Maseh Nchang, is a distinguished international drummer and therapeutic drumming professional, known for founding Trust Drum Circles. His unique journey began in the United States, but after growing up in Cameroon, he was deeply influenced by the rhythms and musical culture of Africa. His passion for music and its healing potential led him to pursue further studies in the United States. In 2017, he returned to Ohio, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree and an MBA from Ohio Dominican University, specializing in Finance, Accounting, and Fine Arts.
Maseh’s dedication to the therapeutic use of music is evident in his continued training. He has studied music therapy and completed Integrated Community Drum Circle Facilitator Training in the U.S. and Canada. This diverse education allows him to bring the power of rhythm to communities in need, particularly at-risk populations, where he believes music acts as a universal language of healing. Maseh continues to focus on mental health, working to bring therapeutic drumming practices to those who can benefit from the emotional and psychological support it offers.
Jess Morgan,
Jess Morgan is a dynamic nonprofit professional with a deep passion for making a meaningful difference. Holding a Bachelor’s degree from Colorado State, and Masters of Science in Nonprofit Administration from Louisiana State University, Jess enjoys the art of resource development and nonprofit fundraising. With years of experience in nonprofit leadership, program development, and community collaboration, she excels at building strong, sustainable initiatives that drive lasting impact.
A dedicated advocate for youth development, arts, and culture, Jess is committed to creating spaces where individuals and communities can thrive, innovate, and create. Her passion for growth extends beyond her professional work—she’s also a horticulturist, foodie and traveler; finding inspiration in cultivating her gardens, embracing new cultures, and experiences that broaden her perspective and inform her work.
Jessica Bennet, Dr. Bennett holds a Ph.D. in Special Education from The Ohio State University, with a focus on structured literacy instruction for children with reading disabilities. She also has a Master’s in Deaf Education and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from OSU. Since 2005, Jessica has been a licensed intervention specialist and has been training and coaching teachers since 2011, working at institutions like The Ohio State University, Battle for Kids, and Otterbein University.
She is a Certified Academic Language Practitioner (CALP) and completed her practicum through The Orton-Gillingham Academy. Currently, she writes curriculum, conducts research, and trains program managers at the Final Third Foundation and is the author of “Mindful Miru.” Jessica is a mother of three and believes in the power of music as a universal language and its ability to enhance our individual inner states.
Laurel Myers Hurst is an ethnomusicologist-turned-integrative psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on developing and delivering drumming interventions in support of mental health. She pioneered Shared Medical Appointments and psychotherapeutic groove-based music making in substance use disorder medication assisted treatment clinical sites in Ohio. Laurel trained as a nurse at The Ohio State University where she was mentored by Dr. Karen Moss in the FamCare Lab.
Her innovative work in music, healthcare, and entrepreneurship has been recognized by the GRAMMY Foundation, Ohio Arts Council, Albert Schweitzer Foundation, and Morgan Foundation. Laurel is the author of the international bestseller Groove Therapy: Re-engaging the Transformative Power of Rhythm in Communication and Relationships, and is the founder of Ohio Integrative Psychiatry, where she continues to provide care and lead program development.
Mason Dorrian, Mason is a passionate accounting professional who brings both expertise and heart to his role as Treasurer. A proud two-time graduate of The Ohio State University (Bachelors and Master’s in Accounting), Mason is currently pursuing CPA licensure and works as an Outsourced Accountant for a firm dedicated to serving nonprofits. He supports the financial operations of over 10 organizations with revenues ranging from $500K to $5M, helping them thrive through sound fiscal management. Mason’s commitment to community runs deep—he’s interned with the Ohio House of Representatives, Final Third Foundation, CRIS, Fit To Navigate, and the Columbus City Auditor’s Office, and led Ohio State’s only social business club, Business For Good.
Dick Nchang, A recent graduate of St. Olaf College with Distinction in Quantitative Economics, Dick Nchang is passionate about expanding global access to advanced therapies for blood-type diseases. His journey has included recognition as a One Young World Scholar, Future Nobel Laureate Scholar whose hospital book now sits in the Nobel Prize Museum, and a researcher. He has conducted independent research on gene therapy, interned at Novartis, and has his abstract accepted for presentation at the American Society of Gene & Cell Therapy conference.
Dick is internationally engaged. He studied biomedical innovations in Norway where he also consulted for a health tech company and studied entrepreneurial ecosystems in New Zealand. Dick founded the Sickle Cell International Foundation and in 2025 secured a $300K grant to expand newborn sickle cell screening in Cameroon—plus he raised $25K in 24 days to mark his ninth year post- Bone Marrow transplant and graduation.
As a student, Dick contributed to policy research, student leadership, and helped launch free on-demand student transit in Northfield.
Now at Stanford University’s School of Medicine in the Porteus Lab, Dick is committed to scaling advanced therapies worldwide.
Luke Krizan, Luke owns an established construction company, specializing in designing upscale outdoor living areas for families. Operating in Northeast Ohio, Red Sun Construction focuses on building custom decks and taking on unique home improvement projects. Luke founded BuildWise Academy Organization; a nonprofit with a mission to Empower today’s youth with fundamental construction skillsets through community service. Luke’s business acumen and love for community development makes him a valued board member at Trust Drum Circles.
Manny Hall is a dynamic brand strategist, marketing consultant, and the CEO of Manny Hall & Associates, a full-scale marketing agency based in Cleveland, Ohio. With over 15 years of experience, Manny has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and organizations clarify their brand, amplify their message, and scale their impact—without relying on paid ads.
