ProsperUs Team
Our team prides itself on being radically supportive and helpful. We are dedicated to building connection and trust with entrepreneurs and their communities.
MEET OUR TEAM
Charlene Donelson is the Programs Director of ProsperUs Detroit. She is responsible for overseeing the training, business services and financial coaching program.
Prior to joining ProsperUs Detroit in April 2022, Charlene was the Program Director for Urban Alliance. During her time in this role, Charlene led the organization’s daily operations, supervised and managed program recruitment, cultivated and maintained relationships with Detroit Public Schools and community partner organizations to enhance support and resources, and oversaw programmatic budgets.
Charlene earned her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Detroit Mercy. Her favorite thing about being a part of ProsperUs Detroit is the approach the organization takes to their work, and how she’s able to marry both her personal and professional values by supporting her community and making an impact. Charlene believes that being radically supportive is more than just a mission, it’s how she and her colleagues operate daily with each entrepreneur they encounter.
Charlene is motivated by her children and is proud that she can show them non-traditional job and career opportunities that will hopefully inspire their journeys in the future.
When she’s not working, Charlene enjoys spending time with her children, baking, going to wine tastings, and visiting the tastiest brunch spots in town.
Crystal Nickson, CFSWE, is a Financial Coach for ProsperUs Detroit. With a mission to inspire and educate our Entrepreneur Training Program participants, she instills confidence and cultivates empowering financial habits.
Crystal joined the ProsperUs team in August 2023. Prior to her work with the organization, Crystal worked with Intuit on their Business Tax team, where she specialized in S-Corporations & Partnership Taxation. She also previously served as a Financial Counselor at Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency and Operation HOPE.
Crystal holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting and utilizes her personal, educational and professional experiences to support the aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners that she works with. As a seasoned entrepreneur herself, she intimately comprehends the challenges of launching and sustaining a business.
Crystal’s passion for her role at ProsperUs stems from her ability to kindle hope in Detroit-area individuals and families. She views entrepreneurship as a gateway to creating legacies, a sentiment deeply rooted in her own past. Emerging from a period of homelessness in her 20s, Crystal’s journey fuels her unwavering dedication to making brighter days a reality for others.
Beyond her role at ProsperUs, Crystal extends her expertise through personal and business finance workshops and learning labs with L.E.A.P. (Lansing Economic Area Partnership), Our Own Wallstreet, and the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council (MMSDP).
In her spare time, Crystal enjoys staying active by hula hooping and keeping her community up to date on noteworthy restaurants through her food review vlog.
Dorimar C. Mercado García is the Operations Coordinator for ProsperUs Detroit. She helps spearhead community engagement and entrepreneur experience as well as logistics & administration support for the organization.
Dorimar joined the ProsperUs team in September 2023. Prior to becoming a part of the team, she was an Assistant Professor at the University of Puerto Rico, where she taught Literature and Spanish courses to college freshmen. Dorimar’s academic prowess is nothing short of impressive. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in literature with minors in Italian and International Relations, as well as a Master of Arts in Hispanic Studies with a concentration in literature, context, economics and politics in Puerto Rico.
Dorimar is enthusiastic about enhancing community and neighborhood development while helping to amplify ProsperUs’ overarching mission. Having embarked on a collaborative entrepreneurial journey with her peers, she gained a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in starting and nurturing a business. In Puerto Rico, they collectively launched their very own newspaper and were able to witness its success within the country’s media landscape.
Outside of her work at ProsperUs, Dorimar dedicates her weekends to tutoring, channeling her passion for education into impactful, personalized sessions with her students. Many of her afternoons are consumed with studying and thesis research, which is a further testament to her eagerness for learning. During her free time, Dorimar enjoys biking around her neighborhood with her dog, cooking, and hosting gatherings with her friends and family.
