Sommelier, Speaker, Journalist, Consultant, and Wine Judge
Tonya was recently recognized with the highest honor in the food, wine, and hospitality business, a 2025 James Beard nomination for Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service for her work at One Market restaurant in San Francisco. In addition, Tonya shares her expertise as writer-at-large for Wine Enthusiast magazine. Tonya is an essential voice promoting the very best of wine, food, and hospitality and mentoring young black professionals seeking a career in the industry.
Chef, Restaurateur, Philanthropist
Chef Nikki is one of the Wine Sisterhood’s oldest friends. A talented chef and restaurateur, Nikki is committed to raising awareness and prevention for diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and high bloood pressure. Her whole foods philosophy seeks to present positive alternatives while respecting food traditions that carry important cultural and collective meaning. Her service work with the community and mentorship of young women are significant contributions.
Leadership Teacher and Mentor
As founder and force behind Number 4 Design Studio, Dayle shares how to create a positive work culture and community which in turn boosts productivity and improves employee experiences. Dayle is a consultant, speaker, teacher, and adviser who assists people in discovering their creativity. She hosts workshops and a popular podcast called Between the Sunshine. Her motto is Make Inspire Share.
Extraordinary Artmaker
Tequitia (pronounced ta-key-ta) is a professional artist and illustrator hailing from Richmond, Virginia. Launching first as a painter, she found her voice in the world of illustration, creating book covers, greeting cards, products, and picture books for an A-list of clients. Her vibrant style uses brilliant colors and powerful forms to celebrate the lived experience of black women.
Transformation through Community
Britta’s mantra and mission: Becoming Be-YOU-tiful. We all face life challenges; the test is how we meet them. Her joyful work is to guide us through the ups and downs of life so we can find peace and meaning in every step. She believes that choosing ourselves is the most powerful act of love. Britta leads through life-affirming content, podcasts, and travel experiences that help us meet our true selves.
Netsanet (Net) Tesfay
Visionary artist influenced by her roots
Net is a professional illustrator and designer working across a wide range of mediums, inspired by themes of culture, issues of social justice, and all things flora and fauna. A native of Ethiopia who lives and works Northern California, her award-winning, colorful art is influenced by her joyful and rich Ethiopian culture.
Thank you to our friend, mentor, and maker Margo Tantou for introducing us to Dayle, Tequita, Britta, and Net. Here’s more about Margo and her newest project, Tantou Studios. All images from the makers' websites.
