In February 2025, 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. Check out who was highlighted during Black History Month and click on their image to see the LinkedIn engagement.
Michael Timmons
Michael Timmons is the Founder and CEO of GoodFences, an AI-powered SaaS platform that streamlines HOA management enhancing communication, trust, and operational efficiency between homeowners and HOAs.
With over 30 years of experience in the technology industry with a proven track record of driving growth and profitability for a variety of organizations, Michael’s love for tech began when he first started developing software in middle school. This interest led to him pursuing a volunteer developer position in high school and aerospace engineering in college, ultimately landing an internship at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, ultimately shaping his career. After having roles at global giants such as IBM, American Airlines, and MCI Worldcom, and founding his first company, Apis Consulting, in 1997, Michael continued on his path, solidifying his future in tech. He credits his love for solving problems—no matter the context or industry—as his drive for his journey.
In addition to his career accomplishments, Michael has also earned two commendations from the Assistant Director of the FBI and six achievement awards from NASA, along with being named Employee of the Month.
Outside of work, Michael is #MakingHistoryInLoudoun by helping to develop Loudoun’s youth as a volunteer coach for the Central Loudoun Youth Football League—where he is currently candidate for President—and he is a Loudoun County foster parent. He is also a former Ida Lee NFL Flag Coach and former Board President for the River Creek Owners Association. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible
Chrystabel Davis
Chrystabel Davis is #MakingHistoryInLoudoun as a Global Sales and Client Relationships Leader and Founder of Afrotege, an African inspired products, services, and virtual experiences marketplace.
As a certified Program Management Professional, she has built a remarkable career and demonstrated expertise as a web developer, management consultant, and global executive spanning a variety of industries and sectors across multiple regions including the Americas, Asia, Europe, and Africa.
Chrystabel is responsible for a portfolio that exceeds $100M in revenue, with over 120 brands spread across 250k locations. She has delivered several successful programs, while prioritizing scope creep, controlling multiple budget obligations, and managing culturally and geographically diverse teams.
Her passion for culture and tech led her to be a Founding Chair at ISOC-SL, The Internet Society Sierra Leonne Chapter, which promotes access to the Internet as a resource to enrich people’s lives. Chrystabel also co-founded Sierra Visions, which helped promote and develop eduTech programs to disadvantaged West African communities in the areas of scholarships, internships, vocational training, and other career development and management initiatives.
In addition to everything, Chrystabel is a dedicated mother to a 16-year-old daughter who is an avid volleyballer, swimmer, and social entrepreneur. They both love aquatic sports and travelling, having covered more than 100 cities across four continents. Chrystabel also has a heart for service as she volunteers with socially responsible organizations including PayTech Women, Floris United Methodist Church, Helping Children Worldwide, and Melqosh Mission International. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible
Sheila Lordeus
Sheila Lordeus has over a decade long career of experience excelling in customer-facing roles. Inspired by the sacrifices and determination of her parents, Sheila founded Toire Avenue, a premier event venue in Leesburg designed to celebrate life’s most meaningful moments. As a first-generation college graduate and the proud daughter of Haitian immigrants, Sheila embodies resilience, determination, and a passion for creating meaningful connections. Her Multimedia Journalism degree, earned during her time in London, UK, honed her expertise in storytelling, leadership, and innovative problem-solving. These accolades, combined with her entrepreneurial spirit, have driven Sheila to embark on a new venture that honors her roots and fuels her purpose.
At its core, Toire Avenue represents Sheila’s vision to uplift her community through purposeful business management. The venue offers a versatile and elegant space for weddings, corporate gatherings, and celebrations of all kinds, blending sophistication with warmth. Driven by her background in multimedia and storytelling, Sheila infuses each event with a unique narrative that resonates long after the celebration ends. Toire Avenue’s mission is not only to deliver exceptional service but to create lasting experiences that reflect the heart and vision of its clients.
