CrownHER is Dungeon Forward's campaign to spotlight the diverse and significant contributions of women to society. All March we connected with incredible women who's purpose driven work is shaking up the world as we know it. CrownHer is our way of showcasing stories of empowerment, resilience, and innovation which highlight the pivotal role women play in shaping our world. Their remarkable journey and accomplishments have not only inspired us but also many others in the community and beyond. It is voices like theirs that can motivate and encourage future generations to break barriers and pursue their dreams.

Kamelah Muhammad, a Chicago native and Florida A&M University alum, holds a BS in Business Administration and an MBA from the University of Georgia. She works at the NBA, overseeing social responsibility initiatives. Notable achievements include spearheading NBA HBCU efforts and founding the nonprofit Sisterhood of the Traveling Heart. Recognized for her leadership, Kamelah has received awards from FAMU, the National Black MBA Association, and was named in “Who’s Who in Black Atlanta.” She volunteers with various organizations, mentors youth, and advocates for congenital heart disease awareness. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Kamelah also invests in real estate in Chicago and Atlanta. CrownHer - a trailblazer redefining success on her terms.

“One of my all-time favorite books is and oldie but goodie, ‘The Alchemist’. It is about following one's dreams to find one's purpose in life... As the book reads, ‘When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it’, and I am a firm believer in that.”

“Shirley Chisholm. In present day, I would ask if she’d run for presidency - becoming the first woman president - and if she won the election, what would be her first order of business.”

“It’s hard to narrow down one song but I will share playlists that are my mood boost. Given I am a proud FAMU grad,a good Florida Rideout playlist, any 90s/2000s R&B and also Afrobeats with a hint of Jeezy and early Drake.”

“I am on a mission to learning another language and have been taking Spanish lessons with my amazing tutor, Jeanni, who lives in Mexico. I hope to be fluent…someday.”

Melissa C. Potter leverages pop culture for social good like no other. With a focus on entertainment, she drives meaningful change through social impact strategies and diversity initiatives. As the Executive Director, Content for Change at Paramount, she ensures brands prioritize long-term societal impact. A respected thought leader, Potter navigates issues of Race, Identity, Culture, Equity, and Social Justice with finesse, managing crises with ease.

“The Alchemist by Paulo Coehlo This is a book that I revisit whenever I need to ground myself. I use it to temperature check that I am operating in love in every place and space that I occupy.”

“Tupac - I'd love to ask him what he imagined the future of hip hop and social justice to look like.”

“Frankie Beverly and Maze - Before I Let Go”

“Fishing! From the time I was a toddler, I had a Daffy Duck tiny fishing rod and would go with my dad to the lake to cast off of the shore. It became our consistent weekly bonding time, and some of my favorites memories to reflect on since his passing. I don't get to do it as frequently as I did in my childhood but try to sneak away for solo time in his memory.”

Kenasha Paul, J.D. is an award-winning social entrepreneur and business professional who has dedicated her life to building thriving pathways lined with access points, opportunities, and resources for underrepresented communities.

“X-Men, I really loved the stories about gifted students with special abilities being able to come together, manage complex decisions such as to save those who don't understand them while learning how to carve out a life of their own despite it.”

“W.E.B DuBois, I would tell him what is currently going on and based on knowing this, ask would that have changed his position on his remarks and views regarding Booker T. Washington's stances.”

“Sisqo's Thong Song”

“I use to play video games, my favorite stress release was playing Injustice.”

Kadidja Dosso founded an organic beauty company after observing chemical-laden products in local stores. She offers hypoallergenic hair extensions and skincare for Black women with sensitive skin. Her products are available at salons and online platforms, projecting $1 million revenue this year. Formerly a Management Consultant at Accenture LLP, Kadidja pursued entrepreneurship after winning Pharrell Williams' Black Ambition HBCU Grand Prize. Featured in Forbes 30 Under 30 and various publications, she's making waves in the beauty industry.

“W.E.B. DuBois - The Souls of Black Folk | American Gangster”

“Malcolm X. [All the things.]”

