Impact in Motion: Where Action Creates Change

The Beginning of a New Legacy

Join Say Y.E.S. Foundation, Inc. for the inaugural Legacy of Brilliance Gala, an evening created to recognize extraordinary individuals whose service, leadership, faith, resilience, and commitment are making a difference across our communities.

Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 7:00 PM
Garner Swim and Recreation Club | Garner, NC
Gala Attire — Dress to Impress

Early Bird Tickets: $50

GALA TICKETS & MORE

Tickets • Sponsorships • Donations • Commemorative Book Ads • Commemorative Books

THE VISION BEHIND THE LEGACY

Every community has people whose actions create change—those who serve without seeking recognition, lead with purpose, persevere through challenges, inspire others through faith, and create opportunities for the generations that follow.

The Legacy of Brilliance Gala was created to honor those stories while bringing generations together in celebration of the many ways impact takes shape.

Rooted in Say Y.E.S. Foundation, Inc.’s commitment to bridging the gap across all generations, our vision is for the Gala to become an annual tradition where emerging leaders stand alongside longtime community servants, young people see examples of what is possible, and one generation’s impact inspires the next.

Some legacies have been built over decades. Others are just beginning.

Every generation has something to contribute. Every story has the power to inspire another.

The inaugural Legacy of Brilliance Gala marks the beginning of a new legacy.

2026 AWARD CATEGORIES

Community Impact

Recognizing individuals whose leadership, advocacy, service, or community involvement has created meaningful change for others.

Faith in Action

Recognizing individuals who demonstrate their faith through service, compassion, leadership, and a commitment to uplifting others.

Power Through Purpose

Recognizing individuals who have embraced their purpose and use their experiences, talents, or platform to inspire, empower, and create positive change.

Youth Excellence

Celebrating young people who demonstrate excellence through academics, leadership, service, character, creativity, or personal achievement.

Legacy of Resilience

Recognizing individuals whose strength, perseverance, and ability to overcome adversity have become a source of inspiration and impact for others.

Legacy of Faith

Honoring individuals whose longstanding faith, spiritual leadership, and service have positively influenced families and communities.

Legacy of Service Scholarship

Recognizing young people who demonstrate a commitment to service, leadership, academic growth, and creating a positive impact in their communities.

Legacy Luminary

Honoring individuals whose lives and contributions have illuminated a path for others and whose influence continues to inspire across generations.

Legacy of Excellence

Honoring individuals whose sustained commitment to excellence, leadership, and service has established a legacy worthy of recognition.

MEET OUR 2026 NOMINEES

21 Individuals. Nine Categories. Countless Ways to Make an Impact.

Every nominee represents a unique story of leadership, perseverance, faith, service, excellence, or impact. We are proud to recognize the individuals whose work and lives embody the spirit of Impact in Motion.

Community Impact

Brandi N. Matthews

Councilwoman Brandi N. Matthews is a civic leader and community advocate dedicated to expanding opportunities in education, workforce development, reentry, youth mentorship, and civic engagement. In 2019, she became the first Black woman elected to the Goldsboro City Council and later its first Black woman Mayor Pro Tem. Through her professional work and community initiatives, Brandi champions second chances, provides resources and mentorship, removes barriers, and empowers individuals and families throughout Wayne County.

Jural Thurman Melvin

Jural Thurman Melvin is a community leader whose service expands opportunities for youth, women, families, and underserved communities across Harnett and Wake counties. As President of the Capital Area Section of the National Council of Negro Women, she advances scholarships, community resources, and educational initiatives. Drawing on more than 30 years in technology, Jural mentors students, promotes STEM exposure, connects HBCU students with career opportunities, and advocates for women of color in technology and leadership.

