Roanoke Region Talent Ambassadors

Dylan Dent

An artist and entertainer, Dylan is currently involved in the comedy and music scene in the region and would love to grow all of the communities through his ambassadorship. Connecting folks, causes, hearts, and souls is his passion, and his life experience has taught him how to talk to and work with many different kinds of people. Dylan is excited about sharing all that Roanoke has to offer, from its vibrant community to its stunning natural surroundings.

• @DylansPrism
• Find Dylan on TikTok

Brittany-Marie Aarons

Brittany-Marie (Bree/i) Aarons is a Jamaican-born, Roanoke-based multipotentialite with a deep love for her community. A passionate advocate for growth, she blends service, leadership, finance, and creativity. Her diverse background spans training, academic research, finance, and community outreach. When she isn’t fostering connections or nurturing community initiatives, you’ll find her exploring nature or relaxing with her terrier, Tyrion. She’s driven to see Roanoke thrive and flourish.

• @theterriermama
• Connect with Brittany-Marie

Laken Renick

Laken came to SWVA in 2004 as a Virginia Tech student and never left! She’s in love with the mountains, the friendly faces, and the intimate experiences you find in the area. Laken is a good listener and wants to connect the right people to create change.

• Connect with Laken
• @lakenboots

Ben Strong

A Roanoke native, Ben recently moved back to the city with his wife and daughter, and he couldn’t be happier with the decision. He is the Lead Scientist at the environmental nonprofit Earth Genome, where he uses AI and satellite imagery to monitor the Earth’s changing environment from space. He is an inaugural recipient of World Wildlife Fund’s “Boundless Leadership for Nature” Fellowship and was a 2024 nominee for the Pritzker “Emerging Environmental Genius” Award.

• Connect with Ben

Casey Johnson

Having grown up at Smith Mountain Lake, Casey’s deep love for the community shines through in her work and volunteer efforts with organizations that promote the lake.  As a real estate agent and a resident, she’s passionate about sharing all that Roanoke has to offer, from its vibrant community to its stunning natural surroundings. When not working, you’ll find Casey with her corgis, Nova and Nebula, exploring the beautiful lake area they call home.

• Connect with Casey
• @sml_remax

Marina Trejo Perez

Known by her loyal clientele as “She Who Dances with Joy,” Marina is deeply committed to inspiring others to find purpose through movement. As the founder and owner of Dream Dance Studio in Roanoke, she strives to create a welcoming space where people can express themselves and grow through the power of dance. Originally from Mexico, Marina is passionate about strengthening the connection between the Hispanic community and the abundant opportunities this region has to offer. She especially loves the area’s changing seasons, mountains, and ever-expanding diversity.

• @Dreamdancestudio_84

Khal Clary

Growing up in Roanoke County, Khal is a proud native. He pursued his education at Virginia Tech and Virginia Western before beginning a career in Technology Modernization Consulting. He loves the mountain views, having all four seasons, the proximity to Smith Mountain and Claytor Lakes, Amtrak, and easy access to the airport. The affordability of the area, combined with its surprising nightlife, makes it an ideal place to live. He’d love to show recent college grads the perks of remaining in the area. As a remote worker, he’d like to help others find a community of young professionals to enjoy all the region has to offer.

• Connect with Khal
• @Khali4ornia

Robyn Forbes

Robyn represents the person who didn’t know Roanoke existed and is now a nearly Noke-obsessed local. She moved here in 2019 from Miami, Florida, and never could have imagined the natural beauty surrounding the region. She loves the region’s proximity to major cities on the East Coast for an easy weekend getaway. Robyn hopes to share some perspective with people who might be coming from larger cities, showing them that they can have the best of both worlds here!