“Show Me What You Got Jay Z”

She loves Cooking and singing!

Melanie Roussell Newman is a seasoned communications and brand executive with over 20 years of expertise in message strategy, branding, and policy development across nonprofits, government, and political campaigns. As the Senior VP of communications and culture at Planned Parenthood, she leads teams to enhance public awareness of their programs and services. Her past roles include leading communications for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, various departments in the Obama administration, and acting as a national spokesperson for the Democratic National Committee. She holds degrees in broadcast journalism and public communication.

“The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson. It tells the story of the Great Migration, through the paths of several main characters. In many ways, it tells the story of my family and led to deep conversations with my mother and other family members to understand where we came from and where we are now”

“I would love to have dinner with Shirley Chisolm - my Delta Sigma Theta Soror and the first woman and Black person to run for president of the United States. I just want to absorb her fortitude and strength. She said that she wanted her legacy to be as a "woman...who dared to be a catalyst for change." And that's certainly consistent with what her legacy is. I cannot wait to see the upcoming film about her life, starring Regina King being released on Netflix.”

“Right now, it's Float by Janelle Monae. But also any 90s hip hop could do it”

I enjoy working out and reading the monthly books for my "Black Lady Book Club" gatherings!

Lauren F. Grove, Chief Experience Architect at The Grant Access, LLC, orchestrates unforgettable events like Essence Festival and US Open. With clients like Nike, FOX, and Diageo, her portfolio showcases five-star experiences. Co-founder of HBCU SpringComing, Lauren hosts 5,000+ guests annually, and is expanding to Birmingham and LA. A Florida A&M University alum with a marketing MBA, Lauren began in Nielsen before taking the leap to events. When not crafting dream events, she enjoys travel and family time, rooted in Columbia, SC, now residing in New Jersey with her husband and sons. CrownHER - a southerner at heart, a creative, an explorer, a matriarch on the rise.

“Hands down “School Daze” directed by Spike Lee. It shaped everything I knew about the HBCU experience, Greek life, discovering who you are and your contribution to whatever social justice movement was happening at the time… it was (and still is) everything!”

“My Godfather Reverend Isaiah DeQuincey Newman. He was the first Black Senator in South Carolina since Reconstruction. He was a force and from what I know, a very kind man. I would've loved to talk to him about how he overcame so much adversity to create change in my home state.”

“For the past year it's been "Put it on Da Floor Again" by Latto & Cardi B. lol. But as a PROUD graduate of Florida A&M University, "Can't F*ck with the South" by Trick Daddy still reigns supreme!”

“Love: British Crime Dramas!! Hate (unsolicited, I know): Planning our family events. lol. I feel like there's so much pressure because I do it for a living!”

Linda Acevedo is the Founder and Owner of Futura Egg Donation, a spearheading international egg donor agency whose underlying goal is to support aspiring parents in obtaining the family they have always wanted. Linda has an extensive professional background within the IVF industry and enjoys leveraging her ardency for reproductive health to deliver both to women and future parents the most positive and holistic experience as possible.

“The Four Agreements - It allowed me to understand that life, relationships, business and experiences are a lot simpler if you just follow those 4 basic rules.”

“Oprah, I'm such a firm believer in that you build and shape your own life but I know that it takes a certain mentality to believe that and actually go for it. I would ask her at what point or age did she start believing in that 'magic'”

“I have so many but probably "Favorite Song" by Chance the Rapper”

“The key to my happiness is dancing, especially salsa, it reminds me of my childhood.”

Shaela Lawson excels in merging professionalism with a vibrant spirit. She's dedicated over a decade to advising Pretty Brown Girl, LLC, now serving as Executive Director of the PBG Foundation. At Netflix, she navigates as Inclusion Sr. Manager, with 15+ years championing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Armed with an MBA from Florida A&M, she's made impact at Sodexo, T.Rowe Price, and Riot Games. Beyond academia and corporate achievements, Shaela's passion lies in creating inclusive spaces and fostering community professionally and personally. CrownHER - a mentor, eyeglass aficionado, SneakerHer head, concert lover, wanderlust, hostess with the mostess, and cherished "Cool Aunt".

