About Us

Beatrice Clarke, a distinguished first-generation Liberian American from the vibrant borough of Brooklyn, NY, embodies a remarkable blend of talents in Culinary Arts, Cosmetology, Aeronautics, and Philanthropy. As a trailblazer and innovative entrepreneur, she has crafted a legacy that reflects her humble beginnings and the relentless passion that fuels her academic and professional triumphs. With an unwavering 'Can’t stop, won’t stop' mentality, Beatrice is a multifaceted individual, showcasing her extraordinary creativity, sharp business insight, and resilience in the face of profound adversity. Her poignant mantra, 'Why be ashamed?' encapsulates her journey through multiple business setbacks, personal losses, and experiences of domestic and sexual abuse, all of which have fortified her resolve to rise again, time and again. Through her salons, restaurant, and performing arts centers, Beatrice has opened doors to new career paths for women, men, and young adults, empowering them with opportunities that transcend traditional domestic roles while providing essential historical and cultural insights. Her visionary initiative, the NY Belles, aims to destigmatize and address the often-silenced traumas that many endure, fostering healing and understanding in a world where such topics are frequently shrouded in shame.

Shivonne Ramsay, a proud Guyanese born in 1982, embarked on her journey to the United States at the tender age of one, growing up in the vibrant Crown Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn. She has successfully established her podcast, #Dontdebateme, where she is renowned for her tenacity and unwavering support for those she loves. Despite facing challenges in high school that prevented her from obtaining her diploma initially, Shivonne turned her life around, ultimately earning her diploma just months later, along with three college degrees. Recently, she concluded her academic pursuits with a Master’s in Public Administration. Shivonne aspires to launch a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing counseling for women who have endured pregnancy loss and fertility struggles, a mission close to her heart following the loss of her daughter, Sklyar. Known as the pillar of strength among her friends and family, Shivonne has navigated through trauma, abusive relationships, and setbacks in her career, yet she remains resilient. A firm believer in the mantra, 'Never allow anyone else to tell your story,' she aims to empower women globally through her platform as a Belle. Additionally, with a licensed master's degree in social work, her passion for helping others shines through in all her endeavors.

Born in the sun-kissed state of Florida and nurtured in the vibrant streets of Brooklyn, New York, Nisha Charles, a true New York Belle, is the cherished third child of Trinidadian immigrants Curtis and Angela. At the tender age of 14, she found herself in a Group Home, a ward of New York State, where the absence of a stable home began to weigh heavily on her spirit. By 17, she made the life-altering decision to leave high school and embrace motherhood. Seeking a brighter future, she moved to Atlanta, Georgia, but the journey was fraught with challenges, including heartbreak and loss. The allure of a dangerous lifestyle led her down a treacherous path, culminating in a stint in Federal Penitentiary. Yet, through the grace of her Most High God, her mother lovingly cared for her two children during her absence. Upon her release, Nisha returned to New York, determined to start anew. Today, she stands as a proud NY Belle, blessed with a loving companion and a completed family. As an Executive in a prestigious company, she serves as a beacon of hope and a role model for her children, inspiring others with her unwavering strength and relentless pursuit of excellence. Nisha embodies the spirit of empowerment, proving that her past does not dictate her future. She is not perfect, but she is undeniably empowered!