Tanae Denean Eskridge
Author. Spoken Word Artist. Mentor.
Tanae Denean Eskridge is a purpose-driven problem solver whose expertise lies in community building. In April 2017, the second-time author created and installed her first Flashlight Art Exhibit at the historic Mayme A. Clayton Library & Museum—one of the largest American collections chronicling African-American art, history, and culture in Los Angeles. Since then, the innovator has collaborated with the city of Inglewood to host the Flashlight Art Exhibit at neighborhood libraries in which the display reached the hearts of 1000+ youths while gaining exposure with local newspapers and radio stations. The exhibit also featured the author’s children’s book, Adventures of Coach and Little Dell. While this work itself highlights Black men and children in a positive light, it also shows Tanae’s passion for literature and creative expression.
From guest appearances at over 20 schools in the greater Los Angeles area to being recognized by the editors of Black Solution magazine, Tanae has remained true to her gift of writing and serving. As a savvy businesswoman, her philosophy of building people first has become the key in executing the vision of her companies and solidifying genuine relationships. Her impeccable people skills paired with her unwavering faith has enhanced her ministry of building thought leaders. Having traveled to Africa and Israel for missionary endeavors, the culture curator has learned the importance of celebrating the purity of people outside of social institutions.
Tanae is praised for her tenacity and resourcefulness. Her greatest accomplishments include the empowering of minority children in efforts to counteract social injustice. She lives by Frederick Douglass’ words, “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.” Mrs. Eskridge is currently serving as co-pastor of the middle school ministry at Faithful Central Bible Church, one of the most influential churches in Los Angeles County. Tanae’s commitment to the Kingdom is admirable and her love for God’s people is infectious. Her story continues as a trailblazer whose fresh approach to life will not only leave a lasting impression, but a Godly impression.
Brandon Frame
Visionary Leader. Social Innovator. Mentor.
Brandon Frame is a visionary leader, social innovator and mentor. He is the Chief Visionary Officer of TheBlackManCan, Inc. an award winning and internationally recognized non-profit and digital media platform focused on celebrating, educating and inspiring boys and men of color. Accomplishments and accolades are no stranger to Brandon Frame, but what makes him extraordinary is the humility and servant-leadership that marks his life. Brandon is the Deputy Director of Social - Emotional Learning at The Urban Assembly, Co-Founder of the award winning twitter chat #hiphoped and the Author of Define Yourself, Redefine the World: A Guided Journal for Boys and Men of color and the children's book My First Tie.
For his service to his community, Brandon has received the Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major Award, Change Maker of the Year and was named Next in Class in the field of Education by Black Entertainment Television. Brandon’s work has been featured in the Black Enterprise, Boston Globe, Essence, CBS, and NBC. Brandon pursues excellence with impeccable effort in all that he does. He is a graduate of Morehouse College and resides in Bronx, NY.
Armond Dejon Hill
Artist. Illustrator. Animator.
Armond Dejob Hill is a visual artist who creates art from his heart and soul. A graduate of The California Institute of the Arts (CalArts), with a BFA degree in Character Animation/Film Video, Armond has worked in various fields within the visual media realm. From conceptual design for small gaming and internet companies to graphic design work for various record labels, to children’s book illustrator, his attention to detail and colorful storytelling through his expressions of art bring a fresh new vibrant perspective to the audience. Armond Hill uses his personal experience and artistic influences to convey to the viewer a new and different perspective. Armond Hill’s visual and artistic Influence range from African American Icon Artist Ernie Barnes to that of Disney ‘s first African American artist Floyd Norman to that of comic book and anime styles.