Loudoun Economic Development Celebrates Black Entrepreneurs and Economic Development Leaders During Black History Month

In February 2024, Loudoun Economic Development celebrated Black entrepreneurs and economic development leaders by highlighting local African Americans who are #MakingHistoryInLoudoun because when you do business here, anything is #LoudounPossible.

Bernard Mustafa

Bernard Mustafa’s impressive dedication to economic development and public service in Loudoun County is truly remarkable. Not only is he a champion of economic development, but also a small business owner of Whole Body 20 (BE FIT), United States Army Veteran, and an honorary trustee of the Loudoun Education Foundation. His contributions to the community are extensive and diverse.

One of Bernard’s notable achievements is his recent retirement from his role as Chairman of the Loudoun County Economic Development Authority Board at the end of 2023. Prior to this, he served as Chairman of the Board at the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia and was appointed to the Board of the Center for Innovative Technology by Gov. Terry McAuliffe in 2015, where he served as Chairman until his retirement. Bernard’s commitment to serving the community is evident through his involvement in various local and national organizations, including Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, NAACP, National Black MBA Association, National Association of Black Accountants, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Institute of Management Accountants and Greater Washington Society of CPAs.

Bernard has made an immense impact in Loudoun, and his contributions have not gone unnoticed. We are incredibly fortunate to have him as a part of our community, and his dedication and hard work have truly transformed the region. As Bernard embarks on new endeavors, we wholeheartedly wish him the greatest success in all his future endeavors. Thank you for your tireless efforts in #MakingHistoryinLoudoun and leaving an indelible mark on our community. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible

Jacqueline Moore

Dr. Jacqueline Moore recently opened her first business, skŸn by Dr. Moore, a medical and wellness spa offering a comprehensive suite of non and minimally invasive treatments. The spa, located in Aldie, includes skin rejuvenation and laser treatments that are used for liposuction, body contouring, cellulite treatment, hormone replacement therapy, injectables, skin care, and sexual wellness. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Moore has earned widespread admiration and adoration from both her colleagues and patients. Renowned for her unparalleled warmth, empathy, and unwavering professionalism, she consistently goes above and beyond to exceed expectations.

After completing her surgical residency as Chief Resident in 2012, Dr. Moore led diverse teams and collaborated with Coalition Forces during three deployments as a combat and trauma surgeon. In 2017, while serving with the U.S. Special Forces in Mosul, Iraq, she earned a Combat Device. The challenges and experiences she faced in the military fostered adaptability and further solidified her role as a patient advocate, which she deeply values and considers fundamental to her practice. As a woman of color, Dr. Moore has personally witnessed the lack of representation and safe, effective treatments for people of color in the field of aesthetics. This has fueled her relentless pursuit of excellence and her determination to optimize outcomes. To achieve this, Dr. Moore has acquired specialized education and expertise in general surgery and aesthetic medicine. As a member of the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) and the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery (ASLMS), and she is qualified through advanced training in aesthetics and laser in the safe and effective treatment of the unique concerns and problems of skin of color and men.

Dr. Moore feels honored by the trust her patients have in her and is dedicated to establishing a supportive and inclusive space that embraces individuals of all skin types, tones, and genders, all while #MakingHistoryInLoudoun. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible

Angela Mitchell

Angela Mitchell is a pioneer in innovation, opportunity, and leadership. Being President and CEO of ARM Consulting, newly selected Chair of the Loudoun Chamber of Commerce, former Chair of the Loudoun Coalition on Women and Girls, Advisory Board Member for Northwest Federal Credit Union, and serving on the Board for the Loudoun Health Commission, Angela’s focus for making a difference really shines in her efforts throughout all of her roles.

A thought leader in human resources, business development, and DEIA (diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility) standards, Angela is highly regarded as a reliable authority in making critical decisions, forming business partnerships, and establishing strategic alliances. Her leadership is truly inspiring, fueling action and growth, while her deep understanding of business intricacies propels organizations forward. With her keen intuition, she connects the dots of various opportunities, empowering others to expand their horizons.

Angela’s dedication to the community is inspiring and commendable. In November 2023, she was recognized as the Changemaker of the Year by the Community Foundation for Loudoun and Northern Fauquier Counties for her outstanding leadership in establishing and strengthening connections with various businesses and organizations. While #MakingHistoryInLoudoun, she plays a vital role in launching initiatives that celebrate the heritage and diversity of Loudoun, highlighting the contributions of diverse businesses and organizations. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible

Derrick Clarke

Derrick Clarke is a soil and water advocate who actively engages in county policy conversations, focusing on best practices for soil and water conservation. He recently ran as an independent candidate for Soil and Water Conservation Director in the Loudoun District. Through his nonprofit, AgriCair, he facilitated a partnership between WormWorks, LLC, a 2022 Loudoun Innovation Challenge winner, and Chef Chicas of Farm & Fork Kitchen, diverting food waste from the Loudoun landfill to a Middleburg farm.

