Meet The O School Board Members

Kamau Inaede

Vice-Chair

Kamau, a Detroit native and founder of Warrior Financial Services, focuses on empowering the African American community in wealth creation and generational legacy. With over a decade of experience, he works with individuals and business owners to ensure financial security and chairs Threads for Success, a nonprofit mentoring program for high school seniors. An accomplished musician, Kamau enjoys connecting with like-minded individuals and business owners.

Kerry Buffington

Board Chair

Kerry Buffington is the Owner/Partner and Human Resources Director of Kapstone Employment Services, a certified woman-owned and minority staffing agency based in Detroit. With over 15 years of experience in HR, she leads the company's efforts in employee development, diversity, and creating a supportive workplace culture, while also serving as the Vice Chair of the Metro Detroit Black Business Alliance.

Tamara Flake

Treasurer

Tam, a Detroit native, holds an Associate of Science in Business Management and certifications in Public Funds Investment and Diversity. She advocates for Alopecia awareness through iRockitBald and serves on the boards of Michigan Women in Finance and the Macomb County Treasurer’s Association. With 25 years in financial services, Tam specializes in banking, risk management, and public sector relations. She’s also a motivational speaker, author, and co-host of the EVRY Woman Talk Show.

Nilda Thomas

Secretary

Nilda Thomas is the Senior Director of Customer Success at the National Minority Supplier Development Council, where she works to eliminate digital divide barriers to inclusion. With 20+ years of experience marketing tech solutions to Fortune 500 companies, she has led initiatives like the Business Forward Program in Oakland County, supporting minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses. Nilda is also the CEO of Workforce eTraining Solutions LLC and consults through NGT Marketing Group. Her work has been featured in Black Enterprise, Hispanic Women in Business, and Women in e-Commerce magazines.

Cathryn Coleman

Alumni Member

Cathryn Coleman, MBA, CBA, is the visionary founder of Detroit Balloon Store, a balloon and party rental business that has tripled sales in just one year. An award-winning Certified Balloon Artist with nearly three years of experience, she’s a trailblazer in the industry and an advocate for the community. A first-generation graduate who overcame foster care challenges, Cathryn empowers others through entrepreneurial programs and youth classes. Her upcoming storefront in District 2 will offer a creative space for events and balloon artistry, showcasing her dedication to inspiring others.