Owner
ACTPhotoMedia
Brilliant Entrepreneur
Aleka Thrash's mission is to cultivate beautiful experiences of authenticity that inspire and influence others through multimedia. Aleka is known for her blog, NaturallyACT, that encourages the importance of self-care both inside and out. She feels privileged to use her gift of noticing the inner beauty in others and portraying that beauty through her multimedia creative agency, ACTPhotoMedia. Aleka is the co-founder of Kinky Hair Connection, an annual event created to support and encourage a natural hair lifestyle. In addition, Aleka serves as a committee member for Our African American Heritage Fund with the Grand Rapids Community Foundation. Her goal is to encourage everyone to embrace who they were born to be, naturally!
Aleka Thrash
- Details
- Category: Brilliance Awards Finalists 2021
From this issue

Catherine Ripley—a trailblazing entrepreneur, mentor, and advocate for women in technology and business—is the 2025 Brilliance Awards Woman of the Year.

It's truly West Michigan's time to shine; when the sun is shining, birds are singing, and spending time outdoors is (rightfully so) the only thing many of us want to do. If your outdoor space at home could use some sprucing up in order to make it the sun-drenched place you've always dreamt of, keep reading.

It's that time of year when being outside is the goal whenever possible. Thankfully, West Michigan has plenty of offerings to fit the bill. When it comes to enjoying some culinary delights and libations, consider indulging at these irresistible outdoor options.

With over 30 years of philanthropic leadership, Michelle Rabideau, CFRE, MPA, has raised over $125 million for causes in healthcare, education, and women's empowerment.