Derrick’s journey into soil and water conservation began with a passion for healthy eating instilled by his parents. In 2020, he had the opportunity to work from home due to COVID protocols, allowing him to delve into the benefits of diverse agricultural soils. As an engineer with an interest in chemistry and biology, he connected with experts, attended conferences, visited farms, and joined soil and water conservation meetings throughout Loudoun County.

His efforts focus on reducing rooftop runoff, minimizing herbicides and pesticides, and diverting food waste from landfills to farms, positively contributes to soil health and reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Derrick is involved in various organizations, including the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Friends of Thomas Balch Library, and the Loudoun County Heritage Commission. He advocates for “Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle” practices to positively impact soil and water resources and is committed to supporting Virginia’s goal of achieving NetZero greenhouse gases by 2045 through community collaboration and action to protect county agricultural resources from overdevelopment. Additionally, Derrick has invited Indigenous musician, scholar, and community organizer, Dr. Lyla June Johnston, to Loudoun to discuss 3,000-year-old solutions to modern problems involving soil and water conservation.

In addition to #MakingHistoryInLoudoun through his efforts, Derrick is also Loudoun’s own DJ BiFocals! #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible

Damon Moore

Dr. C. Damon Moore is a man of many hats, embodying the spirit of versatility and commitment in both his professional and personal pursuits. Currently serving as the managing partner of Pediatric Healthcare, Loudoun Medical Group, Dr. Moore stands at the helm of a practice with a rich history, as 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of Pediatric Healthcare.

When he joined the practice in 1997, Dr. Moore brought with him a wealth of experience, having completed two years of service in the National Medical Health Service in his native Mississippi. His educational journey included an internship and residency in Pediatrics at the University of Washington (Seattle) after graduating from the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. Dr. Moore also holds degrees from Ole Miss and Oxford University, where he studied as a Rhodes Scholar.

Beyond his contributions to healthcare, Dr. Moore is actively involved in various community and extracurricular activities. As the Chair of the Philanthropic Committee at Loudoun Medical Group, he extends his commitment to giving back. He also serves as a tenor and Development Chair for the Master Singers of Virginia, is a member of the UVA Club of DC Executive Board, and serves as secretary on the DC Phi Beta Kappa Association Executive Board. His commitment to community service is evident through his roles at Harmony United Methodist Church, where he serves as lay leader, participates in the choir, ushers, acts as an acolyte, serves as a liturgist, and contributes to the preschool Board.

In the realm of sports and entertainment, Dr. Moore is the Loudoun Valley High School Volleyball announcer and anthem singer for volleyball and baseball. His altruistic spirit also shines through as a 1 Gallon Donor for Inova Blood Services. Dr. Moore’s diverse involvement is #MakingHistoryInLoudoun as he underscores not only his professional expertise but also his dedication to community, education, and the well-being of others. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible

Rod Williams

Rod Williams is the CEO of The Williams Center for Wellness and Recovery in Leesburg, a facility he co-launched in 2022 in partnership with the Loudoun Medical Group. Rod has extensive experience in healthcare leadership having served as COO and later as System Vice President of Community Affairs at Inova Health System for eight years. He was also President at Ochsner LSU Health in Shreveport, Louisiana and later as CEO of various addiction and recovery centers prior to returning to Loudoun in 2018 as the Senior Vice President, MBE and Health Care at Lowers Risk Group. He is actively involved in the community, currently serving on the Loudoun Chamber Board of Directors and as a Member-at-Large of the Economic Development Advisory Commission (EDAC).

Under Rod’s leadership, the Williams Center for Wellness and Recovery offers cost-effective and comprehensive mental health treatment and substance use disorder services in a structured outpatient setting. Bridging the gap between inpatient hospitalization and traditional outpatient treatment, the center utilizes a unique model of care, coordinating intensive outpatient programs and Medication Assistance Treatment Services for clients with cooccurring conditions. This holistic approach integrates individual and group counseling with closely managed medication therapy, ensuring clients’ successful and sustained recovery. The Williams Center has collaborated with Loudoun County Public Schools as a community partner and student referral source as well as a provider of telehealth services for crisis situations, emphasizing its commitment to community well-being. The Williams Center has also participated in the LCPS Mental Health and Wellness Conference in the Spring of 2023, where staff served as presenters and subject matter experts.

