Meet The Speakers

Dr. Lakiea Bailey is a sickle cell disease advocate, educator, research scientist and patient. Diagnosed with sickle cell disease at age three, she has become a passionate advocate for those living with rare diseases and is committed to serving as a voice of encouragement and empowerment within the sickle cell community. Dr. Bailey holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Doctorate degree in Molecular Hematology and Regenerative Medicine. During the course of her education, Dr. Bailey was named a Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) Doctoral Scholar, was the recipient of multiple honors and awards, including the Fisher Scientific Award for Overall Excellence in Biomedical Research, the Medical College of Georgia Alumni Association Award, the Georgia Regents University Leadership Award and was inducted in the Alpha Upsilon Phi honor society. Dr. Bailey is the Founder and Executive Director of the Sickle Cell Community Consortium (SC3), a network of sickle cell patients, caregivers, and community-based organizations. SC3 was created to harness and amplify the power of the patient/caregiver voice and to ensure that this group guides the direction of sickle cell education, research, legislation, awareness, and policy. Dr. Bailey also served as Vice President and founding Director of Research for Sickle Cell Warriors, Inc. from 2011 - 2014, serves on the Executive Board for the NHLBI’s Cure Sickle Cell Initiative, is on the NIH Sickle Cell Advisory Committee, is part of the Board of Governors for ACEP’s Emergency Department Sickle Cell Care Coalition (EDSC3), is a founding member of the ASH Sickle Cell Disease Coalition, and is a proud member of STAR Patient & Family Advisory Panel, the Georgia Sickle Cell Data Collection Advisory Board with the CDC, the WCG Patient Form Advisory Committee, the Clinical and Economic Consortium Expert Panel of CureSCi, and many other expert and advisory boards and committees. Dr. Bailey has been featured in dozens of news reports and articles, including CNN’s The Human Factor with Dr. Sanjay Gupta and is the proud recipient of multiple awards and honors, including the Sickle Cell Disease Champion Award, the Pat Corley Ambassador Award, the 2017 Humanitarian Award, and the Sickle Cell Heros Award, among many others. She enjoys traveling across the nation to promote sickle cell awareness and education. Her goal is to continue to influence sickle cell disease-related biomedical research as well as legislative and medical policy to improve the lives of those living with sickle cell throughout the world.

Doris Bailey is the Associate Director of Finance for the Sickle Cell Community Consortium. She completed her B.S. in Business with a concentration in Accounting from Indiana University Bloomington, followed by a M.S. in Accounting and Financial Management. She is the parent of a sickle cell warrior and has been a vocal advocate for over 30 years.

Sharonda Sikes founded The Red Chair Project in 2014 to support Sickle Cell Warriors and their communities. Her efforts earned her the 2015 Philanthropy Award from DFW Teen Fashion Week. A photographer by trade, Sharonda’s work has been featured in publications like Be You! Girl Magazine and nonprofits like Minnie’s Food Pantry. Known as “Cupcake” for her sweet personality, she spreads joy through her photography and philanthropy.

Dominique Goodson, a native of Newark, NJ, graduated from Rutgers University with a degree in Sociology and Anthropology. She worked as a research assistant before becoming a Business Development Specialist at Eagle Detective Agency, securing contracts including the NFL Super Bowl NY/NJ 2014. Dominique, who has Sickle Cell Anemia herself, now focuses on writing and advocacy. Through her platform, the Sickle Cell Disease Community Forum, she supports and empowers the community.

Kierra Coffer, a 27-year-old sickle cell warrior, began advocating at age 7. Despite her illness, she’s achieved milestones like becoming a certified medical assistant and managing social media for organizations like the Sickle Cell Consortium. Kierra, a well-known advocate, poet, and content creator, turned advocacy into her profession, gaining a substantial following, especially during the pandemic.

Alexandria Green-Jones is the CEO and founder of AG Media Agency, a multimedia communications firm serving clients across the U.S. With a degree in Mass Media Communications and professional photography training from the Brooks Institute, Alexandria brings over a decade of experience in multi-media journalism, digital strategy, branding, and content creation. Her career spans roles as a journalist for groundbreaking Rolling Out Magazine, where she interviewed changemakers like Michelle Obama, Tavis Smiley and Solange Knowles, to producing digital content as a Senior Producer for CW39. As a trusted strategist and owner of AG Media Agency, Alexandria helps foster brand partnerships, digital media management, and marketing campaigns for national organizations including Sisters Network® Inc., the Girl Scouts Of America, Black Press USA and the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA). Her portfolio also includes collaborations with major brands such as Luvme Hair, Black Girl Vitamins, Mielle, McCafé, 1800 Tequila, and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. She specializes in helping small businesses, nonprofits, and mission-driven organizations Revive, Rebrand, and Reinvent their media presence, delivering results that are bold, culturally relevant, and built to last. Beyond media, Alexandria is known for translating complex analytics into clear strategies that drive audience engagement, boost conversions, and meet measurable marketing goals. Through government contracting, AG Media also partners with municipalities and nonprofit programs nationwide, bringing creative campaigns to life with purpose and impact. Alexandria is a proud graduate of Wiley College and a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., and the Co-Publisher of Bayou Beat News. She currently resides in Virginia with her loving husband, Jimmie Jones, and their two children, Wyatt and Bryce.

