4th Annual Kickstart Health & Wellness Expo
10am Saturday June 1st | Marvin Center | Washington D.C.
Sponsored By
















featuring
Notable Guests

Vivica A. Fox
American actress, producer and television host
Fox’s breakthrough came in 1996, with roles in two box-office hit films, Roland Emmerich‘s Independence Day and F. Gary Gray‘s Set It Off. Fox later has starred in films Booty Call (1997), Soul Food (1997), Why Do Fools Fall in Love (1998), Kingdom Come (2001), Two Can Play That Game (2001), and Boat Trip (2002). From 2003 to 2006, she co-starred in and produced the Lifetime crime drama series, Missing, for which she received NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series. Fox has also produced a number of straight-to-video films.

Stephan Labossiere
Certified Life coach relationship expert
From understanding the opposite sex, to navigating the paths and avoiding the pitfalls of relationships and self growth, Stephan’s relationship advice and insight helps countless individuals achieve an authentically amazing life.
Seen, heard and chronicled in national and international media outlets including; the Tom Joyner Morning Show, The Examiner, ABC, GQ, and Huffington Post Live, to name a few.

Ellen and Lana Ector
celebrity fitness trainers
Ellen, 64, and her daughter Lana have built their practice on the idea that fitness is part of your DNA. They run the Atlanta studio Gymnetics Fitness, where they incorporate nutrition into the workout plans. The powerhouse pair have trained celebrities such as Kandi Burruss, LaLa Anthony and Niecy Nash, and have a proven track record of delivering results.

Phil Weeden
Certified personal and Group Fitness trainer
Certified personal trainer, former bodybuilder and fitness enthusiast, Phil originally got into fitness to transform his own body and soon discovered a passion for helping others reach their health and wellness goals. He is the creator and founder of the smash hit cardio step aerobic class, Xtreme Hip Hop with Phil, as well as Xtreme Burn and the X30 Challenge.

Courtney Danielle
Natural hair guru
Created the Curls and Couture platform with the goal to inspire young girls and women to embrace, love and learn their curls. Consulted with brands such as Unilever, L’Oreal, Procter and Gamble, ASOS, JCrew, Savage Fenty, Under Armour, The Westin, The Wendy Williams Show, Essence, Allure Magazine and PureWow’s Blink Beauty

Kickstart was a great event. I had never been to an event of that kind before..
Kickstart attendee

I had a good lunch. Good workout the staff was very pleasant. Glad that I came.
Kickstart Attendee

Great event! Awesome sessions and workout! Thanks BGH!
Kickstart attendee
27 Workshops | 21 Presenters | 3 Sessions | 1 Live Talk Show
Event Schedule

If you’re registered for our conference pick up your conference badge and schedule at our event registration table. All ticket holders should check-in at the registration table to get their schedule, welcome bag, free food voucher, and free raffle ticket.

First 100 ticket purchasers meet, greet and photo op with celebrity guest Vivica Fox
SOLD OUT

A 60 minute informative health talk show featuring notable minority women health professionals and advocates discussing common health issues facing minority women and their corresponding prevention and treatment methods. Featuring Vivica Fox, Stephan Labossiere, Ellen and Lana Ector, and Dr. Julisssa Hernandez, ND.

If you are suffering from low energy, bloating and unclear thinking your body may be trying to tell you it’s time to release harmful toxins! We live in a toxic world. From the moment we wake up in the morning until we lay our head on our pillow, we are under attack. We are exposed to thousands of toxins every single day.
Our bodies ingest toxins in the air we breathe, the food we eat, the thoughts we choose to entertain and even in the clothes we wear. The scary part is, toxins can wreak havoc and damage the body in insidious and cumulative ways. In this class you learn how to use supplementation and detoxification to bring out a healthier you.


