Beby

Freedom Begins With Being Yourself

Where culture, identity, and liberation unite.

Welcome to Be Empowered Be Yourself (BEBY)

BEBY has been reimagined and revitalized, but its heart remains the same.

It was founded on a simple belief: when people know who they are, are proud of where they come from, and have the courage to be their authentic selves, they discover the power to make a difference—not only in their own lives, but in the lives of others.

In a world that often tells people who they should be, BEBY exists to remind people of who they already are.

We are a community built on storytelling, education, culture, creativity, and connection. We believe our stories matter because they connect us to our history, shape our identity, and help us better understand one another. Through meaningful conversations, cultural experiences, artistic expression, and community engagement, we create opportunities for people to learn, grow, and celebrate the richness of their own journeys.

This is more than a website. It is a place to belong.

A place where artists, entrepreneurs, educators, leaders, families, students, and community members can come together to share ideas, build relationships, celebrate culture, and inspire positive change.

At a time when history is often misunderstood, minimized, or rewritten, our commitment to truth, education, and cultural preservation is more important than ever. We believe that understanding our past helps us navigate our future. We believe every community has stories worth preserving, voices worth hearing, and contributions worth celebrating.

That belief gave birth to Juneteenth Meets Carnival: Emancipated Together.

Juneteenth is a chapter of one of the greatest untold stories in human history—a story of freedom, resilience, perseverance, and hope. Carnival tells another chapter of that story. Across the Caribbean and throughout the African Diaspora, generations transformed hardship into art, struggle into culture, and survival into celebration.

Though they emerged from different places, Juneteenth and Carnival share a common spirit. Both reflect the enduring strength of people who refused to let their circumstances define them. Both honor the sacrifices of those who came before us. Both remind us that freedom is not simply something to remember—it is something to live.

By bringing these traditions together, Juneteenth Meets Carnival: Emancipated Together creates a space where education meets celebration, where history meets culture, and where people from all backgrounds can learn, connect, and grow together. Through art, music, storytelling, food, dialogue, and cultural exchange, we honor the past while building bridges toward the future.

At its core, BEBY is about people.

It is about helping people see their value, find their voice, and recognize the power they have to make an impact. It is about celebrating who we are, honoring those who came before us, and creating opportunities for future generations to thrive.

Because when people are proud of who they are, honor their heritage, and walk confidently in their purpose, they inspire others to do the same.

And when we come together with understanding, respect, and a shared commitment to one another, we build stronger communities and a brighter future for us all.

Let's Inspire to Aspire Together.

Educate. Empower. Celebrate. Emancipated Together.

Empowered People. Empowered Communities. Emancipated Together.

"Be proud of who you are. Honor the journey that brought you here and the ancestors who helped make it possible. When we share our stories, walk in our purpose, and support one another, we build stronger communities and leave a legacy for those who follow." ~ BEBY

“Sometimes empowerment looks like action. Sometimes it looks like rest. Take time to smell the roses and celebrate the person you're becoming, not just the destination you're chasing.” ~BEBY

"You don't have to rush to be bigger, older, or better. Take time to smile, play, learn, and enjoy the little things. Just like a flower blooms one petal at a time, you're growing into the amazing person you're meant to be." ~ BEBY

Our Purpose is Powerful.

At Be Empowered Be Yourself (BEBY), we believe that when people are proud of who they are, honor where they come from, and walk boldly in their purpose, they become catalysts for change.

Inspired by the spirit of Juneteenth Meets Carnival: Emancipated Together, we use education, storytelling, arts, culture, and community engagement to bring people together, celebrate heritage, and inspire meaningful action.

We honor the past, celebrate the present, and empower future generations to lead with purpose, pride, and unity.

Let's Inspire to Aspire Together

Inspire

Every story matters.

Through education, storytelling, arts, culture, and meaningful conversations, we help people discover the power of their own story while learning from the experiences of others. Inspiration begins when we see ourselves reflected in history, culture, and community.

Aspire

When people know their worth, they begin to see what is possible.

Aspiration is about more than achieving goals. It is about believing that your voice matters, your dreams have value, and your contributions can make a difference. We encourage people to think bigger, reach higher, and pursue lives of purpose and impact.

