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We are incredibly proud of our FAMU SBI interns and grateful for the meaningful impact you’ve made in our organization and nationwide.
Susan Valdés, Florida House of Representatives: Leadership in Motion
Unfiltered Impact is more than a magazine theme; it’s a mindset. Those who embrace Unfiltered Impact understand that growth, change, and lasting results rarely happen overnight. They recognize that their influence extends beyond immediate outcomes—creating ripple effects that inspire, empower, and transform communities, organizations, individuals, and generations to come.
Unfiltered Impact is rooted in authenticity and accountability. It’s the willingness to show up fully, evaluate the work honestly, and remain true to who you are called to be—no matter how challenging the journey becomes.
It’s about revealing the real work: the strategic decisions, the dedication, and the persistence required to make a meaningful difference. It means staying committed when results aren’t immediate, making difficult choices with limited resources, and learning from every success and setback—both seen and unseen.
As you explore this issue, we hope you feel inspired to embrace transparency, track tangible results, and share your story. At its core, Unfiltered Impact is the courage to reveal both the victories and the behind-the-scenes effort, understanding that true impact isn’t measured solely by visibility—it’s reflected in the lives transformed, the communities strengthened, and the systems improved.
I am deeply grateful to the incredible individuals featured in this issue for trusting Approved & Grant-ED to share their stories authentically. Their willingness to show up fully and lead with purpose embodies what Unfiltered Impact truly represents.
As we step into this next season—this next year—I encourage all of our readers to be free. For those still wrestling with whether to start the business or take the next step, know this: the services you provide are the missing piece someone else is waiting for. What feels uncertain to you may be the very thing that creates impact, opens doors, and transforms lives.
Ashley Scott Editor In Chief, Approved & Grant-ED Magazine
Your Favorite Grant Writer Guru
pproved & Grant-Ed connects with Rep. Susan Valdés, a passionate advocate for students, families, and working communities across Florida.
From the PTA to the Florida House, Rep. Valdés has built a career grounded in service, listening, and steady leadership. In this cover feature, she reflects on her journey, her approach to public service, and the impact she hopes to leave on the people she serves.
Approved & Grant-Ed: Could you share a little bit about yourself and what first led you into public service?
Rep. Valdés: My journey into public service began very personally—as a mother, an active PTA member, and someone who saw firsthand how government decisions affect families, classrooms, and neighborhoods. I didn’t come into this work chasing titles; I came in because our community deserved a stronger voice at the table. Serving on the Hillsborough County School Board and later in the Florida House allowed me to advocate for students, parents, teachers, and working families who often feel unheard.
What keeps me motivated today is that same sense of responsibility. Every policy we pass affects real people. When I hear from a parent who feels supported, a student who feels empowered, or a family who sees opportunity
where there once was none, that’s what keeps me going. Public service is about showing up, listening, and never forgetting who you serve.
Approved & Grant-Ed: How do you stay connected to the needs and voices of the people you represent?
Rep. Valdés: It starts with being present. I make it a priority to be in my district every day—attending community events, visiting schools, meeting with small business owners, and having honest conversations with residents. I listen more than I talk, because the people I represent are the experts on their own lives.
Accessibility matters. Whether it’s a phone call, an email, or a chance encounter at the grocery store, I want people to feel comfortable approaching me. Public office doesn’t put you above the community; it puts you within it. That connection keeps my work grounded and accountable.
Approved & Grant-Ed: What advice would you offer to emerging leaders and entrepreneurs who want to make a difference?
Rep. Valdés: Lead with integrity and intention. Don’t wait for permission to care or to act. If you see a problem, lean
into it—learn it, understand it, and work to fix it. Leadership isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence and courage.
Never forget where you came from, and stay true to who you are. Your background, your story, and your values are strengths, not obstacles. Surround yourself with people who challenge you, stay humble enough to keep learning, and remember that success is measured by impact, not applause.
Approved & Grant-Ed: How do you celebrate personal victories, whether big or small?
Rep. Valdés: I’ve learned to appreciate the small victories just as much as the big ones. Sometimes that means sharing a quiet moment with family, reflecting on progress, or simply acknowledging that we’ve moved the needle. Other times, it’s celebrating a bill passed, a student recognized, or a constituent helped.