• Connect with Robyn

Kim Skellington

Kim is homegrown–growing up here, leaving for a while, and then returning has opened her eyes to the many possibilities for innovation in our community, inspiring her to pursue them in her career. Kim’s niche is in the remote, biotech/healthcare, and education sectors. As a founder and remote worker, she understands the challenge of building strong social connections outside of work, and she looks forward to championing the Get2KnowNoke events and offerings. Kim says the size, affordability, business opportunities, people, and landscape are the best qualities of this beautiful region.

• Connect with Kim

Nathan Vaughan

As a lifelong Roanoker, Nathan takes personally the responsibility of creating a reputation for my city as a welcoming place.  As a musician and entrepreneur, he hopes to continue to build that community in Roanoke through hosting grassroots, live performances. Regularly told he’d never have a music career here, he’s committed to writing a new narrative – one that inspires his city to believe in itself.

• Connect with Nathan
• @we.are.vaughan
• @fortheartistinallofus

Julia Manning

Julia’s favorite thing about living here? One’s ability to truly make an impact. She sees a lot of un-grown potential and believes that people can make a difference and bring their own visions into play. She’s Muslim American and loves all things arts, fashion, marketing, and nature. Having moved to Roanoke from a larger city, Julia would love to help others in similar situations build their community when transitioning to the area.

• Connect with Julia
• Julia_a_manning
• TikTok

Rachel Pasley

Rachel has lived in the Roanoke Region all 22 years of her life. She loves this area, is passionate about it, and wants to share that with others! Being an ambassador would give her the opportunity to help others learn and/or continue to appreciate this beautiful, unique place that we are so fortunate to call home. Her favorite thing about the region is that there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.

• @_rachelpasley

Devan Kessler

A regional native, Devan has always loved being involved in the community and talking to people about the vibrancy of Roanoke. Her favorite part of the region is the big-city feel with so many opportunities to choose from while still seeing familiar faces around town. When she’s not helping people start a new career, you can find her enjoying her mom era, local events, or a country music concert.

• Connect with Devan
• @devkessdigital

Charlotte Woodcock

Working in community engagement and marketing, along with my involvement with Ad 2 Roanoke, I am deeply connected to the Roanoke community. I love the small-town charm of Roanoke, where neighbors feel like friends, while also appreciating its growth as an up-and-coming city. A proud Roanoke native, I’m passionate about networking and building relationships that strengthen our community. Let’s connect to explore opportunities and share the vibrant spirit of the region!

• Connect with Charlotte
• @shotsbychar_roanoke

Dionte Hall (Taye the Truth)

Taye the Truth is a Roanoke hip-hop artist dedicated to inspiring his community through music and art. His goal is to encourage self-expression and creativity, helping others find constructive ways to share their stories. He cares about the city and wants people in his network informed about what’s happening around them and wants to ensure his demographic is represented.

• Connect with Dionte
• @ayo_taye_
• Follow Dionte on TikTok

Ethan Carter

Ethan and his wife moved out here when they both went remote for work. They had no family or ties to the area and just fell in love. A native of Newport News, Virginia, you can usually find him at a market, sporting event or movie theater. He’s a dog dad and a former college athlete who still enjoys competing and having fun playing sports. His favorite thing about the region is the people. They knew no one when the moved here, and in just a few short years, they’re plugged into so many wonderful communities.

• Connect with Ethan
• @e_train32

Rebecca Marsh

Her time in the Roanoke Region is the longest she’s stayed anywhere–it’s where she feels at home. Rebecca’s favorite thing about living here is there’s always something happening—whether it’s a local festival, live music, or a farmers’ market. Everyone she’s met is friendly and passionate about supporting each other, which makes it easy to feel connected. She has made it a goal to get her peers back into reading books and is always down for a kayaking outing!

• Connect with Rebecca
• @Rebecca.Marsh

Justin Miller

Justin is a local history enthusiast and loves digging into a place and telling people about it! He’s taken initiative to try and not only teach people about Roanoke’s history, but to also make it “cool/fun/entertaining” in the process. Justin’s favorite things about Roanoke are the way it comes alive in the fall and the general feeling of “home.”

