When Thasunda Brown Duckett stepped into the role of president and CEO of TIAA, she wasn’t simply taking the helm of a financial institution—she was stepping into a national calling. Her leadership has consistently focused on expanding access, strengthening financial confidence, and ensuring that everyday people can retire with dignity. Now, she has been named to American Banker’s “Most Powerful Women in Finance” list—an acknowledgment of her bold leadership and her determination to make wealth-building attainable for every working American. Changing How America Retires When TIAA launched an IRA product designed to broaden access to lifetime income, the stock market was having one of its most volatile days. Investors were rattled, headlines were uncertain—but to Duckett, the moment only validated the importance of guaranteed income. “Guaranteed income isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity,” she said, emphasizing that Americans deserve stability that isn’t dependent on market turbulence or economic swings. Her message is clear: security shouldn’t depend on timing—it should be built into the system. Expanding Access to Lifetime Income Duckett has led TIAA through major expansions, including entering the corporate 401(k) space—moving beyond its traditional base of nonprofit and university employees, and opening doors for millions more workers. With nearly half of Americans at risk of running out of money in retirement, she has called retirement security “a national imperative,” pushing the conversation from policy circles into living rooms, workplaces, and communities that often feel unprepared for the future. Public policy is responding. Nearly 20 states have introduced legislation to expand access to retirement plans, while national lawmakers consider automatic re-enrollment for workers who fall out of savings. Under Duckett’s leadership, TIAA is positioned not just to participate in these changes, but to drive them. Innovation With Purpose Duckett’s commitment to access extends to technology and partnerships. TIAA has invested in Vestwell, partnered with major recordkeepers, and launched a proprietary generative AI platform—TIAA GAIT—to empower its teams with faster insights and stronger decision-making tools. She isn’t just modernizing systems—she’s modernizing people. Through training initiatives like the Guild Network, thousands of employees are building new skills in technology and business processes, preparing the organization for a future shaped by AI. For Duckett, innovation isn’t about disruption—it’s about dignity, confidence, and opportunity. Leadership Beyond Wall Street Duckett recently joined a group of investors purchasing a minority stake in the WNBA’s New York Liberty—extending her influence into sports, culture, and representation. As a former student athlete, she believes athletics build leadership and community—not just championships. Her philanthropic work through the Otis and Rosie Brown Foundation continues this mission, celebrating everyday excellence and supporting families, students, and communities with access to education and opportunity. “Extraordinary is everywhere,” she says, “especially among those who create opportunities for others.” Lessons Emerging Leaders Can Learn 1. Access is power Duckett’s leadership proves that expanding access expands possibility. 2. Dignity belongs in financial discussions People deserve systems that support their future—not fear about it. 3. Innovation must include inclusion Technology should lift people, not replace them. 4. Leadership is service Real leaders build pathways so others can rise. A Leader Changing the Narrative Thasunda Brown Duckett is not simply leading an institution—she is reshaping how our nation prepares for the future. Her work reminds us that financial empowerment is not only about wealth; it’s about dignity, equity, and the chance to live a full life long after work ends. Her recognition is well deserved—but the true win is what it means for generations who will retire stronger because she decided to lead with vision, courage, and purpose. And that is the kind of leadership that transforms lives.

