Dr. Kenneth D. Howard (Melek Moshe)
Founder
Dr. Kenneth D. Howard (Melek Moshe), the founder of Great Awakening International, one of the largest Hebraic communities within the Awakening Movement, which provides Afro-Hebraic awareness, spiritual leadership, missiology, and fosters cultural heritage preservation and education.
He is an esteemed educator, mentor, and leader with over two decades of experience in theological education, higher education, and community development. Residing in Shelby Township, Michigan, he is known for his commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that enables all individuals to thrive according to their unique abilities and talents.
Dr. Howard is married to Tawana McDowell, and they have four children. He continues to be a dedicated advocate for Torah-based education, cultural explorations, community service, and faith-driven initiatives.
With his extensive experience and unwavering dedication to teaching and mentorship, Dr. Kenneth D. Howard continues to impact on the lives of students, community members, and the broader society through his work in education and faith leadership. His commitment to creating a learning environment that respects diverse talents and abilities reflects his belief in the potential of every individual.
Moriyah Yashar’el
GAI World Missions Director
Valeria Shepherd
Assistant Director, Southern Region
Valeria Shepherd resides in Deerfield Beach, Florida. She is a devoted wife and a skilled businesswoman with expertise in business software applications. With a strong background in finance, she has experience in data processing and has worked as a real estate investor, and appraiser. Currently, Valeria is a life insurance agent, travel advisor and has been a school bus operator for over 20 years.
Valeria is no stranger to missions and believes deeply in giving back. She has a passion for helping others and is eager to serve in any capacity that allows her to assist those in need. She understands the mandate from ABBA YAHUAH to reach out to the lost sheep of Yasharel and invite them to return to Him. In humility, she embraces her calling, ready to fulfill the work she is enabled to do.
Ariyah Martin
Assistant Director Caribbean Region
AriYah Adaku Martin, a resident of Atlanta, Georgia, born and raised in the vibrant Bronx, NY. As a devoted wife and mother, she embraces her family roles with love and dedication. With over 20 years of leadership experience, AriYah is a certified life coach, a licensed realtor, and a Certified Full Spectrum Holistic Doula, reflecting her multifaceted skill set.
Driven by a profound passion for mission work, she has traveled to various countries over the decades, sharing the love and heart of Yahuah through giving, serving, singing, and teaching. Currently, AriYah serves as the Assistant Director of the Great Awakening International World Missions within the Caribbean Division, where her unwavering commitment to service continues to inspire and uplift those around her.