Mistress of Ceremonies & Pre-Conference Leader

Elia serves with Texas Christian Community Development Network (TxCCDN) and Living Intentionally Ministries, where she equips leaders and communities to address the root causes of poverty through faith, relationship, and holistic development. With extensive experience teaching and training on the complexities of spiritual, relational, emotional, and economic poverty, Elia helps leaders move beyond charity toward transformational community engagement.

As the Mistress of Ceremonies and Pre-Conference Leader for the 2026 NNAY Conference, Elia will lead our pre-conference sessions focused on understanding poverty and developing effective strategies for neighborhood transformation. Her passion for discipleship, leadership development, and community impact has inspired churches and organizations across Texas to serve more intentionally and effectively.

We are excited to have Elia guide our conference experience and challenge us to become leaders who bring lasting hope and transformation to our communities.

Pre-Conference Speaker

Sommer is an Occupational Therapist, serves with TxCCDN, and the founder of WOW in Woe Ministries. Through her work, she discovered that while many people experience physical brokenness, the deepest wounds are often found in the soul - and only Jesus can bring true healing and restoration.

Passionate about helping others find freedom, hope, and purpose in Christ, Sommer encourages people to embrace their God-given identity and live with renewed joy and wonder. At the NNAY Pre-Conference, she will lead a session on Spiritual Poverty and Co-Creating with God, exploring how we can partner with God to bring healing and transformation to our lives and communities.

A NIGHT OF WORSHIP

Brandon Williams, Executive Director of Galveston Urban Ministries, is not only a passionate leader but also a gifted worship leader whose powerful voice and evident anointing help draw people into a deeper experience of God's presence.

A NIGHT OF WORSHIP

The Gospel and the Local Church
Pastor Wade Akins has dedicated his life to advancing the Gospel and equipping churches to make disciples and impact their communities. With a passion for church-based ministry and spiritual renewal, Pastor Akins will share a powerful message centered on the transformative power of the Gospel and the role of the local church in bringing hope to neighborhoods and cities.

With his wife, Barbara, they have traveled and ministered internationally with Pioneer Missions Global.

KEYNOTE

The Forge For Families
Topic: Leadership Development
Dana Thomas is dedicated to equipping leaders to maximize their impact and influence. Through The Forge, he has helped develop leaders across diverse sectors, empowering them with practical tools and proven strategies for personal and organizational growth. His keynote will provide valuable insights for anyone seeking to lead with purpose and effectiveness.

KEYNOTE

Xplosive Athletics Academy 
Topic: Empowerment – How to Reach Our Youth
KC has spent years investing in young people through athletics, mentorship, and community engagement. As founder of Xplosive Athletics, she understands the challenges facing today's youth and the opportunities available to inspire them toward success. Her keynote will explore practical ways to connect with, mentor, and empower the next generation.

KC will also lead our afternoon movement session, which will include a quick skills lesson and pick-up basketball game! May the best organization win…

KEYNOTE

Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church
Topic: Addressing Racism and Building Reconciliation
Dr. Cofield is a respected pastor, leader, and voice for justice and unity. Through his work at Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church, he has helped communities navigate difficult conversations around race while promoting healing, understanding, and meaningful action. His keynote will challenge and inspire attendees to become agents of reconciliation in their neighborhoods and organizations.

BUILDERS BREAKFAST

Topic: The Next Generation and Discipleship

David serves as the Director of The Compassion Center and is a valued ministry partner with Neighborhood IMPACT. Through his leadership, he has dedicated himself to investing in the lives of students and young adults, leading a Bible study and discipleship group at Wisdom High School and mentoring countless young people as they grow in their faith and purpose.

David is passionate about raising up the next generation of Christ-centered leaders and helping young people develop a lifelong relationship with Jesus. His workshop will focus on providing practical insights and encouragement for those seeking to effectively disciple and empower youth in their churches, schools, and communities.

Neighborhood IMPACT

Join leaders from Neighborhood IMPACT for an engaging panel discussion on the power of holistic community transformation through faith, discipleship, education, sports, and leadership development. Neighborhood IMPACT is a coalition made up of non-profits, ministries, schools, organizations and dedicated individuals with the calling and passion to create Shalom in this 8-block radius God has allowed us.  Our beloved neighborhood is nestled in between Richmond Ave and Windswept Lane, in Houston, Texas. 

Join us in a discussion about building relationships and creating pathways for youth and families to thrive.