Kim L. Smith

Kim Smith is the Founder and CEO of Z.O.O.M International Women’s Outreach & Empowerment, an organization dedicated to community outreach, leadership development, empowerment initiatives, and family centered support programs. With a passion for service and advocacy, Kim has devoted her life to uplifting individuals and strengthening communities through mentorship, education, and outreach.

A native of Denver, Colorado, Kim relocated to Summerville, South Carolina with her husband, Terrence Smith, to whom she has been married for more than 34 years. Together, they are proud parents of three daughters; Andrea, Tinisha, and Tierra as well as loving grandparents to seven grandchildren.

Kim brings more than two decades of leadership, labor relations, and community engagement experience. She worked for over 24 years at Westvaco Papermill in North Charleston, South Carolina, where she became actively involved in union leadership and advocacy. Her dedication and leadership led to her being elected as the first African American female president of her local union, serving in that role for more than eleven years. Following her success, she was appointed as the first female International Staff Representative within her district after the merger of the United Steelworkers Union (USW).

Committed to lifelong learning and professional development, Kim has earned degrees in Business Management, Theology, and Christian & Biblical Counseling. She was selected in 2011 to attend Harvard University, where she received a certificate in Labor Studies. She has also completed leadership and labor studies programs through the United Steelworkers and Wayne State University. Throughout her academic journey, Kim achieved Magna Cum Laude and Summa Cum Laude honors and was inducted as an honorary member of Phi Theta Kappa after being recognized on the International Dean’s List.

In recent years, Kim further expanded her expertise by earning certifications in Adult and Youth Mental Health First Aid, reinforcing her commitment to advocacy, wellness, and community support. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she actively pursued additional educational opportunities in leadership, personal development, and community empowerment to better serve others during a critical time.

Through her leadership, professional accomplishments, and dedication to service, Kim continues to inspire and empower individuals to walk confidently in their purpose while creating meaningful change within families and communities.

Salley Palmer

Salley Palmer is a dedicated leader, mentor, and community advocate with decades of experience in administration, financial oversight, and organizational leadership. Known for her professionalism, integrity, and servant leadership, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to every role she serves.

Salley has been married to Leland Palmer for more than 37 years. Together, they have built a strong and loving blended family, including two biological children, four bonus children, seventeen grandchildren, and twenty-four great-grandchildren. Family remains one of the most important foundations of her life, and she values creating lasting memories and meaningful relationships with loved ones.

A trailblazer throughout her professional career, Salley made history as the first African American secretary employed at the Berkeley/Charleston/Dorchester Technical Education Center prior to its transition into an accredited college institution. She later retired from Trident Technical College after more than 35 years of dedicated service as an Administrative Assistant and Office Manager. Throughout her tenure, Salley earned recognition for her leadership, professionalism, and commitment to excellence. Her exceptional work ethic and positive influence among her peers led to her being selected as Staff Support Person of the Year, representing the college at the annual South Carolina Technical Education Association conference.

Following retirement, Salley continued her commitment to education and leadership by serving as the college’s retiree representative on the Board of Directors for the South Carolina Technical Education Association. Over the course of her career, she received numerous awards and certificates recognizing her outstanding performance, leadership abilities, and administrative excellence.

Salley is deeply passionate about mentorship, volunteerism, and community service. For many years, she has served as a mentor to young girls, helping guide and encourage future generations through wisdom, support, and leadership. She also actively volunteers with various organizations and enjoys spending quality time with family, friends, and her community.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Salley serves as a Notary Public for the State of South Carolina and has held leadership roles at both the district and local levels within the United Methodist Women’s Organization. She is a faithful member of New Francis Brown United Methodist Church, where she has served on multiple committees and ministry initiatives throughout the years.

Salley currently serves on the Board of Directors for Z.O.O.M International Women’s Outreach & Empowerment as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). In this role, she is responsible for helping ensure fiscal accountability, financial stewardship, and organizational sustainability while supporting the organization’s mission and long-term goals.

With a heart for service and a legacy of leadership, Salley continues to make a meaningful impact through mentorship, community involvement, and organizational leadership.