From a young age, Carly Cockerham has always had a heart for animals. “As a little girl, I would beg my mom to take me to PetSmart on Saturdays, so I could help rescue dogs find their forever homes — a passion that’s guided me ever since. After earning my degree in elementary education and my masters in communication and business leadership from High Point University, I set out to turn that passion into purpose. I began my career at Forsyth Humane Society, later joined Highland Canine and, in March 2024, I started at AARF. I love working at AARF because I am surrounded by so many passionate and driven animal welfare advocates. I was recently promoted to Executive Director, and I am excited for what the future holds. I’m dedicated to helping homeless dogs and cats find loving homes – and ensuring families have the support and resources they need to keep their pets. When I’m not at work, you’ll find me doing CrossFit, baking my famous chocolate chip cookies or spending time going on adventures with my husband, Caleb, and our daughter, Callie.

A native of North Carolina’s Piedmont, Jennie Hess is no stranger to building connections and creating meaningful experiences. After spending the early part of her career in advertising sales – including serving as Forsyth Woman’s lead account executive for Forsyth Woman Engaged! from 2009 to 2014, Jennie took her love of people, service and storytelling into the world of hospitality and events. Over the next decade, she played key roles in shaping some of North Carolina’s most beloved venues and brands, including co-owning Perfect Pair Events and helping launch both Foothills Brewing’s Footnote event space and Dynamis Estate Wines. Most recently, she led hospitality efforts at Shelton Vineyards, where she perfected the art of making every guest feel at home. Now, Jennie is thrilled to return to her publishing roots as the newest Account Executive with Forsyth Magazines. Known for her warmth, creativity and deep understanding of what connects communities, Jennie is excited to help local businesses share their stories in fresh and meaningful ways. When she’s not meeting with clients or brainstorming ideas, Jennie and her husband, Terry, enjoy a little extra flexibility in their schedule these days – often sneaking away for some well-earned downtime at the beach.

Leah Winstead is the Director of Global Events at apexanalytix, where she leads large scale corporate conferences and trade shows across the world. With more than 12 years at the company and certifications as both a CMP and CMM, Leah has built a career centered on creating experiences that connect, inspire and elevate. Her passion for meaningful connection extends beyond the corporate world. Leah is also the founder of The JetSet Mindset, a boutique travel brand designed to help women rediscover themselves through intentional, luxury Girl Gang Getaways around the globe. From the Mountains of NC to Edinburgh, UK, each curated experience blends self care, community and adventure, empowering high achieving women to travel with purpose. A graduate of UNC Greensboro, Leah holds a degree in recreation, parks and tourism, with minors in communication studies and business. She has always combined creativity with strategy in everything she does. Originally from Charlotte, NC, she now calls Greensboro home. Outside of work, Leah loves exploring new destinations and attending local wellness events. She believes travel isn’t just about the places you go, it’s about who you become along the way. 

Varonica Mitchell is a multi-talented youth entertainer, actress, comedian, dancer and drummer in NC. She rose to viral fame by age nine and is the star of her online hit “The VV Show” which has gained more than 3.5 million followers and millions of views across platforms with her amazing educational tours and motivational and comedy clips. Varonica is an honor roll student at Henderson Collegiate. Managed by longtime Disney and Nickelodeon executive producer Irene Dreayer, Varonica is also partnered with Academy Award-winning Lions Forge Entertainment and has worked alongside major studios like Sony Pictures and Disney Animation. She has been featured on The Jennifer Hudson Show, CBS 17 and Fox 5. Recognized by the icon actor Will Smith as one of the most promising young actresses today, and others such as Yvette Nicole Brown. She’s a two-time Atlanta Kidz Choice Award winner. Varonica also partners with organizations and schools to give back through donations, educational events and motivational outreach, school supply giveaways, her food pantry and soup kitchen and so much more. She serves as a celebrity brand ambassador for Zigazoo, the nation’s #1 safe social media app for children, as well as a celebrity Godparent for Keke Palmer’s organization called “Saving Our Daughters” in which they visit schools around the nation to build confidence, motivate and inspire. She was honored by the City of Henderson, NC with an Official Declaration Proclamation VV Day where June 11th will be honored as VV day in the history books by Vance County’s Mayor, city officials and leaders of the community for her local and national impact. Above all, she is followed by her parents and her big sister, Danielle. Varonica is grounded in her faith, led by her favorite scripture, Romans 12:1. She is a humble light – anointed, appointed and just getting started.