Essence Keys, born and raised on the West Side of Chicago, is a dynamic business leader, bestselling author, vocalist, actress, and model committed to empowering families and strengthening communities. She serves as Vice President of her children’s Parent Leadership Council and co-runs Expedient Tax Service alongside her husband, Stephen T. Keys, serving as Co-Founder and Vice President of Operations. Together, they help families build financial confidence during tax season and beyond. A graduate of Eastern Illinois University with a degree in Corporate Communications, Essence is the creator of the Unlock Your Crown empowerment workshops. Her bestselling book, You Got This Mommy, Just Breathe: How to Pivot With Purpose, has inspired over 50,000 mothers worldwide. Crowned International Mrs. Midwest USA 2024, she represented her community on global stages, speaking and performing in Dubai, and was later recognized internationally as Author of the Year in Hong Kong. She continues a legacy of excellence as a cousin of Mahalia Jackson. A proud wife and mother of two sons, Stephen and Jeremiah, she will be inducted/awarded on Friday, March 20, as a 2026 honoree of the Chicago Defender Women of Excellence Awards.