Meet Jesse Ross, a dynamic entrepreneur force and diversity, equity, and inclusion expert. He’s worked with top companies like the NBA and LinkedIn to create more inclusive and just workplaces. With a passion for inspiring change, Jesse has shared his insights and experiences on stages worldwide, empowering audiences to embrace diversity and drive positive impact.

Meet Kaori Yamada, a marketing pro turned “accidental banker” who’s now part of the Corporate Social Responsibility team at U.S. Bank! With a background in social impact and marketing strategy—previously working as a Senior Director at Best Buy—Kaori now focuses on making financial education fun, accessible and useful for everyone. She holds degrees from Yale and Northwestern and she’s loving it and making a difference. Outside of work, Kaori volunteers and serves as Vice Chair of Pillsbury United Communities, always finding ways to give back!

Christopheraaron Deanes is an innovative educator, artist, and leader dedicated to sparking conversations that challenge how we think about race, respect, and kindness. With years of experience in both the arts and education, Christopher uses his skills to create workshops and spaces where young people can explore new ideas, connect with others, and build a more understanding and fair world. His work inspires students to see the power they have to make a difference in their communities and beyond!

Nur-D is one of Minnesota’s fastest-rising hip hop stars, and he’s bringing an explosion of energy to InspireMSP’s Career Day! Think the soulful sounds of Bruno Mars, the pop culture punchlines of a “Community” episode, and the powerful energy of Chance the Rapper—all rolled into one. Since bursting onto the scene in 2018, Nur-D has performed with big names like Ludacris and Tyler The Creator and even rocked the stage with the Grammy Award-winning Minnesota Orchestra. If you haven’t heard of him yet, you will soon—Nur-D is on his way to becoming a household name!

Snktones, co-founded by Stephon Atuti and Antoine Jenkins, is a local urban clothing brand that started during the 2020 unrest. What began with a nationally recognized mural has evolved into a creative agency working with names like Ye’s Donda Academy and Jay-Z’s Roc Nation. Snktones hosts pop-up events, partners with major brands, and teaches young people how to build their own brands while giving back to their community.

Bobby Rogers is the Creative Director for MIA and a visual artist whose work reflects his experiences as a Black, millennial Muslim. While studying Design, Bobby began exploring his identity through art, starting with illustrations about mental health and addiction, and later diving into street culture and high fashion. He’s partnered with major brands like Target and collaborated with many others to bring his bold, revolutionary vision to life. Today, through photography, Bobby captures the spirit of Black culture, and his work has been featured in top museums and publications like Vice and Buzzfeed

Sabrina Peitz, a creative force who blends art, identity, and purpose. From the moment she picked up a pencil, Sabrina has been passionate about exploring different artistic mediums. She studied Graphic Design in college, knowing it was the perfect way to combine her love for creativity with a meaningful career. Today, Sabrina works with Colle McVoy and local entrepreneur Houston White on projects that celebrate underrepresented identities. Through design, she tells powerful stories that connect people and make sure everyone feels seen. Sabrina’s journey shows that even when things get tough, persistence and passion can lead to amazing opportunities!

Jason Hackett’s journey to becoming a KARE 11 Sunrise anchor began in 5th grade when he first stepped foot into an NBC studio, sparking his dream of becoming a storyteller. Growing up in Miami Gardens, Florida, Jason pursued his passion at the University of Florida and worked his way through newsrooms across the country, from Florida to Iowa and Oklahoma City. Now, after more than a decade of admiring KARE 11 from afar, he’s living his dream of joining their team. Jason’s story shows how curiosity and hard work can take you anywhere!

Meet Josh Parks, founder of Ghostfit Apparel! After stepping away from college football at the University of Minnesota, Josh turned a tough time into inspiration. At the University of St. Thomas, he discovered entrepreneurship and launched Ghostfit, a brand known for high-quality fitness gear. Committed to giving back, Ghostfit donates 5% of its profits to support mental health. Josh’s story shows how challenges can lead to exciting new opportunities!

Meet Gabe Henderson, an On-Air Talent and Producer for the Minnesota Vikings! Once a student-athlete, Gabe shifted from the football field to the broadcast booth, turning his passion for storytelling into a career. With over 7 years of experience in video production, social media, and on-air work, Gabe uses his camera and microphone to bring exciting stories to life. His journey shows how teamwork, resilience, and creativity can help you thrive in any field!

Meet Jared Hanks, an expert at connecting people, creativity, and business! He began as a youth leadership educator and later led business development at Juxtaposition Arts in North Minneapolis. Jared also founded Helping Hands, a community service company run by young people. He’s passionate about creating opportunities and shows how bringing people together can lead to incredible ideas!

Meet Terri Stevens, a Chicago native who made it to the top 6 on Project Runway, Season 5! With a background in fashion design, Terri has worked with major brands like Nordstrom, Levi’s, and Victoria’s Secret, and even designed in Paris. Now, she runs two fashion lines: Michael Joseph, known for its chic style, and funkinbeautiful, which is raw and edgy. She’s also hit the red carpet at the Oscars and MTV Movie Awards. Passionate about giving back, Terri has joined the board of InspireMSP and started a fashion club to help young designers shine. Her story shows how far creativity and determination can take you!

Meet Lynn Farmer, a marketing whiz who’s worked at cool places like Target and Twin Cities PBS. She knows how to make things look great and sound even better. She brings her love of art and fashion and is now working at MIA where she is helping the organization grow. Lynn’s excited to share her knowledge with you at InspireMSP’s Career Day!