The Defender Network’s ‘Ones to Watch Under 40’ celebrates young Black excellence. These visionaries are blazing trails in their respective fields, proving that determination, talent, and community impact can change the game. Here’s why these five individuals and groups are redefining success and inspiring us all.
Nitasia “Spirit” Dupree – President, Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals (HAULYP)
Nitasia “Spirit” Dupree is the epitome of community service. By day, she’s a Finance Manager with over 13 years of experience. By night, she’s a Peak Performance Coach and a leader committed to empowering her community. As the current president of HAULYP, Spirit has spearheaded impactful city-wide initiatives that uplift and inspire.
Her accolades include being a two-time Amazon bestselling author and receiving the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023. Through her dual passions of professional development and volunteerism, Spirit is a powerhouse proving that excellence and community leadership go hand in hand.
Jasmine Robinson – Founder/Executive Director, Collegiate Mom Coalition
Jasmine Robinson is turning the narrative for college moms across the city and beyond. As the founder of the Collegiate Mom Coalition, Jasmine has created a lifeline for young moms pursuing their undergraduate degrees.
This nonprofit offers scholarships, workshops, and resources to ensure its participants succeed. Jasmine’s innovative scholarship pageant for college moms boasts a 100% graduation success rate. From her roots at Prairie View A&M University to her continued advocacy, she hopes to expand the pageant to a statewide initiative.
Dr. Bonnie Prado Pino – NASA Engineer/Astrodynamics
Dr. Bonnie Prado Pino’s journey from Quibdó, Colombia, to NASA is a testament to what’s possible with perseverance and vision. An accomplished engineer and researcher, Bonnie specializes in spacecraft trajectory optimization, advancing the capabilities of micro- and nano-satellites.
Beyond her technical expertise, Bonnie is a passionate advocate for underrepresented youth. Through her nonprofit, Afro-Latino Experience Organization (ALE), she introduces students in Colombia to STEM fields, opening doors for future generations. Bonnie’s work on and off Earth exemplifies the heights Black excellence can reach.
Winnie Ileso – Fitness Influencer/Digital Creator
Winnie Ileso is redefining fitness and fashion for today’s audience. Winnie is known for her standout appearance on Netflix’s The Trust: A Game of Greed and her runway debut at New York Fashion Week, and she brings style and substance to every project.
Her dedication to celebrating Black designers and promoting inclusivity in the fashion industry makes her a true visionary. Whether she’s creating fitness content or advocating for representation, Winnie’s magnetic presence and drive continue to inspire.
Influencing in Color – Social Media Innovators
Nikki Gamble, Shay Sweeney, Brandy Gueary, and Meghan Adams are the dynamic women behind Influencing in Color. With over 100,000 Instagram followers, this Houston-based collective is shaking up the digital space with curated content that champions Black excellence and inclusivity in fashion.
Beyond their stylish posts, these moms and working professionals use their platform to challenge the status quo, encouraging retailers to reflect diversity in their campaigns. By blending friendship, creativity, and advocacy, Influencing in Color empowers women of color everywhere to show up boldly and beautifully.
