MEET OUR TEAM

Meet the people who work hard every day to serve Empower GENNOW and the Cincinnati area.

RENIKA J. SMILEY

Founder and CEO of Empower GENNOW

Founder Renika J. Smiley first launched Empower GENNOW as a LinkedIn Networking Happy Hour Event, hosted at local bars. Her first events featured a diverse speaking panel and began with an audience of 40-75 young professionals in Igby’s private second floor. Fortune 500 corporate offices soon replaced Igby’s when attendance grew to 200+.

Renika’s tenacity proves that it’s not about the start, it’s about how you finish! Empower GENNOW has highlighted 200+ local businesses. We’ve honored 150+ young professionals with awards and plaques for career achievement. The organization has locked in community partnerships and sponsorships with companies like RDI, Nielsen, P&G, Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber, and more. The success of this program has won loyal followers by offering job opportunities, building business clientele, developing professional growth for young professionals, strengthening panelists’ speaking skills, and promoting inclusion to grow our community.

Jessica Wright

Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and HR Strategies

 Owner/Founder/CEO of Wright Workforce Solutions where we provide affordable HR Services to small businesses, start-ups, and entrepreneurs. Taking care of everything from streamlining the hiring process, to creating a culture of accountability within their workforce, to managing corrective action/terminations with dignity.

My business provides HR with humanity, keeps my clients compliant while working within their budget to ensure they can remain focused on their passion.