At Grind Pretty, we don’t just celebrate women—we are powered by them. Behind every event, every partnership, and every piece of content, there’s a dedicated team of powerhouse women ensuring that our vision continues to thrive. These women embody the very essence of the grind, bringing their expertise, passion, and innovation to make Grind Pretty the thriving platform it is today. We want to take a moment to celebrate and appreciate the incredible women who work to make magic happen.
Mia "Mimi" Johnson – Founder & CEO
Mia "Mimi" Johnson is the visionary behind Grind Pretty. As a serial entrepreneur, professional makeup artist, creative director, and business strategist, Mimi has built Grind Pretty into a powerful brand through its magazine, events, and brand collaborations. Her passion for uplifting women in business is the driving force behind the platform’s success. From securing strategic partnerships to curating immersive experiences, Mimi’s leadership continues to expand Grind Pretty’s reach and impact in the beauty and entrepreneurial spaces.
Erica Dias – Senior Account Executive
A powerhouse in the PR and fashion industries, Erica Dias brings over a decade of expertise to Grind Pretty. As the CEO of The B Firm PR, Erica has secured high-profile media placements in Black Enterprise, Forbes, and Bravo TV. Her passion for storytelling, brand elevation, and empowerment makes her a driving force in ensuring that Grind Pretty continues to gain visibility, recognition, and scale in sales. Whether leading PR strategies or hosting her renowned Erica’s Table of 20 dining experience, Erica is a force to be reckoned with.
Josanta Gray – Director of Strategic Brand Partnerships
With a reputation as the ‘Olivia Pope of Beauty,’ Josanta Gray Emegano is a seasoned retail strategist and brand partnerships executive. As the founder of Aisle Be Ready, she helps emerging CPG brands break into retail and build lasting legacies. Having successfully guided brands into over 10,000 retail doors—including Sephora, Ulta, and Target—Josanta’s strategic expertise is invaluable to Grind Pretty. She ensures that the platform continues to foster meaningful brand collaborations that elevate women entrepreneurs.
Jasmine Lewis – Director of Community & Impact
Jasmine Lewis is a true people connector and innovator with a heart of gold. She is the founder and CEO of Vie Beauty, a skincare brand dedicated to enhancing hydration and barrier repair for dry and sensitized skin. i At Grind Pretty, Jasmine is committed to fostering community engagement and impact, ensuring that the platform remains a supportive and empowering space for women entrepreneurs.
Lauren Elise Simpson – Digital Marketing Director
Dr. Lauren Elise Simpson is a creative force behind Grind Pretty’s social media and digital presence. As the CEO of The Social Media Dr.®️ LLC, she specializes in social media management, content creation, and creative direction for brand shoots. With a background in mass communications and nonprofit leadership, she seamlessly blends strategy and storytelling to amplify Grind Pretty’s reach. Her personal brand has landed her partnerships with major companies like Dove and Weight Watchers, and her expertise in hosting and moderating keeps Grind Pretty’s digital footprint engaging and impactful.
Sherjetta Sheldon – Project Manager & Executive Assistant
With a love for beauty and organization, Sherjetta Sheldon ensures that every moving part of Grind Pretty runs smoothly. A licensed esthetician with nearly a decade of experience in the beauty industry, she has worked with top brands like Nike, Essence, and Jordan. Beyond her career in beauty, she is an exceptional project manager and executive assistant, keeping operations on track and ensuring that every event, campaign, and initiative is executed seamlessly.
Traci Steele – Partner, Grind Pretty Fest
Traci Steele is a force in the entertainment industry, known for her work as a celebrity DJ, entrepreneur, and media personality. With years of experience rocking stages across the country, from radio to television to major festivals, Traci brings an undeniable energy to Grind Pretty Fest. As a key partner for the event, she curates the music experience and helps elevate the festival’s vibe, ensuring an unforgettable experience for attendees. Beyond the turntables, Traci is a businesswoman with a passion for empowering women, making her an integral part of the Grind Pretty movement.
Felicity Swindell – Director of Talent Management & Partnerships
Felicity Swindell is a dynamic marketing and PR strategist with a sharp eye for brand storytelling and partnerships. As the founder of Felicitea Digital Lab, she specializes in amplifying brands through strategic media visibility and digital marketing. At Grind Pretty, Felicity bridges the gap between emerging talent and industry opportunities, ensuring that the platform continues to attract top-tier collaborators and influencers. Her expertise in branding and partnerships is instrumental in expanding the reach and impact of Grind Pretty.
These women keep Grind Pretty going, ensuring that we continue to push boundaries, empower entrepreneurs, and create impactful experiences. Their hard work, dedication, and passion fuel the Grind Pretty movement, and we are beyond grateful to have them as part of our team. Here’s to the women who grind, build, and inspire!
