Forever In Our Hearts…
Cherished memories provide a foundation that helps us to continue our mission while reminding us of the importance of synergy and good relationships. We reflect upon our past experiences and the impact of those who have contributed to the NABFEME journey.
Vanessa Barryer
Vanessa, a former DJ in Longview, TX was one of the founding board members of NABFEME. She was passionate about the organization and worked tirelessly to achieve meaningful results. Vanessa transformed her love for music into a successful career as a record executive, where she spent numerous years nurturing talent and promoting the artists signed to Arista Records. Her legacy lives on after her passing on December 3, 2019.
Dee Dee Cocheta
Dee Dee was a major influencer in the hip-hop and music scene in Atlanta, and her nickname “Hip Hop Mama,” fit her like a glove! She served as the NABFEME Atlanta Network Director for many years, implementing numerous outstanding projects and programs. On January 9, 2014, our beloved “Hip Hop Mama” passed away after a courageous fight against Stage 4 breast cancer. Dee Dee was the mother of seven children and grandmother of three. She was an award-winning public relations and marketing professional, and the principal strategist/publicist for ABC Publicity. Her career covered an extensive list of artists, record labels, and entertainment companies.
Mercyline “Mike” Bernardo
In the world of music, Mercyline “Mike” Bernardo was a true trailblazer. As the former VP of Uptown Records and VP of Promotion at Mercury Records, she broke barriers as the first Black woman to become a regional promotions manager at CBS. Her leadership extended to overseeing the promotion and marketing of all Black music product on Columbia, Epic, and the associated (EPA) labels as the National Director of Promotions. Her impact was profound, and she was affectionately known as “Mama Mike” for her many years of mentorship and dedication to helping children in crisis through the 331 Foundation. Her legacy lives on, inspiring future generations to follow in her footsteps. A longtime supporter of NABFEME, Mike passed away on March 14, 2012.
We Remember Our Celebrity Moms
The Celebration of the Celebrity Mom brought into view a “Lifetime of Love” as the program acknowledged the “Quiet Champion” in the lives of many celebrated super stars. These women, fierce and fearless, were rarely seen as they happily supported their children from the background. Coaches of a different breed, they knew from the first time they held that child in their arms that he or she was special.
🙏🏾 We remember so that others do not forget. 🙏🏾
(Jazmine Sullivan)