Meet Our Team
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Founder & Executive Director
Onjalai Brown
Anyone who knows me probably heard my laugh or saw my smile first. I am a joy oozer, yielded vessel, exhorter, and Godly unifier - seeking to love and make space for all image bearers of Christ. God has called me to teach, lead, and disciple women back to His heart. I want anyone who encounters Awaken to get a glimpse of the immense love of Jesus and find a community of sisters who are ready to advance the Kingdom of God together. God has granted me the honor of stewarding this ministry and I am going to live out my days pointing everyone I encounter to Him and surrendering my path to Him. I dare you to trust Him and let him change your life for the rest of your life. Let’s go…the best version of yourself awaits!
Director of Operations
Tacia Scott
If you ever hear a random song being hummed or sung, it is probably me… I always have a song in my heart. I love being around women who are encouraging and have the love and joy of the Lord, and I want to help spread that experience to other women. I never thought I would be a part of any ministry, but the Lord knew all along! So I decided I was on board for whatever He has for me no matter what. It is such a blessing to witness the power of the Lord in action and witnessing women change and going out to change the world as a result. The Lord has given me the gift of faith and I will believe in the power of the Holy Spirit as long as I have breath. I do not know what God has for me in the future, but He has my “yes”.
Director of Ministry Relations
Toni Ellis
As you can see from my photo, I smile big but I love even bigger! You may hear my laugh and see me lingering in conversation after any gathering. I am an encourager, a lover of God's word and a hope influencer. I am called to speak life into those who may feel unworthy or unloved and to pray boldly for those around me seen and unseen. I am anchored to the Source, Jesus Christ, and invite others to get into the boat where Jesus is. I love to hear the heart of women, the up’s, downs and in between. Being a witness to the change and growth of my sisters in Christ is a beautiful privilege that I will never get tired of. Seeing women fall in love with Jesus and Awaken to their God given purpose is pure joy and I am here for all of it!!!
Director of Outreach
Kristina Escoto
When I am not on the golf course, I am seeking ways to encounter the presence of the Lord, and taking as many people as I can with me. My friends affectionately refer to me as the "Holy Pollinator," a title that beautifully encapsulates my divine purpose of being strategically utilized by God to identify needs of others and make meaningful connections. This journey is not just about me but about creating a ripple effect that encourages others to surrender their heart and life to Jesus. We have only begun to see what God will do through Awaken, don’t miss this. It’s so good!
Catering & Hospitality Coordinator
Mechelle Kirkland
I'm a daughter, mother, sister, friend and and blessed to be a Mimi to my grandkids. My heart has been on fire for the Lord since the day I said “Yes” to his love. I love to feed people with natural food and be a witness to how they are fed through their relationship with Jesus. My spiritual journey has changed me and given me a new life. Now I love getting to watch women grow and truly know the Lord and his love for each of them. I'm so excited to watch God do what he does as he brings us together to uplift one another. It’s a privilege to come alongside my sisters in Christ and to see hearts ignited and awakened in this ministry is a dream! Can someone pinch me? This is real life ladies! I'm ready...are you?
Marketing & Social Media Coordinator
Dez Villanueva
I am God's daughter, and love to spend my time in the presence of our Heavenly Father. Whether it’s painting, journaling, worshipping, volunteering on Agape prayer line, at a Bible study, or in my bubble bath every night, I find ways to calm my spirit and to be in his presence every chance I get. If I could get paid to share the love of Jesus as a full time job, I would joyfully do it for a living!
If you see me in person, I will have a phone in my hand as I capture moments and memories. I wasn't looking for Awaken or another thing to add to my plate, but once I understood what God was doing, I knew I wanted to be apart of it! #Purpose
Events Lead
Chervonne Burleson
I am a silly woman with a kind heart and I give the best hugs! I love being a part of something that gives, enriches or creates! My gift lies in my spirited, joyous nature, which I am compelled to use as a catalyst to unite women in faith and fellowship. My journey with Awaken began with an experience that transformed my life—an event that awakened my spirit to true sisterhood, the limitless love of God, and a revelation of my true identity as designed by Him. I want other women to encounter the same sense of belonging, divine love, and renewal that will reshape your understanding of who you are and who you are meant to be!