About me

Madame Queen Winessa Smith

Born in North Carolina and raised in Hartford, Connecticut, I have always been shaped by diverse communities and experiences.

In 2015, I relocated to Florida, where I dedicated a year to working with teens in one of Kissimmee’s most challenging neighborhoods. Within just three months, the transformation in the youth’s behavior under my leadership as a Youth Prevention Specialist left the residents amazed. This experience was a testament to the power of guidance and mentorship.

Following this chapter, I felt divinely led to move to Georgia. Living in Atlanta opened my eyes to the harsh realities of homelessness on a scale I had never witnessed before. I encountered countless youth in desperate need of guidance, role models, and hope. Additionally, I experienced the pervasive presence of racism against people of color here in the South. These challenges inspired my passion to uplift and empower Black communities, aiming to rebuild the spirit of prosperity once seen during the era of Black Wall Street.

Black Wall Street demonstrated that Black people could create immense wealth and thriving businesses even during the oppressive Jim Crow era. I firmly believe we can achieve even greater success today. As the leader of the Black Wall Street Discussion Group, I am honored to lead conversations and initiatives that empower our communities on every level. Through collaboration and dedication, I am proud to be part of a nonprofit organization committed to fostering Black wealth, building Black-owned businesses, and inspiring Black excellence.