INSPIRING VOICES
Inspiring Voices Leading the Shine Conference 2024
SPEAKERS
We are thrilled to host Shine Women's Conference with exceptional speakers.
Our speakers are trailblazers in their fields, each bringing a wealth of knowledge, experience, and inspiration to the Shine Conference. They will share their unique journeys, providing insights and wisdom that will empower you to shine your brightest. Join us to be inspired by these exceptional leaders and take away valuable lessons for your personal and spiritual growth.
FEATURING
Pastor
Smokie
Norful
Senior Pastor, Victory
Grammy Award Winning Gospel Artist
Pastor Smokie Norful is a renowned pastor, Grammy-winning recording artist, educator, and author with a passion for transforming lives. Known for his soulful voice and inspiring messages, he has sold over 4 million albums worldwide. He serves as the senior pastor of Victory Cathedral Worship Center and continues to impact lives globally. On June 7, 2024, Smokie Norful released his highly anticipated new album, "I Still Have You," further showcasing his musical and spiritual influence. For more information, visit Smokie Norful's website.
Jordan G.
Welch
Gospel Artist, Teacher
Jordan G. Welch is a multifaceted artist known for her powerful vocals, skilled choir direction, and impactful songwriting. Since her debut single "Obedience" in 2012, she has captivated audiences with her heartfelt music, including fan favorites like "Highlights" and "Trust." Jordan's commitment to nurturing the next generation of musicians is evident through her nonprofit, Yahweh R.Y.S.E., which provides leadership and fine arts training. Recently, she has collaborated with urban and global brands to spread the gospel through music, showcasing her versatility and innovative approach. For more information, visit JordiG Music.
Reverend
Sheleta E. Fomby
Preacher, Leader
Reverend Sheleta E. Fomby is currently leading Sequoia Ministries in the Washington, DC, metropolitan area, where she focuses on spiritual growth and developing leadership among early-stage women in ministry. Her efforts include training in pastoring, preaching, and church planting. Highlights of her career include founding Sequoia Ministries and holding various executive leadership roles at Reid Temple AME Church. Additionally, she is a decorated United States Air Force veteran, showcasing her dedication to service and faith. For more information, visit Sequoia Ministries.
Wellness Panel Discussion
“ His Creation- Caring for your mind, body, and soul"
Experience an enlightening panel discussion where experts in nutrition, cosmetology, dermatology, and psychology come together to explore holistic wellness. Discover practical tips and biblical insights on how to nurture your mind, body, and soul, aligning with God's creation. Enhance your well-being with actionable advice and spiritual encouragement designed to help you thrive in every aspect of your life. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and connect with a community dedicated to holistic health and faith-based self-care.
Tamera Fair-The Brunch Bunch Radio Host AM1390
One day, Tamera wanted to make God laugh, so she told him her life plan. The plan was to leave a legacy as an advocate and educator of children. For over twenty years, she served as CEO to a chain of successful child care facilities in the Chicagoland area. Her degrees in English from Fisk University and graduate degree from National Louis University in Early Childhood Leadership and Advocacy, reflect her preparation for her plan. God responded to her, “I'm not through with you.” “Get ready, things are about to change.” Never in a million years did she think she would be in film, theater, or radio as anything other than a ticket holder.
Tamera’s vivacious personality warms the hearts of her listening audiences around the globe on the radio and the people attending the events she hosts. From Internet radio to Crawford Broadcasting on 106.3 fm-a weekly show (Darryl Cooke Live) to her present daily show on I Heart Radio (The Brunch Bunch) Inspiration 1390 am, Tamera is carving her own niche in the industry. In her words, “I am a proud single mother, and my best accomplishment to date is being the mother to my wonderful daughter, Modi.” You will never catch Tamera ending a show without saying “I love you Modi.”
Dr. Ola Shobande, MD
Dr. Ola Shobande is a board-certified Internal Medicine Physician who graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago – College of Medicine in 2007. She completed her Internal Medicine residency at the University of Illinois/Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, Illinois in 2010. Following this, she pursued a fellowship in Nephrology at the University of Wisconsin in Madison, which she completed in 2012.
In addition to her expertise in internal medicine and nephrology, Dr. Shobande has a special interest in women’s health and aesthetic medicine. She is the owner and medical director of Renew Aesthetics & Wellness Center, PLLC in Aurora, IL.
