TALK Greenville Highlights Upstate Leaders in 2026 Most Beautiful Profiles

TALK Greenville’s 2026 “25 Most Beautiful” feature recognizes people whose service, leadership and compassion strengthen the Upstate community. The profiles highlight LaTonya Phillips’s work expanding opportunity through Habitat for Humanity, Hannah Clements Kinser’s efforts to create more inclusive community experiences through David’s Table, and Caroline Ko’s volunteer service and emphasis on integrity. Melissa Morrell funds access to breast health care in honor of her mother, while Asha McMillian supports women and mothers through counseling and community work. Other honorees advance well-being and confidence through financial guidance, nutrition, personal style, acupuncture, fitness and community programs, including the work of Felicia Littlejohn, Brittany Jones, Fran Jolson and Valentina Izurieta. Across the profiles, honorees describe beauty as kindness, purposeful service, inclusion and using their talents to help others thrive.
LaTonya Phillips says her motto is, “No doesn’t always mean no; it sometimes means not right now,” and argues that belief—not ability—is often the biggest obstacle to people reaching their potential.
Melissa Morrell’s Team Sammie Breast Cancer Foundation provides funds to the Pearlie Harris Center for Breast Health for women who need care; she says she began the effort with no nonprofit experience, guided by a promise to honor her mother.
Asha McMillian says she made a mid-career move into counseling and entrepreneurship despite lacking clarity, relying on faith to make the transition. She also volunteers with Postpartum Support International and Mint to Be Carolinas.
Felicia Littlejohn, author of “The Season of Yes,” says her daily mantra is, “To whom much is given, much is required.” She connects that principle to helping clients find financial peace of mind and serving her community.
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