Public service is demanding, so recognizing these moments
reminds me why the work matters. Gratitude, reflection, and staying connected to loved ones are how I stay balanced and grounded.
Approved & Grant-Ed: When you think about your legacy, what do you hope people remember most about you?
Rep. Valdés: I hope people remember that I genuinely cared, that I listened, and that I fought for them—even when it wasn’t easy or popular. More than any title or bill number, I want my legacy to be that I made people feel seen, valued, and supported.
If someone says, “Susan Valdés showed up when it mattered,” that would mean everything to me. Leadership isn’t just about policy; it’s about people.
Approved & Grant-Ed: You’ve helped bring ideas to life—from student-authored legislation to education reforms like House
Bill 1111. Looking ahead, what initiatives are you most focused on?
Rep. Valdés: I’m focused on advancing legislation that solves real problems, protects people, and levels the playing field. Many of the bills I support come directly from listening to constituents, students, families, and frontline professionals.
That includes efforts to restore fairness for Florida-based businesses, improve interactions between law enforcement and individuals with autism, strengthen protections for domestic violence victims, and increase safety measures for students. I’m also proud to support legislation that improves access for veterans, strengthens accountability within our correctional system, protects students’ civil rights, and expands mobility support for Floridians with disabilities.
All of this work reflects my belief that good policy starts with listening—and that leadership means turning insight into thoughtful action that improves lives across Florida.
Approved & Grant-Ed catches up with DJ DEMP, a celebrated DJ, entertainer, community advocate, and philanthropist whose work spans over three decades. From spinning legendary tracks to opening doors for those in need, DJ DEMP blends entertainment with purpose. In this candid conversation, he reflects on how his personal story shaped his philanthropy, why giving back is central to his music career, and how he’s creating lasting impact through youth empowerment and community service.
Approved & Grant-Ed: Could you share a little bit about yourself and your nonprofit organizations—their missions, the work you do, and the impact you make?
DJ DEMP: I’ve been blessed to build a career in music for over three decades, starting DJing at the age of 13. Along the way, I’ve had the chance to work with legendary artists, perform on national platforms, and be part of cultural moments. While music is my passion, giving back has always been my purpose.
That purpose led me to establish the DJ DEMP Foundation and DEMP House, both 501(c)(3) nonprofits. The Foundation focuses on youth empowerment with an emphasis on bullying prevention. DEMP House provides men recovering from substance use disorders a transitional living space rooted in peace and positivity. My goal is simple: inspire, uplift, and create safe spaces. Everything I do, whether on stage or in the community, is grounded in my belief that music inspires and transforms lives.
Giving back, lifting others up, and investing in your community is just as important as any personal achievement.
-DJ DEMP “
Approved & Grant-Ed: How has your personal story shaped the way you approach giving back?
DJ DEMP: I truly believe in paying it forward in the same community that helped grow me. As a youth, I experienced bullying firsthand. Those moments stayed with me and taught me how important it is for young people to identify bullying, speak up, and advocate for themselves. That experience inspired much of my nonprofit work.
I’ve also always believed in a family-centered approach to community healing. Substance abuse doesn’t just affect one person—it impacts families, especially children. Supporting fathers, brothers, and sons strengthens entire families and, ultimately, the community. That belief led me to open DEMP House, providing men a chance to reset, recover, and rebuild their lives in a supportive environment.
Approved & Grant-Ed: How has philanthropy changed or expanded your purpose as an artist?
DJ DEMP: Philanthropy hasn’t changed my purpose—it’s expanded it. It pushed me to look beyond myself and use my platform to make a difference for the next generation. Music has always connected, inspired, and brought people together. Philanthropy allowed me to take that impact further, giving my work deeper meaning and responsibility. I want to leave a legacy built not just on hope, but on action—showing up, creating opportunities, and doing the work needed to make real, lasting change in the community.
Approved & Grant-Ed: What message do you hope people take away when they see how you give back?
DJ DEMP: I want people to see that there’s more to this music life than just girls, cars, and money. Success means nothing if you’re not using it to make a difference. Giving back, lifting others up, and investing in your community is just as important as any personal achievement. I hope people are motivated to do the same in their own way.
