Who I Am
I’m a visionary, a builder, and a woman committed to growth, purpose, and intentional living. As a wife, mother, and First Lady, I understand the importance of balance, discipline, and creating environments where people don’t just succeed—they flourish. My life has been shaped by faith, service, leadership, and a deep belief that transformation begins when people are given the tools, support, and encouragement to become who they were created to be.
Whether I’m speaking to an audience, mentoring a creator, leading a workshop, publishing a book, or serving my community, my mission remains the same: to help people recognize their potential, strengthen their foundation, and move confidently toward the life they’ve been called to live.
Credentials, Recognition & Honors
Education
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
Professional Recognition
- 40 Under 40 Inductee
- Global Directory of Who’s Who Inductee
- P.O.W.E.R. Woman of Empowerment Honoree
- Women Add Value Recognition Award Recipient
- National Association of Professional Women (NAPW) Member
National Recognition
- Ranked #3 Best New Author — National Black Book Festival
- Featured by CBS Chicago as one of five independent authors and publishers to watch
Awards & Honors
- National & International Award-Winning Author
- National & International Award-Winning Filmmaker
Public Service
- Former Candidate, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD), Cook County
EXPERIENCE & EXPERTISE
For more than two decades, I’ve had the privilege of serving in multiple capacities. While each role has been different, every opportunity has allowed me to educate, empower, and help others move forward with purpose.
• Founder & Visionary — Builder of organizations, communities, and initiatives designed to educate, empower, and transform.
• Award-Winning Author & Publisher — Author of more than twenty books spanning independent publications, collaborative anthologies, and educational resources that inspire growth and lasting impact.
• Award-Winning Filmmaker — Writer, director, and producer of documentaries and visual stories that preserve history, amplify voices, and inspire meaningful conversations.
- The Four Eyes of a Black Man
- I Survived It All
- Creating Powerful Black Men: Legacy & Leadership (Coming Soon)
• Community Builder — Beyond founding communities through the My Name Is Toneal Empowerment & Media Network, I’ve served for more than a decade as a Women’s Ministry leader, helping women grow in faith, leadership, and purpose. I’ve also served as an Outreach Ministry Director, creating opportunities to strengthen both faith and community through service.
• Speaker — Known for engaging audiences through honest conversation, practical wisdom, and transformational teaching that challenges perspectives, inspires action, and empowers lasting change.
BOOK ME TO SPEAK
Whether you’re planning a conference, workshop, panel discussion, or community event, I’d be honored to help create an experience that educates, empowers, and inspires your audience.
• Keynote Addresses
• Workshops & Trainings
• Panel Discussions
• Event Hosting & Facilitation
Ready to start the conversation?
Book Me