Leadership With Vision. Governance With Purpose.

Dr. Kayla Bryant is a seasoned expert in the financial sector with over 29 years of experience As the CEO and Founder of Kadesh Economic Partners, she has established herself as a respected leader, providing outstanding services to clients across various industries. In addition to her finance career, Dr. Kayla is passionately dedicated to her community. She leads Kadesh Economic Partners, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on financial literacy, and humanitarian aid relief supplying clothing to the less fortunate and food to the homeless, significantly enhancing lives of many individuals and earning her recognition as a compassionate and visionary leader in both her professional and philanthropic endeavors.

Dr. Sheila Smith, Vice President of Kadesh Economic Partners, has over 30 years of experience in financial services and professional management. With a strong history of success in leading nonprofit organizations, she currently serves as President of Fresh Fire International Ministries, where she has significantly enhanced the organization's reach and influence. In addition to her nonprofit work, Dr. Smith is the CEO of Hunter Management Group, Inc., which specializes in financial and management consulting for businesses and organizations. Her expertise in financial management and business strategy has helped numerous organizations achieve and expand their operations. Dr. Smith remains dedicated to making a positive impact in the communities served by her organization.

Karlin Baker is an accomplished administrator and property management and hospitality professional with more than 29 years of industry experience. Since 2010, Karlin has been actively involved with Kadesh Economic Partners, bringing a strong combination of administrative leadership, property operations, hospitality service, customer relations, and organizational support to the nonprofits mission.  Within Kadesh Economic Partners, Karlin’s experience is particularly valuable as the organization expands its community programs and develops the Kadesh Cares Hope District. His property management and hospitality background support the planning and operation of residential facilities, administrative spaces, community gathering areas, educational facilities, and other properties serving residents and program participants.

Gerald Barns brings more than 32 years of professional experience in economic development, public relations, and governmental affairs to the Kadesh Economic Partners, Inc. Board of Directors, where he joined the Board in January 2025. His extensive career reflects a strong understanding of how government, business, community organizations, and strategic partnerships can work together to create sustainable economic and social impact.  Gerald's background in public relations and communications provides the organization with an important capacity to effectively communicate its mission, programs, accomplishments, and community impact. He understands the importance of building credibility, maintaining positive relationships with stakeholders, communicating a compelling organizational story, and positioning nonprofit initiatives for greater visibility and support among community leaders, businesses, foundations, government agencies, and philanthropic organizations.

As a 25-year Licensed Private Detective and Fixer specializing in Sports and Entertainment Investigations, my team and I have seen it all! Yes, it’s a wonderful compliment to be known for excellence in Investigations. But instead, I was receiving calls from coaches, owners and agents after a disaster; and not before. In an effort to be proactive and not reactive, we conducted extensive research and developed a program of services to assist current, retired and draft-picks with our concierge services. Our commitment is to provide the services and resources for an Athlete to have a successful career while building sustainable business investments and transition seamlessly to post career business opportunities. This led to the launching of K.N.O.W.LLC.

David Creech is a dedicated and passionate individual who serves as the Treasurer for Kadesh Economic Partners. With years of experience in finance and accounting, as well as expertise in aviation facility management, workforce development, and staffing, he brings valuable insights to his role. David is deeply committed to community service and believes that economic empowerment is essential for sustainable change. He diligently manages the financial resources with responsibility and transparency, aiming to maximize the impact of the organization's initiatives while actively volunteering in his local community to support various nonprofit and initiatives.

Dr. Sharda is a skilled grant writer and the founder of The Write Business Solutions and The S.H.A.R.D.A. Method™. With her years of  expertise, she educates business owners on opportunities that can enhance their performance and drive significant growth. Committed to helping professionals and organizations build vital foundations for securing funding, she fosters successful partnerships and encourages long-term success. Her collaboration with Kadesh Economic Partners will amplify our and create new avenues for achievement in our community projects.

James is a committed Community Engagement Leader with over 15 years of experience in linking individuals, organizations, and community resources to foster meaningful growth opportunities. His professional expertise spans workforce development, logistics, facility management, and entrepreneurship. With 25 years as a Master Cosmetologist, James offers a distinctive blend of leadership, service, professional development, and relationship-building in his role. His background in workforce development and logistics facility management enhances his capacity to support programs that equip individuals for employment, entrepreneurship, and sustained economic success.