When Venus and Serena Williams stepped onto a tennis court decades ago, they didn’t simply play the game—they changed it forever. With every serve, every championship, and every barrier broken, they reminded the world that greatness refuses limitation and does not wait for permission. Now, they’ve made history once again—this time not in Wimbledon whites, but in ownership seats and billion-dollar boardrooms. Venus and Serena are the first Black women to own a stake in an NFL franchise , becoming investors in the Miami Dolphins—currently valued at more than $4.6 billion. This moment isn’t just a headline. It’s a statement. About possibility. About access. And about the evolving definition of leadership. From Courtside to Boardroom NFL ownership has historically been inaccessible to women—especially Black women. For two sisters who grew up in Compton, shaped by discipline, resilience, and unwavering belief, to sit at that table is monumental. This move signals more than participation—it signals transformation. They’re not just influencing sports on the field; they’re positioning themselves in the rooms where media, revenue, strategy, and power are negotiated. This is what it looks like when leadership moves from being the face of a sport to being architects of its future. Impact doesn’t retire. It reinvents itself. The Legacy They Continue to Build Venus and Serena have always been more than athletes. Their lives reflect a portfolio of brilliance—fashion, venture capital, wellness, philanthropy, and storytelling. Their investment in the Dolphins fits a pattern: they don’t simply enter industries; they elevate them. They didn’t just show the world what excellence looks like. They are showing the world what ownership looks like. And in their footsteps, a new generation is learning that greatness isn’t confined to a profession—it’s expressed through every arena you dare to enter. Lessons From the Williams Way Their journey offers timeless principles for emerging leaders, innovators, creators, and community-builders: Play with power and plan with purpose. Whether on the court or in corporate negotiations, every step reflects intention. Diversify your legacy. Mastery in one space is the beginning—not the destination. Representation is a form of leadership. When we see it, we believe it is possible. Ownership is influence. And influence shapes culture, economics, and opportunity. Not Just First—Foundational Venus and Serena aren’t simply breaking records; they’re building a new frontier—one where Black women take their rightful place as investors, leaders, and owners in one of America’s most powerful institutions: the National Football League. The Williams sister have always played to win. Now, they are playing to lead. And if history has taught us anything, it’s this: when the Williams sisters step forward, they don’t just open doors—they leave them open for everyone coming behind them.

Beatrice Wilson is living proof that purpose doesn’t expire. At 80 years old, the metro Atlanta entrepreneur just opened her eighth business—a vibrant new nail salon called Bee Nails — nestled on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. With each ribbon cut and door opened, she’s not just running a business—she’s building a legacy. A former employee at local car dealerships, Wilson didn’t find her stride until later in life. After completing nail school, she struggled to land a job in an industry that too often overlooks women of a certain age. But instead of shrinking back, she bet on herself—launching her first salon when no one else would give her a chance. Since then, she’s built and sold seven s uccessful salons across metro Atlanta. She retired in 2021, but as Wilson puts it, "You’re never too old. It’s never too late to follow what you love doing." So when the calling returned, she answered—with grace, courage, and a plan. Her newest venture, Bee Nails, is her biggest yet. Thoughtfully designed with warm tones and a welcoming atmosphere, the salon was created with the Adamsville neighborhood in mind—a space meant to be as nurturing as it is stylish. The grand opening drew applause and affirmations, with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and City Councilmember Andrea Boone in attendance. Wilson, moved to tears by the support, reflected on the journey: “It’s very heartwarming for me… I’m just excited.” But beyond the buzz, Wilson’s story teaches us something deeper: You can pivot at any age. Barriers can be the birthplace of bold ideas. Service to your community adds meaning to success. Beatrice Wilson didn’t just build businesses—she built a life anchored in purpose, connection, and determination. Her journey is a reminder that innovation lives in action—and sometimes the most powerful moves are made long after others stop trying. Cover Photo: Beatrice Wilson Opens Her Eighth Business at Age 80 Photo Credit: 11 Alive