Sheila Lordeus sees Toire Avenue as a way to build a legacy that transcends her personal achievements. By blending her professional expertise with the values instilled by her parents, she is #MakingHistoryInLoudoun and creating more than a business—she’s building a brand rooted in connection, resilience, and impact. With Toire Avenue, Sheila is turning her vision into reality, offering a space where dreams come to life and community thrives. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible
Wakeya Henry
Wakeya Henry, Founder and CEO of VinoBLU® Event Wine Bar, is a certified wine specialist who embarked on her journey in the wine industry in 2017. She studied with the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) and the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET), where she earned Level III certification. Ms. Henry’s passion for wine was ignited after attending her first professional wine tasting, where she discovered the multifaceted and captivating world of winemaking. She also has over three decades of federal government service with the Department of Justice.
Driven by her entrepreneurial spirit and a longstanding interest in hospitality, Ms. Henry successfully created VinoBLU® in 2018, a unique venture specializing in wine services for corporate, private, and social events. She continues to expand her expertise in the wine industry, applying her knowledge to provide exceptional wine experiences for clients.
VinoBLU® Event Wine Bar was designed to offer a professional, fine dining approach to wine service at the customer’s prefer venue that would normally be presented in restaurants. Ms. Henry and her team have accomplished this mission by curating spaces into actual Bar settings and providing customer’s and their guests with quality service. A dedicated mother and grandmother, Ms. Henry is #MakingHistoryInLoudoun, while balancing her professional pursuits with family life. Her personal interests include exploring the world of wine, enjoying quality entertainment, and traveling, all of which contribute to her well-rounded approach to business and life. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible
Nicole Wright
Nicole Wright is a visionary entrepreneur and the driving force behind Wright Accounting Solutions, a firm dedicated to empowering small business owners with financial clarity and confidence. Founded in 2015, Wright Accounting Solutions provides CFO solutions, bookkeeping management, and business advisory services tailored to the unique needs of small businesses.
Nicole’s journey to entrepreneurship was deeply inspired by her mother, who instilled in her the values of resilience, hard work, and the importance of financial literacy from an early age. Before fully dedicating herself to her business in 2023, Nicole spent 20+ years honing her expertise in the corporate world, where she gained invaluable experience managing complex financial operations and developing innovative solutions for businesses of all sizes.
Since taking the leap to go full-time in her business, Nicole has leveraged her corporate acumen and personal drive to build a trusted brand. Alongside her expert team, she empowers entrepreneurs with the tools and strategies they need to take control of their finances, make informed decisions, and fuel sustainable growth.
Nicole’s journey reflects her commitment to helping small business owners overcome challenges and thrive. Through Wright Accounting Solutions, she is #MakingHistoryInLoudoun while continuing to make a lasting impact, helping businesses navigate their financial paths with confidence and precision. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible
Camille Hardy
Camille Hardy is a devoted mother of two and founder of Chunky Vegan, a farm-to-table organic baby food company that’s redefining nutrition for infants and toddlers. Camille’s journey from a career in technology to a passionate entrepreneur was driven by a desire to provide better, healthier options for her own children—and families everywhere. Chunky Vegan was also a finalist in the 2024 Loudoun Innovation Challenge.
What sets Chunky Vegan apart is its unwavering attention to detail. From sourcing pesticide-free produce directly from organic farms in Virginia and Amish farms in Pennsylvania, to using eco-friendly packaging and collaborating with experts like nutritionists and pediatricians, every step of the process is designed to ensure families receive the very best.
Camille’s personal story resonates with parents who want to make better choices for their children. As a mother herself, she understands the concerns families face about what goes into their children’s meals. Her passion for Chunky Vegan stems from a deep belief in the power of food to nurture both health and connection. But Chunky Vegan is more than just a baby food company, it’s a community-focused brand. Based in Loudoun County, the woman-owned business works closely with local farms and businesses, reinvesting in the area while prioritizing sustainability and regenerative practices. Camille emphasizes, “Progress is most meaningful when it benefits everyone. That’s why collaboration and community are at the heart of what we do.”
