The Women Behind Our Success
Meet the powerhouse women behind Girlfriends Ignite! Our dedicated executive team brings a wealth of experience and passion to empowering young women.
Cassandra is a native of Dallas, TX, who lives her life to the fullest by actively serving in her community, nonprofit organization, sorority, and career. Her love for reaching out to the community and teenage girls sparked a vision to host a one-day conference. This event turned into a major success which prompted a collaboration with her college friend Tamera Grant to start a nonprofit organization for teenage girls called “Girlfriends Ignite, Inc.” Cassandra is a graduate from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, TX where she received her BBA emphasis in Business and Accounting and is now a Certified Tax Preparer and Trainer. She served as President of Alpha Kappa Psi Co-ed Business Fraternity, Eta Mu Chapter. In 2004, immediately after college, Cassandra was hired as a Restaurant Accountant for Landry’s Restaurants, Inc. She was responsible for the financial records for several stores, such as Joe’s Crab Shack, Salt Grass Steakhouse, and Landry’s Seafood Restaurant. Following her career at Landry’s, in 2006, she joined Transwestern Commercial Real Estate in Dallas, TX, as a Project Accountant. In 2010, she was promoted to Regional Corporate Accountant responsible for the entire central region for Transwestern. In March 2012, Ms. Hall received the “Regional Support Person of the Year” and also “The Legendary Spirit Award”. She was voted to be a leader on the Executive Team of the “TW Young Professionals,” a group designed for those 35 and under, to support, educate, and unite colleagues within the company. After serving almost eight years at Transwestern, Ms. Hall inquired about exploring another area of accounting. In February 2014, she joined SWBC Real Estate, LLC as their Real Estate Construction Accountant. She comes with a wide range of accounting experience, from restaurant accounting, property management accounting, corporate revenue accounting, and construction real estate accounting. In 2016, Cassandra married Mr. Christopher Hall, and they share two beautiful daughters, Savannah and Raleigh, where they reside in Waxahachie, TX. She is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and One Church Midlothian.
Tamera-Jo Grant holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and Public Relations from Stephen F. Austin State University and a Master’s in Business Administration with an emphasis on Leadership from Keller Graduate School of Management. Tamera-Jo is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and is driven by a passion for giving back. She co-founded Girlfriends Ignite in 2010, after losing her brother to suicide in 2006. Girlfriends Ignite mentors young teens, focusing on restoring confidence and fostering healthy self-esteem, etc. Assisting the youth grappling with mental health challenges or other hindrances from reaching their best became her zealous purpose. Tamera-Jo’s career evolved in the higher education sector, starting as an admissions advisor at DeVry University and advancing to an Associate Director of Admissions. In her current role as the Senior Director of Admissions at Ogle School, she leads and mentors admissions representatives, ensuring they effectively guide committed students towards a rewarding career in the beauty industry. Empowering those dedicated to higher learning, Tamera-Jo inspires and guides them to their level of success. Her daily connections with people enable her to give back and restore confidence genuinely. Married to Anthony Grant, they delight in raising their two children, Aspen and Anthony Jr. Their shared commitment is evident through their annual Toy Drive, aimed at assisting families in need. As a mother, Tamera considers it a blessing to shepherd, train, and mentor her children, nurturing them toward their fullest potential in life.
Though born in Dallas, Tiffany only remained here six years before relocating to Savannah, GA, and then several other southern states thereafter. By high school, the family settled in Louisiana, where Tiffany attended high school and college, and ultimately graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Northwestern State University. Somewhat of a nomad in her youth, no matter where Tiffany’s family landed, her mom always made sure to involve them in their local community. It was from these experiences that Tiffany’s passion for serving was birthed! As an adult, Tiffany made it a point to seek out nonprofits she could pour her heart and time into, which makes it such a joy to coordinate community service opportunities for GFI! A busy mom of two small toddlers, Tiffany doesn’t have much free time, but when she does, she LOVES traveling with them and her husband, hosting small parties, and shopping for deals!
As a dedicated advocate for both physical and spiritual wellness, Tia Williams stands as a beacon of inspiration within the realm of faith-based fitness. With over 15 years spent shaping young minds in the field of education, her transition into the world of fitness training became a testament to her unwavering commitment to holistic well-being. Tia is married to Floyd Williams, and they share one son together. She received her BBA from Texas A&M Commerce with a double major in Management and Marketing.A woman of remarkable dedication and expertise, Tia Williams brings a wealth of experience from her tenure as a school teacher, coupled with over 12 years of empowering individuals through fitness at New You Fitness. Her journey into the fitness world didn’t just mark a career shift; it marked a profound calling—one centered on fostering strength, not just of the body, but also of the spirit. At New You Fitness, Tia Williams harnesses her passion for health and wellness, intertwining it with the foundational belief in God’s strength as the cornerstone of all endeavors. Her approach is rooted in faith, guiding individuals towards achieving their physical best while embracing spiritual growth. Beyond her professional endeavors, Tia Williams serves as the esteemed President of the Health Ministry at her church, where she passionately leads congregants towards a holistic understanding of health—one that encompasses the body, mind, and soul. Her leadership within this ministry mirrors her commitment to uplifting communities and nurturing a deeper connection between faith and wellness. Tia’s dedication to her craft, coupled with her unwavering faith, radiates in every interaction and endeavor she undertakes. Her life’s mission is not just about sculpting bodies but also about nurturing the spirit, a purpose-driven journey that continues to inspire those around her. Since 2008, Girlfriends Ignite has been a beacon of support for thousands of girls. Through our dedicated mentoring programs, empowering events, and supportive community, we provide the tools and resources girls need to:
- Build self-esteem and confidence
- Develop healthy relationships
- Navigate peer pressure and make positive choices
- Discover their passions and pursue their dreams
Chelzia Roberts (aka Shay) was born and raised in Dallas, TX. Shortly after high school, Chelzia became a single parent who has accomplished so much by being dedicated to focusing on her goals. As part of her recent accomplishments, Chelzia recently paid off her house 15 years early in 2023, which was a result of determination and dedication. Chelzia has a 20+ year career working in the accounting field, and her current role is an AP Supervisor with a commercial real estate company. Chelzia is passionate about helping those in need when help is needed. She became a member of Girlfriends Ignite at the start of the organization. Chelzia is the Treasurer with Girlfriends Ignite. Although work consumes a lot of her time, she is always willing to lend a helping hand when she’s available. She is a go-with-the-flow type of person. When not working out at the gym, her hobbies include lounging around, binge-watching TV shows & movies. She also loves to spend as much time as possible with her family and loves traveling the world. Chelzia loves to live her life to the fullest because we only have “One Life to Live”.