Approved & Grant-Ed: Are there any upcoming initiatives or projects you’d like to share?
DJ DEMP: Absolutely. One of my proudest initiatives is DEMP Week, an annual multi-day celebration in Tallahassee blending entertainment, philanthropy, and community engagement. Events like Martini Monday, Taco Tuesday College Night, the Capricorn Birthday Bash, the DEMP JAM Celebrity Basketball Game, an Anti-Bullying Rally, and a community brunch are all designed to celebrate culture, music, and give back through youth empowerment and outreach.
In addition, February 20th was officially recognized as DJ DEMP Day by the City of Tallahassee in 2024. This proclamation honors my contributions to music, philanthropy, and community service. DJ DEMP Day is more than a personal achievement—it’s a celebration of service, leadership, and using your platform to uplift others. February is also Heart Health Awareness Month, which is close to my heart, so we use a heart to symbolize the day. Together, DEMP Week and DJ DEMP Day reflect my commitment to turning celebration into purpose and visibility into meaningful action.
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CareerSource Capital Region, and Capital City Bank has introduced a financial literacy program for teens, across 3 rural sites. Upon finishing the nine-week course, students will receive a stipend of $200!
he Big Bend Minority Chamber of Commerce, n partnership with Moves Program is also available Gadsden & Jefferson
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Ms. Kim Walker serves as the Coordinator at Wakulla Christian School. The Money Moves Program is also available in Gadsden & Jefferson counties.
Approved & Grant-Ed sits down with Dr. Brandy Fedrick Tatum, a leader whose work at the intersection of student success, advancement, and community impact is redefining what legacy looks like at HBCUs. Grounded in faith, family, and a commitment to people, Dr. Tatum brings decades of student-centered leadership and relationship-based fundraising experience to every space she enters. In this conversation, she reflects on identity, values, and the responsibility of building futures—not just raising funds—while staying rooted in purpose and impact.
Approved & Grant-Ed: Dr. Tatum, beyond your professional accomplishments, how would you describe yourself as a person? Which parts of your identity—as a mom, wife, daughter, or friend—shape your daily life?
Dr. Brandy Fedrick Tatum: At my core, I’m deeply relational and purposedriven. While my professional roles are important, they are rooted in who
I am as a mother, wife, daughter, and friend. Being a mom grounds me in patience, empathy, and perspective. It reminds me daily that legacy is not just what we build professionally but what we model personally.
As a wife and daughter, I value partnership, faith, and strong support systems. As a friend, I believe in showing up consistently and authentically. These identities shape how I lead—with compassion, accountability, and a genuine commitment to people. Success means little if it isn’t shared, meaningful, and aligned with love and integrity.
Approved & Grant-Ed: You grew up in Gulfport, Mississippi, and chose to attend Florida A&M University. How did your upbringing influence that decision, and how has it shaped the leader you are today?
Dr. Tatum: Growing up, I was surrounded by family, faith, and community pride. Both of my parents are proud Alcorn State alumni, and I saw firsthand what an HBCU education meant to them—it was more than a degree. It was identity, opportunity, and responsibility.
Choosing FAMU felt like a continuation of that legacy. It was a place where excellence and cultural affirmation existed together, where leadership looked like me and believed in me. That experience shaped my confidence and my leadership style. Today, I lead with appreciation for inclusive excellence, cultural legacy, and the importance of creating spaces where others feel seen, supported, and empowered to lead.
Approved & Grant-Ed: You were deeply involved in student activities during your time at FAMU. How do those early experiences influence the programs and initiatives you prioritize now?
Dr. Tatum: My early career in student affairs is the foundation for how I approach my work today. Working directly with students taught me how to listen deeply, understand their needs, and recognize barriers that can impact success. I saw how financial challenges, lack of support, or limited access could
derail even the most talented students. That understanding now informs how I frame philanthropic priorities. I’m not speaking in abstracts—I’m speaking from lived experience, grounded in real student stories and outcomes.
