Our Team
Shawnette Haynes
Founder/ Executive Director
Areas of Expertise: Program and Project Management, Operations Planning, and Training Development
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
Areas of Expertise: Licensed Psychologist and Health Services Provider
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.
Sabrina Breeden
Board Member
Areas of Expertise: Youth Empowerment and Development, Program Management and Foster Care Advocacy and Support
A visionary leader with over 17 years of experience as a Therapeutic Foster Parent and Foster Parent Recruiter, dedicated to empowering youth and young adults to thrive beyond the foster care system. Her expertise extends over two decades in workforce development, where she has successfully guided individuals of all ages in enhancing their soft skills, digital proficiency, and conflict resolution abilities.
Currently serving as the Director of Program Services for the Career Development Services Program at Goodwill Industries of Central North Carolina, Ms. Breeden has played a pivotal role in helping countless individuals secure sustainable careers and industry-specific training. In addition, she chairs the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council at Goodwill, where she actively monitors and evaluates initiatives related to diversity, advocates for diverse leadership, and promotes successful diversity programs within the organization.
Sabrina is passionate about ensuring that individuals—both young and adult—are afforded the opportunities they need to achieve their career aspirations and personal goals. She is committed to leveraging her extensive experience in both the public and private sectors to expand access to quality education and employment. By fostering innovation, reducing barriers to entry, and building resilient communities, she works tirelessly to create pathways for success.
Tonia Stoney
Board Member
Areas of Expertise: Piano and Music Theory Elite Educator, and Mentor
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
Areas of Expertise: Director of Culinary Services
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.