Emeric Dongmo is the Portfolio Manager at ProsperUs Detroit. He is responsible for closing and servicing loans, restructuring troubled loans, sending reports to the Credit Builders Alliance, and managing the organization’s portfolio management software.
Before becoming a part of the ProsperUs Detroit team in 2020, Emeric worked with Renkim Corporation, a leader in the financial and mission-critical documents industry for credit, collection, healthcare, and automotive companies.
Emeric holds a Bachelor’s in Economics with a major in Management Sciences from the University of Dschang-Cameroon as well as a Master’s in International Relations with a major in International Banking, Money and Finance from The International Relations Institute of Cameroon at the University of Yaounde II-Cameroon. He is motivated by the community that ProsperUs serves and enjoys how his team pushes him to be creative when coming up with solutions to meet borrowers where they are.
When he’s not immersed with numbers, Emeric enjoys participating in faith-building activities, playing soccer, traveling, and listening to music.
Emily Sioma is the Business Support Navigator for ProsperUs Detroit. She is responsible for nurturing relationships with entrepreneurs and enhancing the pipeline of business owners accessing capital. Additionally, she supports the lending team with coordination and collaboration with various stakeholders.
Prior to joining ProsperUs Detroit in August 2021, Emily worked as a community organizer in Detroit, where she was involved with recruiting, training volunteers, and organizing virtual community events leading up to state and local elections.
Emily began her undergraduate career at the University of Michigan with the intention of pursuing a career in pharmaceuticals. Still, she quickly realized that her true passion was in women’s studies and sociology. This pivot allowed Emily to study the history of conversations that she was already having outside of class, and she ultimately obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Women’s Studies with a focus on adolescent sexual health.
As the winner of Miss Michigan 2018 and the 2019 University of Michigan Athena Award recipient, Emily is no stranger to working hard and taking risks. She is motivated by her friends and family that encourage her to pursue her passions and support her when she’s facing obstacles, fear, or self-doubt.
During her free time, Emily enjoys sewing, altering clothes, and playing with her Mini Dachshund, “Jellybean.”
Ja Lisia Pitts is the Sr. Lending Operations Manager for ProsperUs Detroit. She is committed to managing the organization’s portfolio, ensuring payments are handled smoothly, and offering essential loan restructuring support.
Ja Lisia joined the ProsperUs team in July 2023. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from her tenure at the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC), where she served on the Motor City Match team. While at DEGC, Ja Lisia helped to orchestrate the management of Cash Track and grant disbursements, vetted & awarded Motor City Match cash awardees, and assisted with the opening of over 50 new Detroit businesses.
The Michigan State University alumna holds a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration on English, History, and Business Communication Management. What excites Ja Lisia most about her role with ProsperUs is the opportunity to play a pivotal part in helping businesses thrive. She is passionate about the organization’s ability to not only provide funding, but also radical & technical support services to foster the growth and sustainability of aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners.
Ja Lisia is deeply motivated by the people and culture of Detroit. She finds fulfillment in contributing to the city’s revitalization and resurgence and envisions a future where residents can patronize neighborhood businesses for their everyday needs.
When Ja Lisia is not busy working, she enjoys flipping through the pages of a good book, spending quality time with her friends and family, and prioritizing wellness through regular exercise.
Janae L. Wilson is the Sr. Operations Manager for ProsperUs Detroit. She supports collaboration with the team to ensure that ProsperUs is a great place to work, continuously supporting the development of an inclusive and diverse organizational culture based on our mission and shared values. With an emphasis on communications, events, systems and IT, human resources, and facilities, Janae plays an integral role in the day-to-day for the team.
Before joining the ProsperUs Detroit team in May 2022, Janae served as the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Program Intern at the Rock Family of Companies, and more recently worked as the Program Manager at Plug and Play Tech Center Detroit.
Embracing learning and continuous improvement are important pillars in Janae’s life, and her work ethic and Bachelor of Administration degree from Wayne State University are testaments to that. Crediting her history and family as her main sources of motivation, Janae is proud to have come from a village of entrepreneurs and immigrants who keep social justice at the forefront, inspiring her to empower others through the work that she does.