Those years also strengthened my ability to build trust and relationships. Students, much like donors, respond to authenticity, consistency, and care. The programs I prioritize today are centered on removing barriers, increasing access, and creating transformational experiences that help students persist, graduate, and lead.
Approved & Grant-Ed: You’ve secured multimillions of dollars to advance students and programs. Why is relationship-building and collaboration so important in your work?
Dr. Tatum: Fundraising is not transactional—it’s relational. People give to people and to visions they trust. Collaboration
allows me to align institutional priorities with donor values in ways that feel authentic and mutually meaningful.
Reciprocity matters because engagement is a two-way commitment. When donors feel heard, valued, and informed about the impact of their giving, they become true partners in the mission. That trust strengthens long-term engagement, deepens investment, and allows us to build sustainable initiatives that benefit students, faculty, and the institution as a whole.
Approved & Grant-Ed: Sometimes we only get a flash of what our life could become. Why is it so important to stay grounded in your values and purpose while continuing to dream big? What are you most proud of personally?
Dr. Tatum: Staying grounded in your values ensures that growth never compromises integrity. Dreams evolve, opportunities expand, and responsibilities grow, but purpose keeps you
centered. Faith, service, and authenticity are my anchors—they allow me to dream boldly while staying rooted in why I do this work.
Personally, I’m most proud of the life I’m building with my family and the example I set for my child: that success can be achieved with humility, kindness, and purpose. Professionally, I’m proud not just of the dollars raised but of the lives changed, the doors opened, and the legacy strengthened for generations to come.
“Faith, service, and authenticity are my anchors—they allow me to dream boldly while staying rooted in why I do this work.
-Brandi Tatum Fedrick
Beyond social media, Tia “Yuntie” Kemp is a hands-on businesswoman, strategist, and community advocate whose work extends far beyond what audiences see online. At the core of her success is a business mindset rooted in structure, preparation, and long-term vision. Yuntie is deeply involved in brand consulting and promotion, helping entrepreneurs—particularly those just starting out—learn how to position themselves, communicate their stories, and build visibility even when resources are limited.
That same discipline carries into her role as a media personality. In an era where social media often prioritizes speed over substance, Yuntie Tia approaches her platform with intention and responsibility. Rather than chasing quick attention, she focuses on credibility, messaging, and sustainable growth. Much of her work happens behind the scenes, where she takes time to research current events, staying up to date with news cycles, and social media trends. She credits the Wendy Williams documentary for reinforcing the importance of preparation, noting how Wendy relied on constant research, tabloids, the
news and publications such as US Weekly to stay informed. For Yuntie Tia, being influential means being knowledgeable.
While her online presence is powerful, Yuntie Tia’s impact is most visible in the real world—particularly through her commitment to community. Each year, she hosts her Annual Christmas Drive in Winter Haven, Florida, providing gifts, food, games, and meaningful experiences for underprivileged families. The drive is not a one-day effort but the result of months of planning, coordination, and relationship-building. It reflects Yuntie Tia’s belief that true influence is measured by how you show up for people when they need it most.
Beyond organized community events, Yuntie Tia is deeply invested in mentorship. She actively supports youth, young adults, and aspiring entrepreneurs, many of whom feel unseen or unsupported. She openly acknowledges that some entrepreneurs cannot afford promotion when starting out and often believe their messages go unread. Yuntie Tia challenges that perception by making a conscious effort to read her direct messages and respond when possible, offering encouragement
“STAY
and guidance that often becomes a turning point for those reaching out.
Her mentorship extends especially to students—many of them first-generation college attendees navigating higher education without a support system. Yuntie Tia understands the pressure they face in a culture that glorifies instant fame, and she consistently reminds them that choosing education is something to be proud of. Her message remains steady and clear: “stay focused, keep pushing forward, and continue standing on business”.
When asked what advice she would give aspiring social media influencers, Yuntie Tia emphasizes respect for the platform itself. She urges creators not to take social media for granted, stressing that success requires a strong work ethic, accountability, and sacrifice. Late nights, early mornings, and missed sleep are often part of the journey. There are no shortcuts—only consistency and hustle.
