Sponsored By
Prayer
Lady Alissa Hampton
Welcome
Lady Jade & Lady Nia Butler
Brunch is Served
Debutante Performance
Lady Teriesa Tucker
Panel Discussion – Unraveling Superwoman
Pastor Sheryl Brady
Melissa Fredericks
Sarah Jakes Roberts
Sanya Richards- Ross
Moderator: Lady Jade
Award Ceremony
2024 Women of the Year
Distinctively Her Recap Video
Debutante Performance
Lady Jurnie Tonic
Debutante Scholarship Fund
Debutante Performance
Lady Demi Johnson
Closing Remarks
Sarah Jakes Roberts
Mrs. Serita A. Jakes – Host
Mrs. Serita A. Jakes is an author, speaker and visionary. She serves alongside her husband, Bishop T. D. Jakes of the legendary Dallas-based church, The Potter’s House. Mrs. Jakes is the founder and visionary for the nationally acclaimed Distinctively Debs Program for academically astute girls.
A gifted writer, Mrs. Jakes released her first book, The Princess Within, in 1999. In 2003, Warner Faith published Jakes’ second book, Beside Every Good Man: Loving Myself While Standing By Him and in 2011, she released her third book, a novel, The Crossing, which tackles such issues as domestic violence, trauma and post traumatic stress syndrome. The Princess Within has now been adapted to a teen edition for girls ages, 12-15 entitled, The Princess Within for Teens. In 2014, she released The Princess Within for Teens to rave reviews and awards. The revised edition addresses contemporary issues that many “tween” and teen girls experience including bullying, peer pressure and social media.
Mrs. Jakes’ biblically-grounded knowledge allows her to share with believers and non-believers alike through appearances on The Dr. Phil Show, CNN, Oprah’s Next Chapter and Fox News. She also has been profiled in such notable publications as Ebony, The Washington Post, Essence and Rolling Out. A loving wife, mother and grandmother, Mrs. Jakes and her husband have five children and eight grandchildren.
Lady Jade – Emcee
Over the past two decades, Jade Burrowes (professionally known as Lady Jade) won the hearts of millions of listeners as a radio personality and co-host of nationally syndicated morning radio show “DeDe in the Morning” on K104FM. Each morning Jade’s iconic voice was heard in over 70 radio markets across the U.S. During her tenure at K104FM she had the opportunity to interview countless celebrities, including Will Smith, Megan the Stallion, Cardi B, Nicki Minaj, Kevin Hart and more. There is no interview that ‘Radios Sweetheart’ can’t handle.
Off the radio, Jade’s energetic personality has made her the perfect host for events such as the Black Girl Magic Summit Tour, Habitat for Humanity Women Build Virtual Conference, Boss Woman of the Year, church & community events and more. She also has the ability to moderate events with more hardcore topics such as diversity and inclusion and wealth empowerment.
Lady Jade has now seamlessly transitioned into hosting and moderating events nationally as well as expanding her talents to television and other platforms.
Sheryl Brady
A pastor, lecturer and recording artist, Pastor Sheryl Brady has traveled extensively around the globe for more than 40 years.
Born and raised in Detroit, Pastor Brady has a distinctive message delivery, which people from all walks of life can relate to. This has allowed her to be a featured speaker on the Women of Faith tours as well as frequent guest on television networks such as the CBN, TBN and Daystar. Known for her practical and relevant use of scriptures, Pastor Brady has also been featured as a columnist for The Washington Post, Fox News and other nationally recognized publications.
She is the author of the book entitled You Have It In You! Empowered To Do The Impossible and her latest release, Don’t Miss The Moment.
As a featured conference speaker Pastor Brady has also had the privilege of speaking at some of the nation’s largest conferences including the internationally acclaimed MegaFest, Woman Thou Art Loosed and Woman Evolve.
Pastor Brady serves as the pastor of The Potter’s House of North Dallas. Founded by Bishop T.D. and Mrs. Serita Jakes, TPHND is a progressive body of believers affecting change in the North Dallas area.
