redefine

the

game

game

changers

cohort

Learn

Connect

Lead

create impact

game changers cohort

think beyond the role

influence beyond the team

lead beyond the moment

Collective Excellence

  • Damita Byrd

    Chief Executive Officer

    A Council Bluffs, Iowa native and Thomas Jefferson High School graduate, earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Public Relations with a minor in Finance from Grambling State University.

    A certified diversity and inclusion professional, Damita has built a career spanning corporate, nonprofit, and community leadership, helping organizations strengthen workplace culture, leadership, and DEI strategies.

    She is the co-founder of Redefine the Game Institute, an Omaha-based leadership platform dedicated to equipping emerging and mid-career leaders to expand their impact and prepare for greater leadership opportunities.

    A proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Damita continues to champion leadership, service, empowerment, and meaningful community impact.

  • Rev. Dr. Jarvis A Ellis Sr

    Senior Pastor Salem Baptist Church

    Omaha, NE

    Rev. Dr. Jarvis A. Ellis Sr. answered his call to ministry while in high school and has dedicated his life to faith, leadership, and service. He holds degrees from Paine College, Trevecca Nazarene University, and United Theological Seminary, along with a pastoral leadership certificate from Marquette University.

    Dr. Ellis serves as Senior Pastor/Teacher of Salem Baptist Church in Omaha, Nebraska. A proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., his greatest joy is his family—his wife, Malloree, and their son, Jarvis Armard Ellis II.

  • Malaby Byrd III

    Media & Technology

    Based in Omaha, Nebraska, I’m a tech professional, media leader, and business owner passionate about innovation, creativity, and community impact. As Head of Media and founder of my own media company, I’m excited to participate in this leadership cohort to grow professionally, build meaningful connections, and strengthen my leadership skills.

  • Ron Coleman

    Media & Technology

    Ron Coleman is an information technology professional with more than three decades of industry experience. An Omaha, Nebraska native, he brings a blend of technical knowledge, business perspective, and creative problem-solving to his work. He holds an Associate’s degree in Electronics Engineering Technology and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Information Systems.

    Complementing his IT background, Ron has extensive experience in professional photography and video production, bringing an additional perspective to the use of technology in digital media and communication.

about the cohort

  • " High energy, engaging atmosphere, practical insights and actionable lessons "

    Cynthia Hume - Cohort Alumni

  • " I truly enjoyed connecting with like-minded professionals from different spaces who understand the challenges that come with leadership, growth, and navigating our respective careers"

    Executive Deputy Chief Sherie Thomas, Omaha Police Department

  • "What I enjoyed most about Redefine the Game was being in a space where WE were the majority. It created an environment where our conversations and shared experiences didn’t have to be coded, filtered, or carefully articulated for others to understand."

    Dr. Donella Liddell Lampkin

  • The experience has helped me see leadership through a fresh lens, build meaningful connections, and recognize that redefining the game isn’t about changing who you are—it’s about confidently bringing your experience, strengths, and authentic voice to what comes next.”

    Mrs. Anita Johnson