At the heart of everything Yuntie Tia does is purpose. She
understands her calling and recognizes that people rely on her voice, her honesty, and her presence. That awareness is what keeps her moving forward. Through business, media, mentorship, and community work, Tia “Yuntie” Kemp continues to prove that influence, when used with intention, can create real and lasting impact—both online and beyond the screen.
For bookings, contact Tia “Yuntie” Kemp’s manager, Sandra McKinney (FAMU ’94), at queentiabookings@gmail.com.
Pretty With Purpose, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and public charity dedicated to mentoring and empowering young girls in the Tampa Bay and surrounding communities.
Founded in 2017 and officially launched in 2019 by Mrs. Kimberly L. Jefferson, PWP was created to address the emotional, social, and developmental challenges many young girls face at home, in school, and within their communities. Through mentorship rooted in advocacy, education, philanthropy, fundraising, and community partnerships, PWP provides a supportive foundation for girls to grow into confident, purpose-driven young women.
At the heart of Pretty With Purpose is a clear vision: to inspire, motivate, and encourage young girls to set attainable goals, believe in themselves, and recognize their self-worth. Over the past five years, Pretty With Purpose has provided one-to-one and group mentorship to more than seventy pre-teen and teen girls. Through consistent guidance and intentional programming, participants are encouraged to explore their strengths, build resilience, and develop healthy self-esteem and self-confidence. The organization measures success not only by numbers served, but by the lasting impact mentorship has on a girl’s life and relationships.
That impact is best reflected through the voices of families served.
“Mrs. Kim thank you so much for all that you have done and everywayyou’vepouredintomygirls!Youliterallyhelpedmold mydaughterintotheyoungladysheis.Whenwejoined,Iwas atsuchalowwithbeingagirlmom,her“pre-teening”andlosing my mom. You helped her when I honestly didn’t have much to give her. Now we have such a good relationship and she’s graduatinginacouplemonths.Itrulycan’tthankyouenough.”
Stories like this affirm the power of mentorship—not just for the girls, but for entire families navigating challenging seasons. As community needs continue to grow, Pretty With Purpose is expanding its reach and reimagining how support is delivered. Pretty With Purpose recognizes that not all families have the resources to consistently participate in programs. In response, the organization is opening its doors to broader community involvement by removing membership requirements for select activities and services. This approach ensures more girls can experience encouragement, empowerment, and connection, even if only once or twice a year.
In addition, Pretty With Purpose is introducing “Group Talk” sessions for youth, teens, and young adults. These nonmental-health group talks provide a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgmental space to connect and share—only if participants feel comfortable. Sessions are designed to be fun, relaxing, and engaging, while offering inspirational, motivational, and educational conversations that support personal growth, confidence, and everyday life skills. Participants leave feeling encouraged, connected, and empowered.
Pretty With Purpose is truly on the move, and community support is essential to sustaining and expanding this mission. There are many ways to get involved, including volunteering, mentoring, sponsoring programs or events, and donating. Financial contributions directly support mentorship programming, outreach efforts, and expanded community services.
To learn more or get involved, visit www.prettywithpurpose. org or email info@prettywithpurpose.org.
To make a donation and support the mission of empowering young girls, please visit: www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_ button_id=T7DCGRH9A94Z8.
Together, we can continue leading girls into their purpose and strengthening our communities.
Rural communities are emerging as centers of innovation, opportunity, and growth. Antonio Jefferson, City Manager of Gretna, is leading initiatives that demonstrate the transformative potential of programs, services, and businesses in small towns.
“Rural communities have incredible strengths and unique opportunities,” says Jefferson. “Our focus is on building programs and services that empower residents, support local entrepreneurs, and attract businesses that create meaningful impact.”
From business incubators to mentorship programs, Gretna is investing in initiatives that cultivate talent and leadership. Jefferson emphasizes, “Programs should produce real, measurable results—not just promises. By providing guidance and resources, we help businesses launch, thrive, and contribute to the community’s long-term success.”
Impact extends beyond city borders. “Building relationships beyond our community and region is essential,” Jefferson explains. “By connecting with regional leaders, state agencies, and national partners, we gain access to resources, insights, and opportunities that amplify our growth.”