Brianna Smith is an aspiring public health professional with a B.S. in Biology from Duke University. Her passions for research and advocacy influenced her career pursuit of using interdisciplinary research to address chronic disease outcomes in minority communities. She has an extensive basic science background and is currently working with the UCLA CTSI to conduct community-engaged sickle cell disease research. In her free time, Brianna enjoys reading and photography.

Dr. Smith-Whitley is currently Chief Medical Office, Real World Evidence, Patient Advocacy and External Collaboration Lead at Pfizer. She joined Pfizer after the acquisition of Global Blood Therapeutics (GBT) where she served as EVP, Head of Research and Development. Prior to joining GBT in May 2021, Dr. Smith-Whitley, Professor Emeritus of Pediatrics at the Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, had been the Clinical Director of Hematology and Director of the Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) where her research and clinical work for almost 30 years had centered on sickle cell disease.

Boston native, Dima Hendricks is an advocate and an ambassador for change. Born with Sickle Cell, a hereditary blood disorder, Dima suffered numerous health complications. But that never held her back. Today she stands on the front lines raising awareness about the dangers of sickle cell disease and encouraging others to make a difference. Through her work at the local sickle cell organization, the American Red Cross, and the NAACP, Dima has helped change the landscape of awareness in the City of Boston. She is now embarking on a new position as a sickle cell health coach at the University of Pittsburgh. Dima is also an author, a pageant queen and the recipient of the Boston Celtic’s Heroes Among Us Award.

Susan Brisendine is a communications leader, patient advocate and innovation way maker who has worked with the rare disease community for more than 20 years. She has held leadership roles at pioneering health and life science organizations including NephCure, Foundation for Cell and Gene Medicine, Global Genes, bluebird bio, Novartis and GSK, where she developed and executed evidence-based, impactful programs to support patient communities and build strategic partnerships. Susan has a proven track record of driving successful common cause collaborations and fostering relationships with key stakeholders. In her current role at NephCure, Susan is focused on partnering with stakeholders to identify and overcome barriers to optimal care and treatment for the rare kidney disease community. She is also launching a 501(c)3 nonprofit, Conduit Health Collective, to help other nonprofits by guiding strategic planning and offering affordable support services through a vast network of talent who want to “serve the servants.” She specializes in turning deep stakeholder insights into strategic impact.

Tayo Togba is the Founder of Impact Element Solutions and Director of Operations at Sonar Clinical Research, leading initiatives that bridge wellness, community, and clinical innovation. With a focus on chronic illness advocacy and patient-centered care, she designs impactful programs that elevate self-care, support recovery, and transform how communities experience health.

I was born in the Bronx, NY, and raised in Long Island, NY. I have known that I wanted to be a pediatrician since I was nine years old because I have always loved helping children. I come from a large, multicultural family and have 14 siblings, many of whom I helped raise. Therefore, caring for children comes naturally!Prior to moving to Georgia, I had was in private practice in South Carolina for three years. My husband, two sons and I will often be spotted at the Gwinnett Braves games, playing sports at Collins Hill Park or catching a jazz concert at Suwanee Town Center. Our family also includes our black Labrador, Onyx. About my practice I joined Kaiser Permanente in 2007, and am proud and honored to work among such an amazing group of caring, competent physicians. I have been at the Sugar Hill-Buford Medical Center since its opening in 2007 and currently serve as the managing physician for this facility as well as our Forsyth Medical Office.I have been very fortunate to have a wonderful group of patients and families, many of whom I have gotten to know outside of the office as well. I believe that parents know their children best, so I will partner with you in the care of your child to help ensure their well-being. I will be sure to communicate well with you and involve you in some of the decision making regarding your child's care. How I thrive My philosophy to life, as well as medicine, is caring for the whole person. I consider mental and spiritual health just as important, if not more so, as physical health. I am an active church member and volunteer every other Sunday in the youth ministry. I believe in the health benefits of philanthropy and find that I thrive best when I am helping other people, and I find various ways in my community to give back. I also believe in the healing power of music and laughter, so there is never a dull moment in my house! My family loves to play, laugh, dance, sing (even though we are all tone deaf) and stay active outdoors. Lastly, I firmly believe in the healing power of a “girls’ night out,” and I try to get these on a regular basis.My interests are dancing, reading, traveling, and anything that includes my loved ones. I am semi-interested in sports and have been made an honorary fan of the New York Yankees and Dallas Cowboys by way of my husband (sorry, Atlantans...I married into this so don't judge me too harshly). However, I am the biggest fan of my two All-Star sons!

