Meet the Women Behind the Scenes

EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Born and raised in Toledo, OH, Dejah has always harbored a deep love for entertainment culture. From being a little girl captivated by music videos, campaigns, and media journalism to now working in the same industry, her journey is a dream come true.

After graduating from an all-girls high school in 2018, she pursued higher education at Morgan State University in Baltimore, MD, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in May 2022. During her time at Morgan State, she was actively involved on campus, serving as a Resident Assistant and participating in the Student Government Association, The National Council of Negro Women, and Love Yours.

A week after graduation, she took a leap of faith and moved to Los Angeles, CA, for an externship that evolved into a permanent role as the Director of Communications and Events at an internationally recognized fashion brand. The rest is history!

COMMUNITY ADVISOR

Meet Chef Donvenia “French” Jackson owner of French Toast Connection &. Connections Culinary Collective she’s a trailblazing culinary expert and business consultant with a passion for forging connections through food. With a vast professional career in multiple industries, she has not only mastered the art of creating delectable dishes but also excelled in the delicate balance of merging culinary excellence with business acumen. Chef “French” is dedicated to fostering connections, whether it's through the harmonious blend of flavors in her dishes or the strategic collaborations she facilitates for culinary businesses. Her innovative approach to gastronomy and keen insights into the industry make her a sought-after consultant, transforming culinary ventures into thriving enterprises that resonate with the power of connection.

PROJECT MANAGER

Lauren P. Winston, a native of Lansing, MI, is not your average Business Strategy Manager. She's a professional with deep roots, having been born and raised in the heart of Michigan. Her upbringing instilled in her the values of hard work, dedication, and a strong sense of community.

Beyond her professional life, Lauren plays multiple roles with ease. She's a devoted wife and a loving mother, skillfully balancing her career ambitions with her cherished family life. Her ability to excel in both arenas speaks volumes about her exceptional organizational skills and commitment to success.

Lauren's academic journey includes earning an MBA from Cornerstone University, setting a solid foundation for her career. Her commitment to excellence shines through her certification as a Certified Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP). Currently, she's on a mission to further broaden her skill set by pursuing Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

Within the business world, Lauren is a master of her craft. She excels in process development, fine-tuning workflows to optimize operational efficiency. Her expertise also extends to implementing effective communication strategies, fostering collaboration across diverse professional settings. Her track record in streamlining operations, reducing costs, and nurturing key relationships positions her as a forward-thinking leader, ready to make a significant impact in any project, organization, or cause she takes on.

Lauren P. Winston's story is one of dedication, both in her professional pursuits and in her personal life. With a Midwestern work ethic, strong values, and a passion for excellence, she's poised to drive success wherever she goes.

ADVISORY CHAIR

Dr. Natohya Mallory is a clinical pharmacist working with chronic care patients in an adult clinic in Jacksonville, FL. She received her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from The University of Tennessee College of Pharmacy in Memphis, TN. Dr. Mallory completed her undergraduate studies at Alabama State University in Montgomery, AL, where she received her Bachelors of Science degree majoring in Chemistry and minoring in Mathematics.

She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and takes pride in mentoring young women and encouraging them to aim high and reach their full potential.

As an associate professor with The University of Florida, Dr. Mallory precepts students from multiple pharmacy schools. She has a passion to serve the underserved and strives to make her community healthier.

Although she stays busy, she loves to travel and to give others the opportunities to explore the world. To flame this passion, she is an independent travel agent. She offers opportunities for domestic and international travel for groups, singles, and weddings.

Dr. Mallory grew up in the Metropolitan Atlanta Area and currently resides in Jacksonville, FL. Being able to experience various cities and backgrounds, she prides herself in being more open minded and recognizing the ever-changing challenges facing the black community.

Her goal is to empower women to strive for greatness, travel the world and build up a healthy community that will continue to knock down barriers. With an enthusiastic attitude, Dr. Mallory looks forward to lifting Black sisterhood, networking.

As a previous BGSC Tribe Founding President of the Jacksonville Chapter, Natohya looks forward to bringing a better membership experience to BGSC by service as the current Board Member and Advisory Council Member.

MEMBER-AT-LARGE

Nasia was born and raised in Queens, NY, and relocated to Richmond, Virginia, in 2007 for work. She is employed by a major communications company, where she also serves on the advisory board.

A dedicated mentor, Nasia was actively involved in her home church, guiding young women, and she continues her faith journey as a member of Redeemed Assembly in Richmond.

In 2019, she combined her love for journaling and vision boards to create Hey Brown Girl, a vision board journal. A year later, she launched My War Room Journal, a prayer journal for women.

When she's not writing and creating, Nasia enjoys traveling and spending time with her three sons. Her motto: Say what you see until you can see what you say!

To know Nasia is to know her deep passion for BGSC—she loves all things Black women empowerment!