Advocacy plays a pivotal role in ensuring continued development. Jefferson highlights, “Advocacy isn’t optional—it’s essential for sustainable rural growth. Engaging with lawmakers and national organizations allows us to secure support for programs and services that benefit our residents and local businesses.”
Technology and infrastructure are key drivers of rural economic development. Jefferson points to Gretna’s investments in broadband and connectivity, calling it “essential for entrepreneurship, education, and innovation.” He adds, “With the right infrastructure, rural communities can lead in sectors like remote work, e-commerce, and digital services, creating new opportunities for residents and businesses alike.”
“Growth isn’t about replicating urban areas—it’s about understanding your strengths and facing challenges head-on,” Jefferson says. His approach emphasizes strategic planning, strong partnerships, and community-driven initiatives that reflect the unique character and potential of rural towns.
Jefferson is optimistic about the future of rural economic development. “We’re seeing a wave of interest in programs and services that empower communities. By supporting entrepreneurs, investing in infrastructure, advocating at higher levels, and fostering partnerships beyond our region, we are building a thriving, sustainable ecosystem of growth.”
The City of Gretna exemplifies the power of unfiltered impact. Through intentional programs, collaborative partnerships, and a forward-looking vision, Antonio Jefferson and his team are demonstrating that rural communities are dynamic, resilient, and full of opportunity. With the right leadership, small towns can achieve remarkable growth and long-term success.
Congratulations to Antonio Jefferson on securing $18 million and counting to support rural communities— funding that will drive economic growth, create jobs, and expand opportunity.
Applying for and implementing state grants is often viewed as a technical process— applications submitted, budgets approved, and reports filed. According to Dr. Tyneal Haywood, Executive Director of PACE Center for Girls Leon, that perception barely scratches the surface.
“For us, grants are about responsibility,” Dr. Haywood explains. “They require alignment, discipline, and a deep commitment to delivering services with fidelity while navigating complex systems that impact real lives.”
At PACE Center for Girls Leon, the grant application process begins with clarity of vision. Each proposal must articulate community needs, align with state priorities, and demonstrate the organization’s capacity to execute effectively. Dr. Haywood emphasizes that this work is never done in isolation. Leadership, program staff, and fiscal teams collaborate closely, understanding that funding is not simply support—it is a promise to show up consistently for girls who depend on stability, advocacy, and opportunity.
“Securing the funding is just the first step,” he notes. “Implementation is where the real work begins.”
Ensuring grants are implemented with fidelity requires structure, accountability, and continuous monitoring. Every goal, metric, and expenditure must connect directly to student outcomes.
This level of rigor becomes even more critical when PACE enters a school turnaround environment, where academic performance, engagement, and morale may already be strained.
“Turnaround work requires patience and trust,” Dr. Haywood says. “You have to listen first—to educators, administrators, and community partners—before introducing systems or expectations. People need to know you’re there to support, not disrupt.”
The challenges are layered: limited resources, competing priorities, and intense pressure to produce measurable results quickly. Progress, he explains, is rarely linear. Instead, success often comes through small, hard-earned wins that gradually build momentum.
Behind each milestone is a staff committed to the mission, even when the work is exhausting. Dr. Haywood credits the team’s resilience as one of the organization’s greatest strengths. “The long hours, constant adjustments, and emotional weight of serving high-need populations are real,” he says. “That’s why a win-or-win mindset is so important. We celebrate growth, collaboration, and shared success.”
As an Executive Director, Dr. Haywood believes leadership is less about authority and more about building a home team. Surrounding himself with people who believe in the work, hold one another accountable, and remain mission-aligned has been
critical to sustained success. “Trust and transparency allow people to feel supported while still being challenged to perform at their best,” he shares.
Outside of his professional role, Dr. Haywood is also a father, community leader, and an Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity brother. Balancing these identities requires intention. “Being present at home and engaged in the community keeps me grounded,” he says. “It reminds me why this work matters and who it’s ultimately for.”
For Dr. Haywood, balance is not about perfection but prioritization. The work is demanding, but sustainability requires boundaries. “You have to know when to lead, when to support, and when to pause,” he reflects. “That balance strengthens leadership and helps prevent burnout.”
