Small Business Spotlight Series: Phenomenal Writing

Company Name 

Phenomenal Writing 

Company Owner 

Cheril Clarke 

Company Formation in USA 

Georgia 

Company Website 

www.phenomenalwriting.com 

Social Media 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/phenomenal-writing-llc  

www.twitter.com/phenomenalwrite 

Industry 

Professional and Business Services 

What products or services do you sell? 

Ghostwriting, speechwriting, and presentation skills training 

Why did you become an entrepreneur? 

To have flexibility in work and my personal life. I love helping leaders tell their stories and wanted to do it in a way that works best for me (and my clients). Everyone's life doesn't fit into the same schedule and model. Flexibility was necessary to provide the best service. 

How did you first start your business? 

I started my business by first believing that I had something valuable to offer business leaders and executives. When I left my corporate position, my focus was on building a new portfolio as soon as possible. I used freelance job boards to find work and had the good fortune of the job I'd left (and soon after, its competitor) as my first corporate clients. I kept working around the clock in those initial years to over-deliver on my promises so I could build goodwill and word of mouth. 

What makes your company unique from others? 

My company is unique because of the personal experience and creative approach of our team. My background is in creative writing. I've written novels, children's books, plays, short films, and music. I've also produced live theatre, so I know how to communicate to various audiences, and my experience as a serial entrepreneur means I'm not "just another writer." I know how it feels to lead, the pains of trying to scale, the struggle of having more tasks than time--I understand my clients in a profound way. I've also built a global team, so someone is working at all points in the day. We leverage time this way. We also build on our individual creativity and life experiences to help our clients tell the best stories in ways that drive action. 

What has been your biggest "win" since the company's inception? 

Launching our new virtual presentation skills master class. It is the first of many courses that we will offer to help business leaders communicate better now and in the future. 

What is the biggest risk your business ever took? 

I'm a cautious leader, so there are a few things that I've done without a lot of thought beforehand. We have tried adding some services that didn't pan out--we were wrong, and our clients didn't need our new offering, so we abandoned those plans. 

If you could do it all over again, what one thing would you do differently, and why? 

I would set up the company structure differently to minimize my tax liabilities. It would allow me more funds for research and development. 

Member Spotlight Series: Taylor Thornton

Board Member Spotlight Series:

Taylor Thornton 

What is your connection to Los Angeles/Orange County? 

I moved to San Diego this year (2021) for a career opportunity and now serve as the San Diego Region Director of the National Black MBA Association — Los Angeles Chapter. I am excited to develop new ties and strengthen existing ones in ways that further advance our members in their career paths and more. 

How did you first hear about the National Black MBA Association? 

I first learned of the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) during my interview with the University of Texas at Dallas in joining the Class of 2020 Full-Time MBA cohort. The program directors shared the opportunity to attend the NBMBAA Annual Conference & Career Expo and encouraged our entire class to participate. 

What influenced you to join the National Black MBA Association - Los Angeles Chapter Board? 

The National Black MBA Association has so much to offer, and my current success is a result. I learned what companies and recruiters were interested in while attending the 2019 Annual Conference & Career Expo in Houston, TX. I took those insights and participated the following year with confidence, where I successfully interviewed and obtained my first corporate position upon graduating with my MBA degree. I would later relocate to California for work and find a community where members interact, learn, and thrive. 

My first encounter with the Los Angeles Chapter was during a game night. Although a virtual event, I left feeling welcomed by the Chapter, including the Chapter President, who continued to engage and made the idea of joining the Los Angeles Chapter an easy "Yes." I chose to join the Los Angeles Chapter Board because I want to give back to the local community and support MBA students seeking opportunities. 

What is your favorite thing about the National Black MBA Association? 

