Welcome to our Best and Brightest 35 and Under! For the first time, we are recognizing individuals in four geographic regions of South Carolina: Greenville, Columbia, Charleston, and now the Grand Strand. We launched our B2B: The Grand Strand edition earlier this year, and we are proud to celebrate 32 young people who are committed to making a difference in their communities in Myrtle Beach and beyond.

Our Greenville edition has the largest contingent of honorees, with 43 people who work in everything from law to real estate, nonprofits to education. This is our 30th year honoring Greenville residents.

In Columbia, we have 38 honorees, while in Charleston we have 34 recipients.

We are pleased to have the opportunity to showcase so many up-and-coming leaders who are making a difference in their communities despite their young ages.

We salute them, and we can’t wait to see what else happens for them in the coming years. Each individual has his or her own story to tell, and it is our privilege to share their stories.

We will honor all of these remarkable leaders at events in their respective cities during the month of September.

Julia Applegate

Age 28

US Marketing Manager

Commify

A South Carolina native, I grew up in a family of sales and marketing professionals. I was exposed to these vocations through many industry dinners, parent job shadow days, and dinner-time discussions on which advertisements best communicated their brand. With this upbringing, it’s no surprise I found myself drawn to the world of marketing from an early age.

After graduating with a BSBA in international business and marketing from Auburn University, I was focused on moving to Nashville, Tennessee. It was there that I began my career in tech startups. My passion for marketing brought me back to Charleston through work, and it’s here that I’ve been able to invest in the surrounding community through my membership on the Charleston Young Professionals Advisory Council and volunteer work at the Charleston Animal Society.

Your favorite quote and why:

“The price of anything is the amount of life you exchange for it.” – Henry David Thoreau

One of the biggest resources we have is time, yet many of us go through life spending considerable time on things we wouldn’t even say are important to us. I always advocate for evaluating commitments

Annalise Bowen

Age 28

Underwriter II, AVP

AmRisc

Outgoing is an understatement. My passion for fostering relationships has proven to be at the heart of my success. I graduated from the University of South Carolina in 2018 with a mathematics degree. I know what you’re thinking, “A sociable math major?”

We exist. I promise.

I began my career at ICAT in Colorado as a Catastrophe Insurance Underwriter, where outside of my daily duties I contributed to the Core Values team and mentored interns, fostering a fun and supportive workplace culture. Once the pandemic set in, I decided to move back home. When calls for returning to the office came in, I looked for a company that would allow me to stay in Charleston near my family. In 2021, I joined AmRisc, where I truly found my niche. I continued to be a catastrophe insurance underwriter where I assess the risk that hurricanes pose on commercial buildings in the southeast. 

What is your definition of a successful leader?

Someone who is relatable, humble, encourages authenticity and inspires greatness and resilience.

Tylar Brannon

Age 34

CEO

Optimal Bio

I grew up in Cary, North Carolina and attended N.C. State University for my undergraduate degree. It was during this time that I realized that I enjoyed helping businesses grow. I  decided to further my education at the University of South Carolina School of Law, receiving JD/MBA dual degrees, to do just that. After grad school, I moved to D.C. for a few years and eventually returned to the South to help the then-budding business of Optimal Bio.

It didn’t take long for me to realize that running this business was my passion. Since becoming CEO in 2018, I have expanded to eight locations across the South, doubled patient count, supported a 97 percent retention rate and continues to work closely with future and existing patients to help them achieve healthier and more balanced lives.

What is your definition of a successful leader?

A successful leader leads by example, remains calm, makes decisions thoughtfully, works hard, has difficult conversations and remains disciplined consistently.

