You are cordially invited to attend a fabulous brunch at J’s Breakfast Club, in Gary!

This event is designed to unite a small group of women from Northwest Indiana and surrounding areas who share at least one thing in common: to network, share stories, and build meaningful connections. You’ll have the opportunity to meet someone new or reconnect with someone you already know in a new way!

This brunch is curated around the theme: Wellness & Careers and is hosted in collaboration with the Sweet Escape Restoration Center.

Join us for a brunch filled with inspiration as we discuss prioritizing our well-being while striving to achieve our career goals.

J’s Breakfast Club

2601 Broadway
Gary, Indiana 46407
Saturday, July 20th
11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Note: This is an invitation-only event due to intentionally limited seating. There is no charge for this event; however, your meal is self-pay.

By attending this brunch, you consent to have your photo/likeness/recordings posted publicly and on social media. #SheLeadsBeautifullyBrunch #NWIndiana

About the Attendees

Your Host: Dr. Uzoma Obidike
I am a career transition and professional networking coach through She Leads Beautifully. I am also the Clinical Experiences and Internship Manager at National Louis University in downtown Chicago. I live in Hammond, IN. I'm married and have a 4-year-old daughter. One of my favorite things is playing The Sims 4 (a life simulation game)! I’m always looking for new ways to remain connected with career women in Northwest Indiana, especially now that I work in Chicago.

Connect on LinkedIn | email: uzoma@sheleadsbeautifully.com

Co-Host: Danielle Hart

I am the founder of Sweet Escape Restoration Center (SERC), a brand dedicated to helping the community through restorative practices that promote healing and resilience in the face of daily challenges. I am a proud native of Indianapolis, Indiana and currently reside in Gary, Indiana. In my spare time and I enjoy exploring community events, local businesses, and being in nature (especially at Lake Michigan). I look forward to our conversations on Saturday and sharing future opportunities to support your wellbeing!

Connect on LinkedIn | email: sweetescapenwi@gmail.com

Dr. Anita Moore-Bohannon

Hi everyone, I am Anita, Higher Ed Executive by day and fierce advocate for the movement to slow down, and focus on our collective wellbeing in community with others. We are our brother and sister’s keeper! It’s time for us to start acting like it again.

Connect on LinkedIn | email: Anita.moore74@gmail.com

Chaka T Washington

Chaka Washington is currently a operations and records manager for Cook County Public Defender where she has 14+ years in records management experience. She is also an advocate for her community and servicing. She’s been a mentor with Ladies of Virtue for four years with four special mentees. She is also the First Vice President for her local organization Chicago Business Professionals Women’s Metro Club, which is an affiliate of the National Association of Negro Professional Business Clubs, Inc. for the last 2 years and now she is the newly elected North Central District Recording Secretary and acting Financial Secretary for 2024-2026. She is also an active member of the chicago chapter of the National Black MBA Association working on the membership and professional development committee.

Connect on LinkedIn | email: chakawashington@yahoo.com

Christine Hernandez

I am the Operations Supervisor for the Northern District of Indiana Federal Courts. It is a very challenging but rewarding career. I enjoy spending quality time with my family and friends. I'm from Chicago born and raised, but am currently residing in Lake Station, Indiana. I am so excited to network and meet career driven women like myself here in Northwest Indiana. This is a lifestyle, and we women can do anything.

email: christinehdz222@gmail.com

Derreka Rollins

I currently work as Community Engagement Editor for Capital B Gary and operate my International Trade business WCE International. My main focus is to socially and economically transform the lives of people of the black people globally. I am a born and raised Gary resident. Writing and listening to 90’s R&B gives me good vibes. As a mom of an exceptional little girl, my goal in life is to be an example of virtue in the way I live and love.

Connect on LinkedIn | email: wce.consult@gmail.com

Diava Carter

Director of Career Services at Indiana University Northwest and a member of Gary Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated. Enjoys candle making. Other interests: Management and Leadership, Community Engagement, Public Speaking/Motivational,

Connect on LinkedIn | email: dicart@iu.edu

Garcsa Brooks

Hello, My name is Garcsa Brooks. I am currently a Team Lead for a team of community outreach workers on the Southwest side of Chicago. I have an extensive background in mental health and am currently working towards my licensure (I sit for NCE beginning of July 2024) and once secured I will start focusing on how I want to show up as a mental health champion for the community. I enjoy an array of activities and hobbies, but my passion is traveling and forever learning something new!

Connect on LinkedIn | email: Garcsabrooks@gmail.com

Sherlonda Nixon

I am the CEO of Rose Family Counseling Center in Merrilville, IN. I’m looking to grow and expand my business in Lake county and other surrounding counties. I am a Marriage & Family Therapist/ realtor and reside in Gary. My hobbies are reading, traveling, going to concerts, crafting, making tees and baby onesies. I’m married, have a step son and a granddaughter. Seeking to expand my social circle and connect with like minded ladies.

Connect on LinkedIn | email: Ms_sherlonda@yahoo.com