When she’s not helping to manage the daily operations at ProsperUs Detroit, Janae works as the COO of Nur’s Ventures, the CEO of JLW Professional Services, and goes skydiving on occasion.
When I’m not doing work with ProsperUs Detroit, I am #EnjoyingDetroit! Whether that be shopping at Detroit businesses, exploring Eastern Market, riding a MoGo bike around my neighborhood or something else I love Detroit! That is what I like to do when I am not doing the important work we do at ProsperUs Detroit.”
Joanna Dueweke-Perez is on a mission to drive positive change through empathetic leadership and strategic operations. As the Chief Operations Officer at ProsperUs Detroit, she is invested in cultivating resilient organizations that are deeply rooted in community values.
With a passion for creating an equitable future, Joanna thrives on the art of “making things work” in various domains, from programs and community initiatives to databases and family schedules. In her role as COO, she collaborates with organizational leadership and the team to guide growth, prioritizing relationships, equity, community alignment, and financial sustainability. Joanna’s focus is on aligning ProsperUs practices with the organization’s mission and vision, and she is proud to champion equitable economic development and community building.
Before rejoining ProsperUs, Joanna contributed to TechTown Detroit, where she supported systems innovation as the first Systems Innovation Director. Her diverse background includes roles like Professional Service Network Manager, overseeing coaching programs and alumni engagement, and Neighborhoods & Communications Director for Detroit SOUP. A lifelong learner, Joanna holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Michigan State University and a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) in Information Management and User Experience from Wayne State University.
Beyond her professional endeavors, you will find Joanna enjoying time on the hill with a snowboard or skateboard (depending on the season), coaching youth soccer, exploring new destinations, and relishing quality time with her family in Detroit.
Marco Andrade Jr. is a Loan Officer at ProsperUs Detroit. In this role, he is responsible for working directly with entrepreneurs and business owners who have applied for a business loan. He is passionate about supporting our community members in realizing their dreams of business ownership, thereby fostering wealth creation for individuals and families in Detroit. Prior to joining ProsperUs in April 2024, Marco served as the Business Engagement Manager at the Southwest Detroit Business Association. There, he connected with local businesses, referred them to resource partners, created marketing materials, organized events and workshops, and provided technical assistance for business registration.
Marco holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Arizona State University. He is particularly motivated by helping others achieve their dreams and watching them succeed, believing in the power of small businesses to support and enhance community prosperity. One of Marco’s proudest professional achievements is funding 177 loans in 2021, earning recognition on the Scotsman Guide twice as one of the top originators for 2021/2022.
Outside of work, Marco enjoys oil painting, reading a wide range of genres including existential philosophy and magical realism, and adding to his vinyl record collection. A surprising fact about Marco is that he lived in Thailand for six months, where he practiced Muay Thai and competed in six bouts.
Matthew Bihun is the Radical Growth Strategist at ProsperUs Detroit. In this role, he empowers high-potential entrepreneurs who are poised to generate jobs, scale their businesses, and drive economic development in their communities. By providing tailored coaching, financial management support, and strategic direction, Matthew ensures these entrepreneurs have the resources and tools they need to achieve their ambitious growth goals. He also collaborates with internal teams and external partners to refine and enhance ProsperUs’ programs, contributing to the broader success of Detroit’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Before Matthew joined the ProsperUs Detroit team in February 2013 he worked at the Southwest Detroit Business Association where he was responsible for helping to manage the Business Improvement District, commercial real estate assets, and the Nuisance Abatement and Code Enforcement Program. Matthew obtained his Bachelor’s degree from Fordham University with a major in Urban Studies and a minor in African American Studies and his Master’s in Community Development from University of Detroit Mercy.
