Michele Mitchell is the Founder, President, and CEO of Ubuntu Village Inc., a New York–based nonprofit dedicated to healing, dignity, and community empowerment. A visionary strategist and cultural storyteller, she blends ancestral wisdom, public health advocacy, and digital innovation to create accessible, soul‑centered programs that uplift the African diaspora.
Through Ubuntu Village, Michele champions emotional sovereignty, collective care, and justice‑driven education, building spaces where people feel seen, supported, and connected. Her work continues to inspire communities to reclaim their power, honor their stories, and imagine a more humane future.

Valerie Joseph, age 49, was born and raised in Queens Village, New York. Born with Spina Bifida with Hydrocephalus, Valerie has never allowed her disability to limit her ambitions or her self-expression. She earned an Associate’s degree in Business Administration and a Bachelor’s degree in Management Technology from Farmingdale State University (SUNY). Since 2017, Valerie has worked at the Drivers Cooperative as an Access-A-Ride Advocate, where her responsibilities include onboarding drivers onto the platform and maintaining their eligibility. She previously served as an Access-A-Ride Advocate for the Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled and is also a personal advocate with the Caring Majority, where she advocates before the New York State Legislature on behalf of people with disabilities. An outgoing and approachable African American woman of Haitian descent, Valerie is wheelchair-bound and alternates between motorized and manual wheelchairs depending on the situation, primarily using a motorized chair. She is deeply passionate about helping others succeed—both professionally and personally—and is fluent in speaking and writing Haitian Creole. Valerie is also a pageant title holder, having been crowned Ms. World Elegance 2020–2021. She has a strong love for fashion, jewelry, and makeup, which led her to become part of Design for Disability. Valerie believes that disability does not diminish beauty or sexiness, and that being on the runway gives her a sense of freedom and a powerful way to express her inner beauty. She enjoys traveling to different cities, states, and countries and never allows her disability to hold her back. Valerie’s life reflects resilience, confidence, advocacy, and a commitment to living boldly and unapologetically.

Adhiambo Mitchell is a Biomechanical Engineering and Technology professional with experience in logistics, distribution, and leadership. A facilitator of community-based programs. He is well-versed in machine diagnostics, maintenance, and inventory management. A team player and team builder. Able to create, organize, and accurately complete projects. Adhiambo enjoys building practical solutions, learning new technologies, and collaborating on meaningful projects.