Beth spent 10 years as a jewelry designer and BraveWorks is a perfect convergence of her experiences. Beth most recently was the National Charity Director at BeautyKind, and also has extensive experience in the nonprofit sector and currently sits on several boards. She graduated from Vanderbilt University and is is married to her college sweetheart, Doug, and they have two incredible sons, Doug and Freeman.

Aliyah is a Charlotte newcomer and has recently joined our team! She has her B.A in Fine Art. For the last 3 years she has taught English, art and more to children in the US and in China. Since arriving in Charlotte, she has hoped for a unique opportunity to use her creativity and make a worthwhile impact on others. She is thrilled to do just that at BraveWorks.

As our Engagement Coordinator, Anne supports both our event planning and volunteer engagement, among other things! Anne brings over 25 years in Business Development and Advancement in the non-profit sector to our team.  Her Passion is connecting people to one another and to their areas of interest, so they can contribute to their community and feel fulfilled. 

Molly joins Braveworks after serving as a care provider for vulnerable adults and adults with disabilities in California for over 10 years. Her love of art and jewelry making led her to teaching jewelry making to her clients and the community at large. Molly is thrilled to have found Braveworks after leaving California and is honored to be a part of the team fulfilling the Braveworks mission.

Diyana is an immigrant from Afghanistan, she came to United States 14 years ago. She is serving as a translator and now she is in Phase 2 of our artisan program which is to help deepen artisan’s work-force development skills. Diyana speaks four languages (Dari, Russian, Spanish, and English). She is vibrant, personable, and has a desire to learn and try new things.

Jakobi is returning to BraveWorks after staying home with her daughter in her most precious days as a baby. Stepping back into this role is such a blessing for her, because she loves having the ability to engage with the community and spread awareness about the mission of BraveWorks. She is passionate about helping others, diversity and inclusion, and has a long-lasting appreciation for handcrafted goods, ethical, and sustainable fashion.

It was a passion for fashion and experience in textile and apparel design that led Mary Liz to NYC and the world of fine jewelry. After her time spent there, she discovered her passion for colored stones. Mary Liz met her husband, Raj, in California at the Gemological Institute of America. Mary Liz loves meeting new people, traveling, and hanging with family, especially their daughters, Isabel and Mary Alice.

Tricia is a passionate community leader. She started her career as a prosecutor, then a corporate and litigation attorney. She later served as the Executive Director for The Lunch Project (now Thrive Global Project), a nonprofit serving communities in Tanzania. Tricia received her undergraduate degree in Finance from Ohio State University and her law degree from Wake Forest.  She is excited to be a part of Braveworks' mission!

Lauren joined Braveworks after serving in the mental and behavioral health field for 10 years. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist she brings a special skill set to the program and the women we serve. Lauren desires to come alongside the artisans to further empower, strengthen, and help transform them from the inside out, and we are thrilled to have her on our team!

Lori serves as the Operations Director for BraveWorks, overseeing all operational aspects of our mission.  Lori brings an extensive background in retail encompassing operations and staff management coupled with personal and commercial styling.  At BraveWorks, Lori is excited to fulfill her dream of joining an organization that strives to have an impact on those they serve.  She considers herself fortunate to be part of BraveWorks' empowering mission!

Kidist is originally from Ethiopia and embodies a Proverbs 31 woman in every way. Her optimism, diligence, and incredible work ethic make her an amazing leader. When she’s not busy guiding our artisans through our programming, Kidist enjoys sewing, taking her beautiful family on walks, and hosting family nights complete with delicious food and movie watching.