• @justjustinmiller
• Find Justin on TikTok

Mike Holcomb

Mike was born in Roanoke and grew up in Virginia Beach. He graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2012 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communication Arts. Mike co-runs Sketch Roanoke, an urban sketching group that fosters creativity in the community. He loves that the Roanoke area feels like a big small town and hopes as an ambassador he can build bridges and connect people, especially through the arts.

• jmichaelholcomb
• @sketch.Roanoke

Ashley Mills

Ashley was born and raised in the Bedford and Roanoke areas, only ever leaving for college (Go, Dukes)! She’s a business owner and a big foodie (her favorite part about Roanoke is the amazing locally-owned restaurants)! She believes in this community and would love to be part of its exciting growth. She enjoys reading, attending live music concerts, spending time with family and friends, and taking in outdoor views.

• Connect with Ashley
• @ashtagggg

Hannah Kinder

A Roanoke boomerang, Hannah has lived in both large cities and small towns, and hasn’t found a place that compares to Roanoke. From the small-town charm of local events and business owners knowing you by name, to the access to world-class hikes/views/outdoor activities, and a blossoming arts scene – Roanoke has truly come into its own in the last 10 years and she’s truly proud to call this city home. She’s a huge gardener and has a local small business supporting people to design and build the kitchen garden of their dreams.

• Connect with Hannah
• @lovepeasandsoy

Kristen Chapin

Kristen is an account manager at Anstey Hodge Advertising Group. She brings over a decade of experience in communications, community relations, marketing, and graphic design to her role. Kristen is an advocate for community building and mentorship. She became an ambassador to foster collaboration and enhance the quality of life in the region. For Kristen, Roanoke is not just a place to live and work; it’s home. She cherishes the area’s balance of a close-knit feel and the wide array of activities and experiences it offers. Having grown up in Roanoke, where her family still resides, Kristen values the region’s unique charm & vibrant lifestyle.

• Connect with Kristen
• Follow on Instagram

Doug Pitzer

I wholeheartedly embrace community involvement, recognizing its pivotal role in Roanoke’s growth. It’s not just about solutions; it’s about a shared understanding of the challenges we face. This understanding becomes a powerful tool when collaborating with advocates and professionals dedicated to Roanoke’s well-being. Living here, what truly warms my heart is witnessing the organic growth fueled by passionate individuals turning their dreams into reality. It’s more than development; it’s a ripple effect of inspiration. As a proud Northwest resident, I’m genuinely thrilled to be part of this collective journey of positive transformation.

• Connect with Doug
• @strokes_of_genius_va

Ean Steidel

Growing up in Roanoke, I was told there was nothing to do. In college, I discovered cycling’s vibrant community, organizing races and events. After seven years in Orlando, I returned, finding Roanoke transformed with opportunities for fun and growth. It’s a place where anyone can build something. Now a business owner, clients move here for the affordable living and outdoors. They love the welcoming community. It’s heartening to see the region I love embrace everyone.

• Connect with Ean

Lana Nixon

As someone who wasn’t always confident or made to feel welcome growing up, I find it my calling to welcome others and make sure they feel they have found a safe space. I always try to include others and make them feel welcome and can apply that to any volunteer opportunity or social group. The growth our region has experienced is inspiring. I’ve lived here since 1989 and can now confidently say that Roanoke is cool. We have so many communities to become a part of. I connect with artists and of course roller skaters/ other active individuals. But there are creative and driven folks in this town I’m still excited to meet.

• @roller.spice
• @soulnoke

Max Murphy

After relocating to Roanoke from Hampton Roads two years ago, I’ve aimed to engage in local community efforts. While in Norfolk, I served on city committees like the Environmental Council and Economic Development Authority, contributing to organizations like WHRO and Startwheel. Now in Roanoke, I’m inspired by the community investment and the warmth of its people. Eager to contribute, I aim to support local businesses, foster connections, and give back to this welcoming community. Roanoke’s friendly spirit motivates me to be an active participant in its growth, creating genuine connections and friendships while helping businesses thrive.