You ever get caught up in your feelings and put some junk in your body to escape? Maybe it was the chemicals laced in your favorite candy or the mold in that warm slice of pizza (hello cheese). You were eating your emotions; and even though you knew it was bad for you, you couldn’t stop.If you’re amen-ing right now, then you’re invited to
- Learn how to stop emotional eating + Liberate your Plate!
- Reclaim your Nourishment, Health and Freedom.
- Learn the basics of Mindful Eating with a Whole Foods Plant Based Diet
Whether you’re suffering from poor physical health, relationship issues, career obstacles or general life woes, this workshop will address where you feel undernourished and teach you what and how to eat. You will come hungry and leave satisfied. The best part? You can implement what you learn as soon as your next meal!
- You will learn how you can use your diet as a gateway to love, freedom and health.
- You will participate in a digital cooking class and mindful eating workshop.
- You will be treated to samples of recipes
- I’ll teach you how I brought love back into my kitchen and the habits that helped me go from a size 12 to a size 2 in one year . . .
- and the one exercise I did to end a decade of of emotional and compulsive overeating.
Food can and will heal your body, nourish your soul and help you get your entire life if you . . . . Liberate Your Plate ~ See you in the kitchen ?


Months of cold temps have not only dampened our moods, but the constant cold air (and all those heaters) has dried out our skin, too. Your skin is still in survival mode and may need a little help to transition to a more hydrated time. Here are some ways to make sure you spring forward right.This class will teach you how to avoid beauty issues that are faced when warm weather settles in.


An interactive session exploring barriers, limitations, and self- esteem issues that distract girls and women from freely discovering and expressing themselves. In this session, we will develop tools to help discover self- worth, inner power, and value for ourselves and others.


Natural is beautiful and magical with an array of textures, colors, density, and lengths. Due to these vast differences, natural hair can also be a task and a tough one at that. The Fundamentals of Natural Hair will walk you through the essential things every natural should know about her curls- from moisture to styling even breaking down some of the science. Come learn, share and even possibly gain some hands-on experience.


Vinyasa Flow offers a variety in sequencing and is slower paced than a power yoga class. The Vinyasa Flow combines movement and breath with deep relaxation to build strength, flexibility, concentration and balance. This session is designed for those who have no previous exposure to yoga to those who have a good understanding of the basic yoga postures. The session will focus on the basic yoga poses and proper alignment.


Using Ripstix®, lightly weighted drumsticks engineered specifically for exercising, POUND® transforms drumming into an incredibly effective way of working out.
Instead of listening to music, you become the music in this exhilarating full-body workout that combines cardio, conditioning, and strength training with yoga and pilates-inspired movements. Designed for all fitness levels, POUND® provides the perfect atmosphere for letting loose, getting energized, toning up and rockin’ out! The workout is easily modifiable and the alternative vibe and welcoming philosophy appeals to men and women of all ages and abilities.
+ Burn up to 900+ calories per hour, strengthen and sculpt infrequently used muscles, and drum your way to a leaner, slimmer physique – all while rocking out to your favorite music!
+ Drastically improve your rhythm, timing, coordination, speed, agility, endurance, and musicality.
+ Cinch the waistline, slim the thighs, and strengthen connective tissue and infrastructural muscles with the combination of stability and cardio.
+ Numerous studies have proven the powerful brain boosting, stress-relieving effects of drumming. The rhythm of drumming permeates the entire brain to improve focus, increase higher-level thinking and decision-making skills, boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, decrease chronic pain, and anxiety.


Class Overview
A revamp of traditional step aerobics. With routines set to old and new school hip hop, it makes you want to get up and move while getting a great calorie burn! Nonstop cardio featuring such movements as high knees, kicks, punches, burpees and much more!


Learn the symptoms of Uterine Fibroids, Endometriosis, and Low Libido and the natural therapies that will help you achieve overall healing of your fibroids resulting in a self-loving, healthy and satisfying existence.


Have you been diagnosed with Hypertension, Heart Disease, Diabetes or another long term disease? You can manage your health and take back your life with everyday lifestyle modifications in nutrition, activity, and mindset. Dr. McQueen, A Global Traveling Physician and Lifestyle Health Coach, will provide steps and strategies for you to control your health story; plans to incorporate in your daily life to feel rejuvenated and well.