Dr. Shobande is deeply passionate about educating her patients on chronic medical conditions and their associated disease processes. Her care philosophy emphasizes patient education, believing that well-informed patients are more likely to make the right decisions regarding their treatment programs. She states, “Educating the patient about the disease process is a huge priority. For the more informed a patient is, the more likely he or she is to make the right decisions regarding their treatment program.”
Kelly Montgomery- Licensed Cosmetologist
Kelly Montgomery is a Licensed Professional Cosmetologist, Owner/operator KELZCUTS SALON SUITE, and Creator of BE CLEAR CONSULTING LLC
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Kelly is a Healthy hair enthusiast with over 30 years of experience and training. She knows there is more to a client than just their hair. Kelly believes in having a working knowledge about the client because it is vitally important to the outcome and success of each appointment.
Kelly’s goal is to see each client as a unique individual, listen with intentional understanding and then create specifically based upon each clients input.
Kelly believes in partnership, so the client is encouraged to engage in the process. An atmosphere is created where the client has a voice and a choice in the matter.
Kelly teaches and mentors students and fellow colleagues.
Kelly shares her life with her husband Ulysses, their families, and friends.
Dr. Touwanna Edwards Psy.D., CADC
Dr. Touwanna Edwards is a Minister here at VCWC and serves as the Director of L.E.A.D. Institute.
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As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Certified Addictions Counselor, “Dr. T.” specializes in family-based interventions, marital/couples therapy, issues of diversity, and the treatment of substance abuse. She is also an Associate Professor at a local university teaching graduate students in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Over the years, she has worked in community mental health clinics, substance abuse treatment facilities, social services agencies, school-based mental health services, been in private practice, and has conducted forensic research.
Additionally, she is alumna of the Chicago area Christian Training Consortium where she received specialized clinical training in the integration of faith-based practice and psychology.
Felicity Cann RD- Registered Dietician
"As a former competitive swimmer, my interest in nutrition started early. I wanted to understand how eating affected my performance. I spent 20+ hours training each week and was determined to maximize that effort. I went on to earn a scholarship for swimming at Boise State University, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and Psychology. I received my Masters of Science in Nutrition in 2020 from the University of Illinois Chicago.
I love food. You probably do too! I love teaching the practice of moderation and balancing good nutrition with the enjoyment of food. I have been helping people achieve health through nutrition for the past 6+ years.
I currently work for Fay Nutrition, a private dietetics practice where I specialize in weight management, eating disorders, and diabetes care. My counseling approach centers around anti-diet, intuitive eating, health at every size, and all foods fit philosophies. Through motivational interviewing techniques I help clients harness the power of foods to fuel their bodies, manage medical conditions, make peace with their food demons, and rebuild a healthier relationship with eating.
When I’m not working in nutrition, you can find me at the beach with my french bulldogs, trying new recipes in the kitchen, or running along Lakeshore drive! "
Workshops for Empowered Living at the Shine Conference
Equipping Women with Faith, Identity, Relationships, Prayer, and Wellness
Attend the Shine Conference workshops to gain tools for overcoming fear, embracing courage, trusting God's timing, and deepening your prayer life. Experience holistic well-being and personal growth through our expert-led sessions and creative Wellness Room activities.
Kim Whetstone
Karen Wells
Dr. Gina Robinson
Ngozi Eboru
Rev. Valonda Toliver
​Faith
"Fearless Faith"
Equip yourself with tools to handle fear and anxiety by trusting in God's guidance. This workshop will help you cultivate fearless faith and confidence in your spiritual journey.
Identity
"The Pursuit of Courage: When Being Brave is Not an Option"
Overcome insecurity and self-doubt by embracing your God-given purpose and worth. This empowering workshop will inspire you to live courageously from God's perspective.
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Relationship
"His Plans, Not Mine: Trusting God's Timing in Your Love Life"
Designed for single women, this workshop addresses the struggle of waiting on God's timing for relationships. Learn to trust in His perfect plans for your love life.
Prayer
"Hearing God's Voice"
Explore methods for developing a deeper understanding of God's guidance in daily life. This workshop will deepen your prayer life and enhance your ability to hear God's voice.
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Wellness Room
"Wholehearted Wellness: Aligning Your Body, Mind & Spirit with God's Will"
Discover holistic approaches to wellness that align your physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual growth with God's purpose for your life. This workshop will provide you with practical tools and spiritual insights to achieve a balanced and fulfilled life, fully in tune with God's will.
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