Julian Raven is a British-born, Spanish-raised American artist, author, entrepreneur, & First Amendment activist. After being a U.S. Missionary & Bible student, Raven’s journey went from the pulpit to the Supreme Court. Raven made news when his Trump portrait was rejected by the Smithsonian in 2016, launching an eight-year legal battle reaching the Supreme Court and resulting in his becoming an official Smithsonian reformer. Representing himself through 2 federal cases, Raven’s challenge to government overreach landed him #4 on President Trump’s list of reasons to fire Kim Sajet, then Director of the National Portrait Gallery. He tells that full story in his book Odious and Cerberus: An American Immigrant’s Odyssey and His Free Speech Legal War Against Smithsonian Corruption.

John E. Goralski is an award-winning journalist & photographer, a publisher, and the father of a son, named Jack, with autism who was diagnosed in the early 2000’s. John’s book, "Parent in Crisis: Finding Peace and Purpose in a Special Needs Home" traces his journey from struggle to peace. The book explores what it feels like to be an overwhelmed parent, & he tries to offer insights into the unique insecurities, social problems, and obstacles that must be overcome by these families. The book explores the way his family navigated communication barriers, divorce, public education, vacations, puberty, love, & even the death John’s unique ability to combine his real-life experience and education with introspective thought-analysis, helps provide a smart and creative road map for living a peaceful and purpose-driven life despite the inevitable emotional hazards that special needs parents face

Koya M. Bakare, U.S. Queens Ambassador 2025. Koya is a force to be reckoned with—an educator, state and national pageant queen, and sought-after guest speaker who captivates with her powerful blend of wisdom, grace, and charm. Her journey is one of triumph - a survivor of sexual assault, bulimia, and two suicide attempts - having graced the pages of Vogue, Essence.com, InStyle, and numerous other publications, Koya will debut her first solo authored book, The Discipline of Love, a guide centered on intentional self-love and healing. Through her platform, she supports others to reclaim their stories with courage and grace. Her awakening began when she stopped hiding in silence and chose to stand fully in her truth. Koya no longer let her past define her; instead, she used it as a foundation for hope and healing. Her favorite proverb is : "If there is no enemy within, the enemy outside can do you no harm".