Jason Robert Moore is VP and Community Health Worker at Sickle Cell Warriors of Buffalo and the founder of Kindred Compass Holdings, LLC. A Sickle Cell Disease warrior and advocate, Moore launched the Warrior Intelligence Project in January 2026 — building a community-owned, real-time crisis surveillance system that enrolled 83+ Warriors across 17 states and 5 countries in under 90 days, with zero paid acquisition. His work sits at the intersection of lived experience, data sovereignty, and systemic health equity, and serves as the proof of concept for his Human Intelligence Infrastructure (Hii) framework. Moore's governing principle: Our Pain. Our Data. Our Power.

Dominique Friend is a remarkable woman on a mission, dedicated to raising awareness and making a difference in the lives of those affected by sickle cell disease. As an advocate and author, Dominique has channeled her own experiences with the condition into a powerful book that sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of living with sickle cell. Since 2008, Dominique has been tirelessly advocating for the needs and rights of individuals with sickle cell disease. Her advocacy journey began with a grassroots campaign, and it has evolved to include hosting various events aimed at raising awareness and fostering a sense of community. Her efforts have even reached the highest levels of government, as she had the opportunity to host roundtable discussions at the White House during President Obama's administration. Driven by her passion and determination, Dominique founded the Sickle International Family Coalition, a 501c3 Non-Profit Organization. Through this organization, she has been able to extend her reach and provide vital support to individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease. Dominique's impact has not gone unnoticed. She has been featured in numerous publications, highlighting her advocacy work and sharing her story. Additionally, she has been invited to speak at various engagements, where her insights and experiences have inspired and educated others. Dominique's advocacy work is undeniably a labor of love. Her unwavering commitment to raising awareness, supporting individuals, and improving the lives of those living with sickle cell disease is a testament to her strength, resilience, and compassion. Through her advocacy efforts and her book, Dominique Friend continues to make a profound impact on the lives of many, leaving a lasting legacy of empowerment and hope.

Janks Morton Jr. is an acclaimed filmmaker, social commentator, and advocate for educational equity whose thought-provoking documentaries and public speaking have challenged perceptions and inspired dialogue on race, family, and social justice in America. He has dedicated his career to examining the complexities of the African American experience and the impact of systemic policies on marginalized communities. With ten groundbreaking films—including the award-winning What Black Men Think (2006) and Hoodwinked (2011)—Morton has garnered national recognition for his candid exploration of stereotypes and his call for deeper understanding. Beyond filmmaking, he is a sought-after public speaker who has engaged audiences at churches, conventions, and universities across the country, fostering honest conversations about identity, equity, and empowerment. Through his storytelling and advocacy, Morton continues to push boundaries, dismantle systemic barriers, and promote equal access to education, serving as a powerful voice for truth, equity, and social transformation.

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Daphne Valcin is a keynote speaker, trainer, and executive coach with more than 20 years of experience helping nonprofit organizations, executive leaders, and boards strengthen culture, governance, and effectiveness. She has supported fundraising and advancement strategy for a multimillion-dollar nonprofit through donor and prospect research, delivered board governance and board engagement training for multiple organizations, and led a small nonprofit board for over a decade, successfully guiding strategic planning and multiple successful crowdfunding campaigns. As CEO of a boutique leadership development firm, Daphne has facilitated programs for over 400 individuals and 200 organizations across four countries. She is known for her practical, results-driven approach, helping leaders and teams strengthen communication, confidence, and organizational impact.

Demetra Moore is a nonprofit leadership development partner, speaker, and founder of Moore Out of Life, a boutique firm helping mission-driven professionals lead with clarity, resilience, and purpose. With over a decade of experience across the social sector, she has coached and trained leaders at organizations including United Way, Girls Inc., Planned Parenthood, and Bloc Love. Her proprietary LIGHT Method equips nonprofit leaders to strengthen teams, overcome burnout, and navigate complex, community-centered work with confidence. A sought-after facilitator, Demetra delivers high-impact workshops on challenges such as managing change, overcoming imposter syndrome, and building emotionally intelligent teams. Known for her strategic and human-centered approach, she creates engaging, action-oriented learning environments that support resilient leadership and stronger communities

Sandy Mill is a business strategist, operations consultant, and founder of Sandy Mill Works, where she specializes in building systems, partnerships, and scalable solutions for brands and organizations across multiple industries. With a background spanning event production, marketing, and business development, she has worked across diverse markets to strengthen operations, drive growth, and create sustainable structures for businesses and initiatives. Her work also extends into national efforts within the Sickle Cell community, where she has contributed to large-scale conventions, advocacy initiatives, and organizational development. Known for her ability to navigate complex negotiations and build impactful collaborations, Sandy brings a practical, real-world approach to leadership, strategy, and execution.

