Description

Free parking is available in the parking lot. 

SPEAKERS

MODERATOR

James Jeter | Skyla Credit Union | AVP of Community Development

James Jeter is the AVP of Community Development at Skyla Credit Union, where he leads business development and community engagement strategies. With over 10 years of experience in community development, James is passionate about fostering collaboration and creating impactful solutions.

Before joining Skyla, he played a key role in planning and implementing collective impact initiatives at the United Way of York County, SC. His leadership was essential in achieving the organization’s mission and strategic goals, effectively addressing critical community needs.

At Skyla, James focuses on expanding financial wellness through strategic partnerships and educational initiatives. He drives member acquisition and engagement by conducting financial wellness presentations and providing training for retail employees to ensure seamless member experience.

James is actively involved in the community as a board member of the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce and serves as the board Chair of Habitat for Humanity York County. His leadership consistently aligns organizational strategies with community needs to drive meaningful change.

PANELISTS

Michael Orzech | Charlotte Area Chamber of Commerce | Chief Operating Officer

In 2003, Michael Orzech made the decision to leave the corporate world and start his own business. Guided by his mentor with over 20 years of experience and influenced by the business books he was reading at the time; Michael was encouraged to join his local Chamber of Commerce — advice that would ultimately shape the trajectory of his professional journey.

Within his first year in business, Michael was serving on the board of one Chamber, a member of another, and considering joining a third, when he and his family decided to relocate to Charlotte. Upon arriving, one of his first actions was to join the legacy Charlotte Chamber, along with several other membership-based organizations. For several years, approximately sixty percent of his business came directly from the connections he built through Chamber involvement.

The legacy Chamber’s engagement with local government also opened new doors, allowing Michael to serve for six years on the Mayor’s Business Advisory Committee as a Chamber representative. He also dedicated six years to the Board of the University City Chapter, served as a Chamber Ambassador and Connector, contributed to the annual campaign for ten years, and volunteered on numerous committees for special events. Through these experiences, he not only grew his business but also developed lifelong friendships and a deep appreciation for community collaboration.

When the opportunity arose to create a new Chamber of Commerce, colleagues and friends encouraged Michael and his team to move forward — recognizing the need for a fresh, inclusive, and dynamic business network in Charlotte. As the Chief Operating Officer of the Charlotte Area Chamber of Commerce, Michael remains committed to helping people connect and grow. His vision is to build a strong, supportive business community that uplifts local businesses and strengthens the economic fabric of the Charlotte region for years to come.

Chris Vasami | Founder, Vasami Training | Speaker | Coach 

Chris Vasami has loved baseball for as long as he can remember. From playing in the backyard as a kid to competing through college and into professional ball, the game shaped who he is. Baseball taught him discipline, identity, pressure, and resilience — lessons that would later influence his work far beyond the field.

While chasing his dream in professional baseball, Chris discovered that his true passion wasn’t just playing the game — it was helping others grow through it. At just 20 years old, he founded Vasami Training, driven by the belief that athletic development is about more than mechanics; it’s about building strong, self-aware individuals. That mission became even more personal in 2017, when Chris was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. At the time of his diagnosis, Chris’s business was gaining momentum — but life forced him to pause. That moment changed everything. He stopped waiting for “someday” and began showing up with purpose — for his family, his clients, and eventually for audiences who could learn from his journey.

Chris doesn’t speak to perform; he speaks to connect. Having lived through adversity and growth, he shares real, hard-earned insights about mindset, identity, and leadership — in sports, business, and life. His message helps others move from pressure to purpose, from merely surviving to truly owning their story.

Outside of his work, Chris is simply a family man who values the small things. He lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, with his wife, Paige, and their two daughters, Lanie and Georgia. He enjoys working out, reading, and taking road trips — and he’s learned that true greatness is found not in the spotlight, but in the small wins that make up everyday life.

Jonathan C Chow, AAMS | Edward Jones | Financial Advisor

Jonathan Chow’s mission is simple yet powerful: to connect, serve, and inspire. He is dedicated to building genuine relationships within the community — meeting people where they are in life and walking alongside them on their financial journeys. With a deep commitment to providing knowledge, resources, and guidance, Jonathan helps individuals pursue their goals and move toward financial freedom. His ultimate hope is that, in achieving financial confidence, clients are inspired to invest more deeply in their families and communities.

Although not originally from Charlotte, Jonathan proudly considers himself a true Charlottean after living in the city since 1996. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Following graduation, he was honored to serve with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, first as a patrol officer and later in investigations. After a decade of service, his heart led him to a new way of protecting and serving — helping families safeguard and grow their financial well-being through Edward Jones.

Outside of his professional life, Jonathan and his wife, Morgan, are proud parents to two sons — Lex (3) and Cal (8 months) — who keep them joyfully busy. Together, they enjoy traveling, spending time outdoors, and serving their community. At the heart of their family is a shared desire to love and serve others well.

As a financial advisor with Edward Jones, Jonathan looks forward to partnering with clients to help them pursue their lifelong goals and dreams. His mission is to empower families with confidence, clarity, and freedom — and to inspire them to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those around them.