Executive Team

With over 14 years of experience in community work, advocacy, mental wellness, and holistic wellness, I am a Queen guided by the spirit of servitude and illuminated by divine energy. My essence radiates love, light, and a steadfast commitment to uplifting others. Living to serve means sowing seeds of education, empowerment, and inspiration within our community. My greatest passion lies in nurturing and guiding our youth—the visionaries of tomorrow—while amplifying their voices and affirming their resilience. Anchored by the truths “Be the change you wish to see in the world” and “Stand for something or fall for anything,” I lead with love and authenticity. I wear my Crown with conviction and divine purpose. 

Samantha Hamilton has over 22 years of experience leading initiatives in Springfield, MA, focused on gang violence, substance abuse prevention, climate change, food access, age-friendly communities, teen dating violence, and health equity. As Director of Coalition Building and Community Engagement at the Public Health Institute of Western Mass, she partners with organizations, city officials, and regional leaders to address racial and health disparities in communities affected by climate change, food deserts, and disinvestment. A bestselling author, Samantha is a 2021 BusinessWest 40 Under 40, 2021 Springfield Kwanzaa Community Impact, and 2024 100 Women of Color honoree, and a 2023–2024 Marquis Who’s Who inductee.

With 10 years of professional experience in public health, Aumani Harris, MPH, has worked to address tobacco use, substance abuse prevention, and opioid misuse in Western Mass. She serves as a college professor at Holyoke Community College, teaching students fundamental skills and practical analysis to become certified community health workers. Aumani is the founder of the Women In Need of Empowerment (WINE) Conversation Series social events for women. WINE Conversation brings women together to have authentic discussions about systemic and patriarchal barriers that deter women's advancement. As a co-founder of Queens Narrative, she works with partners to facilitate community programming, initiatives, and events to support the empowerment and upliftment of women and girls. 

Nzima Hutchings, Enfield Poet Laureate, is a master teaching artist and founder of Hartford’s Literary Integrated Trailblazers, the Hartford Book Festival, and Every Kinda Lady LLC. She has 17 years of experience as a Master Teaching Artist & Advocate. An Amherst Writers and Artists (AWA) affiliate and member of the National Association for Poetry Therapy, Nzima bridges creativity and healing through transformative workshops. Her work empowers individuals to share their stories, build resilience, and celebrate the written word. Partnering with schools, clinics, and organizations, she fosters local and global connections. Whether hosting her poetry television show or leading retreats, Nzima inspires and uplifts.

 Gricelides Saex has over 20 years of experience in the Human Services field, bridging communities with health and social service systems. She has served Springfield, Holyoke, Chicopee, and nearby areas as an Outreach Worker, Program Coordinator, Case Manager, Counselor, and Certified Healthcare and Legal Interpreter. Recently, she worked as a Community Health Worker (CHW) and Recovery Coach. Currently, Gri is a CHW/Transportation Specialist at Baystate Health and volunteers as a Resident Advisor for Live Well Springfield and the Healthy Air Network. She is a member of MACHW/NACHW and the Pioneer Valley Asthma Coalition, advocating for equity and health.

Candice Renee Person, MScEd | MFA, is a curriculum developer, educator, and consultant with over 20 years of experience in urban public schools. She has led initiatives to boost family engagement, foster school-community partnerships, and improve student outcomes. As a professional development leader, she has trained educators on equity, inclusivity, and organizational growth. Through her company, Chelonia Change Collective, Candice empowers youth-serving organizations with leadership, content development, and training expertise. Passionate about impactful learning and advocacy, she is committed to supporting underserved communities and driving meaningful change.