Camille Hardy’s story is one of transformation, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of families. Her work with Chunky Vegan is #MakingHistoryInLoudoun as a call to action for parents to expect more from the food industry and embrace choices that prioritize health, quality, and sustainability. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible
Lynwood Owens, Jr.
Lynwood Owens, Jr., President and CEO of LBO Technology, has successfully steered the company to new heights since its inception in 2009. With an impressive 29-year track record in federal government contracting, Lynwood has consistently delivered remarkable revenue and profit growth. He previously served as Director of Civilian/Homeland Security at GDIT.
Since 2017, LBO has emerged as a certified HUBZone and 8(a) Small Disadvantaged Business. Operating on 35 active contracts and supporting 11 government agencies including US Navy, US Army, US Air Force, DISA, WHS, DLA, DIA, HHS, HUD, EPA, and DOI as a prime contractor, this is a testament to Lynwood’s visionary leadership.
Lynwood provides strategic oversight and direction to his Business Development team, driving growth initiatives in areas such as proposal development, capture management, client relations and operations, identifying opportunities, and providing tactical business solutions. His financial expertise and collaborative approach have fostered a culture of innovation, empowering staff with tools to provide exceptional service and solutions to customers in the fields of professional services, AI, and cybersecurity.
Lynwood’s unwavering commitment to excellence is #MakingHistoryInLoudoun, as he drives continued growth and success into LBO Technology. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible
LeAnn White
LeAnn White was born and raised in Northern Virginia, where she began her career in the banking industry right out of high school. Starting as a teller, she steadily climbed the ranks, holding positions such as Credit Investigator, Loan Officer, Relationship Banker, and ultimately AVP Business Development Officer. Managing a portfolio of over $10 million, LeAnn witnessed firsthand the challenges and disparities Black-owned businesses face in accessing capital. Driven by a passion for service and a deep understanding of the financial landscape, she dedicated herself to educating and guiding those in need through the lending process to secure the capital necessary for growth.
LeAnn’s commitment to uplifting the Black business community is #MakingHistoryInLoudoun and led her to join the Northern Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce (NVBCC). Initially, she became a sponsor on behalf of her financial institution, then took on the role of Events Chair, where she played a pivotal role in curating programming and events. Her leadership and dedication eventually earned her a position on the board of directors, and she now serves as the Executive Director of the NVBCC.
During her tenure, LeAnn has overseen more than 100 events and launched the chamber’s flagship program, Elite Leadshare—a monthly networking event that connects business owners and professionals within the community. She also played a critical role in the creation and management of the Economic Evolution Accelerator Program, funded by the SBA, which equips 100 Black-owned businesses with the tools they need to grow and scale.
In addition to her role at the NVBCC, LeAnn serves as a board member of Virginia Career Works and the Interagency Council for the State of Virginia. She is the former Secretary of the Fauquier County NAACP and an Ambassador for the Hylton Performing Arts Center.
A devoted mother of three—Isaiah, Jasmine, and Noah—LeAnn is driven by a passion to serve others, constantly connecting individuals with the resources they need to succeed. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible
Barika Porter
Barika Porter is a visionary leader, Certified Professional Coach, organization partner and advisor, and community advocate with a deep passion for creating meaningful connections and driving organizational success. With roots in a family of educators and community leaders, Barika’s career reflects a lifelong commitment to innovation and transformation.
As the founder of Successfulbloom, Barika empowers healthcare organizations to tackle critical challenges, such as staffing shortages and employee retention. Successfulbloom leverages project management and organizational experts to bring forth transformative solutions to support retention and implementation activities related to its programs and projects. Barika, herself an expert in project and program management, believes in serving as a trusted organization partner and advisor to address the most pressing needs of her clients.
A graduate of the University of Virginia and the Goldman Sachs One Million Black Women: Black in Business program, Barika brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to her partnerships. Certified in Global DiSC and Energy Leadership Index assessments, she equips others with the tools and strategies to succeed in today’s fast-paced professional landscape.
