Courageous Woman Magazine is proud to announce the Top 10 Women to Know in 2024, a prestigious group of trailblazers who are making significant strides in business, entertainment, and beyond. Since 2011, the magazine has recognized dynamic women who are breaking barriers and paving the way for others. This year’s honorees, including Kearn Cherry, Marlena Martin, Lady LaDonna Michelle, Rose Phan, Audrey Mitchell, Tikesha Hearn, Rita Casman, Jo’Hanna D. Samuel, Verlisa Wearing, and Shaquinai Mclemore Edwards, embody courage, resilience, and leadership. Each of these women is not only excelling in her field but also making a profound impact on her community and industry. Courageous Woman Magazine celebrates their achievements and the lasting influence they are creating, inspiring others to rise and follow in their powerful footsteps.
Kearn Cherry is a dynamic event organizer, brand strategist, and motivational speaker who turns obstacles into opportunities. Living by the mantra, “When one door is closed, find another or create your own,” she helps individuals, speakers, and authors create their own platforms through conferences, events, book anthologies, and magazines. With a clear mission to elevate voices and businesses, Kearn’s years of experience and passion for service have made her an expert in building networks and creating spaces where people can shine.
Marlena Martin is the CEO and Founder of Woman of Achievement, dedicated to recognizing and empowering women leaders who excel in non-profit community work, the arts, public speaking, and education. With her personal mantra, “Success is rarely convenient,” Marlena emphasizes that true achievement often requires resilience and determination, especially when faced with challenges. She believes in the importance of going with your gut instinct when making tough decisions and understanding that leadership often entails choices that others may not comprehend at the moment. Through her work, she inspires women to embrace their inner beauty and contributions, reminding them that those who persevere, even when it’s difficult, are the ones who ultimately succeed.
Rose Phan, a survivor, advocate, and author of Fire of Hope: From Victim to Victor. After escaping communism by boat 48 years ago, Rose now leads the charge for clean water access through her organization, Zerothirst.org, in partnership with OptiWater filter. Recently crowned Ms. Elegance International Woman of Achievement 2023, Rose is dedicated to reducing plastic waste and improving global health. Her full interview will share her incredible journey and her mission to make clean water a right, not a luxury.
Verlisa Wearing is the visionary behind The RiseHer Network, an organization dedicated to empowering women in their careers, leadership, and personal development. She finds the most rewarding aspect of being a successful businesswoman in witnessing the growth and achievements of the women she mentors, from launching businesses to writing books and overcoming self-doubt. Verlisa is driven by her passion for helping women expand their horizons and access new opportunities, and she continually shares her success to inspire and uplift others, creating a lasting impact on the lives of those she supports.
Jo’Hanna D. Samuel is a dynamic beauty entrepreneur, author, and inspirational speaker, dedicated to empowering women through her unique blend of faith and fashion. As the founder of Add’ A Touch, Jo’Hanna has transformed her beauty business into a ministry, helping women discover their inner strength and true beauty. Her personal mantra, “Saying yes to yourself is one of the greatest gifts you can give, as it opens the door to stepping into your destiny,” reflects her belief in self-love and affirmation. Through meaningful connections and powerful conversations with her clients, Jo’Hanna’s mission is to inspire women to embrace confidence, love themselves fully, and trust God in their journey.
Audrey Mitchell, a best-selling author, mindset coach, and health and wellness educator, is a trailblazer dedicated to helping others achieve both health and financial freedom. As the founder of A Better Tomorrow Today, Audrey’s platform empowers individuals to live their best lives through holistic transformation. Inspired by her own health challenges at age 50, Audrey sought natural solutions that not only transformed her own well-being but ignited her passion to help others do the same. Her wellness business is rooted in the belief that true freedom comes from self-transformation—mind, body, and finances. Audrey’s unwavering commitment to her mission is driven by her motto, “You can have it ALL. See it, Speak it, Get up and Put in the WORK!!!” Despite facing challenges in finding the right audience, Audrey’s perseverance and dedication to impacting lives have made her a standout leader in the wellness industry.
Lady LaDonna Michelle, Founder and CEO of BridgePointe Media & Entertainment, LLC, is a bestselling author, psalmist, and strategic leader known for her innovative approach to media, PR, and event management. With a heart centered on love, grace, forgiveness, and kindness, she empowers women through her message of persistence and faith. Lady LaDonna encourages all to embrace their destiny, reminding every D.I.V.A. that bad experiences can’t stop them from achieving greatness. Her powerful belief in the transformative power of prayer and self-awareness fuels her mission to help others stand firm in their purpose and grow like never before.
Tikesha Hearn is a Forgiveness Coach, President/CEO, and author dedicated to guiding individuals on their healing journeys through the transformative power of forgiveness. With a personal quote that resonates deeply, “Forgiveness isn’t easy, but it’s necessary,” Tikesha emphasizes the importance of releasing past traumas to become stronger, better versions of ourselves. Her business focuses on helping clients heal from emotional wounds and reclaim their peace, fostering personal growth and resilience. Through her insights and experiences, Tikesha empowers others to embrace forgiveness, illustrating how it can unlock a brighter future and restore inner harmony.
Rita Casman is a multifaceted powerhouse—an actor, life coach, and social worker driven by a mission to be a voice for others and tell their stories. Known for her bold motto, “I always get what I want,” Rita is passionate about empowering people through compassion, empathy, and living life to the fullest. With deep roots in community service, her work in acting and social work go hand in hand, as she strives to inspire, mentor, and leave a lasting legacy. Balancing her successful career with self-care, Rita remains dedicated to her calling and encourages others to make their dreams a reality.
Shaquinai Mclemore Edwards, CEO of Nimble Notary Services, is a dedicated entrepreneur who built her business on the foundation of service and community impact. Inspired by the desire to create solutions and provide peace of mind to her clients, Shaquinai launched her black and woman-owned mobile notary business during the pandemic. Her motto, “My rewards are on the other side of serving others,” reflects her commitment to helping her clients and uplifting her community. Through her journey as a Notary Public and Loan Signing Agent, she has learned that success comes from continuous growth, resilience, and sharing knowledge to inspire others. With Nimble Notary Services, she is not only making her mark in Los Angeles County but also empowering others to pursue their dreams.
As we celebrate the Top 10 Women to Know in 2024, it is essential to recognize that their journeys are not just personal triumphs but also collective victories for women everywhere. These remarkable leaders exemplify the spirit of resilience and empowerment, reminding us that with dedication and passion, anything is possible. Their stories inspire not only their peers but also future generations of women who aspire to make a difference in the world. At Courageous Woman Magazine, we are committed to amplifying their voices and showcasing their achievements, encouraging all women to embrace their potential and strive for greatness. Together, let us continue to support one another in our pursuits, uplift our communities, and pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future.
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