Lauren Brown

Age 30

VP; Global Commercial Banking Relationship Manager

Bank of America

I serve as a VP; Global Commercial Banking Relationship Manager at Bank of America in Mount Pleasant. My passion for my community and Bank of America began right after I graduated from the University of South Carolina and moved to Greenville for my first job. As a double major in finance and marketing with a minor in retail, I found the Bank of America Financial Center Operations Development Program to be a great first step in establishing relationships with our clients and assisting them with their financial priorities. Soon after my time on the consumer banking side, I transitioned to the Global Commercial Banking – Middle Market organization. Within this team I have served as a Treasury Analyst & Treasury Officer in Greenville and in 2022 I moved to Mount Pleasant to continue my career as a commercial associate and now most recently promoted to relationship manager. My current role is focused on business development and serving our clients in the Lowcountry.

I am passionate about serving the community I live in and am committed to giving back to those around us.

Your favorite quote and why:

"Feed your faith, starve your fear."

This quote speaks for itself. Faith will take you exactly where you need to be in life, while fear will hold you back.

Jessica Chavez

Age 28

Front of House Manager

MOMO Riverfront Park

From a young age, I was driven by a passion for making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. This drive led me to a career as a public school teacher in Virginia, where I was honored to be named Stafford County’s New Teacher of the Year in 2019.

In 2022, my husband and I moved to Charleston where I began working for the local United Way to raise funds and resources for our Charleston community. This role, combined with my experience as an educator, deepened my understanding of how interconnected social systems impact families and communities. Today, I actively volunteer with various Lowcountry nonprofits to address the needs of our community, teach the practice of yoga and apply my operational skillset to support local restaurant teams.

I firmly believe that everyone has the opportunity and duty to contribute to positive change within their community.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Find gratitude everywhere, and you will find joy everywhere. Give people the benefit of the doubt and trust that great things are headed your way.

Mike Cook

Age 33

Project Manager

Low Country Case & Millwork

I have been a project manager at Low Country Case & Millwork for nearly two years, where my work has significantly impacted multiple departments. Prior to joining LCCM, I was selected for the prestigious Corning Inc Technician Pipeline program, which led to a scholarship at Corning Community College. 

I graduated with honors and was subsequently hired at Corning as a Fiber Optic R&D Technician, contributing to groundbreaking research and development initiatives.

In addition to my professional achievements, I recently completed the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce Leadership Charleston program, further honing my leadership skills. 

An avid golfer, I was a varsity golf team member in school and continue to enjoy golfing in my free time. 

Marcus Cripps

Age 32

Graphic Designer/Production Specialist

Grand Forest Inc.

As a graphic designer and illustrator, I’ve had the privilege of making my mark not only in Charleston, but also on a broader canvas. My portfolio boasts exciting collaborations with industry giants like Marvel Comics, DC Comics, and HBO. My work on hit shows such as “The Righteous Gemstones” and “OBX” has garnered widespread acclaim, fueling my passion for visual storytelling.

In the local scene, I’ve had the pleasure of working with some fantastic partners, including Cooper River Bridge Run, Holy City Brewery, Frothy Beard Brewery, and Holy City Tattooing Collective. These collaborations reflect my deep-rooted love for community and craftsmanship, where every project becomes an opportunity to celebrate local talent and creativity.

Beyond my design work, my role as an axe product specialist at Grand Forest adds another layer to my skill set. I take pride in managing and maintaining customer satisfaction, ensuring that our clients receive exceptional service.

What is your definition of a successful leader?

Great leaders must make their teams feel trusted, valued and supported. Listen to others and welcome their suggestions. Empower them to speak up and take risks. 

Elizabeth Cross

Age 33

Senior Marketing Manager

Obviouslee Marketing

Throughout my career, I’ve always been interested in working with companies whose goal is to improve the world, whether that’s through internal practices, their work, or the initiatives they support. I’ve worked with natural products, outdoor adventure gear, nonprofits, and purpose-driven businesses, which makes my career feel so meaningful. I’ve created campaigns, marketing and brand strategies, led PR efforts, built strategic content campaigns, developed thought leadership programs, and more, all with the goal of elevating voices that are working to make a positive impact on the world.

