Meet the Team

Mario Starks

Mario Starks is the founder of Skillology, a social media network and collaborative space for creative professionals. Mario's experience in the media industry fuels his passion to create new media distribution channels that empower and showcase diverse, budding talent often overlooked by traditional media outlets.

Previously, Mario was a web applications developer for Lockheed Martin and Tribune's Orlando Sentinel. He's interned for CBS Radio, assisted in game night promotions for the Orlando Magic, and most recently lead web development efforts for TV One's Way Black When online promotion, and The Nature Conservancy's Conservation Gateway in his role as Technical Director for Carousel30 Interactive.

He is a writer, musician, and aspiring filmmaker, having recently co-directed a short documentary for Docs In Progress' film production workshop.

Mario is a graduate of DeVry University, from which he holds a BSc. in Computer Information Systems, and has completed graduate course work in Business Administration.

He is based in Silver Spring, MD, recently relocated from Orlando, FL.

Connect with Mario (Skillology.com username: drskillzz) via the community.

Clarence Williams

Clarence Williams is the co-founder of Skillology, as well as an information technology specialist, community center teen supervisor, student, un-published writer, passionate traveler, devoted runner, and an aspirant world changer through social media.

Clarence is a graduate of Campbell University, from which he holds a BBA in Computer Information Systems; and a graduate of The University of Maryland University College, from which he holds a MS in Information Technology and in Cyber Security Policy and Law. Clarence was one of the first brand coaches in the VA/DC/MD area for CIP Marketing on behalf of Adidas, and was one of the first selected to become a senior brand coach. Clarence has also been involved in community based organizations such as Healthy Families, Community Builders Network, Alternatives, and Parks and Recreation  in Hampton Roads Virginia. Currently, Clarence is a Information Assurance Manager within the government, and works part-time as the Director of the Teen Community Center Program in Laurel, Maryland.

Clarence’s future endeavors are to create a summer program that encourages youth development through hands on practical experience. His intent is to cultivate a positive environment, eliminate stereotypes surrounding age and ethnicity, and foster both individual and collaborative growth.

Clarence is based in Baltimore, MD

Connect with Clarence (Skillology.com username: cdrizzle) via the community.

Daphne Charles

Daphne Charles serves as a writer and editor for Skillology. She has worked with youth for the past 8 years in various capacities, with a heart for enhancing the possibilities for their lives and the lives of those around them. She is confident that through faith, diligence, and a firm belief in possibilities, dreams do indeed come true and all good things for people, society, and the world...can truly come to fruition. After graduating with a B.S. degree in Public Relations/Journalism from the University of Florida, Daphne worked at Hope Beckham, Inc. Public Relations Firm in Atlanta, GA on teams serving clients such as Caribou Coffee, Stainmaster Carpet, and local law firms. As a motivational speaker with Making It Count, Inc., she spoke to over 4,000 students in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina about the impact of decision-making and in regards to opportunities associated with pursuing a college education.

In educational nonprofits in Florida, Georgia, and Washington, D.C., she has played a role in project management, event planning, program development, recruitment, community outreach, and marketing. This includes her recent roles as Project Manager and Director of Community Mobilization for LevelTen: A Movement to Close the Achievement Gap— a nonprofit organization formerly located in Washington, D.C.

Daphne obtained an M.S. Ed. from the University of Pennsylvania. Her work in the School District of Philadelphia and District of Columbia Public Schools signifies her sincere dedication to impacting the lives of youth so that they can, in turn, greatly impact their own communities.

She is based in Silver Spring, MD, though originally from North Miami Beach, FL.

Connect with Daphne (Skillology.com username: themotivator) via the community.

Christina Sturdivant

Christina Sturdivant serves as a writer for Skillology. She is a mother, social-entrepreneur and student of life.

She currently serves as the Executive Director of “Delivering Resources to Empower A Mother’s Life (D.R.E.A.M. Life) Inc.” D.R.E.A.M. Life is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, which provides mentorship and resources to young, single mothers in the DC metro area.

Christina has a passion for writing and sharing her knowledge with others striving for success. She cultivates her awareness through volunteerism, believing that hands-on experience is the best way to grasp the intricacies of society. She spends time working with local non-profit organizations, mentoring programs, political campaigns and small businesses.

However, she finds the most comfort in life through friendships, religion, Starbucks, romantic comedies, cupcakes and sushi.

Christina attended Hampton University for 3 years and is continuing her academic pursuit in her hometown of Washington, DC.