Although Pastor’s travels have taken her around the world, home and family are her number one destination. Ministry is a family affair for the Brady family. Pastor Brady and her husband, Bishop Joby Brady, have three daughters Lana, Tina and Nina, and nine grandchildren all serving in ministry and the marketplace
Melissa Fredericks
Melissa Fredericks, most widely known as MrsKevOnStage, is a multifaceted, multitalented influencer and mogul. With her quick wit, girl-next-door relatability, and thoughtful wisdom, she has made a name for herself in entertainment.
In the literary world, she, along with her husband KevOnStage, has proven herself as a force to be reckoned with by becoming the New York Times bestselling author of the relationship phenomenon, Marriage Be Hard.
In the ever-popular podcast arena, Melissa uses her voice to captivate audiences with her
stimulating commentary and refreshing humor as co-host of Marriage Be Hard, The Bald and the Beautiful, and absolute fan favorite, Gin and Juice. Gin and Juice is the sister-girl good time that her listeners never knew they needed! Melissa (juice) and Mel (gin) are real life sisters who bless all who tune in with their delightful banter about everything and nothing. Melissa is the hilarious big sister of the duo.
Across social media platforms, Melissa has garnered an impressive following of over a half
million supporters. From home décor to make-up tutorials, to GRWM shorts to vacation vlogs, and more, she has established herself as a top influencer by sharing all things Melissa. But wait. There’s more! Melissa also thrives as an entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and gives Steve Harvey a run for his money as a game show host with stellar comedic timing! She lives in LA with her husband, Kevin, 2 sons, Isaiah and Josiah, and the star of the family, their dog Monty.
Sarah Jakes Roberts
SARAH JAKES ROBERTS is an author, speaker, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. She is the founder of Woman Evolve, a multi-media platform that provides women with the tools, support, and encouragement necessary to make positive and lasting changes. Through various resources such as digital and live events, books, podcasts, and online content, Woman Evolve seeks to address the holistic needs of women and empower them to lead fulfilling and impactful lives.
Alongside her husband, Touré Roberts, she copastors at ONE Los Angeles and serves in leadership at The Potter’s House Dallas. Her messages spread throughout the world, defying cultural, religious, gender, and socioeconomic boundaries. With her down-to-earth personality, contemporary style, and revelatory messages, there’s no question why Time100 Next named her an emerging thought leader for this generation.
Sanya Richards-Ross
Sanya Richards-Ross, is a retired Jamaican-American track and field athlete celebrated for her exceptional speed in the 400 meters event. She represented Jamaica in the 2004 Olympics, winning a gold medal in the 4x400 meter relay. Later, Richards-Ross competed for the United States, earning five Olympic medals, including an individual gold in the 400 meters at the 2012 London Olympics.
Off the track, Sanya Richards-Ross is recognized for her philanthropy, advocacy work, and literary contributions. Utilizing her platform, she champions young athletes, particularly women, and actively participates in charitable endeavors. Following her retirement from professional competition, Richards-Ross has diversified her career into broadcasting and entrepreneurship. As a sports commentator and fashion entrepreneur, she continues to inspire and influence audiences within and beyond the realm of track and field. Sanya is married to Aaron Ross, a former NFL cornerback, and together they have embarked on the journey of parenthood, raising two children.
2024 Empowering Our Women Award
Patricia Adams-Williams
Chief Executive Officer, American Care Academy
Patricia Adams Williams is a well-known figure in the fields of education, child development, and community service. In 2001, she founded the American Care Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides educational support, assistance, and training to families and children. Patricia recognized the need for comprehensive care and guidance for children in the community and took steps to positively impact their lives. In 2002, she established the American Care Academy, where she currently serves as the CEO, overseeing its growth and evolution into a vital resource for numerous families in Dallas, Texas. The Academy primarily focuses on early childhood development programs and has earned a reputation as an essential part of the Tenth Street Historic District community, fostering young children's learning, growth, and development.