Empower

Knowledge creates confidence. Confidence creates action.

Through education, leadership development, cultural engagement, and community partnerships, we provide opportunities for individuals to grow, lead, and create change. Empowerment happens when people recognize their strengths and use them to uplift themselves and others.

Unite

Our histories may be different, but our humanity connects us.

Juneteenth and Carnival tell stories of resilience, freedom, culture, and triumph. They remind us that liberation is not an individual journey—it is a collective one. By bringing people together across cultures, generations, and experiences, we create spaces where understanding grows, relationships are built, and communities become stronger.

Our Promise

We are intentional about creating spaces where people feel welcomed, valued, and empowered to be their authentic selves. We honor the sacrifices and resilience of those who came before us, celebrate the richness of our cultures and communities today, and invest in future generations by encouraging leadership, service, and personal growth.

We believe that every person has a story worth sharing, a voice worth hearing, and the power to make a difference.

Because when people are proud of who they are and honor where they come from, they inspire others to do the same.

When culture is celebrated, understanding grows.

When communities come together, unity grows stronger.

And when we embrace our purpose and uplift one another, we transform individual empowerment into collective impact.

Meet the Team

Dena Marie Jangdhari

FOUNDER

With a passion for empowerment, culture, education, and community transformation, our founder envisioned more than an organization—she envisioned a movement. Through Be Empowered Be Yourself (BEBY) and Juneteenth Meets Carnival: Emancipated Together, she harnesses the power of storytelling, heritage, and community engagement to inspire personal growth, cultural understanding, and collective action.
Holding a Master of Education (M.Ed.) with a concentration in Global Training and Development, she brings a dynamic blend of educational leadership, workforce development, public service, strategic planning, compliance, and community engagement to her work. Her diverse professional background spans government leadership, military and family support initiatives, nonprofit development, cultural programming, workforce readiness, and community relations—equipping her with a unique ability to connect vision with action and purpose with impact.
Central to her work is the belief that education is a catalyst for change. Juneteenth is a chapter of one of the greatest untold stories in human history—one that weaves together freedom, resistance, culture, and celebration across the African diaspora. Through art, music, dialogue, storytelling, and cultural exchange, she seeks to illuminate these interconnected histories while fostering a deeper appreciation for the resilience, contributions, and triumphs of people throughout the diaspora.
As a dedicated advocate, community servant, and collaborative leader, she has earned a reputation as a catalyst for action—bringing together people, partnerships, ideas, and resources to transform vision into reality, create sustainable change, and deliver meaningful results. Her work reflects a deep commitment to preserving cultural heritage, expanding access to opportunities, and creating spaces where individuals feel seen, valued, and empowered to embrace their authentic selves.
Grounded in visionary leadership and hands-on community engagement, she continues to create pathways for learning, healing, celebration, and connection. Through BEBY and Juneteenth Meets Carnival: Emancipated Together, she is building a legacy that honors the past, celebrates the present, and inspires future generations to lead with purpose, courage, and unity.
"Educate. Empower. Celebrate. Emancipated Together. We honor the past, celebrate the resilience of our ancestors, embrace the richness of our culture, and come together to build a future that reflects the very best of who we are." ~ Dena Marie Jangdhari
Elizabeth Mejia

Legal Compliance Officer

Focused, approachable, and driven by purpose, our Legal Compliance Officer serves as a trusted resource for Be Empowered Be Yourself (BEBY) and Juneteenth Meets Carnival: Emancipated Together. Committed to helping individuals navigate complex systems with clarity, compassion, and confidence, she supports our mission of empowerment, education, and community engagement.
Holding a Bachelor's Degree in Law & Society, a discipline that explores the intersection of law, public policy, and the communities they impact, she brings a strong understanding of how legal systems shape opportunities and outcomes. Her academic and professional experiences reinforce the belief that knowledge is power and that access to information creates pathways to success.
With extensive experience in legal compliance, regulatory processes, legal administration, and immigration services, she has worked alongside attorneys, judges, government agencies, and community members to promote understanding, ensure compliance, and connect individuals with valuable resources. Her background in immigration form preparation and processing has helped individuals and families navigate important life transitions while gaining a clearer understanding of their rights, responsibilities, and opportunities.
As a bilingual professional fluent in English and Spanish, she is passionate about breaking down language barriers and expanding access to information for diverse communities. Her ability to build trust and foster meaningful relationships helps strengthen the connections that make communities thrive.
Through BEBY and Juneteenth Meets Carnival: Emancipated Together, she helps advance efforts to educate, empower, and uplift communities by ensuring people have access to the knowledge, resources, and support needed to reach their full potential. She believes that informed individuals build stronger families, stronger communities, and a brighter future for generations to come.
"The strongest communities are those where people are empowered to reach their full potential." ~ Elizabeth Mejia
Contrena E. Baltimore

