Urban League Young Professionals

3458 Reading Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45229

Empowering & Changing Lives as Young professionals in cincinnati

AFFirmed

Since its inception in 2017, Affirmed has emerged as a beacon, dedicated to honoring the achievements of young Black professionals. Now, seven years on, Affirmed remains unrivaled in its commitment to celebrating success and excellence within the region. Annually, we proudly spotlight outstanding young professionals across various sectors including business, nonprofits, and beyond. Meet this year's class!

Michael Thompson

Michael is a visual artist, speaker, and community organizer. His work focuses on human ecology and nuance and he utilizes mediums across multiple disciplines to build his “Creative Ecosystem.” Michael utilizes the arts as a community catalyst, rethinking the roles that visual communication has in the modern world. Painting, installation, writing, collaboration, and innovation are at the forefront of his practice as he develops woven and multi-experiential works of art. Michael is an Artist-in-Residence Emeritus at the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Contemporary Arts Center, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra, and Mount St. Joseph University.

Calvin Davis

Calvin, a Miami University graduate with Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Marketing and Business Administration respectively, is deeply immersed in the Greater Cincinnati community. From his role as Donor Engagement Manager at the Cincinnati Art Museum to his initiatives like Analog Cincy and his involvement in the Human Services Advisory Committee, Calvin is dedicated to enriching the city's present and future. Notably, his work with Cincinnati Young Black Professionals (CYBP) stands out. Joining the Board in 2019, Calvin played a pivotal role in steering CYBP through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, eventually being elected co-chair in 2023. Under his leadership, CYBP has seen increased event attendance and social media growth, marking a period of sustained momentum and achievement.

Brittani Gray

Brittani Gray holds a Bachelor of Science in Special Education from Central State University and is a licensed instructor and stylist at HAIRKITCHEN LLC. Transitioning from teaching to hairstyling, she graduated from the Paul Mitchell School of Cosmetology. Known for her activism, Gray collaborated with the City Council to establish a nondiscrimination ordinance for natural hair in the workplace in 2019, gaining recognition from local news outlets and national platforms like Black Enterprise and Netflix's "Say I Do." Beyond the salon, she focuses on self-esteem, empowerment, and branding through her hairstyling approach. In 2018, she founded Girls Health Period (GHP), a non-profit empowering students experiencing menstruation and their support systems.

Vada Stephens

Vada Stephens, Chief of Staff to Hamilton County Commission President Alicia Reece, is the youngest to hold this role in the county's history. A graduate of Miami University in English and Music Performance, Vada's advocacy and public policy interests led to internships with notable figures like U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and Congresswoman Joyce Beatty. Currently, he empowers youth as President of the South West Ohio Young Black Democrats and holds leadership roles in various organizations. Recognized for his contributions, Vada has received accolades such as the Who's Who of Black Cincinnati Game Changer and NAN Congressman John Lewis Emerging Leader awards. Committed to fostering systemic change and economic justice, he remains dedicated to positively impacting communities through government initiatives.

Cortlan Booker

Cortlan Booker, a seasoned digital marketing professional with over a decade of experience, is originally from California but now calls Cincinnati, Ohio, home. Holding both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Ball State University, Indiana, Cortlan serves as an advertising sales manager for Spectrum Reach and authored "Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Modern Marketer." Beyond his professional commitments, he actively volunteers with various organizations, including the American Marketing Association, Cincinnati Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired, Guiding Light Mentoring, Urban League Young Professionals, and Lighthouse Youth & Family Services. Cortlan values personal connections and enjoys quality time with loved ones, drawing inspiration from sports and indulging in his passion for music and movies.

Simone Charles

Simone Charles is the Chief Experience Officer of Social B. Hospitality Group. As a self-described introvert, she credits events with helping her to find her voice. Simone is a graduate of Mercer University with a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology she also holds a Master of Science in Organizational Development and Leadership. Simone has carved her niche in event production by working in tandem with corporations, and private and government entities to craft event experiences that bridge the gap between ROI and experiential impact.

Quentin Taylor

Quentin, known as Unk Mook or Mook in the city, has been dedicated to serving the Avondale Community for the past 15 years, particularly focusing on the youth. A native of the Avondale community himself, he has established a nonprofit organization called Neighborhood Heroes 513, which is committed to giving back to the neighborhood. Through initiatives such as coat drives, turkey giveaways, back-to-school events, BBQs, and more, Neighborhood Heroes 513 strives to make a positive impact. Quentin expresses gratitude for the opportunity to serve his community.

Josselyn Okorodudu

Josselyn, inspired by her activist mother's dedication to marginalized communities, has carried a lifelong commitment to social justice. With over 15 years of experience in Public Health and Community Engagement, she now serves as the Director of Community Strategies at Cradle Cincinnati, leading initiatives to promote equity for Black families in infant and maternal health. Additionally, Josselyn co-founded Our Tribe, a grassroots initiative supporting Black individuals with autism, driven by her own experience raising her son Kai, who was diagnosed at age 5. Holding degrees in psychology and an MBA.

Dr. Emmanuel Ayanjoke

Dr. Emmanuel (Manny) Ayanjoke, R.Ph, PharmD, MBA, is the committed owner of Altev Community Pharmacy in Cincinnati, Ohio. With a family legacy in pharmacy spanning three generations, Dr. Manny's dedication to community service is ingrained. Inspired by his father's compassionate care, he pursued a career in pharmacy, graduating from the University of Toledo College of Pharmacy. With over 5 years of experience, including a fellowship in pain management and palliative care at Cedarville University, Dr. Manny is passionate about advancing pharmacy practice. At Altev Community Pharmacy, he continues his family's tradition of personalized care, offering innovative solutions to enhance community health and well-being.

Ashlee Young Award Winner: Daronce Daniels

Daronce Daniels, a graduate of Elon University and North Carolina Central University, serves as the councilman for Lincoln Heights. As the co-founder and executive director of the Heights movement, he led initiatives empowering residents to organize, resulting in the shutdown of the Cincinnati Police Department Gun Range. Daronce's commitment extended to transforming blighted properties into community farms and establishing the Innovation Center, providing employment opportunities for over 40 young individuals in Lincoln Heights. A proud husband and father of two.