Special Guests

Ameena Patterson

Born hearing, Ameena became hard of hearing at age 6, finding her identity through ASL and Deaf culture. She attended Rochester School for the Deaf, graduated from Model Secondary School for the Deaf, and attended Gallaudet University, the heart of Deaf culture. She recently earned her degree in Computer Networks and Cybersecurity from the University of Maryland Global Campus. A Deaf Performer, artist, and proud mother of two CODA daughters, Ameena has danced since before she could walk; movement is her first language. She embodies "Together, we learn. Together, we thrive!"

Angela C. Stevens is an Emmy Award–winning hairstylist, beauty entrepreneur, author, wife, and proud mother to her amazing three-year-old superhero son, Ashton.

At just four weeks old, Ashton was diagnosed with bilateral severe-to-profound hearing loss. Determined to ensure her son had every opportunity to thrive, Angela made it her mission to seek out resources, community, and support while navigating new motherhood and her son’s unique needs.

A Chicago native and serial entrepreneur, Angela is no stranger to overcoming challenges and rising above them. She began taking sign language classes, connecting with the Deaf community online, and sharing Ashton’s journey to help normalize the diverse experiences and needs of children and families.

Angela is deeply empowered by her community and inspired by the strides Ashton has made with both sign and spoken language. One of her favorite quotes, “It always seems impossible until it’s done,” serves as a mantra she lives by—fueling her approach to business, family life, and personal growth.

She remains incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of her husband, André; her stepchildren, Jalynn, Heaven, and Zion; her mother, Adjora F. Stevens; and the broader Deaf community whose encouragement continues to uplift her family’s journey.