Sylvia Dunnavant Hines
The recipient of countless honors and awards, Sylvia Dunnavant Hines is the Founder of the Celebrating Life Foundation; a non-profit that teaches breast-cancer awareness. Under her leadership, the organization has developed and distributed over a million breast self-exam cards nationwide to churches and civic organizations. A writer, photographer, and poet Ms. Dunnavant has a communications degree with an emphasis in journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She was ordained by Bishop T. D. Jakes, Senior Pastor, of the Potter’s House in Dallas, Texas. Ms. Dunnavant has studied under world-renowned speaker Les Brown and is in demand as a public speaker.
A resident of Dallas, Dunnavant’s work, Celebrating Life: African American Women Speak Out About Breast Cancer, has been recognized at the state and national level. She has received citations from Wisconsin for her journalistic accomplishments, a Georgia State Senate Resolution for her efforts with breast cancer awareness, the “Emerging Leader Award,” from the African American Museum in Dallas, and “Outstanding Young Woman of America,” from Dollars & Sense Magazine.
Debra Nixon Bowles
Debra Nixon Bowles defined in one word would be called a “trailblazer” having led the charge in varying causes seeking justice for women and children. Debra is a maverick when it comes to the task of advocating for women and children affected by domestic violence, sex trafficking, and other crimes against women and children. She obtained her drive from her experiences with abuse as both a child and an adult. As a result, she has committed her life as an advocate, inspirational speaker, and Domestic Violence expert educating, empowering, and raising funds to create much-needed awareness and change in these areas. Noting the lack of resources in Southern Dallas Debra founded, “A Woman Called Moses” (a 501c3 non-profit organization) that provids financial assistance and support services to women and children fleeing domestic violence.
Because of her passion and outstanding advocacy, Debra has received numerous awards recognizing her as a leader and expert in her field. She is called upon often to speak as an advocate throughout the nation, within media, in the court systems and alongside local law enforcement. Debra cites her personal sacrifice on the frontlines as an advocate for victims is her most important accomplishment. When asked she responds, “being a modern-day deliverer on the frontlines is my mission; the fact that I’ve been willing to put my own life on the line to rescue others seems a small price to pay.”