Volunteering is an important part of my life, whether in the church, the workplace, or the community; I’ve always been involved in giving back, even in small ways. Through my work, I hope to help people in a way that inspires them to give back to others or the environment, creating a snowball effect of positivity.

Favorite quote and why:

“Follow your curiosity.”

I’m not sure who I heard this quote from, but it has truly resonated with me in and out of work. When you’re curious about something, it can lead you down an amazing and exciting path you may never have thought of. I always try to approach new projects with a lens of curiosity. It encourages me to dig deeper, think differently, and learn more, ultimately making it a more interesting and rewarding project.

Joey Current

Age 35

Director of Strategic Partnerships

Trident United Way

As a Charleston native, I have dedicated myself to community service and empowering my neighbors to make our region one of the best places to live. Being a graduate of two major South Carolina universities, I hope to reinvest my talents back into the state I call home. After a decade of nonprofit experience, I have learned the value of being data driven, solutions oriented, and connected through strong partnerships.

As the director of strategic partnerships at Trident United Way, I play a pivotal role in advancing our mission: to be a catalyst for community transformation. Our many initiatives focused on health, education, and financial stability require coordination between donors, staff, and community groups. Additionally, it is my job to ensure our region is not working in silos when developing plans to address our most pressing needs. I work closely with our local chambers, governments, and nonprofits to make sure we are all in lockstep.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Follow your passion. Pursue what truly excites you and aligns with your values. Build and maintain relationships with people who inspire you and can support your journey. Networking is key to finding opportunities and mentors. Be open to change and be adaptable while staying true to your principles.

Diamond Curry

Age 26

Government Relations Manager

Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce

My passion for community development started during my time as a law and public policy major at Indiana University. I was quickly hyper-fixed with the idea that substantial change could start in the smallest neighborhood or block. After graduate school, I permanently relocated back to my hometown of North Charleston and began working in local government.

I’ve gained experience in housing, community revitalization, and economic development and am proud to have worked on teams that have supported locally operated small businesses and nonprofits in recovery after the pandemic. Currently, as a government relations professional, I work to advocate on behalf of the business community in the tri-county region. The joy I feel when I see disadvantaged communities receive needed investments and additional economic opportunities open up for the workforce cannot be understated.

Your favorite quote and why:

“Do we settle for the world as it is, or do we work for the world as it should be?” – Michelle Obama.

Because it encourages me to keep moving forward and never settle for less.

Bhaumik Desai

Age 32

Assistant Vice President, Branch Manager

United Community

I am a distinguished servant leader in the financial industry, recognized for my dedication to ethical leadership and community service. As a first-generation immigrant, I embody the values of hard work, resilience, and integrity. My journey started from humble beginnings over nearly two decades ago. I have navigated numerous challenges to rise to an Assistant Vice President, Branch Manager at United Community.

My leadership philosophy is grounded in servant leadership. I prioritize the well-being and development of my team, believing that their growth is integral to the United Community’s success. My innovative strategies have consistently delivered exceptional results, fostering sustainable growth and client trust. 

Beyond my professional achievements, I am deeply committed to giving back to the community. I actively mentor young adults supporting initiatives aimed at financial literacy and economic empowerment for underprivileged communities.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

It is OK to say no, it is OK to not follow the path of your friends and family. Surround yourself with individuals who holds same values and have passion for growth.

Catherine Dingler

Age 26

Marketing & Development Manager

Maynard Nexsen PC

Since graduating from Furman University in 2019, I have worked in the legal marketing and business development industry. I enjoy developing creative strategies in a dynamic environment and have had the pleasure of producing an award-winning legal podcast.

I am involved with multiple organizations that have allowed me to impact the community through volunteering and leadership.

As an active member of The Legal Marketing Association, I have served on the South Carolina Local Steering Committee since 2021 and have served as chair of the committee since 2023. I am also currently serving as the co-chair of the Programming Committee for the 2024 Legal Marketing Association Southeastern Conference.