Education Consultant
With a background in Early Childhood Education, she founded and led Keystone Math & Science Academy as Executive Director for more than a decade. Under her leadership, the school became known for its innovative approach to learning, exposing students to multiple languages, arts enrichment, and academic excellence at an early age. Her passion for developing young minds inspired the creation of the Mentoring for the Millennia Initiative, an intergenerational program that brought together senior citizens and preschool-aged children through art, music, dance, and meaningful relationship-building. Through partnerships with organizations including Homeland Center, the Jewish Home, and Penn State University, the program fostered learning, compassion, and connection across generations.
Her commitment to service extends far beyond the classroom. As a longtime leader within the Civic Club of Harrisburg, she has played a key role in advancing programs that bring people together through arts, culture, education, and civic engagement. Her leadership has helped strengthen community partnerships, support volunteerism, and preserve the Club's legacy as a place where ideas, cultures, and communities connect.
In addition to her educational and civic leadership, she is co-owner of a family-owned catering business recognized throughout the region for supporting diverse cultural celebrations, community initiatives, and collaborative events.
A visionary leader with a heart for service, she believes education is one of the most powerful tools for transforming lives, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities for future generations. Through her work, she continues to inspire others to lead with purpose, serve with compassion, and invest in the potential of those around them.
Creative and strategic in equal measure, our Educational Consultant transforms ideas into action, builds meaningful connections, and helps turn vision into lasting community impact.
"It's Bigger Than Us. This is about community. This is about culture. This is about leaving the world better than we found it." ~ Contrena E. Baltimore
Athena Theodorakos

Military Family & Survivor Empowerment Advocate
Compassionate, resilient, and deeply committed to serving others, our Military Family & Survivor Empowerment Advocate believes that every act of service leaves a legacy and every family deserves to be supported, valued, and remembered.
With extensive experience supporting military members, veterans, surviving families, and family readiness initiatives, she serves as a trusted advocate and resource for those navigating life's most challenging transitions. Through guidance, education, and personalized support, she helps families access critical resources, strengthen their support networks, and move forward with confidence and dignity.
Her work is rooted in the belief that empowerment begins with connection. By building trusted relationships with military leaders, service members, families, and community organizations, she helps ensure that no family walks their journey alone. Whether connecting survivors to resources, coordinating meaningful programs, or fostering opportunities for engagement, she is committed to preserving the bonds that strengthen individuals, families, and communities.
Inspired by the same spirit that drives BEBY and Juneteenth Meets Carnival: Emancipated Together, she understands that resilience is built through community, that legacy is carried through remembrance, and that true empowerment comes from lifting others as we rise. Her work honors the sacrifices of those who served while helping families find strength, purpose, and belonging in the chapters that follow.
Driven by compassion and a profound respect for service, she remains committed to creating pathways of support, connection, and hope—ensuring that the legacy of sacrifice is met with a legacy of care.
“When we honor those who came before us, empower those among us, and unite in service to one another, we create communities that are stronger, more connected, and greater than ourselves.” ~ Athena Theodorakos

Our Media Team

John Bivins

A visual storyteller at heart, our Photographer & Videographer believes every person, every community, and every culture has a story worth preserving and sharing.

Through photography and film, he captures more than moments—he preserves legacy, celebrates culture, and tells the stories that connect us across generations. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for authentic storytelling, he documents the people, traditions, and experiences that inspire, unite, and leave a lasting impact.