Under Patricia's leadership, the American Care Foundation introduced Precious Jewels, a program designed for girls aged 8 to 12 inspired by First Lady Serita Jakes' Distinctly Debutante Program. The Precious Jewels Program aims to inspire and instill a desire for young girls to become a Distinctly Debutante, and it also provides tailored mentorship and etiquette classes. It creates a nurturing environment where every participant is esteemed as a precious jewel, entitled to quality education, empowered self-confidence, and the ability to pursue their passions in a safe and supportive setting. Through partnerships with local organizations, the program strives to lay the foundation for these young girls to emerge as resilient and thriving leaders of tomorrow.
Patricia firmly believes in equal opportunities for all children and advocates for access to quality education, care, and support, regardless of their background or circumstances. Patricia Adams Williams is a well-known figure in the fields of education, child development, and community service. In 2001, she founded the American Care Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides educational support, assistance, and training to families and children. Patricia recognized the need for comprehensive care and guidance for children in the community and took steps to impact their lives positively. In 2002, she established the American Care Academy, where she currently serves as the CEO, overseeing its growth and evolution into a vital resource for numerous families in Dallas, Texas. The Academy primarily focuses on early childhood development programs and has earned a reputation as an essential part of the Tenth Street Historic District community, fostering young children's learning, growth, and development.
Patricia firmly believes in equal opportunities for all children and advocates for access to quality education, care, and support, regardless of their background or circumstances. Patricia has a beautiful daughter, Megan, who resides in Dallas, Texas, after graduating from Baylor University.
2024 Enriching Her Community Award
Rebecca Clark
Founder, Witty Kids
Rebecca Clark, the visionary behind Witty Kids, channels her passion and creativity to nurturing young minds, inspiring career exploration, and fostering imagination. As a mother of two, she feels a deep calling to create books that ignite children's curiosity and reveal the realm of endless possibilities. Through self-publishing and founding Witty Kids as a platform for creativity to flourish, Rebecca engages students in creative writing and STEM focused activities. She speaks passionately about shaping futures and instilling essential skills.
Rebecca’s community work extends into schools and organizations where she shares her professional and entrepreneur journey. She has worked with Dallas Broadway, Dallas AT&T Performing Arts Center, Skyline High School and Dallas Arboretum to name a few.
Beyond Witty Kids, Rebecca extends her creativity to small businesses and events. She currently host monthly kids programming called Witty Kids Discovery Walks at Legacy West in Plano, TX. Having a positive impact on education, she aims to enhance youth literacy through partnerships. Rebecca graduated from Southeast Missouri State University with a B.S. in Business Technology and Lindenwood University with a Master's degree in Communications.
Rebecca has one slogan, “When Imagination Talks to You, unlock your inner potential.”
2024 Educating Her Youth
Janeen Uzzell
Chief Executive Officer, National Society of Black Engineers
Janeen Uzzell is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), the largest Black STEM community impacting society and industry.
In her former role as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the Wikimedia Foundation, which operates Wikipedia, Janeen drove process improvement and co-created Wikimedia Knowledge Equity Fund to address racial inequities in free knowledge. For nearly two decades, she held various roles at General Electric (GE), working in healthcare technologies in some of the world’s most challenging environments. As the head of Women in Technology, she accelerated the number of women in technical roles. Her previous roles at GE included Global Director of External Affairs and Technology Programs, Director of Healthcare Programs at GE Africa (where Janeen lived for several years as an expat in Accra, Ghana), Director of Global Healthcare Programs, Director of Healthcare Disparity Programs, and Director of Service Operations.
She is a recipient of numerous awards, including the United Nations Global Leadership Award and one of ADWEEK’s Top Black Women Trailblazers in Tech.
Janeen received her Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, and an MBA in International Business from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Currently, she serves on the Presidential Advisory Council on HBCUs for the White House, on the board of Mercy Ships International, as a board member of the Dfree Global Foundation, and is a venture capital investor.
A thought leader, a voice of influence, and a source for good, Janeen fuses her passion for social justice and her leadership to shine light on inequality in tech spaces and forge opportunities for others. In her spare time, she enjoys playing tennis and spending time with her family and friends.