Soul Collective

Congratulations to this year's Incubator class on completing Co.Staters at the CO!

These three started this adventure with goals and an open mind for building something that aligned with their definition of success. After pitch night we are confident that the lessons learned the past 10 weeks are full of wisdom they will carry as they continue their entrepreneurial journey.

If you know anything out my mentoring style, you know that the 10 weeks was full of truths, tears, and facing fears. Each week we dissected the big picture of goals and mapped out a plan to make them obtainable. From identifying target audiences and how to speak to them so promotion turns into profit, to facing the finances, because in business "if it doesn't make dollars it doesn't make sense!"

Our goal has always been to develop beyond the hustle of small business and shift focus on building something sustainable, for themselves, their families, and their big dreams.

Completing this program has been a small step along the way.

We're very proud of what they've accomplished in this time and are exited to see where you will go from here!

Help me congratulate:

Jewels and Gems Art Studio - Shell Johnson
Brown&Boujee Catering and Events - Dejoria Marvelous Brown
Tennessee Shine Mobile Detailing - Cam'Ron Graves

with Soul
Trunetta

For Donneka, Jewels & Gems Studio is about creating space for people to come together and create 🎨
From paint parties to girls’ nights, corporate events, and fundraisers, her goal is simple — make art something anyone can walk into and enjoy, no experience needed.
She’s currently building out even more ways for people to engage, including:
• Paint parties
• Art Club (membership)
• Open studio sessions
• Fundraising opportunities
• Corporate/team events
Everything she’s creating is rooted in connection — giving people a place to celebrate, try something new, and just enjoy the experience of making something.

You’re invited to Pitch Night ✨�

Over the past several weeks, we’ve introduced you to the Spring 2026 Soul Collective Incubator participants and now it’s time to see what they’ve been building!�

Through the CO.STARTERS program, these entrepreneurs have been working behind the scenes to refine their ideas, strengthen their businesses, and prepare to share their vision.

On April 28, they’ll take the stage.

The evening will start with a come-and-go time from 6:30–7:00 PM, where you’ll have the chance to meet each business, connect one-on-one, and learn more about what they’re building.

At 7:00 PM, the presentations begin — with each entrepreneur sharing their work from the past 9 weeks.

Pitch Night is a chance to:�• Hear directly from local entrepreneurs�• See the work that’s been happening behind the scenes�• Support them as they take this next step

If you’ve been following along, this is the moment it all comes together. And if you haven’t — you’re still invited.

Come out and be in the room.

📅 Tuesday, April 28�
⏰ 6:30–8:00 PM�
📍 theCO�
🔗 https://luma.com/pbj4ri3f?tk=8orUas

Meet Donneka, the owner of Jewels & Gems Studio 🎨✨
At the heart of her business is a simple but powerful idea: creating spaces where people can connect, celebrate, and create together.

Jewels & Gems Studio offers guided painting experiences for everything from birthdays and girls’ nights to corporate events and fundraisers, all designed to make art accessible, fun, and welcoming for everyone.

What makes this business even more meaningful is the story behind the name. “Jewels” comes from her nephew, whose legacy continues to inspire her every step of the way. It’s more than a business, it’s something deeply personal.

Right now, Donneka is expanding her offerings to include paint parties, art club memberships, open studio sessions, and more ways for the community to gather through creativity.

Follow along and support:�🔗 jgstudio26.square.site