Notable Names

Special Section – Influential Women Leading the Way in Charlotte

Aretha Blake North Carolina 26th Judicial District Court Judge By John Burton Judge Aretha Blake is a Certified Mecklenburg County Juvenile Court Judge. She was first elected in November 2016 in a highly visible, countywide judicial campaign. Judge Blake serves the citizens of Mecklenburg County in Family and Juvenile Court.…
No Picture
Notable Names

Karina Young

Karina Young is an entertainment journalist, content creator, and on-air radio personality for Hot 98.1 with Summit Media where she informs, entertains, and delivers trending news to the local community. Young recently introduced her new IG LIVE segment, “Kickin’ It With Karina” (@itskarinay), where she provides a platform for people from all walks of life to share their unique stories and connect with the world in hopes to inspire the youth.“I…
No Picture
Notable Names

Kareem Puranda

Kareem Puranda is a licensed clinical mental health counselor, addiction specialist, and the owner of Self Talk Counseling and Consulting (STCC) where he provides therapeutic services to individuals struggling with trauma, substance abuse, and other mental health issues. He worked as a police officer for several years when he saw a need for counseling and building mutual trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve, leading him to serve as a coach, mentor, and volunteer in those very same communities.…
No Picture
Notable Names

Austin Smith

Austin Smith is the pastor of Movement Rock Hill and CEO of Austin Gerard & Co., a boutique marketing agency specializing in brand identity through logo design, web design, packaging design, cover art, marketing collateral, and social media branding. The ability to lead his family and establish a legacy that will impact future generations is a responsibility that he treasures dearly.…