About Us
Who We Are
EmpowerNet is a 501(c)(3) organization created to help other entrepreneurs grow, develop and lift them up along the way. We're here to help; to create moments of excitement, pull the community together and support small business owners. We want to show aspiring entrepreneurs that this may get hard sometimes but there’s someone on your team. There is always someone rooting for you and willing to be there for you. Our vision is to create a thriving ecosystem where entrepreneurs and small business owners can connect, collaborate, and engage with their communities to drive economic growth and social impact. We envision a world where every entrepreneur has the resources, support, and opportunities they need to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances. Through our commitment to fostering connections, facilitating collaboration, and promoting community engagement, we aim to empower entrepreneurs and small business owners to realize their full potential and create positive change in their communities and beyond. So come along on this ride and build with us. We can't wait to meet you!
Antwanise Jackson- Executive Director/Founder
Antwanise Jackson is our fearless leader and founder of EmpowerNet. Raised in the small town of Streetman, Texas, Antwanise grew up with a rambunctious spirit deeply involved in her community; an experience that shaped her passion for service, leadership, and bringing people together with purpose. Guided early by her mother and grandmother, Nise was taught financial discipline, business fundamentals, and the importance of using one’s talents to create opportunity. Encouraged to explore her strengths and earn supplemental income at a young age, she developed a strong foundation in entrepreneurship, self-reliance, and stewardship that continues to influence her work today. With a professional background as a financial specialist, she brings practical insight and strategic vision to EmpowerNet’s programming and partnerships. She is especially passionate about connecting people who care deeply about their communities and fostering meaningful relationships that lead to growth, collaboration, and long-term impact. Under Nise’s leadership, EmpowerNet has expanded initiatives such as youth programs, business expos, wellness-focused events, and community education efforts designed to support individuals from all backgrounds—particularly those who are underserved or navigating entrepreneurship for the first time. She leads with authenticity, encouragement, and a belief that strong communities are built when people are supported, seen, and equipped to succeed.
De'Ana Gee- Secretary
De’Ana Gee is the Founder and CEO of Next Level Financial Solutions, LLC, a Tyler-based credit repair company focused on helping individuals rebuild, strengthen, and confidently leverage their credit for long-term financial success. After navigating and overcoming her own credit challenges, De’Ana turned her personal experience into purpose, entering the credit repair industry in 2014 and later earning board certifications as both a Credit Consultant and Credit Score Consultant. De’Ana’s vision and goal are to educate and empower her community on the importance of credit and how to leverage it for a better financial future. She is deeply committed to financial education, stewardship, and community empowerment, and remains actively involved in her church, where her husband serves as Pastor. Outside of her professional work, De’Ana enjoys couponing as a meaningful way to give back, donating surplus household items to local centers and families in need. As our Secretary, De’Ana brings organization, insight, and a people-first approach—helping advance EmpowerNet’s mission through service, leadership, and purpose-driven impact.
Johnny Ortiz- Treasurer
Johnny-Juan Ortiz is a Tyler native known for his charisma, fun-loving attitude, and genuine zest for life. He brings a heart rooted in positive reinforcement and encouragement to everything he does, making him a natural connector and uplifting presence within the community. With over six years of experience in mortgage lending and a background in automotive finance, consumer lending, and banking—Johnny provides strong financial insight and thoughtful leadership as Treasurer of the EmpowerNet Board. A Zig Ziglar Certified Speaker, Trainer, and Coach, he is passionate about empowering others through financial education, life skills, credit-building, and personal growth. Deeply committed to service, Johnny is actively involved in mentorship, nonprofit work and a champion for community with a strong belief in helping people discover their potential and confidence. His blend of financial expertise, infectious energy, and people-first mindset makes him a valued leader and trusted champion of EmpowerNet’s mission—always reminding others that success is best when it’s shared.
Bobbie Terry- Director of Innovation
Bobbie Cooper Terry is a seasoned mortgage professional and connector with a passion for making homeownership accessible and empowering others to build financial confidence. As Director of Innovation, Bobbie brings strategic vision, community insight, and a heart for service to the team. A proud Baylor graduate, Bobbie has spent the last few years helping families navigate the mortgage process with clarity and care as a Mortgage Loan Originator. Her approach centers on personalized support, meaningful relationships, and reducing barriers to homeownership across Texas. Beyond her professional expertise, Bobbie is known for her warm leadership, innovative thinking, and dedication to community connection. She believes in the power of collaboration, education, and creative problem-solving to uplift individuals and strengthen communities; a vision she brings to life through her work at EmpowerNet. As a valued member of the EmpowerNet board, she remains deeply involved in local initiatives and continually seeks opportunities to support families, entrepreneurs, and neighbors in achieving their financial and life goals.
Keith Gordon- Director of Partnerships
Keith Gordon is an East Texas native raised in Waskom, Texas. His background reflects leadership, service, and relationship-building at every level. A graduate of Texas Christian University (TCU), Keith earned his bachelor’s degree in Marketing with a minor in Spanish and later served in the United States Army, specializing in Communications—experience that shaped his strategic mindset and people-first approach. Keith currently serves as a Senior Account Executive at Goosehead Insurance, the largest independent insurance broker in Texas. He works closely with professionals across the home-buying industry, focusing on education, trust, and long-term partnerships. As Director of Partnerships & Collaborations for the, Keith brings energy, professionalism, and a genuine passion for connecting people and organizations in ways that create shared value. Deeply committed to service, he remains active in community involvement and enjoys building meaningful relationships—both personally and professionally while balancing his love for sports, travel, and giving back.
Nicole Gandy- Director of Youth Programs
Nicole Gandy serves as the Director of Youth Programs for EmpowerNet, where she is passionate about nurturing children’s ingenuity, confidence, and leadership through a faith-centered lens. Born in Tyler, Texas and raised in Bullard, Nicole’s roots in East Texas have shaped her deep love for community, service, and youth development. She is deeply committed to helping young people discover their God-given talents and understand that purpose, integrity, and service can be part of entrepreneurship from an early age. Nicole plays a key role in shaping KidPRENEUR experiences that encourage children to dream big, build practical skills, and grow in character while learning the value of perseverance and community. A proud wife and mother of four, Nicole also expresses herself through art. She enjoys painting and teaches canvas and wood painting classes, blending originality and artistry with encouragement and connection. Her heart for youth development is rooted in faith and a desire to see children grow not only as future business owners but as compassionate, purpose-driven leaders.
Gideon Gandy- Junior Ambassador
Gideon “Bunkey” Gandy is an 11-year-old balloon twister and decorator from East Texas with a rockstar kidpreneur spirit, big energy, and a heart rooted in faith. Inspired at a young age, Gideon felt called to use joy, balloons, and creativity as a way to share positive messages and encourage others. Through perseverance, learning, and strong family support, Gideon has turned his passion into purpose; twisting balloons at church events, birthday parties, community festivals, and kid entrepreneur events. As EmpowerNet’s Junior Ambassador, Gideon represents youth leadership, faith, and innovation, showing that you’re never too young to follow your calling and make a meaningful impact in your community.
