Women on the Move; May 2026

Keisha Samara Horton
Keisha Samara Horton is a Licensed Professional School Counselor (LPSC), Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate (LCASA) with more than 15 years of experience serving adolescents and adults. As a Mental Health Clinician for Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, she has developed extensive expertise supporting school-aged children and families navigating life transitions, trauma, depression, anxiety, and family conflict.

Keisha is deeply passionate about helping individuals and families overcome challenges and realize their full potential. Through her private practice, Samara Cares Counseling & Consulting, PLLC, she empowers clients to draw on their own strengths using reality therapy, solution-focused therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.

A North Carolina native, Keisha earned her Bachelor of Science in Management from High Point University and her Master of Science in Counseling from North Carolina A&T State University. She began her career as a high school counselor before expanding into mental health and addiction services.

She is also a Youth Mental Health First Aid Provider with specialized training in suicide intervention, trauma resilience, career development, and childhood trauma. Outside of work, Keisha enjoys spending time with her three adult children, traveling, volunteering, scrapbooking, and attending cultural events.

Kristin Johnson
Kristin Johnson is a dynamic professional speaker, emcee, and author of I’m Available: How to Receive and Live Your Unique Purpose—a message she not only teaches but fully embodies. Widely known as a Fearless Emcee, Kristin has a unique ability to step onto any stage, read the room, and transform large audiences into a connected, engaged community.

With a background in event planning and years of leadership within the business community, Kristin brings both structure and energy to every experience she leads. She seamlessly balances behind-the-scenes organization with an engaging on-stage presence, ensuring events run smoothly while keeping audiences inspired and entertained. Whether delivering a keynote, hosting a full day of programming, or stepping in to energize a moment, she leads with humor, authenticity, and intentional spontaneity.

Kristin’s passion lies in helping others recognize that they are already equipped to live out their purpose. She encourages individuals to take that first step—often the simplest yet most powerful one—by choosing to say, “I’m available.” Through her work, she continues to inspire others to show up boldly and live with purpose.

Courtney James
Courtney James is an entrepreneur and operations-focused professional dedicated to building reliable, community-centered transportation solutions. Based in North Carolina, Courtney owns and operates a growing micro-transit business serving Winston-Salem and Forsyth County. Their company focuses on accessibility and consistency, providing essential transportation services to seniors, individuals with disabilities, and participants in workforce and educational programs.

Operating a fleet of six vehicles with extended hours from early morning through midnight, Courtney has built a service rooted in reliability—an often overlooked but critical component of community infrastructure. In addition to general transit services, Courtney is trained in medical courier work, expanding the company’s ability to support healthcare logistics and specialized transportation needs.

Courtney combines hands-on operational management with strategic thinking, with a strong interest in workflow planning, data analysis, and process improvement. This approach allows for continuous refinement of systems to enhance efficiency, service quality, and long-term sustainability.

Despite challenges such as inconsistent funding and limited access to traditional financing, Courtney remains committed to growth and impact. Their work is driven by a vision of equitable transportation access, helping individuals maintain independence, access opportunities, and stay connected to essential resources.

Danielle Dawson
Danielle Dawson serves as the Office Manager at The VISTA MedSpa at Forsyth Plastic Surgery, where she was recently promoted after previously excelling in her role as a Cosmetic Concierge. With an associate’s degree in healthcare management, Danielle brings both administrative expertise and a strong commitment to patient experience in her leadership role.

In her current position, Danielle oversees daily operations, supports staff coordination, and ensures that each client receives a seamless and welcoming experience. Her background as a Cosmetic Concierge allows her to approach management with a deep understanding of client needs, making her an effective leader who values both efficiency and personalized care.

Danielle is known for her strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to create a positive, supportive environment for both clients and team members. Her recent promotion reflects her dedication, professionalism, and continued growth within the practice.

Outside of work, Danielle enjoys spending time with her husband, especially hosting bonfires and grilling in their backyard. She also loves reading and spending weekends at the lake with family, where she can relax and recharge.

Alexandra Brady
Alexandra Brady’s journey is a testament to the power of stepping into the unknown with courage and curiosity. She first attended WOM feeling unfulfilled in her current job and eager to explore new possibilities. While she didn’t have a clear vision for her career, she knew she was inspired by strong, driven women and wanted to surround herself with that energy.

In March 2025, Alexandra connected with Cheri and the WOM community—an experience that challenged her to step outside her comfort zone. Approaching a group of confident, successful women felt intimidating, but it also sparked something powerful. She saw the kind of woman she wanted to become and decided to pursue it.

By the end of 2025, Alexandra had turned that inspiration into action, earning a role as a sales associate. Today, she embraces her creativity daily and takes pride in building a path that aligns with her passions, even without having all the answers.

Returning to WOM in 2026 with her own team, Alexandra reflects on how far she has come. She credits the community—and especially her cousin Brooke and Keela—for helping open doors to meaningful connections and opportunities.

Regan Abele 

Regan Abele is the owner of Pulse Winston, a vibrant wellness-focused shop in Winston-Salem known for its smoothies, protein shakes, energy drinks, and fun coffee creations. An experienced entrepreneur, Regan has spent over a decade in the nutrition space—she also owns BAM Nutrition in Lexington, which she opened 12 years ago. Four years ago, she brought her passion for health and community to Winston with the launch of Pulse, quickly creating a welcoming space for customers looking to refuel after a workout or simply enjoy a refreshing, feel-good drink.

Located in the Harris Teeter shopping center on Cloverdale Avenue, Pulse Winston is known not only for its menu but also for its incredibly kind and upbeat staff. Outside of work, Regan enjoys spending time with her husband, Ben, their two small dogs, and diving into puzzles. Her dedication to both her businesses and her community shines through in everything she does.

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