“It was the first time I saw a group of friends who were Young Black Women with non-traditional careers...seeing these women navigate the big city life, careers love, and the way they supported each other was something I wanted to experience...a true example of friends who become family.”

“Mary McLeod Bethune. A tremendous humanitarian, philanthropist, and consistent advocate for the advancement of Black women. She dedicated her life to creating equitable access, opportunities, and treatment for us. One of my life's purposes is to be in service to Black Girls and Women alike.”

“Tricky question. There is not a day that I don’t listen to some type of music, whether worship songs in the morning as I get dressed, some good neo-soul to help ease my evening commute, or old-school R&B while I cook dinner. My playlist varies greatly from Worship to Ratchet, but typically, if I need a little pick me up - I will play "Won’t He Do It" Remix by Koryn Hawthorne.”

“I love all things games, from the game shows I watch, like Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, which occasionally make me feel brilliant when I answer a few questions right on an episode, to Wordle which has become my new game obsession. If it’s not a solo game, I am good for hosting game nights for friends or family at my house”

Sona (Sophia Wong), inspired by her mother's artistic heritage, cultivated her passion for art early. With a background in top art schools like New World School of the Arts and SUNY Purchase College, her mixed media paintings reflect her Miami upbringing and fascination with indigenous cultures. Exploring themes of resilience and personal growth through a subdued color palette, she mentors young artists in her community while exhibiting from her South Florida home studio.

“In a time when I was growing and seeking a deeper understanding of the human spirit, my brother lent me this book. It stayed by my bed for years (even though I was supposed to return it) as a quick and simple check in to keep my mind on track.”

“Maya Angelou. She’s to me, the greatest symbol of power achieved through grace and wisdom. That’s her super power.”

“Stuck in the middle” - Green Tea Peng So many others too, but this is the first on my list at the moment.”

“Gardening, hiking, & working out. Motherhood [aside], I still spend as much time as I can outdoors and take my little ones on walks or runs regularly.”

Shayna D. Jamison is a marketing leader with 15 years' experience. She boosts brand equity through culturally relevant content. Currently, she's the Marketing Manager for Amazon's Black Business Accelerator, supporting Black-owned businesses. Previously, she worked with major brands like Comcast and NBC4. She's also been a Marketing Manager at the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, promoting diversity initiatives. Jamison holds degrees from George Washington University and Hampton University.

“Brown Sugar starring Taye Diggs and Sanaa Lathan! Loved the film and how it was centered around culture, hip-hop, and love. Dope film with an amazing soundtrack.”

“This is a challenging question, but I'd want to speak with Eve from the Bible (Book of Genesis). I'd ask "What was the compelling allure that led to such vulnerability, tempting you to partake from the Tree of Life against the explicit prohibition in the Garden of Eden?”

“Donald Lawrence and The Tri-City Singers - Encourage Yourself”

“She May Beat You In A Game Of Billards”

Tiffany Murphy, CEO of The Culture Equity, excels in experiential marketing and diversity consulting. With 20+ years' expertise, she's renowned for transforming ideas into impactful realities. Tiffany guides CEOs in business enhancement and manages global events for top organizations like YPO and LinkedIn. Notable projects include WNBA All-Star Fan Fest and PlayStation Death Stranding Global Launch. Beyond work, she's a family-oriented yoga instructor and advocates for emerging female leaders.

“Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life by Dr. Wayne Dyer”

“Sheila Johnson. Her unwavering perseverance and continuous evolution are truly remarkable. I'm intrigued by the driving force behind her resilience and adaptability. Her unparalleled business acumen and grace elevate her to a league of her own. I'd love to hear Sheila Johnson's perspective on the art of disruption, considering she embodies the essence of a true disruptor.”

“Let It All Work Out” by Lil Wayne.

“Singing, and here’s a fun fact: I made a demo album at one point in my life. Ha!”