Anamika Pannu: From Trinidad to Your Table: A Hot Sauce Born from Love, Tradition, and Bold Dreams
Parlour of Spice
Parlour of Spice is more than a condiment brand—it’s a tribute to my heritage and family values. My first product, a bold yet versatile hot sauce, is inspired by home. It’s simple, all-natural, and pairs with everything.
The heart of this brand is my parents. They left Trinidad to give my sister and me the opportunity to chase our dreams. My love for cooking and this recipe come from my dad, while my entrepreneurial spirit comes from my mom.
For years, this idea lived in my mind. Then, last year, something shifted—my heart, mind, and gut aligned, giving me the courage to take the leap. Signs along the way affirmed my path, including the quote, “If not me, who? If not now, when?”
This journey is about legacy—showing my children what’s possible and proving that women can be dynamic and multifaceted. Food has always connected us, and I’m proud to share this sauce as a reminder that a little spice makes everything nice.
https://parlourofspice.com
Shannon Harrison: From Classroom to the Kitchen: A Journey of Passion and Purpose
Knuckies Hoagies
Both of my sisters are entrepreneurs, and a few years ago, I made the move to Roswell. At that time, I was ready to step away from the classroom and embrace a new challenge. That’s when my sister Stacy invited me to join her in the exciting journey of opening Knuckies Hoagies in Roswell.
Growing up, sharing meals was more than just eating, it was how we connected with family and friends, a way to serve others, and an expression of love and care. We hope our guests feel that same warmth when they hear me say, “We just want to feed you.”
Opening this restaurant has come with its challenges, but it has also been an incredible
opportunity to immerse myself in the community. Becoming a business owner has opened so many doors, leading to meaningful friendships and unforgettable experiences through my involvement in the community. I feel truly blessed. Roswell is my home.
www.knuckieshoagiesofroswellga.com
Sheila Sillitto: Building Bright Futures, One Child at a Time
CEO & Executive Director CDA
The Children’s Development Academy (CDA), a nonprofit preschool in Roswell, has provided high-quality early learning for children from low-income families in north Metro Atlanta since 1967. Serving over 200 children annually, CDA prepares them for school while offering families access to affordable childcare – a rare resource in our community. After years in the corporate world, I knew I wanted to return to the nonprofit sector. My three years at North Fulton Community Charities ignited my passion for human services. When the opportunity to join CDA arose, I jumped at it, knowing its mission supports both children and families in profound ways.
I draw inspiration from the great leaders before me, especially CDA’s founders, who saw a need and acted.
A motto I live by: On my desk sits a plaque with a quote from Margaret Mead that I read daily— “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.”
www.cdakids.org
Kimberly Airhart: Turning Pain into Purpose
Founder Harts of Teal
In 2020, at 41, I was diagnosed with nearly stage 4 ovarian cancer after months of dismissed symptoms. Facing surgery and chemotherapy alone due to COVID, I endured a difficult journey but turned my struggle into purpose. Inspired to raise awareness, my family and I launched Harts of Teal. In 2024, my cancer returned, but after treatment, I’m grateful to have surpassed five years. Now, I’m committed to educating women and ensuring no one faces this battle alone.
Harts of Teal is a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness of ovarian and gynecologic cancers while supporting diagnosed women. Founded in 2021 after my personal experience, the organization empowers women to recognize symptoms and advocate for their health. We host awareness events, survivor support groups, and our Teal for Teachers campaign has reached 15,500 educators.
Inspired by John 14:1, our motto, Trust God, reminds us that even in hardship, He has a purpose and brings good through suffering.
www.hartsofteal.org
Stacy Georges: A Mission to Support Families
Stacy Georges, founder of Special Needs Respite, holds a B.A. in Therapeutic Recreation from Purdue University. She and her husband, Tom, understand the challenges of navigating public education for children who need accommodations.
Since 2017, Stacy has worked to support 7,000+ families waiting for state-funded respite care. With the foundation in place, the next step is connecting with private businesses willing to invest in meaningful social change.
Parents often share, “Knowing I can get a break helps me make it through another day.” The reality is harsh—parents of children with special needs are 80% more likely to divorce and face higher risks of isolation, depression, and health struggles.
With the right support, we can change this. By providing much-needed respite care, we give families not just relief but hope. Together, we can make a lasting difference.
www.specialneedsrespite.org
Stacy Sheffield: From Service to Entrepreneurship: Creating Connections Through Business
Owner and Operator Buff City Soap
Buff City Soap in Roswell offers plant-based home and body products free of detergents, harsh chemicals, and preservatives. After 30 years in public safety as a Flight Medic, Firefighter, and Sheriff’s Deputy, I retired to chase my entrepreneurial dreams—something I never believed was out of reach. Inspired by a former co-worker, the founder of Buff City Soap, I embraced this new chapter, moving from Naples, Florida, to Roswell. I quickly fell in love with the city’s beauty and welcoming spirit.
Transitioning from serving the public to serving guests felt natural, and I’ve cherished building relationships through community events and fundraisers.
When my sister Shannon considered retiring from teaching, I knew I wanted our next adventure to be together. Knuckies Hoagies, a local franchise, was the perfect fit—her gift for connecting with people and my love for hands-on work in the kitchen made us the perfect team. Now, we’re not just business partners but sisters living our dream side by side.
www.buffcitysoap.com