The realities of grant-funded work and school turnaround efforts often remain unseen. What the public sees are outcomes and success stories. What they don’t see are the long nights, difficult conversations, and strategic recalibrations required to move the work forward.
“This is where Unfiltered Impact lives,” Dr. Haywood says. “In the commitment to fidelity, the resilience of staff, and leadership rooted in purpose. Impact isn’t just about reports or programs—
You have to know when to lead, when to support, and when to pause.
-Tyneal Haywood “
it’s about lives stabilized, teams strengthened, and communities moving forward.”
For Dr. Tyneal Haywood and PACE Center for Girls Leon, the work continues—one grant, one school, one team, and one win at a time.
In Tallahassee, Florida, where education and opportunity often intersect with systemic gaps, Zack Richardson has built a missiondriven business rooted in originality and results. His work isn’t about test prep alone— it’s about advocacy, functionality, and ensuring students walk away with real-world skills and life-changing opportunities. At the heart of it all is one goal: helping students secure a future they can stand on independently.
Richardson’s journey began with a problem he couldn’t unsee. Too many students were falling behind academically, not because they lacked intelligence or potential, but because they lacked the right support system. What crystallized his purpose was the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship—a program that can dramatically change a student’s financial trajectory.
“I wanted to ensure that every student, regardless of their starting point, had a fair shot at earning that scholarship,” Richardson explains. “It’s not just about school; it’s about easing the financial burden on families and opening doors that might otherwise stay closed.”
That clarity of purpose became the foundation of his business and continues to drive every decision he makes.
For Richardson, authenticity isn’t a branding exercise—it’s a discipline. As a business owner, he believes authenticity means trusting his own blueprint rather than copying someone else’s model.
“I’m not interested in what everyone else is doing,” he says. “Every student starts with my own unique assessment. There’s no cookie-cutter path here.”
His authenticity is also deeply personal. Living with autism and dyslexia, Richardson is a walking contradiction to the limitations often placed on neurodivergent individuals.
“I am living proof that in spite of those labels, you can contribute meaningfully and make a massive difference in the lives of others,” he says. That lived experience shapes not only how he teaches, but how he sees potential in students others may overlook.
From the outside, success stories look seamless—high GPAs, scholarships, graduation stages. But Richardson points to a less visible pillar of his success: being an original and a truth-teller.
“People don’t see the difficult, honest conversations it takes to get results,” he says. “That honesty builds trust you can’t get by following a corporate script.”
Those conversations—sometimes uncomfortable, always direct—are what allow students and families to course-correct early and build sustainable academic habits.
The philosophy behind Richardson’s work aligns seamlessly
My goal is to show that every student can earn their ‘Bright Future’ and achieve long-term independence.
-Zack Richardson
with The Unfiltered Impact. To him, unfiltered impact means prioritizing function over optics. “I’m not concerned with how someone feels in the moment or how they look on paper,” he explains. “I care about how they function while we work together and at the conclusion of our goal.”
The ultimate measure of success? Self-sufficiency. Richardson wants students to leave with the skills and confidence to navigate the world independently, long after tutoring sessions end.
For Richardson, giving back wasn’t an afterthought—it was the business model from day one. He frames his services as a high-return investment for families.
“If a parent invests $5,000, my goal is to help that student secure $50,000 in scholarship value,” he says. “That’s a life-changing financial bridge.”
By helping students earn Bright Futures, Richardson ensures families see tangible, generational impact—not just academic improvement.
Every graduation season brings confirmation of Richardson’s mission. Students who once struggled academically now stand at the top of their classes as Valedictorians and Salutatorians, often holding full scholarships.
“Seeing a student stand on that stage as a leader proves that with the right advocacy, there is no limit to what they can achieve,” he says.
These moments aren’t anomalies—they’re evidence of what happens when students are truly understood and strategically supported.
Richardson’s message to other entrepreneurs is clear: protect your “why” at all costs.
“Don’t be afraid to be a disruptor,” he says. “If you see a need that isn’t being met, build the solution yourself. Your personal experience and your truth-telling are your greatest assets.”
The future of Richardson’s mission is expansive and intentional. He plans to continue advocating for neurodivergent learners, challenging outdated assumptions, and proving that an original approach—grounded in functionality and honesty—works.
