Bios

Balaji Cole
Founder, President & CEO – Rise to Fame Nonprofit

Balaji Cole is the visionary Founder, President, and CEO of Rise to Fame, a global nonprofit organization committed to empowering communities through outreach, education, entertainment, and entrepreneurship. A lifelong entrepreneur, minister, and humanitarian, Balaji has dedicated his life to helping others, using both faith and action to create meaningful change.

Holding a degree in Political Science, Balaji bridges the gap between communities, governments, and businesses. His leadership has driven a range of impactful initiatives—from distributing care packages to organizing youth development programs, supporting mental health advocacy, and spearheading international outreach efforts.

Under Balaji’s guidance, Rise to Fame has evolved into a powerful movement that partners with local businesses, city officials, and global organizations. With the support of his team and family, Balaji is expanding the nonprofit’s reach and creating long-lasting solutions for underserved populations.

His ultimate vision is to make Rise to Fame a household name synonymous with hope, unity, and opportunity. Balaji’s unwavering commitment to service continues to uplift individuals and transform communities, both at home and abroad—one life at a time.

Nerline Cole
Chief Financial Officer of Rise to Fame

Nerline Cole serves as the Chief Financial Officer of Rise to Fame, bringing heart, strategy, and financial stewardship to the organization’s mission of community upliftment. A passionate leader and dedicated advocate, Nerline oversees financial planning, budgeting, and accountability while also playing a key role in program development and organizational growth. She holds a degree in Political Science, which strengthens her ability to navigate leadership, policy, and public service with purpose and insight. With a strong commitment to service and excellence, she helps guide Rise to Fame’s vision—from grassroots outreach to citywide impact. As a woman of integrity and faith, Nerline stands as a pillar of strength behind the movement to change lives and build a brighter future for all.

Naphtalie Justin
Rise to Fame: Executive Assistant

Naphtalie Justin is the Executive Assistant at Rise to Fame, where she plays a key role in keeping operations organized, efficient, and mission-focused. She supports the CEO and leadership team with scheduling, communications, and project coordination, ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. Naphtalie joined Rise to Fame because she believes deeply in the power of purpose-driven work and wanted to be part of a team making real change in the community. Her passion for youth development and her strong organizational skills make her an invaluable part of the movement. One of her proudest moments was helping coordinate a major fundraising event that brought in crucial resources for programming and outreach. Looking ahead, Naphtalie envisions Rise to Fame expanding its reach across more cities, impacting more lives, and continuing to create spaces where young people can thrive, shine, and be celebrated.

Witney Michel
Chief Operating Assistant at Rise to Fame

Witney Michel serves as the Logistics Coordinator and Chief Operating Assistant at Rise to Fame. In these roles, Witney is responsible for the safe and efficient transportation of goods, ensuring timely and reliable deliveries, while also providing crucial support to the organization's overall operations. Witney's motivation for joining Rise to Fame stems from a deep-seated desire to contribute to a stronger, more connected community. From a young age, Witney found fulfillment in helping others, and recognizing a need for greater community involvement among their peers, they sought to make a tangible difference. Witney is most proud of the enhanced communication skills developed while at Rise to Fame, as well as the sense of purpose and belonging found within the organization's community. Witney envisions Rise to Fame as a catalyst for widespread positive change, a future where the organization's influence expands exponentially, inspiring countless individuals to rise above challenges, achieve their dreams, and collectively build a world where everyone has the opportunity to shine.

Eva Vera Hayford
Head of HR here at Rise to Fame

My name is Eva Vera Hayford, and I am the Head of HR here at Rise to Fame. In my role, I focus on fostering a positive workplace culture, talent acquisition, and employee development to ensure our team thrives and everyone feels heard. I became involved with Rise to Fame in support of my good friends and family CFO @⁨My Wife Nerline Cole⁩and the CEO. I also joined because I have always been passionate about empowering individuals to reach their potential, inspired the CEO and CFO themselves. In this journey with you all i hope to implement a mentorship program that will significantly improve employee engagement and retention. Looking ahead, my vision for Rise to Fame is to cultivate a diverse and inclusive environment where creativity flourishes, and every team member feels valued and inspired to contribute their best work.

Lewin Graves
Board Member & Director of Programs

As a Board Member, I support the organization by enhancing the efficiency of business events, outreach initiatives, and promotional efforts. I play a key role in fostering relationships with community leaders, partners, and stakeholders to broaden our impact and further our mission.

I work closely with the CEO to consult on business strategies and growth initiatives aimed at scaling our operations and strengthening our presence. My involvement is driven by a shared belief in Bolaji’s vision for positive influence and charitable work—an initiative I see as a powerful movement to guide people toward a better future.

I’m proud to have developed a stronger understanding of the business world and how to effectively engage with and contribute to my community. Looking ahead, my goal is to help this organization grow into a multimillion-dollar enterprise while building meaningful, professional connections along the way.