Meet the "LOC" Team
CEO/President of Board
Ayesha Williams – Founder & Chief Executive Director
Born in Jamaica and raised in the United States from the age of 8, Ayesha Williams has long been dedicated to serving others—especially individuals navigating trauma, loss, and life transitions. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology from Nova Southeastern University and a Master of Social Work from Barry University. She is also a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern.
Ayesha’s professional journey spans over 15 years in the nonprofit and human services field, with impactful roles at organizations such as H.A.N.D.Y., KIDS in Distress, Gilda’s Club, and Palm Garden of Aventura Rehab Center. Most notably, she served as Vice President of Health and Wellness and the Anti-Human Trafficking Department at the FLITE Center, where she led the development of a comprehensive wellness clinic, integrated mental and primary health services, and built a trauma-informed, multi-regional human trafficking response program serving Broward, West Palm Beach, and Central Florida.
In 2019, Ayesha founded Legacy of Change Inc., an organization rooted in healing and empowerment for youth and women impacted by trauma. Drawing on both her clinical expertise and personal experiences as a survivor of sexual assault, Ayesha expanded Legacy of Change to include wellness coaching, group therapy, and healing-centered spaces for women overcoming emotional, physical, and sexual abuse.
Now fully focused on her purpose-driven mission, Ayesha continues to lead Legacy of Change Inc. with passion and vision—committed to planting seeds of Encouragement and Hope in every life she touches.
Richard Charlemon- Co-Chair
Richard Charlemon, a Miami native, has dedicated 17 years to the human services community. He earned his Associate's degree from Broward College, followed by a Bachelor's in Social Work from Florida Atlantic University and a Master's in Social Work from Barry University. Richard began his career at ChildNet as a Child Advocate and Independent Living Specialist, providing essential case management and social work services to vulnerable children in South Florida. His experiences there highlighted the critical need for support and opportunities for these youth.
Transitioning to HANDY (Helping Abused, Neglected, Disadvantaged Youth), Richard served in various roles, culminating as the Director of Education. He significantly improved HANDY’s educational programs, successfully placing over 150 youth in higher education. His contributions have been widely recognized, including awards from the Urban League of Broward County and Legacy magazine. As CEO of Reyna Group Home, Richard oversees five homes for autistic boys, ensuring they find their "forever family." In his personal life, he and his family manage Dacave Bar and Lounge, providing community support, especially during crises like COVID-19. Richard is also a dedicated mentor, focusing on LGBTQ youth and those with special needs.
Shari Robinson- Secretary
Shari L. Robinson, BS is the middle child and only girl of her parents. Born in Jamaica, she and her family migrated to the US. From her infancy to the age 9 she resided in New York, at which time the family transitioned to Florida. All of Shari's educational endeavors remained in Florida, she matriculated through The University of Florida, obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Family, Youth and Community Sciences with a Minor in Leadership.
During her 7-year tenure in the Child Welfare Department of Florida, serving families enduring challenging circumstances, she became an expert in helping families to navigate the darkness that can come to their life when plagued by transient housing issues, lack of stability in the lives of children and families as a result separation due to domestic violence, neglect, mental health illnesses and/or substance abuse. In 2016, Shari founded Shayelle Beautiq an inclusive natural hair educational and transformative hair care spa, where she, a Licensed Cosmetologist, daily uses the skills she honed and perfected as a social service provider, as a survivor of sexual assault, she has provided support and resources to those plagued with similar experiences.was
Olphie Bernard -Treasurer
Ophie Bernard has served as the Regional Director of Central Orlando at a non-profit organization for over four years, focusing on Human Resources, fundraising, and financial management. She oversees the agency’s $2.5 million budget, manages financial audits, and has implemented policies to ensure compliance. Previously, as the Director of Logistics at a Fortune 500 seafood company, she drove a 60% growth through international seafood exports and imports.
Originally from Puerto Rico, Ophie enjoys good food, dance, and spending time with her husband and dog Lily. She has a passion for exploring new cultures, delving into their history, and discovering local cuisine and attractions.