Katie Nzekwu | Co-Executive Director of Found Village
Katie Nzekwu knows firsthand the power of being seen, believed in, and supported. At 15, she found herself in juvenile detention, questioning her worth. But a village—her grandmother, her community—helped her rewrite her story. Today, as the co-executive director of Found Village, she’s doing the same for Cincinnati’s youth.
Found Village isn’t just a program; it’s a lifeline. Katie and her team meet young people where they are, offering deep, consistent relationships that foster healing and growth. From providing safe, trusted adults to teaching life skills and celebrating milestones, they do life together. They ensure every child, especially those aging out of foster care, knows they are valued and capable of breaking cycles of poverty and systemic barriers.
For Katie, this isn’t just work—it’s a calling. She believes legacy isn’t about what you do, but who you become. Through her relentless commitment, she’s shaping futures, transforming communities, and proving that a small group of dedicated people can, indeed, change the world.
Chef Gelatiere Maria Liliana | Founder of uGOgelato
For the founder of uGOgelato, Maria believes that gelato is more than just a dessert—it’s a love letter to family, tradition, and the art of craftsmanship. Raised in a family of gelato makers, she grew up watching her father perfect the delicate balance of flavors that define true Italian gelato. What started as childhood curiosity soon became a deep passion, leading her to create uGOgelato, a brand that blends old-world authenticity with modern experiences.
Each scoop tells a story. Whether served in their retail shop or from their beautifully designed catering cart at special events, her gelato is crafted with the same techniques and care that have been passed down through generations. She believes in evoking joy, nostalgia, and connection, transporting people to Italy with every bite. Catering brings her the most joy, allowing her to be part of life’s sweetest moments, from intimate gatherings to large celebrations.
Through perseverance and dedication, she has built more than a business—she has created an experience rooted in passion and quality. On hard days, the smiles of her customers and the unwavering support of her husband and daughter remind her why she started. More than anything, she hopes to leave a legacy of authenticity, hard work, and joy, inspiring others, especially her daughter, to pursue what they love with heart and dedication.
Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? You’ll never have all the answers, and you’ll never feel 100% ready. But passion, curiosity, and consistency will take you far. Stay true to your craft, never compromise on quality, and most importantly, enjoy the journey. Because when you do what you love, every scoop becomes a story worth sharing.
Tiffany Coleman | Founder of Forward in Grace & TColeman Enterprises
Tiffany Coleman is a powerhouse in governance, faith-based leadership, and personal empowerment. By day, she safeguards businesses in client development and sales, ensuring integrity and protection for all. Beyond corporate life, she leads Forward in Grace, a faith-driven community for women, and TColeman Enterprises, where she coaches individuals to break through barriers and step into leadership. Inspired by her mother’s resilience and her own deep empathy, Tiffany is dedicated to guiding others toward their highest potential. Her legacy? Bold leadership, unwavering support, and a commitment to lifting others as she climbs.
Cindy Switzer-Dempsey | Owner of Vessel Collective
Cindy Switzer-Dempsey is the heart behind Vessel Collective, a space dedicated to women supporting women and moms supporting moms. Located in Bellevue, Ky., Vessel is more than a rental space—it’s a thriving community where women gather, connect, and grow. Inspired by her own postpartum journey, Cindy saw the need for deeper support and meaningful spaces for mothers. Through events like Mom Prom Cincy, she creates joyful, empowering experiences. Her mission? To uplift women, foster connection, and remind every mom she’s never alone.
Allie McLaughlin | Founder of Cincinnati Renewed Wellness
Cincinnati Renewed Wellness, founded by Allie, is a welcoming and affirming space dedicated to helping individuals heal from trauma, navigate life transitions, and embrace their authentic selves. Specializing in neurodiversity and inclusive mental health care, Allie meets her clients where they are, walking alongside them in their journey of self-discovery and empowerment. With a passion for breaking down the myths of mental health care, Allie ensures that every client feels safe, heard, and supported. Her mission is to destigmatize mental health, inspire growth, and create a legacy where people prioritize self-love and healing.
Kalisa Mora | Attorney & Founder of Graze and Gather
Attorney by day and charcuterie queen by night, Kalisa Mora is the perfect example that you don’t just have to settle for one career in life. At the heart of everything she does is a dedication to people, whether guiding clients through complex contracts or bringing joy to gatherings through her business, Graze & Gather. Kalisa's work centers on connection, and her approach to hospitality and law is driven by the desire to create meaningful moments that empower and inspire, believing that when you lead with authenticity, success will follow.
Andrea Sabugo | Fashion Photographer
Andrea Sabugo is a talented fashion and beauty photographer with a passion for capturing stunning visuals that inspire and empower. With a background in fashion and a minor in photography, Andrea always knew that fashion photography was her calling. Her work has taken her to New York Fashion Week, Saks Fifth Avenue, and even been featured in Vogue.
Andrea’s journey is fueled by her belief that pursuing what you love is a gift and a luxury—one that many may not have access to. As a Latina in the industry, she strives to be an inspiration for others, showing that anyone from her community can succeed in this field.
Through her work, Andrea aims to make people feel seen in a new, exciting light, encouraging them to push past self-doubt and pursue their creative dreams. She believes in the power of hard work, determination, and staying true to your vision. Her message to those following their own creative journey is simple: You are worthy, capable, and more than enough.
Photography may not always be easy, but the challenges are what make it all the more rewarding. Andrea’s advice is to keep going, no matter how difficult the path may seem, because with perseverance comes incredible satisfaction. Each shot she captures is not just a picture—it’s a reflection of the passion, dedication, and joy she pours into her craft.