Some companies chase market share; others chase meaning. And then there are rare brands that change what we believe is possible—by honoring history, elevating community, and building with intention. Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, founded in 2017 by serial entrepreneur and author Fawn Weaver, has done exactly that. In just a few short years, it has reached a jaw-dropping milestone: a $1.1 billion valuation —a level few brands ever achieve, especially one rooted in restoring the legacy of a Black innovator history nearly erased. This is more than a business success story. It’s a story of restoration, courage, and excellence. A Legacy Restored Uncle Nearest honors Nathan “Nearest” Green—the master distiller who taught Jack Daniel the craft. His contribution was hidden for generations, but Weaver made it her mission to put his name where it always belonged—front and center, in history and on every bottle. And the results speak loudly: Uncle Nearest is now the fastest-growing American whiskey brand in history , reshaping the identity of an industry that rarely reflected the pioneers who built it. Numbers That Tell a Bigger Story In seven years, Uncle Nearest has: expanded into 30,000+ venues across 12 countries built a 432-acre distillery experience in Tennessee tripled sales since 2021 projected $100M in revenue in 2024 These aren’t just business milestones— they’re cultural statements. When legacy meets leadership, markets take notice. Built on Purpose, Backed by Performance At the center is founder Fawn Weaver—a visionary leader who combined emotional intelligence, historical truth-telling, and world-class execution. She didn’t build a whiskey company. She built a movement. Her team reflects that mission, with women and people of color leading across the organization—making it one of the most inclusive leadership models in the spirits industry. Every bottle is a message: Black excellence has always existed—now we must recognize it. Lessons Emerging Entrepreneurs Can Apply Uncle Nearest offers timeless wisdom for anyone building something meaningful: Honor the past. Truth builds trust—and trust builds brands. Build with integrity. Excellence is a decision, one detail at a time. Scale with purpose. When your mission is clear, momentum follows. Lead courageously. It takes vision to correct a narrative—and courage to tell the truth beautifully. A Toast to the Future. What started as a tribute has become a global powerhouse. And the story is far from over. With an expanding footprint, generational impact, and a billion-dollar valuation, Uncle Nearest is proving something powerful: You can build legacy while rewriting history—and claim your place in the future at the same time. In a marketplace full of noise, this brand reminds us that authenticity beats hype, and excellence—real excellence—never fades. For everyone building something with cultural meaning and global ambition, let this be your proof: You don’t have to choose between honoring the past and shaping the future. You can do both—brilliantly.

Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE) has entered a transformational moment in its legacy of community-centered entrepreneurship: Alexia Grevious Henderson has been named President of Magic Johnson Enterprises. Her appointment is more than a new title—it signals a generational shift toward leaders who understand that wealth-building and community uplift are inseparable. This is leadership rooted in excellence and guided by purpose. A Leader Built for Impact Henderson joined MJE in 2017 and has quietly become one of the strategic minds shaping partnerships, elevating brand influence, and expanding the economic reach of MJE’s mission. Rising from Senior Manager to Vice President—and now President—she has proven herself not just capable, but catalytic. As Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing, she led: major corporate collaborations global brand partnerships campaigns that expanded MJE’s economic influence Under her leadership, MJE has strengthened its identity as a vehicle for community-driven growth and long-term economic empowerment. Magic Johnson summarized it best: “Alexia is one of the brightest young minds in business today. Her leadership and creativity have elevated our brand, our partnerships, and our mission.” A Career Anchored in Purpose Before joining MJE, Henderson built foundational experience with the Washington Commanders and the NCAA. Her work has been nationally recognized, including being named: Sports Business Journal’s “30 New Voices Under 30” Diverse Representation’s “Top Ten to Watch” Beyond her corporate success, she serves on the board of A.Bevy, helping young adults find direction, identity, and purpose—an example of leadership that extends beyond the office and into the lives of future innovators. A Historic Representation Moment Henderson’s presidency represents a breakthrough for: women stepping into major corporate leadership Black leaders shaping national investment strategy the next generation building wealth, ownership, and opportunity This moment proves something powerful: future-focused leadership doesn’t just inherit legacy—it expands it. Rooted in Community, Positioned for Global Impact Originally from Fort Mill, South Carolina, Henderson earned her degree from Clemson University and an MBA from Pepperdine University. Today she calls Los Angeles home—a city where entrepreneurship, culture, and economic innovation converge. She now stands at the intersection of legacy and next-generation leadership—continuing a mission that impacts both boardrooms and neighborhoods. About Magic Johnson Enterprises: Founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, MJE is a diversified investment company advancing opportunities across entertainment, sports, real estate, technology, and more—always with an eye toward access, ownership, and community prosperity. Its mission continues to demonstrate a powerful truth: When communities gain access, communities gain power.And when we elevate leaders who carry that purpose forward, we don’t just witness change - we build the future.