This organization is truly impactful. My experience is a testament to that. NBMBAA has built an incredible network for all of us to tap into to grow as professionals and provides career opportunities for our community. I appreciate its provision of shared space to impart career and life experiences. But their commitment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) is near and dear to my heart, as a Xavier University of Louisiana graduate, and assures me they will not overlook them. I know I've shared more than one favorite thing, but each is why I believe NBMBAA's work is invaluable. 

What are the benefits of being a member of the National Black MBA Association? 

1. NBMBAA members can connect and develop meaningful relationships with an incredible network of professionals and students who can help with their career success. They may be your next mentor or intern. 

2. NBMBAA members can access the career board and the annual career fair to reduce recruiting and hiring barriers. Such services can dismantle barricades to employment and the like. 

3. NBMBAA members are incredibly inspiring and continuously motivated to reach their personal and career goals. It is a win-win position for professionals navigating with a purpose and surrounding themselves with like-minded people. 

What excites you most about the direction of the National Black MBA Association - Los Angeles Chapter, and how will you contribute to it in your current role? 

I am most excited that I am a part of a local chapter that consistently seeks to become even better to serve its member and the local community. My contribution to the Los Angeles Chapter will be expanding outreach and engagement efforts in the San Diego community by actively organizing and participating in events for membership engagement and adding value to membership. 

Social Media 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylordthornton

Board Member Spotlight Series: Kemmy Aderibigbe

Board Member Spotlight Series: Kemmy Aderibigbe

 How did you first hear about the National Black MBA Association?

A close friend of my parents served on the Board for many years. I admired the balance she maintained with womanhood, parenthood, and leadership. She was graceful and poised and exemplified multifaceted leadership skills that one could only look up to with appreciation. She was a professional woman with multiple roles inside and outside of the home that I found to be admirable.

What influenced you to join the National Black MBA Association – Los Angeles Chapter Board?

My strong desire to serve on professional and academic boards and committees stems from my diverse background and my desire to mentor. When a Board vacancy arose, I inquired right away and applied. I wanted to utilize my planning and organizational skills to help others in pursuing their professional goals. Landing the director of social networking role, I uncovered and developed my space and interest. I enjoy working with people and collaborating both in a personal and professional landscape. My role allows me the opportunity to create an environment where the black professional community can commune, share, grow, learn, and enjoy themselves safely and openly.

What is your favorite thing about the National Black MBA Association community?

My favorite thing about the organization is my team. Coming from a big family, fellowship is always an area of comfort. Combining family with like-minded professionals in the Los Angeles metropolitan area does not come easy. But I have had the opportunity to grow and be part of an extended family where we can advance, discover, appreciate, and strive together. More importantly, we can give back and share what we have learned with the communities we serve.

What are the benefits of being a member of the National Black MBA Association?

I value the networking opportunities, building relationships, and partnerships. This organization has something for everyone. While traditionally LABMBA (also known as The National Black MBA Association – Los Angeles Chapter) is a black-centered organization, I found it to be diverse, inclusive, and reflective of Los Angeles and other Southern California cities. We are one of the largest multiracial, multigenerational professional organizations and have successfully partnered with various organizations across Los Angeles and beyond.

What excites you most about the direction of the National Black MBA Association – Los Angeles Chapter, and how will you contribute to it in your current role?

The opportunities are endless here, and the journey has just begun. I recently switched roles within the Board and now serve as the director of community relations. The most exciting thing is taking prior relationships to create new growth opportunities for the National Black MBA Association – Los Angeles Chapter. My goal is to take us to a new level by incorporating the change I want to see. I plan to lead us to an overwhelming aptitude for wealth building and growth strategies and tactics, because educational and professional aspirations should lead to homeownership and community development. The marathon continues.

Social Media

http://linkedin.com/in/kemmy-aderibigbe-499540196

https://instagram.com/missfatiah.kae?igshid=n3ufmm5dtebs

Board Member Spotlight Series: Joele Atonfack

What is your connection to Orange County?

