Our Team
Cathy L. Parker — Founder, Special Projects & Community Advisor
Since I was a little girl, I knew I was placed on this Earth to make an impact in the lives of others while dreaming of someday owning a business to call my own. Little did I know, I would own several! With wonderful parents, deep ambition, and the grace of God, life has provided incredible blessings that have allowed me to pour into others while creating beauty in the world through art, philanthropy, and entrepreneurship. As a two-time breast cancer survivor with over 10 years of counseling experience, I understand the challenges involved with traumatic life events and strive to encourage others in their lives. Any obstacle can be faced successfully and setbacks are not meant to define us. Instead, they are teachable moments meant to redirect us towards greater paths and greener pastures. I am a walking testament of this truth and know firsthand that miracles exist. Everyone loves to see victory in unexpected ways!
As a free spirit, being a vocal BoPo advocate for the fair treatment of individuals impacted by traumatic events is embedded in my essence. On such an unanticipated journey, I once lost myself, my hair, my identity, and my self-worth. I have lost my career, battled with insurance companies, and encountered many other health scares, yetam still standing as a survivor with a renewed purpose. Through the many traumatic experiences I’ve faced, I’ve overcome each setback as a stronger person, and I envision a future helping others achieve the same goal.
Akira Faltz — President
Akira Faltz is the President of IROCKMYSCARS, Founder of AkiraJanee, an esthetics business that empowers clients through personalized skincare and self-love, and a Grant Analyst with extensive experience in nonprofit work and community outreach. As President, Akira provides vision and leadership, guiding the organization’s strategy, programs, and partnerships to ensure that survivors—our Rebels—receive the resources and support they need. She plays a key role in building community connections, overseeing initiatives like retreats, housing assistance, and creative workshops, and ensuring the mission is carried out with excellence and integrity. Through both IROCKMYSCARS and AkiraJanee, she is committed to transforming scars into symbols of strength and fostering a lifelong practice of healing, empowerment, and self-love.
Zarrelle Dowtin – Treasurer
Zarrelle Dowtin serves as the Treasurer of IROCKMYSCARS. A proud graduate of Old Dominion University, she brings a strong background in Human Services, Advocacy, and Logistics to the organization. With her diverse expertise, Zarrelle helps ensure the organization’s financial stewardship while supporting programs that empower survivors and strengthen communities. She is dedicated to advancing the mission of transforming scars into symbols of strength through both service and accountability.
Kathleen Parker – Secretary
Kathleen Parker serves as the Secretary of IROCKMYSCARS, bringing with her over 50 years of experience in Human Services. Deeply connected to the community in Nottoway County, she has dedicated her career to supporting individuals and families through advocacy, resources, and compassionate care. Skilled in administrative work, Kathleen plays a vital role in maintaining organizational records and communication, ensuring the responsibilities of Secretary are carried out with accuracy, integrity, and dedication to the mission of transforming scars into symbols of strength.
Deborah Shular – Vice President
Deborah Shular serves as the Vice President of IROCKMYSCARS, bringing leadership, dedication, and a strong commitment to the organization’s mission. In her role, she supports the President in guiding strategy, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that programs such as healing retreats, housing assistance, and creative workshops continue to uplift and empower Rebels. With a passion for community impact and survivor advocacy, Deborah helps ensure the organization operates with integrity and purpose while transforming scars into symbols of strength.
Kelsey ‘Sey’ Smith — Marketing and Administrative Lead
Sey is a passionate advocate for turning stories of survival into beacons of strength. As the Marketing and Administrative Lead for IROCKMYSCARS, she channels her personal journey as a young breast cancer survivor since 2015 into creating content that empowers and connects the community. With a passion for authentic storytelling, Sey is dedicated to crafting content that resonates, fosters hope, and encourages purposeful living. As the Founder and CEO of Sey Your Vision, Sey cultivates a brand dedicated to helping others live with noble intention and find power in their voice.
Support Staff and Outside Partnerships
The strength of IROCKMYSCARS extends beyond our leadership team to include our dedicated support staff and valued community partners. Together, they play an essential role in bringing our mission to life—whether through coordinating programs, assisting survivors directly, or collaborating with organizations and businesses to expand resources. Their commitment ensures that every initiative, from retreats to housing assistance, is carried out with care, integrity, and impact. By working hand in hand, our support staff and partners help transform scars into symbols of strength.