ICONIC 2025 HONOREES

Tiana is a dedicated advocate, faith leader, and community organizer whose work is rooted in compassion, justice, and her life motto found in Matthew 25:35–40. A 2010 graduate of Harding University High School, she has spent nearly a decade building a legacy of service that uplifts marginalized communities across Charlotte and beyond.

Her advocacy journey began in 2016, when she first started feeding and ministering to the houseless community. What started as a simple act of service grew into a mission that has since reached more than 2,000 people in need.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Tiana played a pivotal role in the Days Inn crisis response, supporting 25 displaced families with food, toys, financial assistance, and ultimately pathways to stable housing. In this period, she collaborated with community-centered organizations such as Transitioning Resource Center of the Carolinas, Jail Support, and Feed the Movement—strengthening her commitment to frontline advocacy.

In recognition of her leadership, Tiana was invited in 2020 to join the Advisory Board of State of Emergency, a Charlotte-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting Black and Brown trans women—a role she continues to hold with pride and purpose.

Her impact expands beyond community organizing. In 2021, Tiana was licensed as an Evangelist in the Lord’s Church, deepening her ministry and blending spiritual care with social justice. She furthered her service credentials by becoming a certified Mental Health First Aid responder in 2023, equipping her to better support individuals navigating crisis and trauma.

In 2024, her advocacy reached a national stage when she marched in Washington, D.C. with the Poor People’s Campaign. Her dedication led to an invitation to join the NCPPC organizing committee, amplifying her voice in the ongoing fight for economic and racial justice.

A trailblazer in her own right, Tiana continues to step boldly into rooms where many trans women have been excluded or discouraged by fear and intimidation. Her courage, faith, and unwavering commitment to service set her apart as a transformative leader.

Tiana is currently pursuing certification as a Peer Support Specialist, further strengthening her ability to empower, encourage, and walk alongside others on their healing journeys.

Rooted in service, guided by faith, and driven by justice, Tiana remains committed to showing up for “the least of these”—not just in word, but in lifelong action.