The Visionary Force Behind Breakthrough & Beyond
Our board and leadership team serve as the vital compass of the foundation, ensuring every creative wellness initiative remains anchored in our mission of healing and innovation. Through strategic governance and heartfelt dedication, they empower underserved communities to transcend barriers and reclaim their narratives.
Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors provides strategic oversight and institutional wisdom, ensuring that every initiative aligns with our mission to heal through art and innovative wellness.
Dr. Marcus Sterling
Board Chairperson
Marcus brings over 20 years of experience in clinical psychology and community health leadership to our foundation. He has dedicated his career to building sustainable health systems that prioritize mental well-being in underserved urban areas. Under his guidance, our strategic vision has expanded to include a wider range of integrated care resources that bridge the gap between clinical support and creative community programs.
Chanel Lumiere
Strategic Advisor
Chanel is a dedicated educator, advocate, and community leader with more than 20 years of experience serving children, families, and underserved communities. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Child and Adolescent Development, she has devoted her career to advancing equity, social-emotional wellness, and LGBTQIA+ inclusion through education, mentorship, and civic engagement. Chanel has advised organizations, law enforcement agencies, and community initiatives on trust-building, inclusion, and justice-centered practices, while also contributing to the arts as a featured muse, organizer, and producer of events that elevate marginalized voices. Today, she continues her work supporting justice-impacted individuals through housing advocacy, consulting, and community empowerment, bringing compassion, wisdom, and purpose to every space she enters
Jonathan Vance
Financial Director
Jonathan oversees the foundation's fiscal strategies, ensuring financial health and transparency in all programs. With a background in investment banking and non-profit finance, he manages our endowment and operating budgets with rigorous oversight. His commitment to fiscal responsibility ensures that every dollar donated is utilized effectively to support our mission of healing and creative empowerment for those who need it most.
The Foundation's Leadership Team
Saylessi Savant
Executive Director/ Wellness Practioner
Saylessi Savant is a Founder, Executive Director, and Certified Peer Support Specialist with certification in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Having overcome addiction and significant life barriers, he uses his Associate of Arts in Social Sciences and lived experience to advocate for healing through art. Saylessi empowers underserved communities by bridging creativity and resilience, helping others reclaim their strengths and move beyond perceived limitations with compassion and authenticity.
Princessmarlena Dale
Director of Development & Community Engagement
Since 2017, Princessmarlena Dale has built a powerful legacy as an event coordinator, promoter, and community leader. As a former foster youth, she has transformed her life experiences into a mission of empowerment and service for others.
Nadia Bey Orange
Program Manager/Teaching Artist
Nadia Bey Orange is a poet, facilitator, and community wellness advocate dedicated to helping individuals discover their creativity and personal power. As Program Manager for Breakthrough & Beyond Foundation, she develops transformative experiences that blend emotional intelligence with artistic expression. Her work empowers participants to reflect deeply, build resilience, and cultivate authentic connections through storytelling and experiential learning.
Reigh Ellis
Wellness Facilitator
Reigh is a community advocate, wellness coach, and social support facilitator dedicated to empowering individuals through mental health awareness. With a background in Sociology and Human Services, he fosters healing and resilience through intentional peer-driven community engagement.
Leadership Vacancy
Communications Manager
We are currently looking for a visionary Communications Manager to help broadcast our mission of healing and innovation to the wider world through strategic storytelling and community engagement.
Leadership Vacancy
Development Officer
We are seeking a Development Officer to lead our fundraising efforts and expand our donor network, ensuring we can continue to offer creative wellness resources to our vibrant community.