Roanoke Region Talent Ambassadors

Amethyst Edmond

Amethyst brings warmth, vibes, and fresh energy to the Roanoke Region. She loves exploring local culture, lifting up voices that make the region vibrant, and helping people find their place here. With Amethyst in your corner, the room feels a bit brighter. If you’re looking for a friend who will connect you to new opportunities, connect with Amethyst.

• Connect with Amethyst

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

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

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

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

Avalon McMullen

Avalon brings creative energy and a spirit of joyful exploration to the Roanoke Region. As a freelance content creator and co‑organizer of Big Lick Latin Underground, she loves connecting with neighbors, uplifting the local Latin dance community, sharing her creative and self‑development journey, and proving—enthusiastically—that Roanoke’s food scene is anything but boring. She’s the friend who hands you a curated restaurant list and convinces your out‑of‑town crew to make Roanoke their next weekend adventure.

• Connect with Avalon
• @avalon.mcmullen

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

Seanice Bowser

Seanice loves the peace, views, and creative spark she finds in the Roanoke Region. She thrives on building connections, celebrating local culture, and helping people feel at home in this mountain metro. If you want to meet someone grounded, warm, and full of heart, meet Seanice!

• Connect with Seanice

Brenda Prieto-Velazquez

Brenda thrives on community, connection, and the welcoming spirit of the Roanoke Region. She loves meeting new people, trying new things, and promoting local experiences. Brenda’s personal experience moving to the region makes her a natural ambassador, ensuring people have a soft landing when getting connected.

• Connect with Brenda

Oneida Huntington

Oneida loves the Roanoke Region for its beauty, culture, and countless opportunities to get involved. She leads with compassion and curiosity, always eager to help others feel included. With Oneida at your side, experiencing the region becomes effortless and fun.

• Connect with Oneida
• @queerjoystarcity

Jalen Small

Jalen is a librarian, nonprofit founder, and creator of Poems and Coffee (a platform that amplifies culture and community through poetry and music). He is passionate about inclusion, building bridges, and showcasing the creativity that makes the Roanoke Region thrive. If you’re new to town, Jalen makes the region feel instantly approachable.

• Connect with Jalen
• @poems.coffee.va

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

Campbell Bloomfield

Campbell brings a thoughtful, people-focused energy to the Roanoke Region, always seeking ways to build community and strengthen local connections. As a boomerang, he loves exploring the region’s creative scenes, music venues, and outdoor amenities. His commitment to helping others feel at home makes him a friend to anyone.

• Connect with Campbell
• @campbellbloomfield

Briana Taylor

As a lifelong Roanoker, Briana is passionate about health, happiness, and helping people in the Roanoke Region. She loves the balance of scenic views, friendly neighbors, and opportunities to grow. Her warm spirit makes sthe paces she occupies feel a bit brighter. If you’re looking for a friend who knows about our “hidden gems”, Briana is your girl.

• Connect with Briana

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

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

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.

• @milkshake.roa
• @milkshakemamba

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

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

Maxwell Klimczak

Maxwell is the founder of Klean Studios, executive producer of the local Biscuits & Gravy podcast, a live sound engineer, and an artist. Needless to say, he’s deeply involved in the Roanoke Region’s creative scene and loves the way the region brings people, ideas, and opportunities together. Spend time with Maxwell and you’ll quickly see why Roanoke creative community feels so welcoming.

• Connect with Maxwell
• @maxwell_klean

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

Martick Najarzadeh Barogh

Martick thrives on the Roanoke Region’s welcoming energy and variety of cool finds. He’s always happy to meet new people, explore local spots, and share what makes this place special. Martick has a special way of turning introductions into real connections.

• Connect with Martick
• @martickb

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

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.

• Connect with Gabby
• @theslapshopllc

Josh Dowden

Josh loves Roanoke for its trails, its people, and its perfect mix of nature and opportunity. He’s passionate about creating connections, supporting local talent, and saying yes to new adventures. If you’re looking for a friend who embodies the soul of our mountain metro, Josh is your guy.

• Connect with Josh
• @realtordowden

Kymberly Stallard

Kymberly is energized by the natural beauty of the Roanoke Region and the folks who make it special. She’s passionate about advocacy, encouraging others, supporting the community around her, and finding adventures. If you need a friend to explore the region with, Kymberly is your girl.

• Connect with Kymberly
• @kymbruleee

Kaila Elam

Kaila has literally made it her job to get people to move here! As a mortgage lender with Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group, 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

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

Jessica Massey

Jessica enjoys discovering all the little moments that make the Roanoke Region feel like home. She thrives on new ideas, new experiences, and helping others feel welcomed. If you’re looking to get involved in the community and the outdoors, hit up Jessica.

• Connect with Jessica
• @livinonsweett

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

Lewis Edwards

Lewis blends creativity with strategy to tell meaningful stories. As the owner of his own photography business, he helps others show up authentically while staying deeply connected to the Roanoke Region’s business and community networks. Lewis brings a thoughtful, creative lens to everything he does, making Roanoke a place where stories and ideas thrive. Got an idea? Lewis is your guy.

