Leslie Banks, MSA, LCDC II, is a Counselor, motivational speaker, author and adjunct professor.  As a chemical dependency/mental health counselor, she specializes in working with young, African-American males.  

She uses sincerity, humor, and genuine approach to touch the hearts and motivate the hard to reach and sometimes forgotten youth.   Leslie earned a BA in Business Administration, a degree in counseling, and a Master’s degree in Health Services Administration and Human Resources.   

Leslie is the founder of L. Banks and Associates LLC and the non-profit organization Mending Our Youth. Currently residing in Columbus, Ohio, she enjoys spending her time with her family, traveling, and being active in her church.  She lives by the principal of 1 Thessalonians 5:11 “So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.”

Ryan Moothery is a motivational speaker and photographer.  She attended Ohio University majoring in Communications. Ryan enjoys photography, reading, and  writing. Ryan is passionate about working with our youth and assisting them with reaching their potential.  She is motivated by seeing the participants, that attend the Mending Our Youth summits, build self-esteem and gain the skills to be productive in life.  Ryan facilitates sessions on the Influence of Social Media. She is amazing at connecting with youth and understanding the social issues that influence the younger generation.

Monique Faison attended Ohio Dominican University where she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. Monique is an active member of New Birth Christian Ministries where she works with the  with the Audio and Visual Ministry. Monique loves to dance. She is a member of Steppin' Works, which is a social group based around Chicago Stepping. Monique is passionate about working with the youth in our program. Her goal is to be a part of the solution to community problems, instead of  just talking about the problems. She is inspired by the youth that participate in the summits and finds joy in knowing that we provide a safe environment for the youth to be open without judgement.