Coming from Cameroon, I came to California intending to enroll in an MBA degree program. Knowing the value of graduate education, I spent one year preparing for the GRE after arriving here. Hard work and dedication granted me admission to the Chapman University MBA program. I would then graduate from the institution and work in the area.

How did you first hear about the National Black MBA Association?

As a first-year MBA student, I looked for funding and networking opportunities. I knew to ask my graduate professors for assistance, with one suggesting that I start with the National Black MBA Association. Researching the organization at the national and local level made it clear it offered what I desired and more. I could apply for financial support and expand my network for employment and business prospects: I ultimately received a job offer after attending a corporate partner networking event.

What influenced you to join the National Black MBA Association – Los Angeles Chapter Board?

I first joined the organization to apply for scholarships and socialize with professionals (since I was new to the United States). I also wanted to be part of an organization whose values aligned with mine. Signing up for the Los Angeles Chapter newsletter helped me stay connected with a diverse network and be informed about opportunities, like the Chapter Board vacancy. I became a Board Member so that I could give back to my community. I have been able to organize impactful events over the years, which have been a rewarding experience. 

What is your favorite thing about the National Black MBA Association community?

The National Black MBA Association supports Black professionals with their career and wealth-building goals. When you join, you are part of a close-knit community. Moreover, the vision, "Empowering visionaries intellectually and economically to create a world where diversity and inclusion are universal," keeps its members focused and headed in the right direction.

What are the benefits of being a member of the National Black MBA Association?

There are many opportunities available to Black professionals, but we, individually, may not be aware of them. To be part of the National Black MBA Association is one way to be kept in the loop. It is a network to hear about success stories from students, professionals and entrepreneurs and be inspired. It also is a network that supports its diverse members to thrive and excel professionally and financially. (And you do not need an MBA degree or any other degree to join.)

What excites you most about the direction of the National Black MBA Association – Los Angeles Chapter, and how will you contribute to it in your current role?

I am thrilled that the Los Angeles Chapter is in alignment with the mission and vision. Our purpose is clear, and our activities meet the needs of members. As the director of student affairs, I support students by making information and resources available to them. I also connect them with successful entrepreneurs and professionals so that they can learn and grow. My goal is to help our members pursue their professional and personal goals.

Social Media

www.linkedin.com/in/joeleatonfack

Small Business Spotlight Series: Stewart Insurance Services

Company Name: Stewart Insurance Services

Company Owner: Shawnda Stewart 

Company Formation in USA: California 

Website: www.stewartinsuranceservices.com

Social Media:

www.instagram.com/stewart_insurance_services

Industry: Finance and Insurance Sector 

Business Certification:

Licensed Independent Insurance Producer

California Department of Insurance

Texas Department of Insurance 

What products or services do you sell? Life Insurance, Disability, Accident and Retirement 

Why did you become an entrepreneur?

I became an entrepreneur to fulfill my dream of being a founder and CEO of my own company, Stewart Insurance Services, where I offer insurance services and products to clients for their financial protection and wealth. I now live out my passion by helping the community with their financial estate planning and investing. It is the greatest reward to protect clients' financial wellbeing and employ others seeking a career change or additional income. 

Owning a business in the insurance industry, I have positioned myself to build a future with no limitations on the amount I can earn. Executing the roadmap to financial freedom, I am leaving a legacy that passes wealth to my family for generations to come. My family can be proud of me for developing a sustainable, replicable business for them. 

How did you first start your business?

I first gained many years of professional experience in corporate America leading senior-level strategic initiatives. Taking a logical step to expand my knowledge and network, I sacrificed and worked hard to complete my MBA with a 3.7 GPA. I then studied for the California State Life, Health and Accident insurance exam, passing it the first time. To make my insurance endeavor reachable and doable, I rely on a great work ethic and a forward-thinking attitude. It has helped me complete the required steps to establish my business and equip me to interact and provide prospective clients with consultations and more. 

What makes your company unique from others?