Stephan empowers women to take control of their relationships with tips on how to lead conversations about abstinence and protected sex. In this class women will learn how to control their sex life to increase chances of monogamy, marriage, and more spiritually lead relationships.
This workshop is part ofBlack Girl Health’s pop the question campaign which empowers black women to take control of their sexual health to prevent HIV/AIDS). #popthequestion


In this lively and participatory presentation, we will use stories and data to present a perspective that racism is fundamentally structural in nature. By examining characteristics of modern-day racial inequity, the presentation introduces participants to an analysis that most find immediately helpful and relevant.
Participants will engage in a critical analysis of how racism dis-empowers Black women, hindering both individual well-being and community development. At the conclusion of our session, Black women will understand how concepts like “colorism” and internalized racial inferiority have shown up in our lives and more importantly, how to improve our own sense of self while empowering other Black women, as well.


Presented by Women’s Fitness Brand, Athleta, EVERYONE who attends this workshop will gets a FREE gift card to shop at ATHLETA. In addition, ATHLETA will be giving out a free outfit and an additional gift card that’s worth $100 during the class. This Fitness Styling Workshop is designed as a fun, interactive session for you to learn how to reflect who you are through your workout gear and know what to wear & when. This workshop is for anyone wanting to understand more about dressing for her workout and will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to style yourself like a Fitness Pro! Not all leggings are created equal! Each workshop attendee will go home with a free gift, complements of Athleta.


Natural is beautiful and magical with an array of textures, colors, density, and lengths. Due to these vast differences, natural hair can also be a task and a tough one at that. The Fundamentals of Natural Hair will walk you through the essential things every natural should know about her curls- from moisture to styling even breaking down some of the science. Come learn, share and even possibly gain some hands-on experience.


Are you a self-proclaimed super woman? Do you routinely juggle work, church, and your family and now you’re tired. If you are near burn out and seeking a gentle physical and spiritual refreshing then grab your mat and come on in the room. Join us for this interactive workshop where you will learn how to abide in God during life’s most difficult situations using simple tools and techniques like body prayers, spritual breathing, and Christian meditation for reestablishing your life rhythm.


The Vixen Workout is a dance fitness format that uses commercial choreography, killer music remixes, and stage lighting, so you can experience yourself as a performer (basically, you get to pretend you’re opening for the VMA’s and perform the moves you see by your favorite artists).


“Black Girls Workout Too” signature moves for building a toned and shapely booty in no time!


MixxedFit is a people inspire fitness program that incorporates explosive movements with bodyweight toning.
- WE PLAY ALL GENRES OF MUSIC & LYRICS ARE TYPICALLY IN ENGLISH. You will hear hits that you would hear on the radio from Top 40, Pop, R&B, Hip Hop, Rock, Reggae, and everything in between.
- OUR MOVES ARE REPETITIVE AND EASY TO FOLLOW. We do this so you can maximize your workouts rather than focus on complicated choreography. We want you leaving the gym dripping in sweat!
- WE INCORPORATE BODYWEIGHT TONING. You will perform effective body-weight exercises that will tone and sculpt your body.
- EVERYTHING WE DO IS EXPLOSIVE. All of our movements are big, exaggerated, and our very best. This allows us to burn more calories.


In a time of one click filters that instantly tighten your waistline, enlarge your booty and enhance your breasts there can be little motivation to make your virtual body your real life body! But no filter can hide the alarming statistics for women’s health.
In fact heart disease is the number one killer of women. More than all cancers combined! Obesity and stress play a role in the current health of women in the US. This is the season of the woman and the spotlight is shining bright on us. It’s time to break the mold of stereotypes and that includes the statistics for black women! We are more than what those numbers say we are but it is up to us to show up as our best and healthiest selves. Are you ready to become your real life social media avatar?
Embracing self-care without guilt or apology is the key to living healthy and happy in every aspect of your life. You are worthy and deserving of a life with self-care, self-confidence and self-assurance. More than 50% of women fail to achieve this without guidance and support. Are you tired of carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders?


The purpose of this workshop is to facilitate a platform for single mothers to be empowered to manage emotions and to handle stress. Through various hands-on manipulatives they are encouraged to be active in reducing the stress in their life.
By being self reflective and realistic of their struggles, obstacles, and limitations they can embrace strategies and takeaways that best fit their lifestyle. They can become emergent leaders of their own destiny towards building a healthy way of living, moving beyond being stressed out!