Rod is doing hard work #MakingHistoryInLoudoun in the fight against substance use disorders and mental illness. He has made this his mission and in 2023, Becker’s Healthcare—a nationally-recognized media platform for healthcare decision makers—recognized Rod as one of the “149 Black Healthcare Leaders to Know.” #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible

Shawn Springs

Shawn Springs is the CEO of Windpact, a Leesburg-based company that focuses on tools and technologies that empower designers and engineers to develop industry-leading products by delivering critical data and analysis tools. Having spent 13 years in the NFL, his initial motive for starting his company was to develop better and more effective helmet technology. The product—Crash Cloud, a patented advanced impact protection system designed to be tunable and optimized—became a launch pad for more innovative and sophisticated computer-aided design, modeling, and simulations in enhancing not only impact protection products but all products, streamlining their market introduction and minimizing costs. This realization, coupled with unique material data, became instrumental in supporting partners like the United States Department of Defense and the National Football League.

Windpact’s unique approach involves utilizing computer-aided tools and innovative technologies, such as Crash Cloud, to facilitate product development in diverse industries. By providing faster, more cost-efficient processes, they unlock the potential for better-performing products. Collaborating with clients in sports, military, and automotive sectors, Shawn’s team of business, scientific, and medical advisors tackle challenging manufacturing problems, propelling brands into a new era of product development.

A TEDx presenter with a talk titled “Tackling Helmet Protection Head On,” Shawn is #MakingHistoryInLoudoun, extending his influence beyond business. He serves as a board member of the Boulder Crest Foundation, a nationally recognized non-profit that supports combat veterans, first responders, and their families dealing with traumatic brain injury. He has also pledged to donate his brain to aid CTE and Concussion Research through the Concussion Legacy Foundation. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible

Kindra Dionne

Kindra Dionne is a highly enthusiastic business and leadership development consultant, founder of Purpose WorX, author of Conquering the Emotional Rollercoaster of Entrepreneurship, and owner of Fifty Leven Wine. Known for exuding passion, professionalism, and creativity in every task she undertakes, Kindra supports development agendas while serving on various community and institutional boards. She is the Program Coordinator for Leadership Loudoun, Commissioner for the Loudoun County Economic Development Advisory Commission, member of the HUBZone Contractors National Council Board of Directors, a member of the Executive Advisory Council for Leadership GovCon, a member of the Learning Leaders Alliance Advisory Board, and faculty for the Young Entrepreneurs Academy of the Loudoun Chamber of Commerce.

Her latest venture, Fifty Leven Wine, is part of a growing community of Black-owned wine brands in the U.S. and is situated in the heart of DC’s Wine Country, right here in Loudoun. Unlike many wine professionals, Kindra did not enter the industry with formalized training in wine. Through mentorship, extensive research, and a desire to share a collection of approachable varietals and blends with an underserved consumer group, she is #MakingHistoryInLoudoun by learning the business, having successfully launched Fifty Leven.

Kindra’s well-known smile and bright personality is a welcoming presence in Loudoun. Through her work, she guides businesses through the process of strategizing, organizing, and actualizing their goals, supports entrepreneurs in launching new concepts, teaches young people about the opportunities that surround entrepreneurship, and offers a lifestyle brand to a new generation of aspiring wine enthusiasts open to exploring and learning their own palates. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible

Kwasi Fraser

Kwasi Fraser is an entrepreneur, renewable energy advocate, former mayor of Purcellville, and was recently appointed by Gov. Youngkin to become Board Member of the Clean Energy Advisory Board at the Virginia Department of Energy. His commitment to public service extends to his former appointment to the EPA’s Small Communities Advisory Subcommittee of the Local Government Advisory Committee and he has actively served on the National League of Cities’ Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Federal Advocacy Committee, Transportation and Infrastructure Federal Advocacy Committee, and Unmanned Air Mobility (Drone) Integration Advisory Forum, representing legislative priorities for thousands of cities, towns, and villages.

Early in his career, Kwasi was in the tech and telecom sphere, having held several leadership roles at cellular companies focusing on strategic business development initiatives. He also co-created SamePoint, a startup that introduced one of the earliest social media search and brand reputation management engines globally, incorporating advanced technologies like natural language processing and sentiment analysis.

Kwasi served four terms as mayor of Purcellville before deciding not to seek reelection in 2022. During his time as mayor, he successfully restructured an obligation inherited from the town’s past, involving a $30 million expenditure on a wastewater treatment plant that predated his tenure. In his efforts to enhance the town’s financial standing, he explored innovative ways to capitalize on its assets, aiming to bring a “capitalism to open space” approach. He also advocated for the multifaceted use of the town’s under-utilized land, suggesting purposes such as tree planting for carbon sequestration and designated areas for drone testing, bike trails, and even the establishment of an equestrian center. His vision revolved around maximizing the potential of existing assets to address and reduce the town’s debt.

Kwasi’s commitment to #MakingHistoryInLoudoun is rooted in a leadership philosophy that echoes the principles of great leaders from the past. By drawing inspiration from figures like Teddy Roosevelt, he seeks to pave the way for a future where effective governance is synonymous with positive, lasting change. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible