Brian Francoise is social entrepreneur, facilitator, educator, artist and community engagement specialist. Brian is Director Emeritus of a UMBC community-university partnership in South Baltimore called Lakeland Community and STEAM Center. He served as an Open Society Institute — Baltimore,  Community Fellow, where he led an intergenerational group of

Sheila “Silly Sheila” gaskins is a Teaching Artist, Activist, Playwright, Stand-Up Comic, Arts Advocate, Cultural Worker, DEI Facilitator, and Healer. She is a native of Baltimore, Maryland and was awarded the Renaissance Woman of the Year by the Baltimore Art Scene in 2023. She is the author of her memoir of …

Laura Coombs Francoise is a healer, end-of-life doula and speaker. Valuing self-determination, women's empowerment and holistic health has guided her work as a social worker for more than 30 years. Currently, Laura assists clients with legacy projects, emotional support and intentional end-of-life planning that reflects the client’s deeply considered wishes.

Natalia Figueredo is Environmental Justice Advocate who works to advance equity, sustainability, and community empowerment. She recently worked on International Migratory Species programs for the U.S. Forest Service. She also brought urban ecology programs to Lakeland youth and families through USFS’s “urban partnerships” program. She currently is the Enhanced Services Manager for South Baltimore Gateway Partnership.