• Connect with Max
• Max’s Website

Gabrielle King

Gabrielle, also know as Gabbi, is a Roanoker through and through. She’s seen Roanoke grow and change over the years and believes it’s the “best place to be.” She credits the region with providing her with the tools to lead a beautiful life and create a successful business (The Slap Shop). Now, Gabbi wants to spread that love, positivity, and success to others.

• @theslapshopllc
• The Slap Shop on TikTok

Madi Guidry

Madi is a “transplant” from central Virginia who has been practicing law in Roanoke and the surrounding areas for the past five years. Originally thinking Roanoke would be a temporary stop, she immediately felt at home and hasn’t looked back. Six years later, she’s hoping to turn others into “Roanoke Regional Evangelists.” When she is not at the office, you can find her enjoying the latest local brewery with friends.

• Connect with Madi
• @madiguidryesq

Sebastian Harlow

As an artpreneur (Artist + Entrepreneur), Sebastian creates art through emotion, experience, and perspectives. Owner of ARTxASH and co-founder of the Roanoke Valley Arts Collective(RVAC), he sees great potential in our region’s artists, artisans, and creators.

He loves being a downtown resident and Roanoke native–the random run-ins and striking of conversations that lead to experiences of exploration and living in the moment that turn into memories you’ll never forget is the best. So come find him downtown and share your story!

• Connect with Sebastian

Bonnie Chavez

Bonnie is the CEO and founder of Building Beloved Communities, a business consulting firm providing community-centered solutions. Bonnie was born and raised in New Mexico and relocated to Roanoke. Her driving force is to help all organizations overcome barriers with a lens focusing on smart solutions that benefit nonprofits and the underserved. Her favorite thing about the Noke is that she can truly be herself and she and her partner are fully-embraced by the community.

• Connect with Bonnie

Joanna Dreiling

As a Roanoke native, Joanna loves the mountains, and after living out of state for almost a decade, they were calling her back! She is an entrepreneur who is passionate about creating “thrival for all” and empowering people to live simply and enrich their lives. She works as a professional Life Coach and Home Organizer for individuals and a Strategy Consultant for organizations. Joanna deeply appreciates the simple joys of life—nature, good food, and the beauty of everyday moments—especially the mountains.

• Connect with Joanna
• @lovejoannaland

John Park

John started his career as a financial planner. An avid photographer and food and cocktail lover; his passions include traveling the South on a quest for “the perfect bite,” while also cooking at home and creating experiences with his friends and family. John grew up in Fairfax County before relocating to the Roanoke Valley in 2004. His love for food and showcasing our region’s food scene (and beyond) has led to a full-time media agency gig, JPG Agency.

• Connect with John
• @hungryasianrke

Tiphaney Helm

As a native of Roanoke, my accounting career has connected me with diverse backgrounds in our community. I genuinely love people, reveling in their unique stories. Raising my daughters in the safe neighborhood I grew up in has been a joy. Exploring Roanoke with my immediate family, we uncover new adventures together. As an Ambassador, I’d bring my authentic self, fostering warm, kind interactions. Genuine connections and organic relationships are what I believe in, not just in the valley but beyond. Roanoke, to me, is more than a hometown—it’s a place for a quality life, work, play, and meeting fantastic people. I choose to stay because it’s home, a unique and welcoming haven.

• Connect with Tiphaney
• @thelm5208

Kaila Elam

Kaila has literally made it her job to get people to move here! As a mortgage lender with Union Home Mortgage, she’s passionate about helping people move to her neck of the woods. She’s from “God’s favorite place, Salem, VA!” and loves the natural scenery, the parks and greenway system, and that we get all four seasons in the Roanoke Region. One of her favorite things about the region is that it has all the big-city amenities for her and her family to enjoy, but also provides space to getaway from the hustle and bustle.