As an independent insurance producer (not a captive agent), Stewart Insurance Services has direct access to over 100 insurance carriers. There lies the flexibility to find suitable coverage that meets potential clients' needs and budgets. We can offer excellent service with quality insurance products and programs.

Stewart Insurance Services also is well trained and knowledgeable of insurance and financial products. We equip our clients to make informed financial decisions for their future and families. It involves us helping them to prepare for the unexpected in advance and protect assets. We are committed to showing our clients the significance of life insurance and how to build wealth with it as early as possible.

What is the biggest risk your business ever took?

During the planning and start-up phase, one of the risks I took was sharing strategies before my business launched. (I believe in paying it forward and helping others with their dream.) There was a possibility someone else could have applied them before I did. In my case, it did happen with someone attempting to execute my plans, but poor execution kept it from being a success. I learned a valuable lesson from that experience: It is important to know when you should (and shouldn’t) share your plans and goals with others.

 If you could do it all over again, what one thing would you do differently, and why?

I would not change a thing in my journey if I had to do it all over again. I joined a community of successful insurance producers that supports business growth and embraces minority entrepreneurship.

Member Spotlight Series: Prince Baggett

Name

Prince Baggett, MBA

Position/Institution

Head of Motion Picture, Co-Head Development and Production at Genius Productions

Number of Years

3

Industry

Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media

Alma Mater

California State University, San Bernardino

Hometown

Inglewood, CA

Current City

Hollywood, CA

Social Media

www.instagram.com/princebaggett

Why did you become involved with the National Black MBA Association?

Diversity, representation and inclusion are critical in the entertainment industry. It is one of my top goals to attract writers, directors, and storytellers for Marsai Martin’s company, Genius Productions. At Genius Productions, we plan and execute activities that develop and produce upcoming features. We also make sure to be part of professional organizations that support us in those efforts. The National Black MBA Association brings together individuals with unique voices and backgrounds and allows members to share and connect to resources in a real way.

What is the biggest challenge of working in your industry?

The biggest challenge is entering into an industry that remains unrepresentative of Black creators and executives, especially the studios, to understand stories that matter to us. Although we have made great strides, our stories still center on pain, trauma, and suffering (the slave narrative). Eliminating the single story is sometimes hard to do when there is a myopic view of Black people from others.

What do you consider to be your greatest career (or academic) accomplishment to date?

One accomplishment is selling film and television projects to large companies with a brand that supports and aligns with the diversity goals of Genius Productions. Another one is creating pathways for young writers of color to be heard and seen behind the scenes.

What is an important skill you have developed in your career (or academia)?

Building and maintaining relationships. It is an invaluable skill that enables me to partner with companies, like Kevin Hart and Issa Rae, to create projects representing young people of color.

Who has been the most influential person in your career (professional, academic)?

Marsai Martin. She is a young genius. Martin started at Black-ish and found a way to break norms by being the youngest EP in history and the youngest with a first-look deal with Universal Pictures. Alongside Martin, I create opportunities for those who are overlooked and underrepresented in Hollywood.

Why/When did you decide to pursue a career in your field?

I knew I wanted to work in the entertainment industry when I was in college. I just was not sure whether it would entail music, film or television. But what I did know was that I was excited about creating stories to share with the world early in my career.

What books and/or articles are you currently reading?

This is an interesting question because I am always reading scripts and books that have yet to be released. So, it is hard to speak about them publicly. But I am reading stories that I could turn into a long-form project for either film or television.

What educational or business experiences best prepared you for your career?

My business experiences have taught me to attain desired results by understanding people to manage their expectations. They have also shown me not to allow norms to stop me from shooting for the stars. When I hear someone say, “No” or “That hasn't happened before,” it does not deter me. It just means to continue to persist and forge a new path.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?

To simply state it, always be yourself. The voice that we sometimes we dim for others is the same voice that can change the world.