Motivated by the entrepreneurs that he meets through the organization, Matthew loves that his role allows him to develop genuine relationships with such innovative and aspirational people and enjoys playing a supporting role in helping to make their dreams come true.
During his free time, Matthew enjoys visiting National Parks and Monuments, owning and operating his own small businesses, renovating historic houses, reading, podcasting, collecting vinyl records, and spending time with his family, friends, and dog.
Michelle Anderson is the Training Manager for ProsperUs Detroit. She is responsible for taking charge of planning, administering and enhancing the entrepreneurial training initiatives for the organization, and plays a pivotal role in empowering aspiring entrepreneurs.
Before joining the ProsperUs Detroit team in September 2023, Michelle’s talents shone as the Chief Operations Manager of Good Cakes and Bakes, an organic and community-based bakery in Detroit that she co-owns. As Chief Operations Manager, Michelle expertly managed the daily operations and supervised both the retail and shipping departments.
Beyond her achievements in the entrepreneurial and operational realms, Michelle boasts a rich background in social work. She holds a Bachelor’s of Social Work from Marygrove College and a Master’s of Social Work from the University of Michigan. For over two decades, she also served as a licensed social worker, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to the betterment of her community.
Michelle’s passion for positive change also extends to her life outside of work. She is a Detroit Equity Action Lab and Small Grants alum, and her previous involvement with Affirmations, LGBTQ Center’s Multi-Cultural Advisory Committee (MAC) allowed her the chance to do the necessary work to increase representation of people of color on the board, staff, and in programming.
In her current role at ProsperUs Detroit, Michelle finds inspiration in the shared dedication of her colleagues to support Detroit-area entrepreneurs in achieving their dreams. She is deeply motivated by Detroit’s vibrant culture, her loved ones, and the joy she feels from witnessing others’ wins.
When she’s not busy at ProsperUs or Good Cakes and Bakes, Michelle enjoys indulging in travel, immersing herself in nature, listening to music, cooking, and spending time with her wife, family and friends.
Nimaj Driscoll is the Lending Director for ProsperUs Detroit, where he provides strategic direction and leadership on the development and deployment of capital. He manages the team responsible for overseeing the entire lending process, from origination to portfolio management, ensuring that lending initiatives are rooted in community priorities, accessibility, and financial sustainability. Nimaj also plays a critical role in building relationships with funders, investors, and community partners to create new capital products and drive strategic growth.
Prior to joining ProsperUs in August 2024, Nimaj built a decade-long career in financial services, holding positions such as Licensed Personal Banker and Senior Loan Officer at organizations like CDC Small Business Finance and Detroit Development Fund. He is a Certified Credit Counselor and was instrumental in leading his previous organization to receive the SBA Michigan District Community Advantage Lender of the Year award in both 2022 and 2023. His proudest achievement is deploying over $6 million in capital to small businesses in Detroit and Wayne County within his first three years as a Loan Officer.
Nimaj is motivated by the opportunity to make a direct impact on Black and Brown communities by providing them with the tools to create wealth and prosperity. Outside of work, he enjoys going to the gym, watching documentaries, and exploring personal finance and entrepreneurship through podcasts. A proud Detroit native, Nimaj is also a fan of local TUBI films, Detroit rap music, and watching the Lions. In 2024, Nimaj was recognized as a Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40 Honoree.
Paul Jones is the Chief Executive Officer of ProsperUs Detroit, accelerating ProsperUs’ mission with a focus on strategy development and securing resources that ensure the organization is focused on disrupting systems to advance racial, social, and economic equity. Since joining ProsperUs in January 2024, Paul has invested in building partnerships, energizing our collective efforts, and making sure our actions align with our core value of building connection and trust.
Before joining ProsperUs, Paul made significant impacts as the Business Support Network Director for the entrepreneurship work of the New Economy Initiative (NEI) through the Network Office housed at Invest Detroit. He was instrumental in creating a supportive network for emerging businesses in Wayne County. His leadership as the Executive Director of Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Detroit program showcased his commitment to fostering growth and economic mobility among entrepreneurs. With an MBA in International Finance from Florida A & M University, Paul brings a global perspective to ProsperUs’ local mission.