His work aligns closely with the vision of Be Empowered Be Yourself (BEBY) and Juneteenth Meets Carnival: Emancipated Together, using visual storytelling as a powerful tool to educate, empower, and celebrate. Whether documenting cultural traditions, community events, artistic expression, or historic milestones, he helps ensure that stories of resilience, heritage, and unity are seen, remembered, and shared.

Known for his creativity, professionalism, and ability to capture genuine moments, he understands that every photograph and every frame has the power to preserve history, honor identity, and strengthen community. Through his lens, culture comes to life, voices are amplified, and stories that might otherwise go untold find a lasting place in our collective memory.

Inspired by the belief that our stories connect us, he uses his craft to celebrate the richness of our heritage, the strength of our communities, and the power of people coming together with purpose.

"I don't just capture moments—I capture stories. Stories of resilience, culture, community, and legacy. Through every photograph and every frame, I preserve the moments that connect us, honor where we've come from, and inspire where we're going. That's how we become Emancipated Together." ~ John Bivins

Photographer & Videographer

Rhonda Tharpe

A dynamic entrepreneur, creative strategist, and community-minded professional, our Promotions, Marketing, Social Media & Brand Development Strategist is passionate about helping individuals, businesses, artists, and organizations elevate their visibility, expand their reach, and strengthen their impact.

With extensive experience in promotions, event bookings, advertising coordination, social media management, and web design, she specializes in developing innovative marketing strategies that connect people, build brands, and create meaningful opportunities. Her expertise spans promotional campaigns, talent and event bookings, advertising initiatives, digital presence development, website design, and social media engagement, helping clients effectively share their message and grow their audience.

Known for her creativity, professionalism, and attention to detail, she works closely with clients to transform ideas into meaningful results. Whether coordinating a marketing campaign, managing social media platforms, promoting a community event, securing talent, or building a compelling online presence, she combines strategic thinking with creative execution to help others achieve their goals.

Her work reflects the mission of Be Empowered Be Yourself (BEBY) and the spirit of Juneteenth Meets Carnival: Emancipated Together—using communication, storytelling, and visibility as tools for empowerment, cultural celebration, and community connection. She understands that behind every business, artist, organization, and community initiative is a story worth sharing, a voice worth amplifying, and a purpose worth advancing.

Through thoughtful collaboration and personalized solutions, she helps clients not only grow their audience but also strengthen relationships, celebrate culture, and create lasting impact. Her passion lies in bringing people together, building bridges across communities, and creating opportunities that inspire engagement, understanding, and collective success.

She believes that visibility is more than marketing—it is about helping people be seen, heard, and valued.

"I believe every brand, every business, and every community has a story worth telling. When we use our voices to connect, inspire, and uplift others, we create more than visibility—we create impact. That's how we build stronger communities and move forward together."~ Rhonda Tharpe

Promotions, Marketing, Social Media & Brand Development Strategist

How You Can Engage With BEBY

BEBYis a growing movement centered on education, empowerment, cultural celebration, and community connection. Whether you're looking to learn, collaborate, share your talents, or make a difference, there are many ways to become part of the journey.

Cultural Experiences & Events

Bringing people together through programs and experiences that celebrate culture, history, heritage, and community.

Education & Storytelling

Creating opportunities to learn from the past, share personal stories, preserve cultural narratives, and inspire future generations.

Arts & Creative Expression

Showcasing artists, musicians, performers, writers, and creators whose work reflects the richness of our communities and cultures.

Community Engagement

Building meaningful connections through dialogue, partnerships, volunteerism, and collaborative projects that strengthen communities.

Leadership & Empowerment

Encouraging individuals to embrace their authentic selves, discover their purpose, and use their gifts to create positive change.

Media & Cultural Preservation

Using photography, videography, podcasts, interviews, and digital storytelling to document experiences, preserve history, and amplify voices.

Juneteenth Meets Carnival: Emancipated Together

Our signature cultural initiative celebrating the shared stories of freedom, resilience, heritage, and unity across the African Diaspora.

As BEBY continues to grow, new opportunities, programs, and partnerships will emerge. We invite you to grow with us, share your story, and help shape the future of this movement.