Jacksonville's Young Professionals Guide:
A comprehensive directory of 19+ professional networking organizations and volunteer opportunities for emerging leaders in Jacksonville.
Features exclusive leadership programs, industry-specific groups, and community service organizations - all designed to help young professionals (ages 21-40) build careers, develop leadership skills, give back and expand their network in Northeast Florida.
Includes program details, membership info, and direct links for easy connection.
The link to download will be sent automatically to the email provided below (be sure to check your spam folder).
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A Bonfire In a Cold World®
Elle Michelle, M.Ed., is A Bonfire in a Cold World™ — an educator, speaker, author, and pre-licensed therapist committed to relational wellness and transforming how people connect in both sacred and everyday spaces.
She is the author of Bonds Beyond Scars: Unveiling the Tapestry of Sisterhood, Friendship Trauma, and Healing, and the creator of Be a Bonfire in a Cold World™ — a trademarked faith-rooted movement that blends grace, storytelling, and sacred rhythm to help others live peacefully and purposefully, without performance.
From burnout to breakthrough, Elle draws from her work in higher education, group facilitation, and trauma-informed care to create restorative spaces rooted in human development, emotional safety, and collective resilience.
Professional Portfolio, Fellowships and Features Include:
Who is Elle Michelle
I am Gabrielle Michelle Williams Bland, M.Ed. also known as, Elle Michelle — a St. Louis native, HBCU graduate, and a woman of faith who believes softness is strength and storytelling is sacred. I’m also a wife, daughter, and sister with roots that run deep through Texas, Missouri, Illinois, Kansas, and Louisiana soil with a little bit of southern and city girl grace.
I married my best friend, Aaron Bland (@AaronDaBarber904), a pastor’s kid (PK) from Illinois whose life’s mission is to not only transform appearances, but to help transform hearts. As a skilled barber and life coach, he serves others with integrity, intention, and a quiet kind of leadership that inspires me daily.
Our love is grounded in purpose, prayer, and play.
Here’s a glimpse into our “forever.”
