Founder of Purposeful Steps
Leloni Lopez, born Leloni Ingram and hailing from Harlem, NY, has over nine years of experience as an HR Associate Director. Following the passing of her late husband, she transitioned into her current role as the Executive Administrative Assistant to the Chief HR Officer at Morgan State University. Beyond her HR expertise, Leloni is a traveling poet, a TV show producer and director, and a published author. She takes pride in living authentically, creating environments where work aligns with her values of equity and fairness. For Leloni, the sky is not the limit—there are no limits—because every step she takes is filled with purpose.
Benefits Director
Aiehsha Kifayeh is a seasoned insurance professional with 20 years of experience in the industry. Based in Brooklyn, NY, she has built a reputation for her dedication to helping clients navigate the complexities of insurance with ease and expertise.
Outside of her career, Aiehsha enjoys spending quality time with her three children and exploring new recipes in the kitchen. Her passion for cooking allows her to unwind and bring creativity into her daily life, while also creating memorable moments with her family.
Youth Advocate Associate
Madison Sumpter is a Junior at Indian Creek School in Crownsville, MD and HOBY Alumni 2024. She has been on the Dean's list and Honor Roll since joining this academic community, played middle school soccer, high school volleyball, a member of the Mock Trial team, and Sports Manager for varsity girls' volleyball and varsity boys' soccer. As a preacher's kid, community engagement, support, and volunteerism has always been part of who she is, and she wants to continue this passion throughout her life. She has volunteered with feeding the hungry, clothing drives, and working with senior citizens. She is deeply inspired by work that promotes health consciousness and accessibility and is committed to linking these values to student performance and advancement, and the development of thriving, equitable communities. This truly resonates with her because this should not be exclusive to portions of society but inclusive regardless of socio-economic status. Her academic trajectory is a degree to become a Nurse Practitioner with the goal of working with those living in the margins of society. She is passionate about this and will carry this message like a badge of honor! When not in school, working, or volunteering, you can find her reading a good book, shopping, hanging with friends (pool parties are her favorite), or spending time with her family and 3-year-old Pomeranian dog.
Purposed Youth Program Director
Nicarla Dontae is a dynamic professional with a diverse background in brand representation, event management, and the entertainment industry. Currently working as a brand ambassador, Nicarla excels at representing companies and brands across various platforms. She has extensive experience in keynote speaking, event hosting, and managing high-profile events such as festivals, concerts, store grand openings, and hospital conferences. As part of her role, she captures images of products, events, and customers using her iPhone 14 Max Pro or Canon EOS M50 Mark II, sharing them on her Instagram to further promote the brands she works with.
Recently, Nicarla has ventured into the film industry, gaining experience as a production manager, assistant, and director’s assistant. Though new to the field, she is eager to explore more opportunities and is especially passionate about pursuing a career in acting, while also taking on various crew roles to broaden her skill set.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Nicarla is a dedicated board member of a non-profit organization. She hosts and supports women’s empowerment events, advocating for women’s mental health and wellness, and strives to make a positive impact in her community.