Dr. La’Quon Rogers

Dr. La’Quon Rogers is a servant leader whose impact spans ministry, healthcare access, youth development, education, and community advocacy. His leadership includes representing more than 800,000 community college students statewide, serving as a pastor, healthcare entrepreneur, and mentor. Through Mary’s Care Inc. and AmbuCare Medical Transport Inc., he connects individuals to essential healthcare services. His continued commitment to mentorship, youth programming, and leadership development strengthens individuals, families, and communities through service, faith, and purpose.

Faith in Action

Dr. Christopher Kornegay

Dr. Christopher Kornegay has demonstrated more than two decades of faith-driven leadership through ministry, advocacy, mentorship, education, and community service. As Senior Pastor of Chapel Hill Missionary Baptist Church and President of the Johnston County Branch of the NAACP, he champions civic engagement and educational opportunities. Professionally, his work with WAGES, Inc. supports housing, energy efficiency, workforce development, and economic empowerment. Through ministry, mentorship, and advocacy, Dr. Kornegay puts faith into action while empowering individuals and families.

Eric Thornton

Eric Thornton is a pastor, mentor, community leader, and healthcare professional who demonstrates his faith through service and compassion. His ministry extends beyond the church through food and back-to-school drives, community feeding programs, scholarships, and family outreach. With a commitment to mentoring young Black men, he provides guidance and encouragement that promotes education and personal growth. Through ministry, mentorship, educational opportunities, and healthcare, Eric consistently puts faith into action while uplifting youth, families, and communities.

Juliet Pinder Jones

Juliet Pinder Jones, affectionately known as “Lady J,” has dedicated more than 15 years to education, mentorship, ministry, and youth advocacy. At Eastern Wayne High School, she encourages and champions students, especially those needing additional support. Through The City Church of Goldsboro, she helps lead youth ministry and outreach providing school supplies, food, clothing, and family support. Through education, mentorship, ministry, and service, Juliet consistently demonstrates her faith through meaningful action throughout Wayne County.

Power Through Purpose

Adrienae Bell

Adrienae Bell has dedicated decades to strengthening Harnett County through service, advocacy, and leadership. She helped establish Habitat for Humanity of Harnett County and has served with the Harnett County Library Board of Trustees, STAR Academy Advisory Board, Lillington Shawtown Advisory Committee, NAACP, and Leading Ladies of Harnett County. Through her commitment to housing, education, youth, civic engagement, and community advancement, Adrienae consistently creates opportunities, strengthens resources, and serves wherever her community needs her.

Passion Smith

Passion Smith, MSW, is a community leader dedicated to strengthening families through maternal health, child development, education, and compassionate care. As Founder and CEO of Passionate Beginnings Resource Center, she supports parents, children, and underserved communities while advocating for equitable healthcare. A certified birth professional, social worker, and developmental play therapist, Passion provides holistic family support. Through statewide maternal health advocacy and initiatives like the annual Kiddie Prom, she continues to empower families and strengthen communities.

YOUTH EXCELLENCE

Avariah Bryant

Avariah is a driven young leader who demonstrates excellence through academics, athletics, service, and strong character. Active in the Health Science Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, varsity and competitive cheer, and track, she encourages her peers, promotes teamwork, and consistently strives for personal growth. With aspirations of a career in healthcare and certifications in OSHA, CPR, and Stop the Bleed, Avariah is already preparing to use her talents, leadership, and compassion to make a meaningful difference.

Brianna Moffett

Brianna Moffett is a rising high school senior, talented singer, youth advocate, and emerging leader maintaining a 3.7 GPA while balancing academics, service, and extracurricular activities. As Miss Black North Carolina Talented Teen USA 2026 and Second Runner-Up at Miss Black USA Talented Teen, she uses her Crowned With Confidence platform to help young girls embrace their individuality, recognize their worth, and pursue their goals. Through music, mentorship, advocacy, and service, Brianna demonstrates character and purposeful leadership.

