our founders
Meet the Founders:
Michelle Lamese Williams and April Moye
Together, Michelle and April are leading the charge to establish Divergent Academy as a premier educational institution dedicated to empowering scholars and fostering creativity. With their combined expertise, passion, and dedication, they are shaping the future of education in South Los Angeles and beyond.
Our team of dedicated educators and support staff are committed to providing students with a supportive and nurturing learning
environment. With expertise in their respective fields and a passion for teaching and mentorship, they play a crucial role in guiding and inspiring students to reach their full potential.
From experienced teachers to talented artists and industry professionals, our faculty and staff bring diverse perspectives and
backgrounds to the classroom, enriching the educational experience and creating opportunities for students to learn, grow, and succeed.
At Divergent Academy, we believe in the power of teamwork and collaboration to achieve our goals and make a positive impact in the lives of our students and the community. We are proud to introduce our team and invite you to join us on this exciting journey of learning and discovery.
MICHELLE LAMESE WILLIAMS
Lamese Williams is a seasoned figure in the entertainment industry, boasting over 15 years of experience in casting,
production, and consulting. As a founding member of Capital Preparatory Harlem Charter School in partnership with
Sean Diddy Combs and Dr. Steve Perry, Lamese played a pivotal role in establishing an institution focused on academic
excellence and community empowerment.
Starting her career as a casting and executive assistant to renowned casting director Reuben Cannon, Lamese
contributed to the success of iconic projects like “The Bernie Mac Show” and “My Wife and Kids.” She later co-founded
Freeze Frame Entertainment, producing notable films such as “Moola” and “Blackout,” starring Michael B. Jordan.
Throughout her career, Lamese has lent her expertise to various film and TV projects, including “Question of Faith,” “The
Sin Seer,” and “The Suspect.” Her latest film, "Holiday Hideaway," premiered on BET+ Thanksgiving 2022.
Originally from Brooklyn, NY, Lamese earned her Bachelor’s in Mass Communication from Rollins College in Florida. Her
commitment to underserved communities was solidified during her tenure with Bad Boy Entertainment, where she co-
founded Capital Prep Harlem.
Currently based in Los Angeles, CA, Lamese is a member of the Producers Guild of America (PGA), continuing her
mission to make a positive impact through her work in the entertainment industry and education
APRIL RENEE MOYE
With over 17 years of experience in education, I have over 5 years as a specialist in Curriculum and Instruction. Earning my
Master in Teaching from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical Institution, I earnestly understand that experience in the field
is necessary to support the knowledge. With my education career beginning in Charlotte, North Carolina, I have been committed
to scholars as a classroom educator, earning Teacher of the Year within 5 years of teaching, being a coach to entry level
educators, leading a school as Dean of Academics, leading a cohort of schools as Curriculum Specialist in History and Social
Justice.
With my knowledge as a Curriculum Specialist, we will ensure that we are including past, present, and current events in all subject
areas along with equity,equality, and social justice being at the forefront of our academic curriculum. Each curriculum will be
designed to ensure that each scholar has a plan of study that is relative to their academic success and their growth in the arts.
As a person with an affinity for vocal performance and over 15 years of vocal training, I understand the importance of consistency
and the resiliency required to accomplish achievements in the arts. Although each respective artistic expression varies in its
specific approach, the character of being steadfast, diligent, consistent, and resilient permeates through all of the arts and in life.
With my depth of knowledge in education, curriculum and instruction along with my training and achievements in vocal
performance, I am thrilled to embark on this journey to engage and encourage scholars academically with an additional focus on
developing a creative journey that will change their lives and aid in them becoming change agents for our community.
