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BEHIND THE SCENES

the organization behind the festival

In Conjunction With Passion Project Initiative

The Passion Project Initiative’s mission is clear but it’s not easy. We create platforms that cultivate forward progress in our society through education empowerment and community engagement.
With our joined efforts, we develop and facilitate purposeful dynamic programs that empower the members of our community and events that help encourage social change and dialogue; While partnering with advocates who are passionate about social change.
It’s through these pillars of action, derived from our mission, that we seek to create a world that is better not just for us, but for every generation after us.
It’s our world and it’s our responsibility to help make it a better place for our children. That’s what we’re passionate about.

BEHIND THE SCENES

OUR TEAM

Octavia

FOUNDER & VISIONARY

Octavia Edwards is a native of North Charleston, SC. She is a mother, wife, businesswoman, education activist, and social change advocate with a background in leadership development. She is best known as the co-owner of Acute Heating & Cooling, a top-rated HVAC company in Summerville, SC, and the founder and CEO of Passion Project Initiative a 501c3 non-profit organization that creates platforms that cultivate forward progress in our society through education empowerment and community engagement. Octavia has always been passionate about making the world a better place, and she has always been a leader who took initiative to be the change she wants to see.

Anisat

EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATOR

Anisat Shosan-President is a native of Moncks Corner, SC. She is currently a CTE Business Teacher working in the Charleston County School District. She is passionate about working with the youth and focused on community education and engagement. She is also the founder and director of Shining Starzz, a nonprofit for 6-8 graders that focuses on STEAM.

Joselyn

EVENT ORGANIZER

Joselyn Johnson is a native of Goose Creek, SC with a passion for serving her community. She is the owner and founder of Eventions by Joselyn, an event planning company committed to making an impact in the community one event at a time.

LaCrystal

Marketing Manager

LaCrystal is a dynamic and driven marketing maven hailing from the vibrant city of North Charleston, South Carolina. With over 9 years of experience in the corporate marketing world, LaCrystal is the owner and fearless leader of Cre8torZone Digital Marketing agency, where she serves as the chief architect of cutting-edge digital marketing strategies that help her clients dominate their industries. She’s a tireless advocate for small businesses, using her expertise and knowledge to create opportunities in her community and beyond. Whether through teaching workshops or mentoring budding entrepreneurs, LaCrystal is dedicated to empowering others to achieve their dreams.

Kimberly

Fundraising Coordinator

Kimberly Perrineau- Jackson is the Co-founder of Real Talk Real Action Real Results (R3 Inc.). In addition, she is co-owner of Laundry Matters, a coin operated laundromat serving the community under the umbrella of R3 Inc. While serving the community, Kimberly also serves as the Operations Director for The Green Heart Project. She has lived and worked in Charleston, SC for most of her adult years. She is an active member of her church and community.

Alfonso C. Riley II Headshot

Alfonso

Event Coordinator

Alfonso C. Riley II is the Event Coordinator for the 2026 Juneteenth Family Fest, bringing vision, creativity, and heart to one of the community’s most anticipated celebrations. As the founder of The AC-isstant, an executive administrative and event support service, Alfonso specializes in turning ideas into impactful experiences. He is passionate about honoring culture, uplifting families, and creating spaces where history, joy, and togetherness meet-making this year’s Juneteenth celebration one to remember for all ages.