2025 Business Planning Workshop

Known for transforming chaos into clarity for small businesses, Kimberly Young leads Forever Young Management Services as its founder and CEO. Her strategic approach to business systems stems from 15 years in operations coupled with a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and an MBA in Process Improvement. Kimberly is passionate about one thing: making businesses run better. Whether you’re struggling with workflow issues, team coordination, or just feeling overwhelmed with day-to-day operations, she’ll help you save time, reduce stress, and boost your bottom line.

Latoya Shanell, CMP, PCA is an award-winning event and marketing strategist with 18 years of expertise in managing large-scale, multi-million dollar corporate events and conferences. As the CEO of L’ Shanell + Co., she specializes in creating world-class, immersive experiences that drive profit, enhance brand visibility, and deliver measurable results through innovative strategies. Latoya excels in strategic marketing, risk mitigation, process streamlining, and cost reduction without compromising quality. Beyond her client work, she empowers entrepreneurs through platforms like L’ Shanell Boss Round Table and Event Pros Unplugged, fostering thriving communities and profitable business transformations. A Certified Meeting Professional, Latoya has been recognized as one of Connect/BizBash’s 40 Most Influential & Innovative Corporate Meeting and Event Planners.

OnJaLee Lashay is the President of OLashay Strategic Marketing Solutions, where the motto is both simple and impactful: “Think of us as the marketing department for your small business.” OLashay is dedicated to helping small businesses connect with the essential marketing resources they need to succeed.

OnJaLee’s journey began in 2006 in Chicago, where aspirations of becoming a celebrated blues singer and songwriter eventually gave way to a different path. Known as “The Connector,” she transitioned from booking events for artists to organizing networking events for influential CEOs. Over time, her expertise grew to include graphic design, social media management, marketing consultancy, and event photography.

Her story is a powerful testament to embracing change, fostering meaningful connections, and unlocking creative potential. It reflects her unwavering commitment to self-discovery and empowering others to reach their fullest potential.

Keiona Wright, Is the proud owner of Wright Way Financial Services, Wright Way Tax Debt Relief Experts, and Wright Way Tax University. She is also the Illinois Ambassador for the National Association of Black Tax Professionals. A member of the ILCPA (Illinois Certified Public Accountant) Organization. She has 20+ years of experience as a Tax Accountant. A new enrolled agent licensed with practice before the IRS. She’s had the opportunity to work with hundreds of individuals and business owners. She also has experience with helping small business owners set up their businesses correctly in addition to helping small business owners maintain a professional record with extensive bookkeeping and taxation knowledge.