Reginald “Lil Reggie” Sanders

Reginald “Lil Reggie” Sanders transformed his passion for baking and service into Lil Reggie Cookies, growing from pop-ups and catering to his own storefront while continuing his education. A graduate of Wake Tech’s LaunchRaleigh program, he demonstrates perseverance, discipline, leadership, and entrepreneurial drive, earning regional recognition for his success. Beyond business, Reggie gives back by supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and encouraging other young entrepreneurs to pursue their goals, believe in their potential, and create their own opportunities.

LEGACY OF RESILIENCE

Dr. Claudia McNeill Elliott

Dr. Claudia McNeill-Elliott has dedicated nearly three decades to creating second chances for individuals facing barriers to housing, employment, and financial independence. As Executive Director of New Beginning Healthcare, she has helped individuals secure housing, pursue healthcare careers, and build greater stability and self-sufficiency. Her compassionate leadership has transformed lives and created lasting community impact.

Lakela Bell-McLean

Lakela Bell-McLean exemplifies resilience and purpose, transforming personal adversity into a driving force for leadership, mentorship, and service. Through leadership with Leading Ladies of Harnett County, Harnett County Stop the Violence, and other community organizations, she mentors youth, supports families, and strengthens her community. Her ability to overcome challenges while remaining committed to uplifting others demonstrates perseverance in action and reflects a powerful example of using life experiences to create meaningful, lasting impact for those around her.

LEGACY OF FAITH

Dr. Helen Walker

Dr. Helen Walker has devoted more than 26 years to education and service, empowering students and expanding access to meaningful learning opportunities. An award-winning educator and leader, she supports diverse learning needs while extending her impact through free tutoring, mentorship, special education advocacy, school leadership, and community service. Her commitment to using education as a pathway to confidence, opportunity, and personal growth has positively influenced students, families, and communities throughout North Carolina.

Dr. Sheral Raines

Dr. Sheral Raines has devoted more than 23 years to education, ministry, counseling, and community leadership, using each platform to empower and uplift others. A first-generation college graduate with multiple advanced degrees, he has transformed his education into service through youth programs, clergy development, civic initiatives, pastoral counseling, and community outreach. His lifelong commitment to learning and using that knowledge to strengthen others reflects the powerful connection between scholarship, leadership, and service.

LEGACY OF SERVICE SCHOLARSHIP

Adriana Bell

Adriana Bell exemplifies scholarship and service, graduating Magna Cum Laude from Winston-Salem State University and continuing her education at North Carolina Central University. A proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, she serves through organizations across Harnett County and Winston-Salem, supporting initiatives that empower youth, strengthen families, and address community needs. Her academic excellence and dedication to service reflect a rising leader committed to using her education, influence, and experiences to create meaningful community impact.

Te’Yonna J. Small

Te’Yonna J. Small has distinguished herself through academic achievement, leadership, service, and excellence across the arts and athletics. A 3.8 GPA graduate of Overhills High School, she has excelled as a Governor’s School choral participant, four-year varsity cheerleader, four-time triple jump champion, JROTC member, and AKA Debutante Queen. Her ability to lead, achieve, and remain actively engaged in her school and community reflects a young woman already making a meaningful impact.

LEGACY LUMINARY

Edwin Devon “Apostle Von” Newsome

Edwin Devon “Apostle Von” Newsome devoted his life to faith, ministry, and serving others, leaving a meaningful impact on both his church and community. Over decades of ministry, he used his leadership and personal journey to encourage, mentor, and uplift others, transforming his own path from a promising athlete into a life centered on purpose and service. His influence continues through the people he inspired and the lives strengthened by his commitment to faith and community.

Mother Ella Alease McKoy

Ella Alease McKoy devoted her life to faith and service, leaving a lasting impact on both her church and the surrounding community. As a founding member of Mount Pisgah Harnett Original Free Will Baptist Church, she served faithfully in numerous roles while extending her care beyond the church through years of supporting children and families in her community. Her compassion, wisdom, and selfless service touched generations and created a legacy that continues to live through the lives she influenced.

LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE

Cleo McKinnon

Cleo McKinnon has dedicated her life to serving children, seniors, and families with compassion, faith, and an unwavering commitment to her community. As founder of Four Leaf Clover, she transformed a simple act of providing meals to local children into a lasting community resource offering food, clothing, educational enrichment, mentorship, and essential support to those in need. Her years of selfless service and ability to bring others together continue to strengthen families, uplift generations, and inspire a spirit of service throughout the community.

Bishop Reginald S. Hinton, Sr.

Bishop Reginald S. Hinton, Sr. has demonstrated 44 years of steadfast pastoral leadership as Senior Pastor of Mount Pisgah Harnett Original Free Will Baptist Church, guiding significant growth in ministries, outreach, and community impact. His service also includes 17 years as Presiding Prelate, denominational leadership, nearly 31 years in leadership with the North Carolina Department of Revenue, and involvement in key community initiatives. His decades of dedicated leadership have strengthened institutions, served communities, and positively influenced generations.

MEET OUR EMCEE

We are excited to welcome Chris Monds as the emcee for the inaugural Legacy of Brilliance Gala. Chris will guide us through an evening filled with celebration, recognition, entertainment, and stories of impact as we honor remarkable individuals helping strengthen our communities.

PERFORMERS & ENTERTAINMENT

The celebration doesn’t stop with the awards. The inaugural Legacy of Brilliance Gala will feature live entertainment from vocalist Shawn “CoCo” McMillan and saxophonist JaShaun Peele, bringing even more energy to this special evening.

SUPPORT THE GALA

Be Part of the Legacy

There are many ways to be part of the inaugural Legacy of Brilliance Gala while supporting the continued work of Say Y.E.S. Foundation, Inc.

Attend

Join us for an evening of dinner, entertainment, recognition, community, and celebration.

Make a Donation

Support the continued work of Say Y.E.S. Foundation, Inc. and our commitment to creating opportunities across generations.

Become a Sponsor

Partner with Say Y.E.S. Foundation, Inc. and help support an evening dedicated to recognizing individuals making an impact across our communities.

Commemorative Book

Purchase a copy of the inaugural 2026 Legacy of Brilliance Commemorative Book or place an ad to celebrate a nominee, recognize someone special, or showcase your business or organization.

Impact in Motion: Where Action Creates Change

The Beginning of a New Legacy

THE VISION BEHIND THE LEGACY

Community Impact

Faith in Action

Power Through Purpose

YOUTH EXCELLENCE

LEGACY OF RESILIENCE

LEGACY OF FAITH

LEGACY OF SERVICE SCHOLARSHIP

LEGACY LUMINARY

LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE

MEET OUR EMCEE

PERFORMERS & ENTERTAINMENT

SUPPORT THE GALA

Attend

Make a Donation

Become a Sponsor

Commemorative Book

Honoring Legacy. Celebrating Impact. Inspiring Generations.

Say Y.E.S. Foundation, Inc. is recognized as a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit organization. Donations support our mission and are tax-deductible where allowed.

Impact in Motion: Where Action Creates Change ​

The Beginning of a New Legacy

THE VISION BEHIND THE LEGACY

Community Impact

Faith in Action

Power Through Purpose

YOUTH EXCELLENCE

LEGACY OF RESILIENCE

LEGACY OF FAITH

LEGACY OF SERVICE SCHOLARSHIP

LEGACY LUMINARY

LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE

MEET OUR EMCEE

PERFORMERS & ENTERTAINMENT

SUPPORT THE GALA

Attend

Make a Donation

Become a Sponsor

Commemorative Book

Honoring Legacy. Celebrating Impact. Inspiring Generations.

Say Y.E.S. Foundation, Inc. is recognized as a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit organization. Donations support our mission and are tax-deductible where allowed.

Impact in Motion: Where Action Creates Change