Tiny Bar Chats

Bobbi Brown is a seasoned communications professional, former Chair of the Bridgeport, Connecticut Board of Education, and the visionary founder of #100GirlsLeading. This nonprofit organization, based in Bridgeport, empowers under-served girls aged 9-18 by providing access to transformative mentoring programs. These initiatives inspire and equip young women to lead both locally and globally.

Discover more about the impact of #100GirlsLeading by visiting www.100girlsleadinginc.org.

 Gemeem Davis serves as the Vice President and Co-Director of Bridgeport Generation Now, a grassroots organization dedicated to fostering civic engagement and community empowerment in Bridgeport, CT. A proud native of Bridgeport, Gemeem was born, raised, and educated in the city she passionately advocates for. As a Democratic National Committee (DNC) delegate and democracy advocate, she works tirelessly to promote democratic values and active civic participation. Learn more about her work and the mission of Bridgeport Generation Now at bptgennow.org. 

Lillie Ennis is a dynamic entrepreneur, public speaker, and life coach. She is the visionary founder of The Lillie Ennis Group, a consulting and networking firm committed to promoting local businesses and organizing impactful community events. These events focus on fostering both personal growth and professional development.

To learn more about Lillie Ennis and her work, visit https://www.thelillieennisgroup.com/

 Adriane V. Jefferson (she/her/hers) is a national award-winning cultural equity expert, arts administrator, and public speaker. Initiator of the cultural equity plan for the city of New Haven, she has worked professionally in the arts and culture sector for more than 18 years and has dedicated her career to cultural shift advocacy. 

 David Daniels III, a retired police lieutenant from Bridgeport, Connecticut, is the author of *Black and Blue in Bridgeport* and the founder of The Bridgeport Jazz Fest. For over three decades, Daniels has served as a dedicated officer, community organizer, and author, making a lasting impact on his community. To learn more about his work and contributions, visit https://davedanielsiii.com 

 Chef Damon Daye is a dynamic and versatile artist, currently serving as the executive chef and co-owner of 29 Markle Ct in Bridgeport, CT. With nearly three decades of experience, he has been crafting and perfecting not only food but also music and other creative arts, all with a deep commitment to serving others. His wide range of experiences and ventures have shaped him into an unstoppable force in the culinary world. 

 Vernon Thompson is the principal of Warren Harding High School in Bridgeport, CT, one of the few public high schools in the state's most populous city. Thompson has worn many hats, including Coach, Teacher, Special Education Certified Educator, Soulmatic Mind, Recording Artist, Trailblazer in the Hip-Hop Media scene and Father. For updates and content, follow him on Instagram at @Vernonsthompson. 

 John Gomes is an American businessman, public servant, and a leading candidate for mayor of Bridgeport, CT, in the 2023 election. Originally from Cape Verde, Gomes immigrated to the United States at age 9, arriving with limited English but quickly becoming fluent. His dedication to community and culture is reflected in his fluency in Italian, French, Spanish, and Portuguese. Gomes has cultivated a successful career as both a real estate entrepreneur and business owner, alongside holding corporate roles at Nestle, and serving in various leadership positions within municipal government. His broad experience underscores a deep commitment to public service and the development of Bridgeport, his adopted hometown. 

 Charles Grady is the founder and CEO of the Connecticut Hall of Change. With a distinguished career in law enforcement, he has not only achieved numerous successes but has also launched a variety of programs aimed at helping formerly incarcerated individuals reintegrate into society. Additionally, he provides vital support for their loved ones as they navigate their own challenges. You can learn more by visiting www.cthallofchange.net