Speakers and Performers 2025

Monique Russell is a distinguished expert in the science of communication with over 20 years of experience. As the CEO and founder of Clear Communication Solutions, LLC, Monique has led initiatives that enhance communication strategies across various sectors, including healthcare, government, technology, finance, and nonprofits. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Broadcast Journalism, and Master's degrees in Public Relations and Advertising. Monique has collaborated with top companies such as Google, Amazon, the Dubai Government and the CDC, bringing her expertise to diverse and high-impact environments. Her work spans cultures in the Caribbean, Middle East, US, Africa, and Europe, making her a global leader in effective communication and advocacy.

Hailing from the beautiful islands of The Bahamas, and country, Nigeria, Monique is also a passionate advocate for women in business and youth empowerment. She hosts a global podcast, Bridge to U focused on diversity and inclusion, where she shares insights and interviews with thought leaders from around the world. As a published author and sought-after speaker, Monique's work has been featured in various media outlets, highlighting her contributions to effective communication, leadership, and emotional intelligence. Her dedication to empowering others with practical tools and strategies makes her an invaluable resource for anyone looking to enhance their advocacy efforts and drive social change.

Boozhoo/hello! My name is Niiyokamigaabaw Deondre Smiles. Niiyokamigaabaw translates to “Stands on Four Earths” in my people’s language, Ojibwemowin. I am a citizen of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe (Bullhead clan), where I also serve my nation as a tribal college trustee.

I’m an assistant professor in the Department of Geography at the University of Victoria, where I have worked since 2021. I also serve as the director of the Geographic Indigenous Futures Collaboratory, or GIF Lab, a research group focusing on Indigenous geographic methods and collaborations with Indigenous communities.

My research interests lie at the intersection of several fields, including critical Indigenous geographies, human-environment interactions, political ecology, Indigenous cultural resource preservation, and science and technology studies.

I hold a bachelor's degree in Geography from St. Cloud State (2013), a master's degree in Global Indigenous Studies from the University of Minnesota Duluth (2016), and a PhD in Geography from The Ohio State University (2020). While at St. Cloud State, I was active with the American Indian Center, the SCSU Geography Club, and the Husky Sports Band.

I live in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, with my wife (another SCSU alumna), our cat, and several pet invertebrates.

Nicole Pillow is a Certified Master Trainer and Client Manager at the Empowerment Institute at Twin Cities Rise in Minneapolis. Over the past decade, she has dedicated herself to fostering an empowered culture by coaching and inspiring transformative change in thousands of individuals and organizations nationwide. Her extensive expertise in curriculum development for instructional and emotional skills profoundly impacts both professional growth and personal development. As the founder of Inner Beauty Project, LLC, and a professional speaker, Nicole is especially known for designing engaging workshops where participants feel seen, heard, and valued. Her commitment to promoting authentic living has earned her recent features on national platforms such as the Tameron Hall Show and the Jason Show.

Jeff is currently serving as the Interim Director of Twin Cities R!SE Empowerment Institute. Jeff got his start in Emotional Intelligence Training as a facilitator after being trained by the late Keith Simons in 2009 while serving as Business Director for Better Futures MN. He joined Twin Cities R!SE as a Personal Empowerment Facilitator for the Empowerment Institute team in 2014. 

Over the past 15 years, Jeff has lead facilitation for multiple businesses, business leaders and their staff, colleges/universities and nonprofit organizations across the country.

Through Twin Cities Rise, Jeff earned a Master Level Training in Emotional Intelligence Facilitation.

Jeff continues to develop Emotional Intelligence curriculum and customize training for clients, as well as train facilitators in best practices.