Small Business Spotlight Series: Eneya Accounting

Company Name      

Eneya Accounting

Company Owner     

Esther Kalande

Company Formation in USA         

California

Website        

www.eneyaaccounting.com

Social Media

www.twitter.com/eneyaaccounting

www.facebook.com/eneyaaccounting

www.instagram.com/eneyaaccounting

www.linkedin.com/company/eneya-accounting

Industry        

Business and Financial Operations

What products or services do you sell?

Eneya Accounting is a US-based firm that provides bookkeeping and accounting services.

Why did you become an entrepreneur?              

I have always been passionate about accounting and financial operations since my third year in undergraduate school, Chapman University. However, I never wanted to be restricted to the tasks that I should perform or to the clients that I should interact with as an accountant. Becoming an entrepreneur gave me the exposure and experience I needed to grow and excel for professional and personal development. Being exposed to various industries and gaining extensive knowledge in the accounting field gives me a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Moreover, I communicate my passion while creating opportunities for individuals who want to learn about the back-end accounting processes of businesses.

How did you first start your business?  

I first attended QuickBooks Online (QBO) training and acquired the QBO certification after establishing my business. I wanted to be proficient at utilizing the software to serve clients and scale my business. Next, I contacted a web developer, marketer, and search engine optimizer to build an online platform where I share information, educate the audience and promote the company.

What makes your company unique from others?            

Eneya Accounting provides an educational platform, including blogs and online courses, in addition to bookkeeping and accounting services. It creates a community of knowledgeable business owners who have a clear understanding of their business accounting processes.

What has been your biggest "win" since the company's inception?         

Helping a client to reinstate their seller’s permit after working on their books. The client had to comply with the state agency, but it first needed its financials to be accurate and ready for the filing process.

What is the biggest risk your business ever took?         

To launch amid a pandemic. The shift in the economy made it hard and challenging for small businesses, like mine, to grow due to the multiple uncertainties we face.

If you could do it all over again, what one thing would you do differently, and why?       

I would have hired a mentor during the starting phase of my business to work closely with me and provide the required guidance. The mentor would have helped me to gain self-confidence faster for networking opportunities and branding purposes.

Small Business Spotlight Series: Sage & Alms

Company Name: Sage & Alms™

Company Owner : Karen M. Blackwell

Company Formation in USA: California

Website: www.sageandalms.com

Social Media:

Sage & Alms™

www.instagram.com/sageandalms

www.facebook.com/sageandalms

Kanda™ Chocolates

www.instagram.com/kandachocolates

www.facebook.com/kandachocolates

DewBurst™

www.instagram.com/_dewburst

www.facebook.com/dewburst

Industry: Sales and Related

Business Certification:

Women's Owned Business Certification, Women's Business Enterprise National Council

Minority Owned Business Certification, National Minority Supplier Development Council

What products or services do you sell?

Kanda™ Chocolates is a bean to bar, single-origin Ghanaian Chocolate; and DewBurst™ is a dry to wet wipe that expands when you add water and comes in a biodegradable carrying tube.

Why did you become an entrepreneur?

To develop a revenue stream that can provide a portion of proceeds back to communities in need.

What makes your company unique from others?

Ghana Cocoa has a creamier texture, fruiter notes, and overall unique ‘chocolately’ flavor profile than other cocoa beans. With Ghana being the 2nd largest exporter in the world, I was shocked to learn that bean-to-bar, single-origin chocolate was absent among their leading exports. Later, it was no surprise to also learn that Ghanaian chocolate was either rare or absent from the shelves of major grocers within the United States. Kanda™ Chocolates was created to elevate the chocolate tasting experience while maintaining a commitment to social responsibility through fair-trade cocoa and the company’s Almsgiving Campaign.

What has been your biggest "win" since the company's inception?

The biggest "win" since the company's inception was acquiring brand awareness for free. With our Almsgiving Campaign, we give 10% of proceeds back to the community. Our ties to the community helped to drive brand awareness without having to pay for it. We were featured on Janelle Monae's Instagram page, ABC 7 News (and other recorded shows), and awarded an opportunity to be featured in a music video.

