Success can be all about connecting with the right people.
The Accelerator is led by Chief Executive Officer Darrin Redus, along with a core team of senior business advisors, and an extended team of coaches and subject matter experts that are engaged as part of a customized set of business solutions and growth strategies for each client engagement.
Darrin Redus
Chief Executive Officer
A national thought leader for inclusive entrepreneurship and growing larger-scale diverse businesses, Darrin is a seasoned business executive and successful entrepreneur. Prior to his work at the Chamber, Darrin served as President and CEO for MainStreet Inclusion Advisors, a national consulting firm developing diverse technology-based businesses and networks.
CURTIS HOLLIS
Chief Operating Officer
In this role, Curtis is responsible for enhancing the internal organizational processes and infrastructure that will allow the Minority Business Accelerator to continue to grow and fulfill its mission. Curtis brings 29 years of senior executive banking experience in operational effectiveness, product development, revenue generation, credit risk, and strategy development. Curtis is a graduate of Tennessee State University with a degree in Business Administration. He is also a University of Washington graduate of Pacific Coast Banking School (PCBS).
Tyra Oldham
Senior Business Advisor
Tyra has an extensive background as a consultant, management expert, entrepreneur, and founder of LANDSDS, a sustainable solutions company, and HUMASYST to solve human problems. She holds PhD, MBA, and Bachelor of Science degrees and certificates in Sustainability, Women’s Studies, International Business in Russia, and Racial Reconciliation from Harvard. A global business consultant to corporations, high-growth companies, and the government. She advises on technology interface, organizational change, talent, and strategies. Her awards include working with women, families, youth, Sustainability, and Green, and she has been honored by governors and mayors with appointments to CRA and Mental Health Boards. She is one of Business Courier’s “40 Under 40”, and Sustainability, as well as a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha and an evangelist for women, inclusion, and ideas for change.
Destini Brodi
Investment Associate
Destini Brodi supports the investment team as a Senior Associate at the Minority Business Accelerator leveraging her background in philanthropy management, entrepreneurship, impact investing, private equity, and venture capital. Destini’s passion for entrepreneurship and place-based investing began when she co-founded Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Prestige (LEAP)—a non-profit designed to improve economic wealth within St. Lawrence County, NY by teaching students how to create opportunities within their community. She went on to later served as an advocate and fundraising advisor for the Girl Rising Foundation, a student ambassador for UN Women, an expert advisor for Pacific Community Ventures (PCV), as well as a member of Women Invested in Sustainable Economies (WISE), VentureNext, BLCK VC, and Women in VC. Destini’s prior roles include previously working as a summer analyst with The Carlyle Group, a senior investment banking analyst at Siebert Williams Shank, an associate at Rev1 Ventures, and Bridges Impact Foundation. She holds a BBA in Finance from The College of William & Mary.
Thomas Fernandez
Senior Business Advisor
Thomas received his B.S. in Industrial Management from Carnegie Mellon University. In addition, he served at Procter & Gamble in purchasing, human resources and acquisitions and divestitures in the U.S. and the U.K. Thomas started then sold two franchise businesses. He co-founded the Last Mile Food Rescue and the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE) and serves on the boards of the Last Mile Food Rescue, SASE, and City Gospel Mission.
Asia Davis
Executive Assistant
Asia works closely with the CEO, COO and the team providing administrative and executive support. She serves as the primary contact for internal and external communications for all client relations, goal setters, and portfolio firms. Asia assists with the coordination of various activities, meetings, and events. Asia has served various teams throughout her time with the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber including the Office of the President, Leadership Center, and Membership. She brings exemplary executive support to her team. Asia is a loving wife and mother of five. She enjoys spending quality time with her family and working alongside her husband Tracey in ministry.