Trenton Brooks is the Founder and CEO of Visual Torch, a Virginia-based cybersecurity consulting firm. His passions include technology, community outreach, and serving in his local church. He is also a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma.

What impact are you most proud of?
Helping people in my church find and take the next steps in their journey with God.

What inspires you?
My grandfather, who, with only a 3rd-grade education, built a successful landscaping company in Miami. From a young age, he taught me invaluable lessons about treating clients well and running a business with integrity.

What is the best advice you’ve received?
“If you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room.”

What advice do you have for rising professionals?
Find a mentor to learn from, build a network to learn with, and document your learning so you can guide and teach others.

Stanley Dove, a Professional Services Account Executive at Adobe, was born in Accra, Ghana, and raised in North Jersey. He is a seasoned professional with a strong foundation in technology and business, holding a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Temple University and a Master of Science in Information Systems Management from Stevens Institute of Technology. In his role at Adobe, Stanley leverages his technical expertise and strategic insights to deliver exceptional client solutions.

What impact are you most proud of?
I am most proud of giving back to the community. Whether mentoring, volunteering as a teacher’s assistant, or serving the homeless, these efforts allow me to share the blessings I’ve received, make a meaningful difference, and help others succeed.

What inspires you?
I’m inspired by the younger generation stepping up to lead and make a positive impact in their communities. Helping them achieve their goals and watching their growth makes it all worthwhile.

What is the best advice you’ve received?
“Never give up. No matter how hard things may seem or how much you struggle, things will eventually improve.”

What advice do you have for rising professionals?
The best advice I can offer is to leverage your network and connections. You don’t have to navigate your journey alone—collaboration and support are invaluable.

Anthony Baise, a Senior Systems Engineering Consultant with CACI International Inc., is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He is a proud graduate of Southern University and A&M College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. Anthony actively contributes to his community as the 1st Vice President of the Southern University Alumni Federation Washington, DC Chapter and as a member of Thursday Network, the Greater Washington Urban League Young Professionals affiliate. In his professional role, he supports the Department of Homeland Security.

My Story

What impact are you most proud of?
I am most proud of being recognized as a 40 Under 40 honoree by the Southern University Alumni Federation. This achievement reflects not only my personal growth and commitment to excellence but also my dedication to making a meaningful impact in my profession, community, and alma mater. It motivates me to continue working toward positive change and serving as a role model for future generations.

What inspires you?
What inspires me most is the opportunity to uplift others and create a positive impact. Whether mentoring youth through STEM programs or serving my community, I’m driven by the chance to make a lasting impact and making my family proud through my actions and achievements.

What is the best advice you’ve received?
My favorite quote is “There is no better than adversity. Every defeat, every heartbreak, every loss, contains its own seed, its own lesson on how to improve your performance next time.” – Malcolm X

What advice do you have for rising professionals?
Continue learning. Stay curious and invest in your personal and professional development. Once you’ve attained your goals, reach back and help the generations behind you.