Did you ever almost go out of business? If yes, explain how you manage to stay in business.

With the onset of the pandemic in the New Year, Kanda™ Chocolates struggled to launch a new business while other stores were shutting their doors and trying to make sense of it all. However, we were able to overcome this by changing our business model, shifting to online sales, and creating partnerships to drive awareness. We focused on the consumer and learning experiences and we've been able to persevere.

What is the biggest risk your business ever took?

The biggest "risk" I ever took was settling for a role and not investing in myself and the vision that I had. It was “Absolutely Not” a risk to walk away from corporate America and invest in myself. By choosing to stay in corporate America, I lost years, creativity, and allowed my dreams to dwindle. Essentially, I lost myself. I am thankful to corporate America for my learning and growth, but I always advise taking the route to invest in one's dreams to preserve who you are for the longest time period possible.

If you could do it all over again, what one thing would you do differently?

I would have left corporate America prior to 2018.

Board Member Spotlight: Randon Young

What is your connection to Los Angeles County?

I am a Gainesville, Georgia native who relocated to Los Angeles after completing my MBA program in London, England. As a burgeoning entrepreneur, I was attracted to Los Angeles by the magnitude of its global footprint. There are opportunities to create and close business deals while holding a role in another company. In Los Angeles, I have positioned myself as a people connector within the recruiting space. I currently serve as Talent Advisor at Beyond Limits Artificial Intelligence, which recently secured $133 million in its Series C investment round. 

How did you first hear about the National Black MBA Association?

I have been aware of the National Black MBA Association since my time as an undergrad at Savannah State University. But I ultimately joined the association following the completion of my MBA program in London. As a member of the Divine 9, I have always sought out outlets for African-American upward mobility.

What influenced you to join the National Black MBA Association – Los Angeles Chapter Board?

Given my extensive background in corporate and technical recruiting, I would have an immediate impact on current and past NBMBAA members seeking employment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, I am a lead investor and advisor for Puvro-Plinn and RTY 2020 Initiative, two early-stage recruitment startups that specialize in talent development for African-American professionals.

What is your favorite thing about the National Black MBA Association community?

My favorite thing about the National Black MBA Association is the collaboration with Black professionals. Additionally, the emphasis on entrepreneurship keeps the organization at the cutting edge. As an African-American entrepreneur, it’s a win-win! 

What are the benefits of being a member of the National Black MBA Association?

Membership allows individuals to network within a safe and professional setting. Furthermore, it provides a platform for collaboration amongst mission-driven individuals, no matter how subtle their differences may be.

What excites you most about the direction of the National Black MBA Association – Los Angeles Chapter, and how will you contribute to it in your current role?

In my current role, I will position myself as a friendly resource that individuals can reach out to directly for job search-related questions and advice. I am excited about the strategic partnerships that the National Black MBA Association – Los Angeles Chapter has and look forward to building more!

Social Media

https://www.linkedin.com/in/randon-young-mba-24b05a46

Board Member Spotlight: Jennifer Ndong-Smith

Jennifer Ndong-Smith

What is your connection to Los Angeles County?

I moved to Los Angeles three years ago for two reasons. First, I was ready to explore the west coast to gain a different perspective from Atlanta, GA. Second, I was having difficulty moving into the next step in my career in my hometown. Since I had known that the Los Angeles job market attempts to hire diverse talent and has vast employment prospects available, I decided to move here for personal and professional growth. I recommend to all that taking opportunities outside of your comfort zone can gain you valuable experience and appreciation of where you came from as your worldview expands.

How did you first hear about the National Black MBA Association?

I heard about the organization while obtaining my MBA from Georgia State University and attending the 2015 Annual Conference and Career Fair in Orlando, FL. It is there that I leveraged the recruiters from different insurance companies to secure a job offer with Nationwide Insurance in Iowa. The new position helped me to transition from personal lines to commercial lines in insurance that increased employment stability and lucrative career options. It single-handedly changed the course of my career.