When she’s not #MakingHistoryInLoudoun leading change in organizations or communities, Barika enjoys spending quality time with her family making memories. She remains active in her faith community and is a proud member of several chambers of commerce. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible
Brandon Ferris
Brandon Ferris is a highly decorated military veteran and an accomplished business development expert, whose passion for economic growth and leadership continues to shape Loudoun County’s thriving business landscape.
Brandon’s journey is one of service and success. A former Master Sergeant of the United States Air Force, he spent 15 years excelling in leadership roles, earning numerous accolades, including two Air Force Meritorious Service Medals, three Air Force Commendation Medals, and five Air Force Achievement Medals. Transitioning into the business sector, Brandon leveraged his vast experience in organizational leadership, acquisitions, and logistics to drive economic development and business expansion.
Currently serving as Business Development Manager for specialized manufacturing, logistics, and aviation, Brandon has been instrumental in fostering economic growth in the county. His expertise in strategic market development, relationship-building, and investment facilitation has led to significant achievements, including SkyHarbour’s $104 million hangar campus at Dulles Airport and the expansion of TTM Technologies, bringing millions in investments and creating hundreds of new jobs. His ability to connect businesses with opportunities has solidified Loudoun County’s position as a leader in business growth.
Brandon is #MakingHistoryInLoudoun both professionally and personally, as he is deeply committed to mentorship and community impact within Loudoun. Serving as a mentor and board member of the Young Kings Movement, he empowers young black men to achieve their full potential through mentorship, building life skills, and community service. Further, he has been selected as President of the Board of Directors for the Committee for Dulles, serving a key role in the economic growth of Dulles international Airport.
Renata C. Spinks – McNeal
Mrs. Renata C. Spinks – McNeal is the CEO of CyberSec International, Inc., a tech start-up focused on developing cyber security software as well as advising and consulting offerings to its customers. She is #MakingHistoryInLoudoun as a decorated, recognized leader with over 23 years of combined US Army Active Duty, Federal, and Department of Defense (DoD) service.
Her previous roles include serving in the Senior Executive Service as Assistant IT Director/Deputy CIO of the Command, Control, Communications, and Computers (IC4) Department and Senior Information Security Officer in the Headquarters Marine Corps. Her appointments include the USMC as the nation’s first Cyber Technology Officer at the Marine Forces Cyber & Space Command in Fort Meade, the Departmental Offices of the US Treasury Office of Financial Research, the Internal Revenue Service, and the Department of Homeland Security. She also earned combat veteran decorations with the 28th Combat Support Hospital, US Army 44th Medical Command.
Her drive to revolutionize cyber, information technology, and business transformation is evident in the initiatives she’s led and achievements she has garnered. Her continued passion for cyber got its enduring foundation from her time working with DHSICE, DOJ, CIA, and the ODNI while serving as a criminal research specialist, utilizing forensics and human intelligence to investigate human trafficking and child exploitation.
Some of her industry recognitions include 2023 Defense50 Leadership, the 2023 Grace Hopper Tech in Government Abie Award, Washington Execs 2023 Top Cyber Execs to Watch, 2023 CDO Magazine Top Federal CISO 2023, 2022 Fed100, 2022 Meritalk Cyber Defenders Award, 2021 Leading for Impact Award, State of NC 2021 HBCU Living Legend Award, and the 2020 Stars and Stripes Becoming Everything you are (BEYA) SES of the Year. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible
Dr. James Austin
Dr. James Austin is the Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cervais Inc. He is responsible for developing innovative emergent technology solutions that successfully answer the security challenges that exist with the Internet of Things (IoT) devices and is the creative visionary behind ideation and product strategy of cutting-edge endpoint security and data protection products—Cylenium Cloud and SG-X—which provide a solid and secure defense against the exploitation of the IoT devices.
As an accomplished cybersecurity executive, Dr. Austin oversees the vision and strategic priorities of the business, while continually setting the bar to maximize growth and performance.
