where people can pause, reflect, and reconnect with who they are becoming.
As a Becoming Love Fest Board Member, Melissa brings a holistic and trauma-informed perspective to the movement’s mission of self-discovery, authenticity, and radical love. Her leadership is shaped by resilience, faith, and a commitment to breaking generational cycles, helping others rewrite their stories and embrace growth from a place of grace. Beyond her professional work, Melissa is a devoted wife and mother of three boys. She draws inspiration from her personal journey of loss, healing, and renewal, which fuels her passion for guiding others toward wholeness and purpose. Grounded in empathy and guided by experience, Melissa continues to be a powerful voice for transformation and reminding others that becoming love begins with becoming yourself.
Marketing Co-Chair
Bio
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.
Marketing Co-Chair
Bio
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.
Sponsorship 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.
Sponsorship Co-Chair
Bio
Cecelia Waterman-Santiago is the owner and founder of Aveli Wellness, LLC., a wellness company that offers aromatherapy products and holistic wellness services. Cecelia is a Certified Yoga Teacher, an Aromatherapist, a Meditation Guide and a Reiki Master.
Most recently, Cecelia was the CEO of Culture Shifting Foundation, a nonprofit company created to narrow the racial inequality wealth gap in the United States. Prior to joining Culture Shifting Foundation, Cecelia was the CEO of House of Rising Sun, a nonprofit dedicated to the wellness of girls that have been sexually abused. House of Rising Sun is in the process of transitioning into a wellness center.
Cecelia spent over 20 years on Wall Street and held senior level roles at a number of investment advisory firms. While working on Wall Street, Cecelia demonstrated her love for holistic healing modalities by volunteering as a yoga instructor and reiki practitioner for sex trafficked girls housed at the JCCA Institution. Cecelia also shared her knowledge of finance by teaching the basics of investing to the public as a volunteer with the Evelyn Brust Foundation.
Cecelia has an M.B.A. from Fordham University and a B.S. from St. Lawrence University. She also has a Certified Investment Management Analyst designation from The Wharton School of Business at The University of Pennsylvania.
Sponsorship Co-Chair
Bio
Fundraising Chair
Bio
Millie Habtemariam, owner of Full Circle Salon & Full Circle Candles & Apothecary, brings over 43 years of experience in beauty and wellness. Known for her expertise in styling and her welcoming approach, she has built a reputation for exceptional service and eco-friendly products that nurture balance and well-being.
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!
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.
Programming Co-Chair
Bio
Alexis is the Clinical Director for the Counseling Center Group of New York. She has 15 years of experience providing clinical services to children and families. Alexis’ approach to treatment is creating a non-judgmental and validating environment that promotes cognitive and behavioral change.
Alexis has been intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) through Behavioral Tech. Additionally, she has been trained in the DBT modification for children (DBT-C), also through Behavioral Tech. While well versed in DBT practice, Alexis is also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and Prolonged Exposure. She has extensive experience working with children and adults who have experienced trauma. Having worked in the child welfare field for over 10 years, Alexis has worked with various types of traumas. This includes sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse and child sex trafficking and exploitation. She has also integrated DBT practice into 5 child welfare programs. Prior to her work in the child welfare field, Alexis provided addiction counseling to adolescents and adults.
Alexis graduated from Union College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Neuroscience and received her Master’s degree in Social Work from Fordham University. Alexis also is an adjunct professor at both Fordham University and SUNY Stony Brook teaching clinical classes to Master’s level students. These classes include CBT, Trauma, Suicide Assessment and Prevention, and Child and Adolescent Development. In addition to her teaching role at both schools, she is a trainer at Fordham and Stony Brook. Alexis trains other licensed professionals on various diagnoses and treatment modalities. She also consults for a not-for-profit agency that provides treatment for children and adolescents who have experienced sex trafficking and exploitation.
Alexis resides in the suburbs of NYC raising her two children and spending quality time with her family.
Marketing Co-Chair
Bio
Programming Co-Chair
Bio
Natisha Ettiene is a devoted wife, mother of two, and lifelong advocate for education, service, and meaningful connection. Originally from New York and now rooted in Douglasville, Georgia, her journey has been shaped by a deep commitment to compassion, purpose, and creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and empowered. She spent 17 years as an educator, supporting children and families with intention and care. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Child Psychology and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership—training that continues to guide her work in empowering others and leading with purpose beyond the classroom.
Today, Natisha serves the Metro Atlanta area as a dedicated Real Estate Advisor, walking alongside individuals and families as they navigate important life transitions, offering guidance and education to empower them in every step. She remains actively involved in her community through leadership roles with local schools and her neighborhood, consistently seeking opportunities to give back and strengthen the spaces where families grow.
Natisha is honored to serve as a Programming Chair for The Becoming Love Project, where her heart for service and passion for education align with a mission rooted in compassion, connection, and collective growth.
Programming Co-Chair
Bio
JQue Ellis is a serial entreprenuer, creative strategist, business coach, and community-focused leader committed to helping individuals and organizations move with clarity, intention, and purpose. She is the founder of Empowering Excellence Coaching and Consulting Firm, a brand that supports leaders, creatives, and mission-driven organizations through education, strategic guidance, narrative development, and sustainable systems. With a background in media, production, and brand consulting, JQue is known for her ability to translate complex ideas into accessible, people-centered solutions. Her work emphasizes emotional intelligence, thoughtful communication, and long-term impact, particularly within spaces that value authenticity, healing, and community connection. JQue’s approach blends structure with creativity, offering support that honors both vision and execution. She is especially drawn to initiatives that center shared humanity, elevate diverse perspectives, and encourage intentional growth. Through her work, she consistently champions the idea that leadership rooted in clarity and compassion creates meaningful, lasting change. Her alignment with Becoming Love Project reflects a shared commitment to community, creativity, and the practice of love as an intentional, active force.
Treasurer
Bio
Shannon has over 15 years of experience in banking, finance, and wealth management. As a Chief Strategy Officer for a financial planning and wealth management firm, she specializes developing and executing comprehensive strategies to drive organizational growth, innovation, and operational excellence. She also leads initiatives to expand market reach and enhance overall business performance.
Shannon is a proud graduate of Florida A&M University, where she earned her bachelor’s in business administration. Shannon resides in Atlanta with her husband of almost 11 years, and their 2 spunky kids (ages 8 and 4). When she’s not cuddled up on the couch with her family or at a dance competition for her daughter, Shannon enjoys being out in her community and meeting new faces every day! She’s able to do this through her parent leadership roles at her children’s schools and supporting other non-profit organizations that she loves.
