Our Board
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Board of Directors
Our board provides strategic guidance, governance, and oversight to ensure our organization remains aligned with its mission and values.
Our board provides strategic guidance, governance, and oversight to ensure our organization remains aligned with its mission and values.
Board Treasurer
Board Member
Mercedes Bullock brings over three decades of experience in luxury retail, combining operational expertise with a passion for developing people and elevating client experience. She began her career at Hermès of Paris and spent 28 years with Bucherer 1888, LLC (formerly Tourneau, LLC). As National Training Manager for Operations and Service, Mercedes leads strategic initiatives that strengthen performance and service excellence.
Board Member
Board Member
Board Member
Sola Winley provides strategic guidance on leadership development, community engagement, and workforce initiatives at Living Redemption. As a senior executive in media and professional sports, he brings expertise in strategy, communications, program design, and youth development, helping to expand opportunities for justice-impacted communities and beyond.
Board Member
Ronnie Turner is an expert in organizational strategy and transformational leadership, advising Living Redemption on growth and operational excellence. With a background in corporate leadership and nonprofit governance, he supports strategic planning efforts that enhance program effectiveness and community impact.
Board Member
Dr. Dawn Heyward brings extensive experience in social services, program design, and nonprofit leadership to Living Redemption’s board. As Chairperson of the Audit Committee, she provides oversight on program evaluation and funding strategies. A seasoned grant writer and advocate, she helps secure resources that drive measurable impact for Harlem’s youth and families.
Board Chair
Dr. Derek Suite is a board-certified psychiatrist, co-founder of Full Circle Health, and faculty member at Columbia University. A recognized leader in mental health and organizational performance, he draws on his expertise in trauma-informed care, sports psychiatry, and leadership development to advance Living Redemption’s mission of building resilience and hope for youth and families in underserved communities.
Director of Administration
Janet Brathwaite supports the administration, HR, and operations at Living Redemption. With a strong background in the nonprofit and corporate sectors, she plays a vital role in advancing Living Redemption’s mission. She brings her expertise to support a dynamic start-up environment and help Harlem’s youth unlock their full potential. Janet holds a B.S. from NYU, two graduate degrees from Alliance Theological Seminary, and is pursuing a Doctor of Ministry in Global Christian Leadership. Janet also serves as our Board Secretary.
Deputy Director of Operations
Newton James oversees operations, data management, and program impact at Living Redemption, ensuring the organization’s services effectively support Harlem’s youth and families. With a background in finance and nonprofit leadership, he has led multimillion-dollar initiatives focused on economic opportunity and community development. Newton is committed to creating pathways for underserved communities to access resources, stability, and success.
Founder, President & CEO
Rev. Maurice Winley leads Living Redemption Community Development Corporation, empowering justice-impacted youth, families, and communities. A third-generation minister, he also pastors Soul Saving Station for Every Nation in Harlem. As a recognized leader in Credible Messenger mentorship and youth justice reform, Maurice trains professionals nationwide on restorative justice and evidence-based youth development. Under his leadership, Living Redemption has grown into a movement for second chances, healing, and transformation.