The new organization ‘15and30,’ the brainchild of Sonya Davis, local finance professional and entrepreneur, held its first event on December 17 at the Courtyard Marriott Nashville Hotel, 2508 Elm Hill Pike.
The event embraced young African American males in the Nashville area and surrounding communities, bringing together accomplished local professional African American men to speak on various issues concerning progression and positivity. Among the topics on the agenda were youth entrepreneurship, education and self-evolution.
After a lively icebreaker from Christy Nickels where random youth were selected to come to the podium and speak about what they planned to do in the next 10 years, the floor was opened to attendees. There was a heartfelt discussion and testimony from the audience, adding to the relevant discussion of the panelist and invoking motivation and inspiration for the young men who were proclaimed VIPs for the evening.
Guest speakers were comprised of gentlemen from various vocations, including: a coach, a firefighter, engineers, an accountant and a successful real estate businessman. Various other local men stood in representation and support. The CEO of the 12-year-old nonprofit, ‘4:13’ attended and spoke about the importance of having self respect, respect for others and how youth can encourage other youth. His wife and recent graduate of 4:13 accompanied him. She was once on the wrong track, but now holds four trade certifications because of the program.
Davis, CEO of ‘15and30’ is the former president of Exhale Nashville, women’s empowerment and travel organization. She grew the chapter from one person to over 300 women.
She was promoted to chapter director after a short time. As chapter director, Davis helped grow chapters in other cities around the U.S.
She felt that God placed it in her heart to work with young adults and teens instead and ended her role at Exhale to start 15and30, an organization that is all about youth empowerment.
For more information or to join forces with Davis and Wade check out their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sonya.c.davis.1.
