About Us

The Young People’s Guild began in 1977, providing piano lessons under the tutelage of Mrs. Joyce White-Tasby. The curriculum soon expanded to other disciplines in academia and the performing Arts. These include dance, drama, sign language, modeling, and tutoring.
Mrs. White-Tasby is credited for the coordination of the first sign language choir for the deaf and impaired. Also, there was the first bell choir to perform at an African American Church (Third Baptist Church) in Portsmouth, Virginia.
The Young People’s Guild created and sponsored the Mr./Miss Extraordinary Talent Pageant. This Pageant emphasizes talent, character, community service, and has participants throughout the Hampton Roads Area.

Board of Directors

Board of Directors
Joyce P. White-Tasby
Chairperson and Executive Director

Brenda Andrews-Brooks
Editor-In-Chief of the New Journal Guide

Dr. Benjamin Berry
Virginia Wesley College

Joyce Stringfield
Assistant Administrator, M.P.A.

Dr. Michael Porter
Pastor of Twine Memorial Holy Temple

Anna Brinkley
Co-owner of Brinkley and Thornton Air Conditioning and Refrigeration

Reginald Griffin
Past-treasurer and Vice-President of Local 1248

Mr. Arthur Tasby
Pastor of St. Luke Community Center