As a second-generation Bojangles franchisee, I oversee all the marketing strategies for my family’s 44 franchise stores in Georgia, North Carolina, and Virginia. This includes brand promotion, brand awareness, driving catering sales, digital sales, and other revenue drivers. I have a proven record of increasing traffic and sales in North Carolina, Virginia, and Georgia, thanks to my creativity, organization, and outside-the-box thinking. I graduated from Meredith College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a focus in Marketing and Entrepreneurship in 2019. During my time in school, I took on several frontline jobs at various restaurants where I developed crucial soft skills that make me the marketer I am today. I am passionate about the Bojangles brand, as it has been a big part of my life since my father opened his first location in the early 2000s. I enjoy watching the brand grow and learning from the vast team of marketers and operators who always make me feel inspired. My goal is to continue my father’s legacy by contributing to the success and expansion of Bojangles while delivering a fine dining experience to our customers.

Victoria Walker is a Software Engineer from Cherry Hill, New Jersey, with a passion for creating high-quality software. She started her technology career at the age of 16 repairing electronics devices and went on to graduate with an Associate Degree of Applied Science in Computer and Electronics Engineering Technology from ITT Technical Institute in 2016. Victoria’s interest in programming grew through courses in coding and she landed her first Software Engineer position as a Jr Mobile Software Developer in 2019. She has since earned certifications in full-stack engineering and business process software development. With her wide range of experience and expertise, Victoria is now the CEO and CTO at Vivify Solutions.

Dominique Hagler, known as Dolly, is a multi-talented IT engineer, entrepreneur, author, actress, and podcaster. She began her acting journey at the tender age of 10, debuting in a church play as Granny Dee. After relocating to Atlanta, Georgia, in 2013, her acting career blossomed with her first indie film role in “MUSE” by DamnWrite Originals. Dominique has since ventured into writing and producing, creating and starring in her own web series, “Dating A’Mari.”

As the host of the “Dolly Said It Podcast,” Dominique provides insights on personal development, relationship tips, and more, steering clear of politics. The podcast airs every Thursday at 7 PM EST, with additional content shared on Instagram every Tuesday and Thursday.

In the modeling world, Dominique embraces her role as a model and mother, focusing on empowering women to build confidence and embrace their true selves, flaws and all. Known as “The Master of Disguise,” she brings versatility and passion to her work with photographers and clothing brands, and has been featured in Noise Media Magazine.

Catherine “Cat” Hardrick is a dedicated activist and servant leader based in Snellville, Georgia. With a background as a disabled Army veteran and 20 years in the finance industry, Cat has transitioned to entrepreneurship with her health and wellness business, Journey Within, LLC. She is currently the committee chairwoman for the Gwinnett Women’s Chamber Of Commerce Veterans Committee, focusing on supporting women veterans in areas such as mental health, employment, and entrepreneurship.

Cat’s community involvement extends to mentoring youth, aiding survivors of human trafficking and sexual trauma, addressing food insecurity and homelessness, and advocating for veterans. Following the murders of George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery, she became an active protester and ran for Snellville City Council in 2021 to push for transparency and accountability in local leadership.

Teresa Carthron considers herself to be a, “BEAST in the Mindset Elevation Streets.” She is the CEO and Founder of The MindShift Academy, the author of ‘Financially F.I.T.,’ and upcoming children’s books, ‘I Am beautiful and Self Esteem Is Everything.’ These platforms have allowed Teresa to become a sought after International public speaker. She is a Life Transformation and Mindset Elevation Coach. She is uniquely able to coach men and women from the living room to the boardroom. Teresa is your ideal coach to success if you struggle with self-doubt, pushing through fears, peak performance, and productivity and scaling your personal and/or business brand. Teresa can help you to take the mental and emotional garbage of life, drop- kick it, bag it, tag it and punt it to the curb. Teresa’s mantra is, “Change your mind, elevate your future.” Her favorite quote is, “You are the most important piece of your life’s puzzle. Without you, your life’s puzzle will always be incomplete.” She is truly a WOMAN on FIRE! To connect with Teresa Carthron, email [email protected]. You can also connect with Teresa on social media @IAmTeresaC or via her website @ www.IAmTeresaC.com.

Carolyn Shumate is an esteemed financial advisor with over 25 years of experience, specializing in providing comprehensive financial services to families and businesses. Her expertise lies in developing strategic financial plans that incorporate life insurance and investments in stocks and mutual funds, ensuring long-term security and growth for her clients.

Throughout her career, Carolyn has distinguished herself as a trusted advisor, adept at navigating the complex financial landscapes that families and companies face. Her approach to financial planning is holistic—she not only secures her clients’ immediate financial needs through life insurance but also builds their wealth through savvy investments in the stock and mutual fund markets. Her ability to demystify financial products and markets has made her a pivotal figure in the financial well-being of many.

Carolyn’s dedication to her clients is evident in her personalized service model. She works closely with each client to understand their unique financial situations and goals, tailoring her advice to maximize their financial potential while minimizing risks. Her strategies often involve a balanced portfolio that includes a mix of equities and fixed-income securities, tailored to the risk tolerance and financial objectives of her clients.

Her commitment to financial education extends beyond individual consultations. Carolyn frequently conducts workshops and seminars to educate the wider community on the importance of comprehensive financial planning, including the strategic use of life insurance and the benefits of investing in stocks and mutual funds. Through her efforts, Carolyn empowers individuals and business owners alike to take charge of their financial futures, ensuring they are well-prepared for whatever challenges and opportunities lie ahead.