• Connect with Lewis
• @lewis.edwards.photo

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

Ean Steidel

Growing up in Roanoke, Ean was told there was nothing to do. In college, he discovered cycling’s vibrant community, organizing races and events. After seven years in Orlando, he 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 the outdoors. They love the welcoming community. It’s heartening to see the region he loves embrace everyone.

• Connect with Ean
• @yoroanoke

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

E.B. Smith

E.B. brings a cultural insight and a deep love for the outdoors of the Roanoke Region. Between hiking, camping, and exploring with his growing family, he’s always finding new reasons to call Roanoke home. If you’re looking for someone who blends culture and creativity with community pride, connect with E.B.!

• Connect with E.B.
• @storyforge

Taylor Medley

Taylor goes all in for the building community, especially centered around the outdoor amenities of the Roanoke Region. She’s passionate about building new relationships, fostering welcoming spaces, and helping people feel comfortable exploring something new. Taylor is the kind of friend who makes Roanoke easy to love.

• Connect with Taylor
• @whattaylorsees

Elizabeth Watts-Jones

Elizabeth loves the Roanoke Region’s blend of outdoor access, arts, welcoming energy, and the opportunity to build something new. She’s passionate about supporting others, lifting up local experiences, and building meaningful relationships. With Elizabeth by your side, you’ll always feel encouraged to explore and engage.

• Connect with Elizabeth
• @ewattsjones

Suzanne Gardner

Suzanne is driven by relationships, local pride, and the Roanoke Region’s can-do (and will-do) spirit. She is passionate about supporting others, sharing her favorite spots, and helping folks find their footing in the region. Suzanne’s warmth and ability to easily connect with others make newcomers feel right at home.

• Connect with Suzanne
• @suzagard

Sabrina Borneff

Sabrina is a well-traveled boomerang with roots in the Roanoke Region and loves to rediscover the area through its arts, trails, and local events. She’s passionate about creativity, connection, and the beauty of everyday moments. Anyone exploring Roanoke with Sabrina by their side will feel instantly welcomed and inspired!

• Connect with Sabrina
• @sabrinaborneff

Jacquelyne Abe

A transplant from the Ivory Coast, Jacquelyne is passionate about sharing Roanoke’s welcoming spirit, outdoor beauty, and community-driven heartbeat. She loves meeting new faces and exploring new opportunities in the region. Her enthusiasm makes it easy for newcomers to feel like they belong from day one.

• Connect with Jacquelyne

Jamie Dillard

Jamie loves Roaoke for its friendly neighborhoods, local gems, and genuine sense of belonging. She’s passionate about uplifting local spaces and helping folks feel at home, whether they’re brand new or putting down roots. Jamie’s warmth makes the region feel like you’re already home.

• Connect with Jamie
• @lifewithjamie_ / @newoutlookmediaconsulting

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

Katie Carter

Katie is a professional drummer and former national touring musician who works in physical therapy, bringing movement, music, and heart into everything she does. She’s a brimming ball of energy who embraces her weird, finds the fun in each day, and meets life’s challenges with adaptability and grit. If you’re looking for a friend who radiates joy and reminds you why the Roanoke Region is a place to grow, heal, and thrive, Katie’s your person.

• Connect with Katie
• @ktcarter87

Lauren Cohen

As a life-long local, Lauren appreciates the Roanoke Region’s peaceful pace, beautiful outdoors, and growing community of young professionals. She gets inspired when she connects with others and enjoys helping folks discover the area’s best-kept secrets. If you’re looking for a friend who radiates positivity, Lauren is the one to know.

• Connect with Lauren
• @lsledd112

Logan Hammerschmitt

Logan is a Pittsburgh transplant who brings innovation energy, biotech curiosity, and a knack for making everyone feel welcome in the Roanoke Region. He’s passionate about building community, sharing ideas, and helping the region grow into a hub for innovation. If you’re looking for a friend who’ll brainstorm with you over coffee, Logan’s your guy.

• Connect with Logan
• @loganhammerschmitt

Marjory Silva

Marjory is passionate about new ideas, good conversations, and creating connections that matter. Whether she’s planning her next trip, sharing a glass of wine, or hitting the gym, she brings curiosity and warmth to every interaction. Multilingual and globally minded, she loves blending her personal passions with her entrepreneurial spirit to build community wherever she goes.

• Connect with Marjory

Savannah Burton

As a Transplant, Savannah loves the Roanoke Region for its mountains, community spirit, and endless opportunities to plug in. She brings creativity and warmth to every space she enters, helping others feel seen and included. Want Roanoke to feel like home to yo,u too? Hit up Savannah.

• Connect with Savannah
• @savannahkburton

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

Miranda Thornton

Miranda is passionate about the Roanoke Region’s outdoor life, friendly faces, and opportunities to grow. She’s passionate about helping others feel confident about exploring the area and making meaningful connections. Her energy (and her small business) make any gathering brighter (and more colorful).

• Connect with Miranda
• @ChaosCornerva

Sarah Beach

Sarah loves everything about living in the Roanoke Region, just ask her! From the outdoor amenities to the local food scene, she’s embedded. She thrives on connecting with people, exploring new outdoor adventures, and enjoying the pace of life in Roanoke. If you’re hoping to meet someone who embodies the region’s charm, Sarah is a perfect start.

• Connect with Sarah