2024 Keynote Speakers
Alanda Gregory is a dynamic and multifaceted individual, a wellspring of inspiration for those she encounters. As a certified Life Coach and Life Mentor, she empowers individuals to unlock their true potential and reach for their highest aspirations. Alanda is also a Creative Professional, a Community Advocate, and a captivating Speaker. In her role as the Co-Owner of Tri-Phoenix Group, LLC, Alanda has helped shape the creative landscape and provide invaluable guidance for emerging talents. She is the visionary behind the Tri-State Black Business Expo and Black Excellence Awards, which has become a beacon of support for entrepreneurs and professionals within the Black community. Furthermore, she is the Co-Founder of the Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) Leader & Professional Collective, where she champions the voices and contributions of underrepresented individuals. Beyond her professional endeavors, Alanda is a devoted wife and the proud mother of two HBCU college graduates, 3 entrepreneurs, each of whom has established their own successful brands in catering, styling, and brand merchandise. Her family's accomplishments stand as a testament to her nurturing and supportive influence. Alanda's journey into life coaching and advocacy was sparked by her keen awareness of the lack of representation in various spaces. Her creative vision is driven by a desire to help individuals thrive in underrepresented spheres. She firmly believes that we should all aspire to become better versions of ourselves. With a foundation built on emotional intelligence and life coaching education, she is dedicated to enhancing her clients' experiences and helping them unlock their true potential. Drawing from her extensive corporate background, Alanda tailors her services to cater to the needs of those in the art, culture, entertainment, and small business industries. Her primary focus is on BIPOC-owned businesses and professionals, recognizing the systemic disparities they face in the United States. Alanda's commitment to this community is unwavering. Her commitment to the arts extends to her volunteer work and board service within the arts community. Alanda's exceptional contributions have not gone unnoticed. She is the recipient of numerous awards, including the prestigious National Leaders of Color Fellowship, the 2022 Master Force Life Coaching Academy Coach of the Year, the 2023 Governor's Emerging Leaders Art Award, and Her Magazine's 2023 Woman of Innovation Award. These accolades celebrate her unwavering dedication to empowering and uplifting those around her. Alanda Gregory's story is one of resilience, empowerment, and unwavering dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of others. She is a beacon of inspiration, a true catalyst for change, and a guiding light for those seeking to rise above the challenges they face.
Briana Thompson, a Native of Chicago is a seasoned Photographer, Creative Director, and Community Organizer, notably recognized as the Founder & CEO of Art For Us, a pioneering Creative Agency in Dubuque; as well as Owner of BriX Creative Studio. She serves as the first black woman to own a photography business in Dubuque for the past 8 years, Briana brings over a decade of expertise in Strategic Planning, Photography & Event Programming.
Beyond her role at Art For Us, Briana is a dedicated cultural organizer and consultant involved in various art exhibitions throughout the tri-states area. She currently spearheads the impactful Annual "Black as You Are" Art & Poetry Showcase as part of the Black History Month celebration, which draws a crowd of over 250+ attendees in conjunction with Curating The Annual “Art For Us” Fashion Show, that aims to raise cultural awareness behind the importance of providing a platform for Fashion & Modeling Industry. Her Community Partnerships has engaged with over 2200+ participants with 85% of them being Black/African American in 2023 alone.
Adding to her impressive portfolio, Briana sits on the committee for the Multicultural Family Center's annual Juneteenth Event, as well as the city of Dubuque’s Art On The River committee. She also holds a position as a board member for Vision In Reach Resources, a newly established non-profit advocating for performative & visual arts and artist development for artists in the Midwest.
Beyond her role at Art For Us, Briana is a dedicated cultural organizer and consultant involved in various art exhibitions throughout the tri-states area. She currently spearheads the impactful Annual "Black as You Are" Art & Poetry Showcase as part of the Black History Month celebration, which draws a crowd of over 250+ attendees in conjunction with Curating The Annual “Art For Us” Fashion Show, that aims to raise cultural awareness behind the importance of providing a platform for Fashion & Modeling Industry. Her Community Partnerships has engaged with over 2200+ participants with 85% of them being Black/African American in 2023 alone.
Adding to her impressive portfolio, Briana sits on the committee for the Multicultural Family Center's annual Juneteenth Event, as well as the city of Dubuque’s Art On The River committee. She also holds a position as a board member for Vision In Reach Resources, a newly established non-profit advocating for performative & visual arts and artist development for artists in the Midwest.