Our Team
Shawnette Haynes
Founder/ Executive Director
A visionary, advocate, and mentor whose passion for fostering positive change makes her a beacon of hope for at-risk youth, particularly those aging out or aged out of foster care. Her journey, shaped by 22 years of military service, is a testament to her unwavering commitment to leadership and service. From managing complex logistics operations to overseeing global supply chains, Shawnette transformed her vast experience into a mission that uplifts others. Along the way, she discovered the profound power of community and connection, which led her to create a village of support. As the Founder and Executive Director of Lotus Village United, Inc., Shawnette orchestrates a network of resources to support youth navigating the difficult transition into adulthood. Her vision is not just an aspiration—it is a tangible reality. In Lotus Village United, young hearts find solace, minds are guided, and souls discover a place to call home. Surrounded by a team of dedicated experts, her mission goes beyond advocacy—it's a symphony of change, a crescendo of hope that resonates through every life she touches. Lotus Village's legacy is found in the lives transformed, the futures she shaped, and the hope ignited in the hearts of those served.
Akua Jackson
PhD, Board Member
Licensed psychologist. She received her BA degree in Psychology from UNC Chapel Hill and her doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from Fielding Graduate University. Her education and training focused on forensic psychology and parent-child relationships. She has experience providing child, adolescent, adult, and family therapy. Dr. Jackson has worked with individuals with a variety of diagnoses including individuals with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and cultural issues. She also conducts comprehensive psychological evaluations and forensic evaluations. She is passionate about helping others and utilizes an evidence-based approach that s customized to fit each client’s particular needs.
Milinda King
Board Member
Milinda King is a dedicated leader whose life’s work has been defined by her passion for education, health, and service. With an unwavering commitment to transforming lives, Milinda is a retired Warden from the Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Prisons, concluding an extraordinary 23-year career. One of Milinda’s most defining roles was Supervisor of Education, where she managed transformative educational programs. Her leadership not only ensured the delivery of high-quality educational, wellness, and vocational services to both male and female inmates but also fostered a culture of growth and rehabilitation. Milinda’s dedication to wellness extends beyond the classroom. She is a certified Personal Trainer and Nutritional Coach, seamlessly blending her passion for education with her commitment to health. Milinda founded Community Health is Wealth, Inc. (CHIW), where she now serves as President. Rooted in her deep understanding of Vance County’s unique challenges, CHIW addresses the community’s pressing health and wellness needs, offering accessible services that empower individuals to take charge of their well-being. At the heart of everything Milinda does is her belief in the transformative power of community, education, and health. Through her leadership, she is shaping futures and fostering a legacy of empowerment and hope for generations to come.
Tonia Stoney
Board Member
A loving wife and auntie-mom, an energetic and passionate music educator, composer, international best-selling author, and mentor. With over 30 years of experience, she specializes in teaching children at beginner and intermediate levels. She brings an infectious energy to her teaching and a genuine love for working with kids. Tonia believes that playing the piano is similar to building with Legos, as each note helps to create a musical masterpiece. Tonia's remarkable background also includes her service in the U.S. Army, where she displayed superior leadership during combat operations. Her impact and accomplishments have garnered recognition. In 2015, Tonia established Music Is For Me, LLC, which received the Community Service Arts Award and was featured in South Carolina Voyager Magazine's Hidden Gem - Inspiring Stories Series. She has been inducted into the Business Hall of Fame for receiving the Best Piano Instructor Award for six consecutive years. She has recently earned the Best Music Instructor Award for two consecutive years. With her extensive teaching experience, infectious energy, military service, composing abilities, and innovative approach to business consulting and digital entrepreneurship, Tonia Stoney is a highly regarded figure in the fields of music education, mentoring, and entrepreneurship.
Krystal Jett-Mims
Board Member
A culinary virtuoso and transformative leader. Hailing from Charlotte, NC, Krystal's journey began under the tutelage of her father, a retired executive chef. She now serves as the Director of Culinary Services at TerraBella Senior Living in Greensboro, NC and culinary arts instructor at GTCC. Krystal is not only a culinary expert but also a dedicated community leader. As a board member for the Kernersville Veterans Housing and co-founder of the non-profit Being Great, she is committed to transforming the lives of young people by instilling in them a spirit of excellence. Recognized as one of the most influential African Americans under 40 in the Triad in 2022, Krystal embodies the essence of leadership and innovation.