Widely respected for his vision and strategic thinking, Dr. Austin has anticipated the transformation of endpoint security in leveling the playing field against would-be hackers to protect organizations and consumers worldwide. By constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation, he has been instrumental in shaping and developing Cervais’ cybersecurity posture. Coupled with intelligence and deep industry experience, he is empowering the industry to embrace proactive defense solutions.
Prior to Cervais, Dr. Austin’s career spans 25 years in information technology as a cybersecurity and risk expert consultant leading security program initiatives across federal agencies including the US Postal Service, Navy, Department of Veterans Affairs, Federal Railroad Administration, Department of Labor, NOAA, and Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Dr. Austin is #MakingHistoryInLoudoun, leading with unwavering faith and a resolute commitment to securing IoT by driving the innovation and technology to protect consumers and organizations from cyber threats. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible
Sharron and David Coley
Sharron and David Coley are United States Air Force Veterans and owners of VETs Produce where they advocate for agricultural nutrient solutions and educate their audience on how to yield greater harvests.
Sharron grew up in Baltimore MD. Her interest in gardening stemmed from her grandfather, who maintained a small backyard farm of seasonal produce and vegetables but would often take her to a larger farm owned by a family member. It was enough for her to develop an appreciation for what it takes to produce a good crop for a family, and a great seed was planted!
David grew up right outside the farming communities of central Pennsylvania. While he was never a farmer, several of his classmates were. He quickly learned the struggles many of the local farmers had endured with challenging soil, extreme temperatures, flooding and bugs.
They met while attending the Air Force Academy and each found their true love! After marrying, David and Sharron had two beautiful children – a boy and a girl. While taking on parenthood, they continued their military careers but knew that one day they’d be faced with life after retirement. Wanting to create financial freedom, David showed interest in entrepreneurship and Sharron believed in his vision.
After collectively spending 60 years in uniform, they retired and Sharron converted a portion of their property into a small family farm. She was eventually introduced to an agricultural product line that would address several challenges faced by farmers. Using these products, she found proven nutrient solutions that could assist all growers in proactively working towards increased yields. Today, they are #MakingHistoryInLoudoun helping reduce excessive crop failure for crops and growers nationwide! #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible
Renée Dawson
Renée Dawson serves as a Director of Teaching and Learning | Community Connections and Programs in Loudoun County Public Schools.
With over 25 years of educational experience, she was previously the Principal of Brambleton Middle School where she was dedicated to innovation in education, community partnerships, and student empowerment.
Her love for education began to surface while completing her undergraduate work at Berea College in Berea, Kentucky, then at Eastern Kentucky University, where she earned her degree in French Education. She moved on to study and live in Paris and Nîmes, France, as part of the Kentucky Institute for International Studies program through Murray State University.
Renée is committed to #MakingHistoryInLoudoun as she works to mold the future, educating and inspiring Loudoun’s youth. College and career readiness, innovation in education, and cultivating industry and community partnerships to equip LCPS students to be future-ready, drive her educational philosophy, and support the mission of LCPS to empower all students to make meaningful contributions to the world. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible
Dr. Sandra Owoyemi
Dr. Sandra Owoyemi is the Owner and Director of Invigue Medical Aesthetics and Wellness, located in Loudoun Station in Ashburn. Her practice offers a comprehensive range of medical aesthetics, minimally invasive procedures, and wellness treatments. With a holistic approach, Invigue combines aesthetic services such as injectables, skin rejuvenation, IV therapy, and medical weight loss, focusing on long-lasting results that help patients look and feel their best.
With over 15 years of experience in cosmetic pharmacy and medical aesthetics, Dr. Owoyemi specializes in aesthetics, cosmetic medicine, medication therapy management, and advanced laser treatments. She is dedicated to delivering exceptional results that enhance both her patients’ confidence and overall well-being.
Dr. Owoyemi is a Board-Certified practitioner with the American Board of Anti-Aging Health Practitioners (ABAAHP) and has undergone extensive training in aesthetic treatments, cosmetic medicine, and advanced laser technology.