Your favorite quote and why:

“Your success will be determined by your own confidence and fortitude.” – Michelle Obama

This quote is a great reminder that having confidence is half the battle when meeting any challenge in life, and tenacity will keep you going.

Katie Flaherty 

Age 35

Gym Owner, Fitness Coach 

Audacity Fitness, Home of CrossFit Audacity 

About eight years ago, I jumped ship from a NYC advertising career and started fitness coaching. Fast-forward to 2021, I moved down to Charleston with no job, in hopes of someday opening my own space. I spent the last couple years coaching or managing at various gyms and getting to know the community. 

Now in just four months, AF has surpassed initial projections. The energy is fantastic in a new, clean space. With CrossFit and Strength+ Conditioning classes, classes for ages 50+, social events, and movement clinics, it is an active home of like-minded people all training for their own personal goals and lifestyles. 

What is your definition of a successful leader? 

Successful leaders have kind hearts but the drive to get the job done. They are uplifting and empathetic, truthful to their word with the greater good in mind, but can also show pride in their work. They never stop trying to learn what can make the biggest impact. Most importantly, they are willing to take the risks and make decisions with courage and resilience.

Jeremy Gabriel

Age 34

Project Assistant

City of Charleston

I am a seasoned project management professional with over six years of government experience, currently serving as a project assistant for the city of Charleston. My journey in the public sector has been marked by a dedication to fostering community development and his commitment to enhancing organizational efficiency.

In my capacity as a project assistant, I have been instrumental in developing educational programs tailored for small and minority-owned businesses. My role involves organizing large-scale events and leading webinars focused on helping businesses gain access to capital. I recently earned the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification from the PMI Institute, and my expertise extends beyond project management. As a certified DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) Professional, I have a robust background in HR and talent acquisition and have successfully refined recruitment strategies and application processes to promote diversity and inclusion within various organizations.

I’m also furthering my education by pursuing a degree in Public Policy at Florida International University.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Invest in this thing called Uber. In terms of the future, stop being afraid. Move to that state, take that job, apply to the too-expensive university, do all of the things that scare the hell out of you.

Graeham Gillin

Age 28

Chief Operating Officer

Roden Law

Giving back to the community means leveraging my skills and resources to create positive change and support those in need.

I earned my bachelor’s degree from Montana State University before embarking on a career in commercial construction, development, and the energy sector. This journey ultimately led me to pursue a Juris Doctorate from the Charleston School of Law, where I honed my legal skills and solidified my commitment to serving the community.

I have been actively involved in addressing the affordable housing crisis and have lent my expertise to various South Carolina political campaigns. Additionally, I serve on the board of ValidEntry, a digital identity verification company, and Love Inspiring Life, a 501(c)(3) focused on combatting human trafficking.

Your favorite quote and why:

“The quality of a person’s life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavor.” – Vince Lombardi

This quote reminds me that regardless of what you choose to pursue in life, you must do so in such a way as to look back without regrets.

Grecia Hamilton

Age 35

Director of Development

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry

I was born in El Salvador and moved to Los Angeles when I was 5. Growing up in such a diverse city shaped me significantly. I learned early on how to appreciate differences and find common ground with people from all different backgrounds. 

In 2016 I found a new home in Charleston and began my career in nonprofit work. During my eight-year tenure at the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce, I launched the Minority Business Accelerator program and led the successful professional group THRIVE. Through this work and other DEI initiatives for the chamber, I helped bring resources and opportunities for growth to all members of our community. 

Giving back has always been a priority for me, but as a mother of three young children, it has taken on even greater significance.

What is your definition of a successful leader?

I believe a successful leader is one who empowers others and sets them up for success. Someone who can lead with integrity, kindness, and humility. True leaders can sacrifice when needed, show empathy when needed, and take bold action when needed.

Kayla Hoey 

Age 27 

Public Relations Manager 

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

I spent the beginning of my career in event management, producing everything from brand pop-ups to fashion week events and weddings, transitioning to leading marketing for area small businesses to create a full out of home and online presence. In moving to Charleston in summer 2023, I pivoted my career to public relations and marketing where I currently focus on highlighting a beloved area attraction, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, sharing with Lowcountry residents and worldwide tourists what makes it such a special place. 

My hope is to continue growing my career in the hospitality and marketing space in Charleston, highlighting the people and places that make this city so unique.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self? 

Don't compare your chapter 1 to someone else's chapter 10. Follow what makes you happy and you will be successful.

D’Jenique Inge

Age 27

Director, Marketing  and Brand Engagement

National African American Insurance Association

Developing my skills as a marketer has been a journey shaped by resilience and dedication. As director of marketing and brand engagement for NAAIA, I’ve excelled in seamlessly transitioning from concept to creation in our marketing, communications, and public relations efforts. My goal is to bring joy to our members and support our mission to diversify the insurance industry’s talent landscape.

Raised in Wichita, Kansas, and living in South Carolina since 2012, I’ve always been passionate about finding meaningful ways to communicate messages.

My career has been marked by notable achievements, including being named the 2022 Black Alumni of the Year and leading the Feed The Streets Thanksgiving Turkey Drive across South Carolina through The Manifest Effect. During college, I helped pioneer the AAIM LEAD Summit for young Black males and have since had the honor of being a featured panelist, providing advice for emerging leaders.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Never allow yourself to become complacent. There’s always work to be done.

Jai Jones

Age 35

Creative Director

Twelve South

A creative soul at heart, I have always had the desire to see things in a unique way. This divergent thinking has followed me throughout my career, ultimately leading to my current position as creative director at Twelve South, a Charleston-based company that creates beautifully functional, modern accessories for Apple products.

With over a decade in the consumer electronics industry, my breadth of experience ranges from leading the development of category-defining product design to producing inspired creative that's been shared by Apple and across some of the top media platforms in the world.

My creativity follows me beyond my professional career to my personal brand platform: Jai Eats, a celebration of crave-worthy food and beverage experiences in the Southeast. This platform has given me the opportunity to give back to the community I love.

Your favorite quote and why:

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” — Eleanor Roosevelt

When you dream, you start envisioning goals and aspirations for yourself. These dreams become a source of inspiration, that push you to always work toward achieving them..

Elizabeth Jozefczyk

Age 35

Director of People

Omatic Software

I was born and raised in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, and a few years ago, I made the exciting move to Charleston.

During my time in Detroit, I had the privilege of working for a company whose president was deeply committed to giving back to the community. This experience ignited a fire within me and showed me the power of bringing corporate business and social responsibility together to make an even bigger impact.

Now, as I lead Omatic Software from an HR perspective, I am grateful to be part of an organization that empowers nonprofits to leverage best-in-class technology and drive their mission impact. This opportunity allows me to bring together all my previous experiences, learnings, and successes to make a difference.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Don’t try to fit any other mold than the one you were exactly meant to fit and also to learn how to embrace leaving your comfort zone.

Abbie Linnerud

Age 32

Senior Director of Client Services 

Trio Solutions Inc. 

My biggest purpose in life is to make a positive impact on those around me. I’m grateful to do just that as the senior director of client services at TRIO. Born and raised in Sumter, I graduated from the College of Charleston with a B.A. in music and a minor in communication. Throughout my career, I’ve helped numerous businesses and nonprofits achieve their marketing goals while also investing in the growth of our account management team.

Outside of work, I volunteer annually with Palmetto Girls State, investing in rising high school seniors across the state. I also lead worship at my local church and perform at various fundraisers, venues, and community events. Whether I’m helping my clients achieve their goals, empowering young women to develop their leadership skills, or sharing joy through music, I’m thankful for the opportunity to make a positive impact in my community.