You ever get caught up in your feelings and put some junk in your body to escape? Maybe it was the chemicals laced in your favorite candy or the mold in that warm slice of pizza (hello cheese). You were eating your emotions; and even though you knew it was bad for you, you couldn’t stop.If you’re amen-ing right now, then you’re invited to
- Learn how to stop emotional eating + Liberate your Plate!
- Reclaim your Nourishment, Health and Freedom.
- Learn the basics of Mindful Eating with a Whole Foods Plant Based Diet
Whether you’re suffering from poor physical health, relationship issues, career obstacles or general life woes, this workshop will address where you feel undernourished and teach you what and how to eat. You will come hungry and leave satisfied. The best part? You can implement what you learn as soon as your next meal!
- You will learn how you can use your diet as a gateway to love, freedom and health.
- You will participate in a digital cooking class and mindful eating workshop.
- You will be treated to samples of recipes
- I’ll teach you how I brought love back into my kitchen and the habits that helped me go from a size 12 to a size 2 in one year . . .
- and the one exercise I did to end a decade of of emotional and compulsive overeating.
Food can and will heal your body, nourish your soul and help you get your entire life if you . . . . Liberate Your Plate ~ See you in the kitchen ?


Are you feeling like you’ve lost your youthful glow, and it says it all over your face? In this class you, learn the skincare and makeup products to use to help you age-gracefully!


The purpose of this workshop to teach women how to be more sexy and confident by embracing their curves. From what one wears to what they eat, determines how one may feel about themself. We will be teaching women more ways to take care of their shape through health, wellness, and nutrition.


On the daily, we are inundated with work and family demands, old habits and patterns, and lack of self care. Reiki is a healing technique that can make you feel happier, can decrease stress, AND feels like a massage… for your brain! It is useful in promoting stress management, personal growth and the healing of body, mind, and spirit. Reiki is beneficial for pain relief, boosting the immune system, encouraging restful sleep, and relieving addictions, anxiety, and depression. It can also be used as a tool for personal growth, empowerment, and developing an enhanced sense of gratitude and possibility in the world.Come and experience the joy for yourself!


Using Ripstix®, lightly weighted drumsticks engineered specifically for exercising, POUND® transforms drumming into an incredibly effective way of working out.
Instead of listening to music, you become the music in this exhilarating full-body workout that combines cardio, conditioning, and strength training with yoga and pilates-inspired movements. Designed for all fitness levels, POUND® provides the perfect atmosphere for letting loose, getting energized, toning up and rockin’ out! The workout is easily modifiable and the alternative vibe and welcoming philosophy appeals to men and women of all ages and abilities.
+ Burn up to 900+ calories per hour, strengthen and sculpt infrequently used muscles, and drum your way to a leaner, slimmer physique – all while rocking out to your favorite music!
+ Drastically improve your rhythm, timing, coordination, speed, agility, endurance, and musicality.
+ Cinch the waistline, slim the thighs, and strengthen connective tissue and infrastructural muscles with the combination of stability and cardio.
+ Numerous studies have proven the powerful brain boosting, stress-relieving effects of drumming. The rhythm of drumming permeates the entire brain to improve focus, increase higher-level thinking and decision-making skills, boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, decrease chronic pain, and anxiety.

For One Great Price
Event Location
The Marvin Center @ George Washington university
The Cloyd Heck Marvin Center is the George Washington University’s campus community center. This space offers a wide range of meeting and event spaces that includes an amphitheater, a theater, study rooms, ballrooms and conference rooms. During the academic year, we host a variety of events for student organizations and university departments as well as non-university clients during the summer and winter break. The Marvin Center is also home to the Colonial Health Center, Admissions Welcome Center, Colonial Central, GWorld, Department of Theatre and Dance, and the GW bookstore
Frequently Asked Questions
HOW CAN I GET A TICKET?
To allocate tickets and manage our events we use Ticket Tailor. Tickets will be available on January 1st, 2019.
CAN I GET A REFUND ON MY TICKET?
All sales are FINAL. There will be no refunds or exchanges for any lost, stolen, or destroyed ticket or event registration. All service charges and handling fees are also non-refundable.
HOW CAN I SPONSOR THE EVENT?
Please fill out the event sponsorship form. Once received, a BGH Member will contact you within 24 hours to go over the vendor details.
HOW CAN I EXHIBIT AT THE EVENT?
Please fill out the exhibitor form. Once received, a BGH Member will contact you within 24 hours to go over the vendor details
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