• Connect with Kaila
• @mortgagematchmaker_ke

Maddy Dishner

After graduating college in 2019, I intentionally chose Roanoke—a city bigger than my hometown but not too urban. I embody what “Get2KnowNoke” stands for as a young professional who loves this city. Most of my friends here are locals, and I often encourage them to explore Roanoke more. Being a transplant, I appreciate the city differently, finding immense value in the experiences it offers. Roanoke has it all—live sports, concerts, athletics like the Blue Ridge Marathon, shopping, diverse restaurants, bars, trampoline parks, and theatre. What sets us apart? The proximity to the great outdoors through Roanoke’s greenway system and hiking trails. This city is a hidden gem!

• Connect with Maddy

Ellen Cundiff

I grew up in Franklin County and lived in Roanoke for many years after graduating from Virginia Tech. I moved to Raleigh with a corporate relocation and lived there for nine years. Being able to work from home full-time during the pandemic allowed me to visit Roanoke more and spend time with friends and family. I moved back to Roanoke last year with her adorable Corgi, Windsor, and work fully remote with Milwaukee-based company, ETEReman, as a Sr. Project Manager. My favorite part of living here is the nostalgia of the area, the great local restaurants and breweries, and the mountains.

• Connect with Ellen
• @ellebarrett

Courtney Proffitt

Courtney is a manger of sales proposals for software company Benefitfocus. After living in Northern Virginia post college, Courtney spent the last decade working and living in Charleston, South Carolina. When the pandemic hit and her company decided to go remote-optional, Courtney chose to move back to Virginia right away. After growing up in Alleghany County, Courtney purchased a home in Roanoke City to experience the Roanoke Valley and all it has to offer. Courtney is remote worker passionate about community involvement.

• Connect with Courtney
• @coyotedoodle

Cory Hollingsworth

Cory Hollingsworth is a new transplant from Dallas, Texas. He has built up a career in the sports industry with stints with the Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Kings, and Panini America, the exclusive trading card manufacturer of the NBA, NFL, FIFA, and Premier League. Cory lives with his wife Jessica and two pooches, Archer and Kahlua. Cory and the family moved to Roanoke, captured after one visit by the region’s sprawling mountain views and local charm. He’s recently joined forces with Showtimers Community Theater and is making a splash on the stage!

• Connect with Cory
• @coryhollings

Christina Colondres

As a passionate newcomer, I’ve embraced the region’s outdoor community and incredible natural beauty. From my work with The Nature Conservancy and the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation to wildlife rehabilitation at SVWC, I’m dedicated to preserving local wildlife and inspiring others to help the places we all love. I’m also a professional photographer and love showcasing Roanoke’s charm, whether through greenway adventures with my kids and dogs or wildlife hikes. If you want to celebrate Roanoke’s unique blend of nature, community, and inclusivity, let’s chat!

• Connect with Christina
• @eco.explorer

Laura Delgado

Born and raised in Roanoke, Laura is a Boomerang resident who moved back to the Star City after years of living in New Orleans. She moved because of the outdoor recreation, educational opportunities, and close community that Roanoke offers. A highly qualified educator, Laura has built her career out of a passion for child development and educational best practices. She currently weaves her educational expertise, love for outdoor recreation, and interest in community wellness together as a playground and fitness consultant for Kompan. She strongly believes in the natural overlaps between Roanoke’s thriving health, education, and outdoor recreation industries and enjoys finding creative opportunities to build a happier and healthier Roanoke community for all. Laura spends her free time serving various local organizations and exploring the region with her young family.

• Connect with Laura

Kelly Olson

Roanoker since 2001, my love for the city abounds! I enjoy recommending local gems to friends. As a social media strategist, I work with businesses, emphasize their passion and help them grow. This fuels my commitment to promoting Roanoke’s unique charm. I hope to highlight life here, showcasing great food and my family’s favorite hot spots. Living here is unparalleled for family life—exceptional schools, diverse activities, and captivating museums!

• @happilyeverolson