Your favorite quote and why:

“Wherever you are, be all there! Live to the hilt every situation you believe to be the will of God.” – Jim Elliot 

Every moment and every day can be used for a greater purpose, and I love the reminder to be fully present and to give 110 percent in each opportunity.

Kenneth Marolda

Age 31

Co-President

Marolda Enterprises

I am from New York, where I earned a B.A. in history from Pace University. When I moved to Charleston, I earned my property management certification and opened my family business, Marolda Enterprises, managing a portfolio of multifamily properties in the Charleston area. I completed graduate school programs at the College of Charleston and Clemson University, earning degrees in community planning, urban design, and historic preservation.

Community service is a core value for me. In 2020, I co-founded a nonprofit called West Ashley Connects, which organizes litter sweeps, hosts annual back-to-school supply drives, and helps stock blessing boxes. In 2022, I co-founded an international nonprofit, CHS4Ukraine, which provides wartime humanitarian aid to Ukraine. I also volunteer on Synagogue Emanu-El’s Tikkun Olam community service committee.

What is your definition of a successful leader?

Someone who can inspire others to work together towards a valued goal.

Angela Mongrain-Boell

Age 34

Digital Content Creator 

Moxie Park Salon

Whether it was creating new codes for a website, advising on personal and business socials, or predicting trends before they happen, I’ve always had a knack for it and thrived on the internet. Utilizing those skills, I have been able to help small businesses and individuals grow their social media accounts along with their marketing and branding. 

My efforts paid off when I was nominated for the Vagaro Pro Social Media Award at the end of 2023. I take great pride in my contributions for building Moxie Park Salon’s online presence not just locally, but internationally. 

Your favorite quote and why: 

"A wise girl knows her limits, a smart girl knows she has none." – Marilyn Monroe

This quote reminds me not to set limitations, to just keep pushing.

Anne Padgett Newton

Age 28

Senior Project Manager

Blue Acorn iCi

I graduated from the Clemson Honors Program with a degree in management with an emphasis in business analytics. After graduation, I completed AIG’s Technology Analyst Program in Charlotte, North Carolina. This program helps young professionals entering the industry to help find their niche, and I found that mine was project management in website development. 

Wanting to explore experiences outside of the insurance space, I moved back home to Charleston to work with Blue Acorn iCi to shift over to the digital consulting space. Since then, I have worked with various e-commerce brands to launch cutting edge technology on their sites and have learned even more from some of the top experts in this field. 

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Embrace the phase of life you are in! Don’t wish it away by always wishing you were at that next step.

Sam Norton

Age 31

Founder

Oaks & Moss Contracting

I was born and raised in South Carolina. My dad was a timber framer turned contractor who helped rebuild barrier island homes after Hugo. My mom worked at Trident Technical College for 39 years and is now retired.

I went to CofC for almost a year, but it didn’t go well. At the time I only cared about drinking. After a couple years of carpentry, I got back into school and this time, I took it seriously.

In grad school, I founded a company called Heron Farms that became the first vertical saltwater farm. We grew to a team of 12, and our product had distribution in 40 states.

In late 2023 I started a project called OpenSTEM that is still running at the College of Charleston. It is a small open-source laboratory that allows students to work on research topics from NASA’s Space Crop Production program. I spend my free time at my little permaculture farm in the ACE Basin.

What is your definition of a successful leader?

It's hard to describe, but you know it when you see it. Best indication is who you turn to when a category 5 is coming.

Laura Philpott

Age 35

Operations Manager

Surculus

A native of Atlanta, I was raised spending much of my time exploring the outdoors under the shade of the forest canopy and in the many parks around the city. I received my bachelor’s degree in communication from Kennesaw State University with a focus on organization communications, where I first learned the importance of employee support and development within the workplace.

