Deanna Laster
Deanna Laster is a native Houstonian with an extensive background in personal development, project management, education, and technology. She started her career in information technology and progressed into business consulting making her mark as a proven leader implementing and managing technology portfolios of global distributed teams that deliver strategic business value for Fortune 500 clients. With more than 20 years of consulting experience, Deanna has led key multi-million dollar projects in several industries, including energy, travel, and health & beauty. Her expertise in personal development and strategic planning has secured her as a sought after consultant. From consulting as an enterprise Agile Transformation Coach, to Project Portfolio Management of multi-million valued Digital Transformation initiatives, Deanna is a results-driven partner."
Among her many professional accomplishments include co-founding The Root of You, LLC, an upscale salon & day spa that rejuvenated thousands of residents and visitors of the Houston metropolitan area for more than a decade. She has launched a family of companies that each represent her professional expertise and personal mission, which include: DeannaMichel Inc. (Technology Consulting), DeannaMichel Boutique (Women’s Apparel), and SistersNBloom (Women’s Empowerment).
Deanna’s primary motivation is to inspire others to experience their fullest potential. Deanna serves on the Howard University School of Business Executive Advisory Board. She has earned several community service awards, including The Steed Society’s Top 25 Women of Houston and Top 40 Under 40, the YMCA Minority Achievers award, and she was named as a Houston Black Chamber of Commerce Pinnacle Award finalist.
Deanna holds an Executive MBA from Howard University, Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Computer Information Systems from the University of Houston-Downtown, an Associate of Applied Sciences degree in Fashion Design from Houston Community College, is a certified Life Coach from the Life Purpose Institute and active member of the Forbes Business Council. In addition to her professional endeavors, Deanna is a devoted wife, proud mother, and member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Rahma Sallu
Rahma passionately leads efforts to empower women and girls from underserved communities. Through her leadership, SistersNBloom provides vital resources, mentorship, and opportunities that enable women and girls to thrive socially, economically, and as future leaders.
With over 15 years of experience in non-profit organizations, consulting firms, media companies, and cooperatives across Africa and North America, Rahma has dedicated her career to driving social and economic empowerment for women and youths. Her expertise spans project management, community development, and workforce empowerment, all aimed at uplifting disadvantaged communities.
Rahma holds a Master’s degree in Cooperative and Community Development and a Bachelor’s degree in Community Economics Development, reflecting her deep commitment to fostering sustainable change through education and economic opportunity. Beyond her professional achievements, Rahma enjoys traveling and listening to music, finding inspiration and joy in exploring new places and cultures.
Rahma's leadership at SistersNBloom is driven by a vision of a world where every woman and girl, regardless of her background, has the chance to realize her full potential and contribute meaningfully to her community