Beyond her professional work, Dr. Owoyemi enjoys traveling, spending quality time with her family, and giving back to her community through volunteer efforts. She is honored by the trust her patients place in her and is committed to fostering inclusivity at Invigue Medical Aesthetics and Wellness. She ensures her practice provides education and treatment options tailored for all skin types, continuing to make a meaningful impact while #MakingHistoryInLoudoun. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible
Kendell Anderson
Kendell Anderson is the Winemaker at Old Farm Winery at Hartland in Aldie. He was previously the Cellarmaster at Stone Tower Winery in Leesburg.
Kendell has been working in the wine industry ever since graduating from William & Mary in 2017 with a degree in Kinesiology & Health Sciences. He got his start on the packaging side of the industry as an outside sales representative but because of the COVID pandemic, suffered the same fate as millions of others and was laid off from his position. The wine industry was something that he thrived in and fortunately for him, the layoff created an opportunity and pushed him to move to the production side.
He started as a cellar hand at Stone Tower Winery in December 2020 but by the time he left in 2022, was a cellarmaster, overseeing and managing the winemaking process of the vineyard. Kendall then began working as Winemaker at both the Old Farm Winery at Hartland in Aldie and Winery at Bull Run in Centreville, where he is #MakingHistoryInLoudoun and doing what he loves as a profession.
“Everything in my life has shaped me to be a winemaker and it is the perfect job for me.” – Kendell
#BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible
Tanisha Lewis
Tanisha Lewis is the Vice President, Diversity, Inclusion and Social Impact for Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA), which oversees management, operations, and capital development of the DC region’s two major airports: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport.
A 21-year veteran of the Airports Authority, Lewis has extensive human resources, diversity, inclusion, and leadership experience. She has served in key human resources roles, most recently as Manager, Human Capital Management Performance and Business Readiness. During her tenure with the Airports Authority, Lewis has led the implementation of the Airports Authority’s Human Capital Management System, created a robust succession planning and development program for critical positions, developed Leadership and Supervisory Training curriculum, implemented a Management Intern Program, developed the Airports Authority’s Corporate Social Responsibility Program, and created its first report.
Lewis was named one of 2018’s Rising Stars by Human Resource Executive magazine and is #MakingHistoryInLoudoun demonstrating record Human Resource, diversity, inclusion and social impact leadership. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible
Gary R. Barksdale
Gary R. Barksdale was appointed chief postal inspector for the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in March 2019.
In this role, Barksdale oversees all operations of the Postal Inspection Service, which includes its national headquarters, 16 field divisions, two service centers and a national forensic laboratory, which are staffed by postal inspectors, postal police officers, and professional, technical and administrative staff.
Before his appointment to chief postal inspector, Barksdale served as the deputy chief inspector at Headquarters for three years. He was responsible for several of the Postal Inspection Service’s functional areas including Criminal Investigations, Communications, Governance and Strategy and Security.
During his time as deputy chief inspector, Barksdale led the Postal Inspection Service against the nation’s opioid epidemic through the newly formed Contraband Interdiction and Investigations Group, which drives agency strategies to enhance drug interdictions. He was also instrumental in leading the Postal Inspection Service’s strategic planning, managing its responses to critical incidents, and representing the agency before Congress.
Barksdale began his law enforcement career as a police officer in Chesapeake, Virginia, where he served for seven years, including four years as a detective. In 1999, he was appointed as a United States postal inspector. Since then, he has served in the Los Angeles, Houston, Phoenix and Washington divisions, as well as at Headquarters. During his tenure as postal inspector, he conducted numerous criminal investigations of identity theft, mail theft, robbery and assaults. Barksdale has also held several executive leadership positions within the Postal Inspection Service.
Barksdale is a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the International Association of Financial Crimes Investigators. He is also the chairman of the Universal Postal Union’s Postal Security Group and is a Certified Protection Professional—considered the gold standard certification for security management professionals. #MakingHistoryInLoudoun #BlackHistoryMonth #LoudounPossible
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