Executive board

Neka Smith, President 

Neka is a visionary investor, serial entrepreneur, franchisor, business strategist, and nonprofit leader with over a decade of experience dedicated to empowering the disadvantaged class . As the founder of Launch That Business, Sis, she is on a mission to equip women with the tools, education, and support necessary to build and scale successful, debt-free businesses.

With a degree in Global Business and a concentration in Risk Management and Insurance, Neka has analyzed hundreds of companies full-time. She expanded her expertise internationally while studying abroad in London, focusing on the excess and surplus market and syndication deals at Lloyd’s of London. Over the years, she has cultivated deep proficiency in business development, financial analysis, and risk mitigation. Her career spans advising startups and Fortune 100 companies alike, including organizations with over $100M in revenue—guiding them in achieving operational excellence through strategic personnel management, procurement, business continuity planning, and sustainable cash flow generation. Early in her journey, she served as a Junior Ambassador for the Greater Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, where she played a key role in local economic development.

Neka is equally passionate about nonprofit leadership. She has served in a variety of impactful roles, including Vice President of Habitat for Humanity Pike County, President of M.I.S.S. Elite Society, and multiple leadership roles within Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.—including Treasurer Chair, Economic Wealth Program Chair, and Assistant Dean. She also chaired Troy University’s Constitution and Rules Committee, advocating for grassroots organizations and student representation.

Her leadership and service have earned her numerous accolades, including the Order of Omega, Chancellor’s Award, the prestigious Lamar P. Higgins Leadership Award, Naphcare Scholarship, and Who’s Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities. Most recently, she was selected for the 2024 Nashville Entrepreneur Center Accelerator Cohort and currently serves as Member-At-Large for the National African American Insurance Association (NAAIA), Nashville Development Chapter.

Neka is currently pursuing her MBA, continuing to strengthen her impact and further her mission of driving economic empowerment and sustainable business success.

Alessandra Kennedy, Street Eatz App

 Alessandra Kennedy is a dynamic entrepreneur and the visionary behind Street Eatz App, a platform that connects food lovers with local food vendors. With a strong background in business development and a passion for empowering other entrepreneurs, Alessandra brings her expertise in tech startups, scaling businesses, and community-building to Launch That Business, Sis. As an Entrepreneur in Residence, she works closely with women entrepreneurs to provide guidance on product development, go-to-market strategies, and growth opportunities. Alessandra's hands-on experience in the startup world and her commitment to supporting women in business make her an invaluable mentor to the Launch That Business, Sis community. 

Yvette Matthews, Vice President

 Yvette Matthews is an experienced leader with a proven track record in business development, strategic operations, and team leadership. As Vice President of Launch That Business, Sis, Yvette plays a key role in overseeing the organization’s operations, driving growth, and ensuring that our programs are both effective and impactful for the women we serve. With a background in corporate leadership and a passion for empowering underrepresented communities, Yvette brings a wealth of knowledge in scaling businesses and fostering partnerships. She is dedicated to supporting women entrepreneurs by providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed, both in business and in life. 

Shel Powe, Treasurer

 Sheldon Powe as our Treasurer, has a solid background in financial management and oversight, Sheldon plays a critical role in ensuring the fiscal responsibility and sustainability of our nonprofit organization. 

Korri Johnson, Secretary

Korri plays a vital role in maintaining accurate records, managing communications, and ensuring that all organizational procedures and compliance requirements are met. His leadership ensures that our programs and initiatives are well-documented, transparent, and aligned with our mission to empower women entrepreneurs.

Korri’s strategic mindset and hands-on leadership are key to helping us scale and achieve our goals while fostering a culture of accountability and growth. His contributions are essential in shaping the future of Launch That Business, Sis and supporting the success of women-led businesses.

Jordyn Saulsberry, MSN,RN

Jordyn Saulsberry as our Wellness Chair. Jordyn holds a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and is a Registered Nurse (R.N.), currently pursuing her doctorate . With a deep passion for women’s health and wellness, she is dedicated to ensuring that the women in our programs are not only supported in their entrepreneurial endeavors but also in their overall well-being.

Jordyn’s expertise in healthcare and her commitment to empowering women through wellness are vital to our holistic approach. She plays a crucial role in integrating health and wellness resources, including mental health support, fitness, and nutrition, into our programs, ensuring that women have the tools they need to thrive both personally and professionally.