Ari Fowlkes, President/Co-Founder

Ari Fowlkes, CPC, is a seasoned executive leader with over 20 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and chemical specialty industries.

Throughout his career, Ari has demonstrated his exceptional ability to create, develop, and manage successful product lines and divisions within these sectors. Ari's journey in the pharmaceutical industry began with his pursuit of a chemical technology degree. He earned this esteemed qualification through a joint program hosted by Essex County College and Rutgers University.

Not only has Ari excelled in the corporate world, but he has also ventured into the personal management consulting, entertainment and food services industries, successfully operating three businesses. His entrepreneurial spirit and drive have led him to establish a strong presence in these sectors, showcasing his versatility and adaptability as a leader.

Through his personal management consulting business, he utilizes his wealth of knowledge and experience to empower individuals, instilling in them the necessary skills and mindset to overcome challenges and reach their goals.

Above all, Ari is dedicated and passionate about changing the mindset of wrong thinking. He firmly believes that one's life is a reflection of their thoughts. With this philosophy, he strives to help individuals transform their thinking patterns, challenge limiting beliefs, achieve personal and professional goals and achieve overall mental health. 

Chayil Bullock-Mariscal is a graduating senior at Johnson C Smith University, where she is majoring in psychology with a sports management minor. She holds the title of Miss Senior for her university and also serves as the President of Mellow Minds, a mental health organization on the campus of JCSU. In these roles, she is dedicated to fostering a judgment-free space and dismantling social and emotional barriers.

Chayil is also an active advocate for self-pride within the LGBTQIA+ community. She actively contributes to LGBTQIA+ support organizations and engages in leadership roles with Mental Health America and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. 

She continues to inspire empowerment and resilience on her journey, as she strives to make a lasting impact in the field of mental health. 

"I envision a world where people are supported to evolve past life's trials—having mental health tools, love, and support to handle setbacks before they become cyclical life-changing events.

To make that vision a reality, I offer comfort and trust to people who need to be reminded that they are not alone and are destined for greatness if they dare to take the next step toward being the best they can be."

Saafir Jenkins, SPHR, CPP, is a dynamic leader with a diverse background in human resources, operational leadership, family psychoeducation, mental health, and community outreach.

Throughout his extensive career, Saafir has demonstrated a strong commitment to empowering individuals and communities. He has been deeply involved in providing support and guidance to individuals facing various challenges, including those related to mental health. This firsthand experience gives him a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the needs of communities, especially those that are marginalized or have limited access to quality mental healthcare.

Saafir's executive and senior leadership roles have equipped him with a profound understanding of organizational dynamics and the strategies needed to foster supportive workplace and educational environments. His experience in driving operational excellence and implementing Human Services technology solutions helps promote mental health awareness and support within educational settings.

Saafir's educational background, including his pursuit of an EMHRM from Cornell University with a focus on economics, labor relations, and global operations, underscores his strong foundation in both human resources and operational management, positioning him to provide strategic insights to help ensure effective implementation of mental health awareness programs and initiatives.

Brande Fowlkes is a highly accomplished professional in the field of pharmaceutical research and clinical trials. With an undergraduate degree in Biology from Hampton University and a Masters Degree in Public Health from the Rutgers University-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School joint program, Brande has dedicated her career to advancing the field of medicine.

For 25 years, Brande worked at Merck & Co. Inc in the Cellular pharmacology division, where she played a pivotal role in the development of innovative treatments for cancer patients. 

In addition to her successful career in pharmaceutical research, Brande has also ventured into entrepreneurship. She co-owned two successful businesses, showcasing her multifaceted talents and entrepreneurial spirit.

Brande is committed to giving back to her community through acts of volunteer work. She understands the importance of using her skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Bashira is a scientist, writer, farmer and CEO of Zoom Out Mycology. My professional role looks like managing a commercial kitchen and farm operation, hosting and participating in tea and mushroom festivals and other wellness or sustainability related events. I’m passionate about creating inclusive spaces that promote a sense of belonging, holistic healthy living, and sustainable agriculture. My personal interests include self-care and nature time with friends in Oregon.

Bashira has a degree in Environment Science & Policy (ESP) from Southern Oregon which she obtained while building then operating her first farm operation in Central Point. The purpose behind Bashira's ESP degree seeking was to gain experience and skills in agricultural research design. Bashira is an articulate public speaker, educator and research scientist who has delivered fungi-centric programs along the East and West Coast since ZOM was established at the start of 2017. Passion, persistence and perseverance have shaped my time as founder of Zoom Out Mycology, an Oregon based fungi company.