What influenced you to join the National Black MBA Association – Los Angeles Chapter Board?

Being new to town, I thought it would be a great way to meet like-minded people and mentor youth. Volunteering on the Board has provided me a community to network with Board Members and members for lifelong success. Likewise, I enjoy planning social mixers and managing the Chapter's social media accounts as I strengthen my marketing skills.

What is your favorite thing about the National Black MBA Association community?

The lifelong friends that I made and enjoyed spending time with are greatly valued and appreciated. Additionally, there are opportunities to get involved and create programs that are of interest and allow personal growth. Contributing to the success of Chapter events, like Annual Scholarship Brunch and Golf Tournament, I attend to engage guests, increase event exposure to the public, obtain donations to support local youth activities, and offer onsite event support to event leads.

What are the benefits of being a member of the National Black MBA Association?

Being part of a professional organization with a network of 20,000 members and attending its Annual Conference and Career Fair can advance your career and grow your network. By joining the National Black MBA Association, I have been able to do two things. One is to land a desirable job during one of the past conferences. Two is to network with business professionals from different industries and companies. I am a testament to the saying membership has its benefits.

What excites you most about the direction of the National Black MBA Association – Los Angeles Chapter, and how will you contribute to it in your current role?

The Los Angeles Chapter executes a broad range of events from professional development to social gatherings: Numerous opportunities to meet new people in Los Angeles County and beyond. An example is our annual events, Headshots & Handshakes and Business of Sports, that offer insight from experienced professionals in different fields and industries to get hired and climb the company ladder. In the same vein of empowerment, I will continue to plan and facilitate social mixers for professionals and entrepreneurs to connect, communicate, collaborate, and succeed.

Social Media

www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-ndong-smith-mba-9686621a

Board Member Spotlight: Nina Grace Shelby

Nina Grace Shelby is a business development and program management professional.

A native of Chicago, IL, she relocated to Los Angeles, CA shortly after graduating college. Nina obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication from Wiley College in Marshall, Texas, as well as a Master of Science in Management and Leadership from the Graziadio Business School at Pepperdine University. Currently, she is pursuing her PhD in Global Leadership and Change from Pepperdine University's Graduate School of Education and Psychology.

Nina was first introduced to the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA), through Pepperdine University, while obtaining her graduate degree. After being awarded an academic scholarship from NBMBAA – Los Angeles Chapter, she decided to give back to the NBMBAA community by volunteering with the organization in the capacity of Director of Programs. She believes that NBMBAA provides a space for individuals to extend their talents to others and opportunities to become a mentee and mentor.​

Nina strongly believes that NBMBAA's purpose is to promote intellectual development and economic wealth within the African American Community. Moreover, one of the benefits of membership is being a part of a network that continually provides their members’ access to resources and opportunities at all levels spanning from students to executives and entrepreneurs. The business market is consistently changing. NBMBAA is focused not only on the leading edge of change but also on providing innovative pathways to corporate America for a phenomenal talent pool of advanced executives.

Nina's favorite aspect of the National Black MBA Association has been the opportunity to work with an executive team that is incredibly smart, talented and kind. What excites her most about NBMBAA is being a part of a vibrant community where individuals can share experiences in a space that promotes creativity, innovation and discovery among its members. She believes that NBMBAA – Los Angeles Chapter is heading in the direction of accelerated change. The Chapter has been successful in creating the foundation for proud, engaged, and committed members who want to walk the extra mile, get out of their comfort zone, and make innovation happen. In her role as the Director of Programs, she will contribute her efforts towards collaborating with corporate partners to develop events that increase momentum and energy when combining business innovation initiatives, and the development and empowerment of talent. 

Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ninagshelby/

Personal Website: https://ninagrace7.wixsite.com/website