Drawn to the Lowcountry by the native flora and fauna and the friendly nature of the people who live here, I relocated to Charleston early in my professional career.

My current role with Surculus, a woman-owned landscape architecture firm in Charleston, allows me to express both my passion for empowering those around me and my desire to make a positive impact on the natural environment.

Your favorite quote and why:

"There are no strangers here; only friends you haven't met yet.” – William Butler Yeats.

It describes the hope and potential of every interaction. You never know how impactful someone may end up being in your life.

Mario Picciotto

Age 30

Business Development Manager

South Carolina Stingrays

When I was growing up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, sports quickly became a key focus in my life. This influence became stronger when it was time to decide a career path. I wanted to be sure to find an industry that I would not only be successful in, but one that I was passionate about. 

 My current role has allowed me to utilize my passion for developing strong relationships to expand the Stingrays presence throughout the Lowcountry.  The most rewarding part of my job is witnessing the bonds and relationships formed between our organization and our growing fan base.

 I stay active in the local community by participating in the Charleston Young Professionals. I am also a community board member for the Be a Mentor organization, and love to spend time with my mentee Azariah.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Slow down and enjoy the moment. Take time to appreciate things in life that we all take for granted every single day. That's how you'll get the most out of living.

Thomas Robbins

Age 28 

Director of Business Development 

Robbins Construction Group 

Currently, I serve as the director of business development at Robbins Construction Group. My strategic acumen and client-centric approach have been instrumental in propelling Robbins Construction Group to new heights, driving revenue growth and expanding market presence throughout the southeast.

I spent early career building business development opportunities for an engineering firm in eastern North Carolina where I began to cut my teeth in the industry and assisted in growing a presence for the firm in Greenville, North Carolina, while attending East Carolina University.

Outside of work, I contribute to the community through volunteering and philanthropic events such as the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Bell Ringing and Special Olympics.

What is your definition of a successful leader? 

A successful leader has good character; someone who leads by example, doesn't cut corners, and is respectful. They are also someone who listens to their team and is always willing to learn. I love the saying, “I don't always have to be the smartest person in the room, but I have them on my team.”

Jonatan Guerrero Ramirez

Age 29

Program Director

We Are Family

I was born in Celaya, Mexico and raised in the small town of Waynesboro, Georgia. As a proud DACA recipient, being my authentic self has always been important to me because it’s my way of showing up in places I was once told I don’t belong in. 

After graduating from The Art institute of Charleston, I worked in the fashion industry where some of my collaborative work can be seen in Charleston Fashion Week, Southern Living Magazine, Bravo TV, Nickelodeon Studios, HRC, Buzzfeed, ACLU, NPR, FWS.US, Latinos in the South, Honor41, and BEAU Magazine alongside some of my mentors.

Working in fashion taught me about sustainability and giving back to my community, which opened up the doors to where I am today: running Closet Case Thrift Store operated by We Are Family. 

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

I would tell 18-year-old me to not be in a hurry to grow up! Remember to live in the moment, spend more time with your family, and don’t be afraid to try new things. Also, learn about effective financial literacy before you get your first credit card at 18!

Michael Samuel

Age 31

Commercial Relationship Manager

SouthState Bank

I am a world-traveling philanthropist who enjoys CrossFit, meeting new people, reading, and relaxing. I work in the banking sector with commercial and middle-market companies across South Carolina to facilitate mergers and acquisitions, equipment financing, and working capital needs. I am also the CEO and founder of MikeSamFitness, where I provide personal training and CrossFit coaching.

When not working, I am committed to serving my community through various volunteer opportunities. I am the 2023-2025 Campaign Cabinet chair and on the executive committee of Trident United Way's board of directors. I am a leading voice in Trident United Way’s Young Leaders United group, organizing volunteer and professional development opportunities. I also serve as a board member at the Charleston Habitat for Humanity, where I chair the advocacy committee. Additionally, I serve on the finance committee for the Coastal Community Foundation.