Dawn Montgomery, a South Jones High School graduate, earned her Associate's degree from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and her Bachelor's from Oglethorpe University. She has interned at the White House and enjoyed a 15-year modeling career that allowed her to travel the world. Dawn founded Fans Favorite Fan, a sports media company focused on fan experiences, and later became Vice President of Operations and then Chief Brand Officer at The Atlanta Voice. Currently, she serves as the Culture Critic for Black Press USA and works with the National Newspaper Publishers Association. A dedicated mother of three, Dawn resides in Decatur, Georgia, works part-time in New York, and travels frequently across the country to consult with clients on media strategy.

In 2011, Kiplyn Primus and Jazz 91.9 WCLK launched The Local Take With Kiplyn Primus. This public affairs show features discussions about critical issues facing Atlanta and profiles of organizations doing important work in the communities served by WCLK. As public broadcasters, our mission is to engage with the community and feature people and issues that mainstream, commercial media outlets don’t always cover. We will celebrate our 15th Anniversary in January 2026. Our core topics to cover are from health to finance to cultural events and politics. The Local Take has become a news source for our community. Journalist Kiplyn Primus is a graduate of Howard University with a BA in Journalism and English. Additionally, she graduated from Clark Atlanta University, where she obtained an MBA in Marketing. She has long public and commercial media career, including stints with The Atlanta Tribune, Global Atlanta, and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Primus is also a veteran facilitator for StoryCorps’ Atlanta studio and their Brightness in Black, where conversations between friends, family, and colleagues become part of the largest oral history project in the USA. Primus has written extensively on global and local initiatives for several publications and media outlets.

Toby Adeyemi, also known as WhyToby?, is an Atlanta-based sports and music journalist who focuses on entertainment and culture reporting. A graduate of Georgia State University, he has built his career contributing to outlets such as Yahoo Sports, Overtime, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, EBONY Magazine, ESSENCE Magazine, and Rolling Out. Known for his ability to connect trends and brands to what’s going on in the culture, Toby has conducted high-profile interviews and created engaging, cross-platform content. He currently works with The Weather Company, where he brings a fresh approach to storytelling at the intersection of weather, sports, and lifestyle. Toby previously co-hosted The RayDar Report with Ray Daniels and has launched his own independent media platform WhyMedia?

Holly John, Senior Director, Global Patient Advocacy at Agios is an innovative and thoughtful leader with a passion for elevating the voice of the patient community and ensuring that their insights are woven across the company’s activities. Introduced to the Sickle Cell community in 2017, she has since learned many powerful life lessons, including how resilience and gratitude in the face of adversity can overcome any challenge. With that experience, Holly has gone on to build advocacy functions and teams, all of which are centered on the ‘person’ not the ‘disease’. This approach has brought value to her colleagues while delivering better outcomes and experiences for patients. Holly has a strong record of building authentic partnerships with patients, patient advocates and their clinician supporters. Since joining Agios, Holly has defined an ambition for patient-centricity that goes beyond words, driving meaningful action and change. Her efforts led to the launch of the Red Cell Revolution, an evidence-based advocacy initiative directed by patients, and support for community efforts such as the ‘Nod to “Naz” Exhibit’, a tribute to the life-affirming work of Hertz Nazaire. Through acts such as these, Holly received the SCAY Community Partner award. Ultimately, her goal is to raise the bar and set a new standard for her peers that ensures patients have a seat at the decision-making table.

Bridgette Pierre is a US Medical Director with Pfizer’s US Medical Affairs Headquarters team supporting the Sickle Cell Disease division. She brings over 17 years of combined clinical and pharmaceutical experience, with deep expertise in sickle cell disease (SCD). In her current role, Bridgette provides strategic medical leadership, contributing to the planning and execution of medical initiatives and supporting a comprehensive understanding of medicine development and U.S. Medical Affairs SCD activities. Bridgette earned a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from Louisiana State University, as well as a Bachelor of Nursing and a Master of Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Southern University School of Nursing. She is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. Her passion for sickle cell was sparked after discovering that she had sickle cell trait and shaped through several years of providing holistic care to adults living with sickle cell at Our Lady of the Lake Adult SCD Program in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. During this time, she developed deep disease-state knowledge and clinical expertise in caring for a vulnerable and underserved population. Bridgette remains dedicated to improving care for individuals living with sickle cell disease and closing gaps in awareness, education, and access. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two children and creating lasting memories through travel.