Vonesha Mitchell (far left, top) is the Executive Director the Women’s Business Center (WBC) South.
Prior to her role as the WBC South ED, Vonesha served as the Director of Community and Economic Development at the Memphis Medical District Collaborative (MMDC) where she led a team that focused on creative business recruitment, business support, procurement opportunities and workforce development strategies for the area in and around the medical and academic anchor institutions that make up Memphis’ Medical District. She worked as a senior level management consultant and trainer for Communities Unlimited, a Community Development Financial Institution- CDFI, for more than 8 years prior to her work with the MMDC.
Vonesha has assisted with the successful launch, turnaround, and growth of numerous businesses in the southern region of the United States. She also taught several entrepreneurial courses for Arkansas State University and even spent time in Shelby County
Tennessee classrooms as a math and science teacher. She has dedicated her life’s work thus far to education and economic development focused on empowering young people, minorities, and women.

Amanda Merritt (far left, middle) is the Program Coordinator for the Women’s Business Center (WBC) South. Sis a graduate from the University of Memphis and is proud to call Memphis home. After graduation, Amanda started her career at Girl Scouts Heart of the South in the Program department. While there, she quickly became an integral part of the team delivering increased engagement and quality programming as the Director of Girl Programs. When Amanda is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family and 2 children, cooking, and running. She is excited to bring her skills and expertise to the Women’s Business Center South and can’t wait to help us reach our goals!

The WBC South also has a powerhouse Advisory Board consisting of Executives, Professionals & Entrepreneurs across the spectrum serving to provide the Women Business Enterprises that seek out support with the best resources, tools, and connections available.