What is your definition of a successful leader?

A successful leader cares deeply about those they are leading in a holistic capacity. This means caring about their mental, spiritual, and physical health so that you understand the whole person. In addition to this, they must expect excellence from their team and skillfully deliver said expectations in a deliberate, kind manner.

Luke Sears

Age 29

Audit Manager – Financial Services

Elliott Davis

After graduating as a student-athlete from the University of Charleston (WV) in 2017, I was provided the opportunity to join the Elliott Davis financial services practice and relocate to South Carolina in May 2019.

Through Elliott Davis’ community focused initiatives, I have been able to get acquainted with many local nonprofits, which reaffirmed my desire to volunteer. I am now the treasurer of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry, providing the organization with the financial tools and guidance to further its mission of serving area children. Having served as a “Big” during college, I understand the positive impacts mentorship provides.

What is your definition of a successful leader?

A successful leader is the best listener in the group. A leader understands and learns the concerns of the group and provides meaningful feedback and a path forward.

William Swan 

Age 32

Data and Systems Manager 

Broadtree Partners 

Right after college, I started my professional journey with Geek Squad. My career advanced when I joined Ceterus, a startup focused on financial services for small and medium-sized businesses. At Ceterus, I was promoted to technical operations manager before moving on to Broadtree Partners, a private equity firm based in Charleston, South Carolina, and Charlotte, North Carolina.

At Broadtree, I am currently the data and systems manager. I hold four active IT certifications: CompTIA A+, Network+, Cloud+, and Data+. My long-term goal is to continually enhance my technical skills, striving for improvement through both automation and optimization.

Your favorite quote and why: 

James Clear from Atomic Habits has said, "If you can get 1 percent better each day for one year, you'll end up 37 times better by the time you're done." This quote highlights the idea that small, consistent improvements can lead to significant change over time.

Pat Tang

Age 29

Financial Adviser and Staff Manager

Western and Southern Life

My mission is to empower others to achieve their fullest potential. Growing up in an immigrant and single-mother household, opportunities were limited. Furthermore, the racism I encountered diminished my self-belief, and for 20 years, I dimmed my own light to the world. This experience fuels my commitment to support and inspire others.

As the chairman of Charleston Young Professionals, I have dedicated myself to fostering community engagement and developing young leaders in our region.

The transformative power of guidance and education is what drives me in my professional career as a financial adviser. I have felt the impact of my work, creating opportunity for my clients, by helping them navigate their financial journeys, providing them with the tools and knowledge to achieve their financial goals.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Embrace the big risks that feel daunting and life-changing. Remember, very few decisions are irreversible. Most of the doors you choose to walk through can be re-opened or left behind if needed. Don't let fear hold you back from seizing opportunities and pursuing your passions.

Eden Wallace 

Age 24

Community and Partnerships Specialist

Halo Science 

A native of Darlington, I've always been driven by a desire to help others. At Clemson University, I earned a master's in communication, technology, and society while discovering my passion for innovation at the Clemson University Research Foundation (CURF). CURF is Clemson's technology transfer and commercialization office, which helps find industry licensing and development opportunities for Clemson inventors' inventions.

My work at Clemson’s technology transfer and commercialization office led me to my current role at Halo; an R&D partnership platform that connects innovators with Fortune 500 companies like PepsiCo, Bayer, and P&G. Halo facilitates external collaboration opportunities, bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and practical industry needs. In my position, I manage communications with our global scientific community and cultivate strategic partnerships within the international innovation ecosystem. 

Your favorite quote and why: 

“I, myself, am made entirely of flaws, stitched together with good intentions.” – Augusten Burroughs

This quote reminds me that despite our imperfections, what truly matters is our intention to do good. It encourages me to focus on my desire to make a positive impact, even when I fall short of perfection, and to approach both my work and personal growth with compassion and purpose.