breaking barriers. building sisterhood.

Lakeshia S. Gilbert is the Founder and CEO of HOAP (Helping Our Adolescents Prosper) and LSG Innovations, LLC. Her educational background is diverse. Lakeshia holds degrees in Criminal Justice, Business Management/Human Services, and has a double Masters in Psychology and Organizational Leadership.

WORKSHOP Grow Through What You Go Through
An empowering and interactive workshop crafted to provide a safe and supportive space for young women to explore the concept of growth, resilience, and self-discovery during the formative years of adolescence.

Donasia Jackson is a Grand Rapids native who overcame many obstacles to pursue her education. She graduated in 2017 from Grand Rapids University Prep High School with honors and went on to attend Ferris State University's honors program to study Criminal Justice. She had to take a break from college after her first semester after becoming pregnant and facing medical complications. As a single mother of two, Donasia found the courage to return to school at Grand Rapids Community College. She then landed a job with the Michigan Department of Corrections where she worked for a year before switching to the Kent County Sheriff's Office. Donasia's journey shows her strength, determination and commitment to providing a better life for her family through education.

Latasha is the Founder & CEO of Girls Growing II Women, a nonprofit centered on youth development. She has a Bachelor of Social Work and Biblical Studies with a minor in communications from Kuyper College and a Master of Social Work from Grand Valley State University. Latasha worked as a school social worker for ten years before leaving to lead her nonprofit full-time.

WORKSHOP Mind matters
This workshop focuses on the importance of Mental health: setting boundaries, brain dumping, developing a positive mindset, healthy relationships, and knowing the importance of the company and thoughts that we keep.