“My goal is to show that every student can earn their ‘Bright Future’ and achieve long-term independence,” he says.
In a world obsessed with polish and appearances, Zack Richardson’s work stands as a reminder that the most powerful impact is often unfiltered—and undeniably real.
Idon’t seek fame; I seek to make a difference.
These words encapsulate the driving force behind Kaylin Jean-Louis, an award-winning journalist and founder of Kaylin’s Caring Connection Inc. Growing up in Tallahassee, Florida, Kaylin’s childhood was steeped in the values of community service, thanks to her parents’ emphasis on giving back. This early influence laid the foundation for her nonprofit organization, which focuses on empowering youth and fostering meaningful change.
Her journey, however, has not been without challenges. For Jean-Louis, senior year of high school was the peak of her nonprofit activities. “I was hosting consistent events, and my name was popping up everywhere,” she reminisced. Yet, the transition to college life at Florida A&M University in 2023 brought a whirlwind of new responsibilities.
“Journalism was a whole new ball game,” she admitted, reflecting on her decision to prioritize her academics and campus involvement. “I wanted to set myself up for success, but it meant some ideas for my nonprofit stayed on paper.” Now, with her footing secure, she’s ready to bring those plans to life.
In addition to balancing academics and leadership, Jean-Louis has been adapting her nonprofit’s mission to align with the current political and social climate. “Being in media has opened my eyes to what’s happening in legislation,” she explained. This awareness has inspired her to redesign initiatives that address pressing issues while maintaining the organization’s core mission.
Kaylin credited her success to her faith. “Everything I’ve accomplished is because of God’s grace,” she said. Her guiding philosophy is deeply rooted in humility and service. “It’s not about the likes or the accolades; it’s about making a difference and giving glory where it’s due.”
“It’s not about the likes or the accolades; it’s about making a difference and giving glory where it’s due.
-Kaylin
This perspective allows Kaylin to stay focused on her purpose, even as recognition and opportunities come her way. “I aspire to inspire until I expire,” she said, a mantra that underscores both her nonprofit work and her journalism career.
Kaylin’s vision extends far beyond personal achievements. She hopes to inspire younger generations to embrace authenticity and pursue their dreams boldly.
“I want little girls to see me and think, ‘If she can do it, so can I,’” she said passionately. Her message to them is simple: “Be yourself. No one else can replicate your unique touch.” Kaylin’s authenticity is her superpower, and she encourages others to live the same way. “You’ll meet me as I am, 100% of the time,” she asserted.
She thrives on investigative reporting, especially stories that uncover truths and amplify voices that often go unheard. Her passion for community storytelling shines through in her work, from covering the struggles of Haitian immigrants to holding local officials accountable.
Recently, she’s ventured into solutions journalism, an approach that not only identifies problems but offers actionable remedies. “It’s about making an impact, not just reporting the news,” she explained.
Her dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. After a recent interview with Melinda Williams, a commencement speaker at FAMU, Kaylin was praised for her thoughtful questions. “That respect means more to me than any trophy,” she said.
Those who’ve worked alongside her aren’t surprised by her success.
“Kaylin’s commitment to service is unmatched,” said Jasmine Petion, a Public Relations major and one of Kaylin’s classmates “She doesn’t just talk about change—she creates it.”
Jamel Netterman, a Broadcast Journalism major, shared that sentiment. “Kaylin’s work ethic and vision are what set her apart. She leads with purpose, and it shows in everything she does,” he said.
In five years, Kaylin envisions her nonprofit expanding to multiple cities and becoming a staple on college campuses. “I want it to empower students to give back to their communities and schools,” she shared. Her ultimate goal is to create lasting change, not just in Tallahassee but across the nation.
As for her journalism career, Kaylin is determined to continue telling stories with integrity and impact. “If I can move even one person from a defeated place to an inspired place, I’ve done my job,” she said.
Kaylin Jean-Louis is a testament to the power of faith, purpose, and authenticity. Whether leading her nonprofit or uncovering the stories that matter most, she’s committed to making a difference—and inspiring others to do the same.