From Southern Childhood Dreams to Multi-Million Dollar Hotel Ownership As a little Black girl growing up in the South, Davonne Reaves could never have imagined owning hotels—let alone becoming one of the youngest African American women to co-own multiple hotel properties before turning 40. That vision became reality in 2020 when Reaves and her former college roommate made history as the youngest African American women to co-own a property within a major hotel chain. She later acquired two additional hotels through the Indiana-based Nassau Investment Group —building a portfolio that now includes co-ownership of hotels and residential real estate totaling $30 million. Yet, even as her success skyrocketed, she knew she didn’t want to be the only one climbing. “I knew I had to do my part.” Reaves spent years in the hospitality industry and saw firsthand how commercial real estate—especially hotel ownership—was largely reserved for the wealthy, connected, and already experienced. “It’s truly an amazing experience and opportunity, but for decades, it’s been out of reach,” says Reaves. “Tapping into this industry changed my financial future and transformed my life. I knew in my heart I had to do my part to help connect others to these types of lucrative investment opportunities.” A Game-Changing “Ah-Ha Moment” In 2021, a combination of industry changes and personal conviction led Reaves to create what she wished existed when she first started: a platform that allows people to invest even if they don’t begin with tens of thousands of dollars. That idea became Vesterr —the first Black-owned, first woman-owned commercial real estate crowdfunding platform in the U.S. that includes hotels. Introducing Vesterr: “Think GoFundMe for Commercial Real Estate.” Vesterr allows both accredited AND non-accredited investors to invest in commercial real estate securities starting with as little as $5,000. “Think GoFundMe, but for commercial real estate investing,” Reaves explains. Through Vesterr, investors can browse opportunities in hotels, multi-family properties, retail spaces, and more—choosing deals that fit their financial goals, time horizon, and participation level (“hands-on” or “hands-off”). Vesterr connects investors with owners, provides a Q&A feature for transparency, and supports campaigns with exposure and marketing tools. Expanding Access—and Belonging “This platform is really about creating opportunities for all,” says Reaves, “but I also want it to provide a space for people who have not traditionally felt welcome or included—women, people of color, young people. Gone are the days where you had to have tens of thousands of dollars just to get into the game.” Reaves’ goal is simple: provide access, grow real estate portfolios, and build economic power through ownership. Client Success: “We Met Our Goal.” Investor and general partner Amina James recently helped fund a Holiday Inn in Lake Charles, Louisiana through Vesterr: “We met our fundraising goal and it was a successful raise!”James praised Vesterr for investor access, easy onboarding, multiple funding options, customer service, exposure and marketing. “I love that Vesterr is Black woman-owned too!” she added. Economic Empowerment as a Movement Whether someone is an experienced investor, a first-time owner, or a developer seeking capital, Vesterr makes commercial real estate financing more accessible and more inclusive than ever. “Whether you're an owner or developer or an experienced investor,” Reaves says, “Vesterr can assist to make it attainable for you to get funding and add commercial real estate assets to your portfolio. You can have your part of the American dream!” The Takeaways . . . 1. Ownership is economic power. Commercial real estate can change income, legacy, and generational wealth. 2. Access determines who gets to participate. By lowering entry barriers, Vesterr expands opportunity. 3. Technology unlocks equity. Digital platforms allow ordinary people to join industries once reserved for the wealthy. 4. Representation matters. Seeing a young Black woman build this platform expands imagination for what is possible. 5. Investing isn’t just for the elite anymore. $5,000 can get you into a game that once required $50,000–$500,000. Davonne Reaves is not simply buying properties—she’s democratizing ownership. Vesterr reframes investing from something exclusive into something possible, practical, and powerful for everyday people—especially those historically excluded. This is entrepreneurship with purpose. This is economic empowerment in motion. This is new-school wealth building. Learn More or Interview Davonne Email: Media@TheVonneGroup.com Phone: 404-946-3317 About Vesterr: Vesterr is an innovative investment platform providing access to commercial real estate securities—including hotels, multi-family properties, and retail—for both accredited and non-accredited investors. More information: Vesterr.com