Meet our Founder

Noni Banks is the Founder of Flourish and Thrive Collective, a nonprofit launched in 2023 to equip women and girls with the tools to thrive through access to education, wellness, and economic opportunity. A passionate community builder and lifelong advocate for empowerment, Noni has dedicated her career to creating pathways for women to rise—transforming individual lives and strengthening entire communities.

Championing Economic Mobility

Throughout her career, Noni has been a driving force in creating economic mobility opportunities for women and underrepresented groups. From providing professional development training and coaching to launching programs that connect women to business resources, she has consistently helped others break barriers, achieve financial independence, and build sustainable futures.

Through Flourish and Thrive Collective, Noni continues this mission by ensuring women and girls not only dream bigger, but also have the skills, resources, and networks to turn those dreams into reality.

A Career Rooted in Service and Impact

Before launching Flourish and Thrive Collective, Noni served in leadership roles within nonprofits, advocacy organizations, and community initiatives. Her work has always centered on empowering others—whether helping survivors find their voice, coaching entrepreneurs to grow their businesses, or developing networks that uplift women in leadership.

Building Community That Lasts

Noni is deeply committed to the power of community. She founded initiatives like Soul Sister Circles, safe and empowering spaces where women—especially those over 40—can connect, share their experiences, and rediscover their strength and purpose. She has also built networks that foster collaboration, mentorship, and long-term success for women across industries.

Her leadership style is defined by compassion, vision, and inclusivity—creating communities where women support each other while advancing both personal and collective growth.

Recognized Leader and Advocate

Noni’s impact has been recognized nationally and locally. She was appointed to the Facebook Small Business Council, named among Smart 50 Top Executives in Central Ohio, and honored by WELD Ohio with the “Women Welding the Way” award. Her service on nonprofit and education boards further reflects her dedication to building opportunities for others.

Rooted in Purpose

With a foundation in public relations and strategic communications from Otterbein University, Noni combines expertise in storytelling, leadership, and program development with an unshakable commitment to empowerment. She calls Westerville, Ohio home, where she continues to champion a vision of women and girls not only flourishing—but thriving together.