He is also a certified grief recovery specialist, a seasoned speaker, a three-time author, and an instructor at Corporate College. Manny blends his deep knowledge of branding with his passion for community transformation, leading workshops and events that empower small business owners to grow strategically. Through partnerships with national organizations like Verizon Small Business Digital Ready and local initiatives in Ohio and beyond, Manny continues to serve as a bridge between visionary ideas and measurable results.
A man of faith, daily meditation, and intentional leadership, Manny attributes his success to divine guidance, discipline, and the unwavering support of his family. Whether he’s mentoring a young entrepreneur, teaching a masterclass, or building a million-dollar brand accelerator, Manny Hall remains committed to helping others realize their potential and build brands that matter.
Glory Mafor, Glory Mafor is a writer, editor, media, and communications professional with interests in literary arts, global communication, and how they intersect with culture and social development. She is the former chief editor of Self-ish, a literary publication that platforms over 25 young black writers across Africa, the Caribbean, and beyond. Glory is also a spoken word poet, a worship leader, and a voiceover artist. Through her work and art, she is intentional about curating and amplifying stories that inspire individuals to own their story, be unique, and live authentically.
Sonney Wolfe is a writer, educator, and community-builder dedicated to fostering connection and belonging through story and shared experience. Since 2008, she has worked as a freelance writer for newspapers, magazines, nonprofit organizations, and local governments, crafting everything from feature stories and press releases to blogs and web content.
With a background in higher education, she has spent the past decade teaching academic and technical writing, developing community-focused curriculum, serving on editorial boards, and organizing faculty events that foster collaboration. Her teaching philosophy centers on empathy, mental health, and the belief that meaningful communication and effective problem solving can occur only when inclusivity and a sense of safety are established.
Beyond her professional life, Sonney finds her greatest joy in her family, and she is currently preparing for a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2028.
Ginny King, born and raised in Akron, Ohio, is a retired commercial real estate professional who spent 30 years with Norfolk Southern Railroad. She holds an Associate Degree in Business from the University of Akron. After retiring in 2017, she discovered African drumming through Barbara “Wahru” Cleveland and found a lifelong passion. Ginny now plays with The Spirit Drummers in Columbus and Tam Tam Magic in Cleveland, and leads a monthly drum circle in Kent, Ohio.
A proud mother of three and grandmother of nine, she brings warmth, energy, and a deep love of rhythm to every circle she leads, using drumming as a tool for connection, joy, and healing. She is passionate about creating inclusive, welcoming spaces where everyone can experience the transformative power of rhythm.
Berhane Okantah: A multi-instrumentalist trained in African music and arts, Berhane specializes in djembe performance. He facilitates African drumming workshops for students of all ages, guiding them in drum patterns, polyrhythms, and movement expression. With nearly two decades of live performance experience, Berhane is passionate about cultural expression and enriching communities through drumming.
Nkadmbi Chantal Allo, Nkadmbi is a devoted mother, seasoned Human Resources consultant, and senior foreign operations officer, who understands the importance of balancing a successful career with what truly matters—family, personal passions, and making a positive impact in the lives of others. With a deep-rooted love for music that began in her childhood, Nkadmbi’s journey as a drummer in her local church ignited a lifelong passion for the arts.
As a strong advocate for childhood development, Nkadmbi believes that music—especially through activities like drumming—offers children invaluable opportunities to develop essential psychomotor skills, including muscle strength, balance, and coordination. She is a firm believer that the integration of music in children’s lives can be a transformative experience, fostering self-expression, creativity, and emotional well-being. Committed to championing the role of music in child development, Nkadmbi works tirelessly to ensure that every child has access to the enriching benefits of music education, understanding that these opportunities can have a lasting and profound impact on their growth and success.
Zoë Songturtle:
Zoë Songturtle believes if you have a heartbeat, you’re already a drummer—and that rhythm has the power to unite us. A trauma-informed drum circle facilitator, music educator, and community builder, Zoë has spent over 20 years creating spaces where people of all ages and abilities can show up as they are, find their beat, and experience the profound joy of creating and connecting together.
Grounded in a holistic, embodied approach to facilitation, Zoë draws on the healing language of rhythm to foster genuine connection, celebrate cultural traditions, and unlock creative potential in each participant. Whether drumming with elders in a memory care setting, supporting youth navigating adversity, or guiding hospital patients through music-based wellness, she brings the same unwavering presence: warm, adaptive, and deeply committed to each individual’s empowerment and personal expression.
A graduate of the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music and a certified yoga instructor, Zoë has partnered with dozens of organizations, including Good Samaritan Hospital, Cancer Support Community, Starfire, Stepping Stones, Barrington Independent Living, and schools across the region. Just like music, building community is more powerful (and more fun) when we create together. Zoë invites you to step into the circle and drum up excitement, joy, friendship, and support!
Luke Davenport, Born in Richmond, Virginia, and raised in Columbus, Ohio, Luke chose an unconventional path, opting to forgo college in favor of hands-on experience and personal growth. Over the years, he has had the privilege of apprenticing under a variety of mentors, gaining expertise in areas such as business management, contracting, and event coordination—each focused on fostering community development and connection.
Luke’s passion for music has been a central force in his journey, offering a unique avenue for building and strengthening relationships within communities. He believes that music has the power to unite people, enabling them to express themselves authentically and confidently, while also enhancing their overall well-being. Through his experiences, Luke has learned the transformative power of collective expression and is committed to sharing his music in a way that encourages others to be true to themselves and embrace the endless possibilities in an ever-evolving world.