At the core of Paul’s work is an enthusiasm for ProsperUs’ culture and the dynamic energy of the team. Inspired by Detroit’s entrepreneurs, he sees each day as a new opportunity to support their dreams and neighborhood vitality.
When he is not at ProsperUs Detroit, Paul can be found in local coffee shops, offering advice to business owners, or embarking on long walks—over 100 miles each month—to find clarity and balance. A fun fact about Paul that might surprise many: he is a serial entrepreneur with ventures in over four countries, highlighting his adventurous spirit and deep commitment to economic mobility.
Sany Bilani is the Data and Impact Manager at ProsperUs Detroit. In his role, Sany is responsible for managing the collection, analysis, reporting, and stewardship of data and evaluation for the organization. This includes collaborating with team members and external partners to ensure that data processes are efficient, accurate, and timely. Sany also oversees grant management and compliance, ensuring adherence to philanthropic and governmental reporting requirements. Additionally, he develops dashboards that make data accessible, comprehensible, and compelling for internal and external partners.
Prior to joining ProsperUs in June 2024, Sany worked as a Trader and Portfolio Analytics Associate at Kaydan Wealth. There, he managed daily investment operations of $550 million, including trade execution, reconciliation, performance reporting, and report generation to ensure regulatory compliance. He also collaborated with internal teams and external vendors to resolve operational issues and maintained portfolio databases. Sany holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Michigan-Dearborn and a master’s degree in urban planning with a focus on Economic Development from Wayne State University
Sany is passionate about creating vibrant cities, viewing them as engines of inspiration and energy filled with diverse people, cultures, and ideas. This dynamic atmosphere fuels his motivation and encourages him to strive for excellence. His proudest professional achievement is earning his master’s degree in urban planning and transitioning into a career that serves his community. Outside of work, Sany enjoys working on community green infrastructure projects to improve neighborhood stormwater drainage, paddleboarding on the Detroit River, and spending time with his dogs and cats in his home garden.
Tanissa Williams is the Programs Coordinator for ProsperUs Detroit. She is committed to building relationships with entrepreneurs and enhancing business growth outcomes through intentional training programs. Before joining ProsperUs in April 2024, Tanissa worked at Detroit Women of Color, Inc., where she organized program development, designed implementation plans, and supported community healthcare and mental health resources during the pandemic.
Tanissa is motivated by the legacy of her late father, a non-profit co-founder who lived by the concept of “Ubuntu” – “I am because we are.” This philosophy drives her dedication to community service and empowerment. Her proudest professional accomplishment is digitizing program offerings during the pandemic, allowing the continuation of “Change Is Reel,” a 12-week program teaching Detroit-area girls film and media.
Outside of work, Tanissa is a 3rd-degree black belt who trains and teaches martial arts, specializing in early childhood instruction. She also creates handcrafted luxury body care products for her company, Lotusbtr. Body Care, and enjoys anime, comic books, and manga, with a particular passion for Sailor Moon.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
-
Steven Kosuda, ChairRetired, Commercial Lending
-
Pierre Batton, Vice-ChairVice President and Program Officer, Global Philanthropy, JPMorgan Chase & Co.
-
Kimberly Faison, SecretaryDirector of Community and Economic Development, Detroit Future City
-
Steve Tobocman, TreasurerManaging Partner, New Solutions Group and Executive Director, Global Detroit
-
Hector Hernandez, DirectorExecutive Director, MiWealth of MiSide
-
Don Jones, DirectorRetired, Community Economic Development and Philanthropy
-
Veronika Scott, DirectorFounder & Executive Director, Empowerment Plan
-
Chanell Scott Contreras, DirectorPresident and CEO, Michigan Saves
