About Us
Why We Started
We founded Next Level Life & Business Alliance in 2026 as a community-rooted nonprofit dedicated to helping underserved adults, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits in the Birmingham metro area. Grounded in equity, dignity, and practical support, we work to remove barriers so more people can access tools, training, and opportunities that lead to lasting financial stability and business growth. Through culturally responsive programs and partnerships, our mission is to empower individuals and organizations to turn their vision into sustainable, real-world results.
Led By Experience
Drawing on Executive Director Paije Frazier’s 25 years of hands-on experience in workforce development, financial education, and business strategy, our team delivers practical, trauma-informed coaching that meets people where they are. We help American entrepreneurs and leaders across the United States navigate real-world challenges — such as job transitions, financial instability, and stalled business growth — and transform them into clear next steps, steady income, and lasting confidence. These services not only change individual lives, but also strengthen national organizations and communities across the United States. With a commitment to dignity, cultural responsiveness, and high-quality support, we walk alongside each client to ensure they feel prepared, empowered, and equipped to achieve sustainable progress.
Why Our Story Matters
Next Level Life is a nonprofit organization that works alongside American entrepreneurs and leaders across the United States who are ready to create meaningful change. We offer life coaching, small group classes, and practical business guidance to help you build skills, increase income, and move forward with clarity. Our mission is simple: ensure that you don’t have to navigate growth alone. Visit our services page to see how we can support your next step.
Paije Frazier - Executive Director
Paije Frazier is a workforce development and business strategy leader with more than 25 years of experience helping individuals, small businesses, and national organizations achieve measurable results.
She has led more than 500 workshops and coached hundreds of participants, supporting job readiness, financial stability, and capital access — particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic — through hands-on, practical training.
Known for her execution-focused approach, Paije collaborates with nonprofits, schools, economic development organizations, and leaders across the United States to deliver participant-centered programs that drive real-world impact, long-term business success, and economic independence.
Board of Directors - Members
Dexter Cunningham
Chair
Seasoned public safety leader and current Pension Board Trustee with more than three decades of experience in law enforcement, risk management, and executive security leadership. Director of Public Safety and Security Manager for major institutions, including Children's of Alabama, where he oversaw operations, conducted risk assessments, managed large security teams, and implemented high-level safety protocols for medical and public environments. Serves as a Trustee on both the City of Birmingham Police and Fire Supplemental Pension Board and the Retirement & Relief Pension Board, playing a critical role in overseeing the stewardship of more than $1.2 billion in pension assets.
Rachel Poovey
Board Vice Chair
Dedicated educational leader with more than 30 years of experience serving students, families, educators, and communities across Alabama. Currently serves as Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning for Trussville City Schools, providing leadership across academic programs, student services, professional learning, and district improvement initiatives. Previously served as special education teacher, instructional coach, principal, district supervisor, and assistant superintendent.
Malina McAfee
Secretary
Account Manager, Client Partner of Customer Success and Account Executive with a proven track record of success in Enterprise Sales.
Denise Lewis
Board Member, Treasurer
Marcus McAfee, MBA
Assistant Treasurer,
Account, Business Development & Customer Success Manager in the LED and Display Technology Industry.
Dr. Vanessa Warner-Davis
Board Member
Director of Student Affairs at Concorde Career Colleges, Denver, CO.
Dr. Michael Wesley, Sr.
Board Member
Experienced Senior Pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. Skilled in Nonprofit Organizations, Coaching, Pastoral Counseling, Conflict Resolution, and Team Building. Strong community and social services professional with a Doctor of Ministry focused in Pastoral Leadership from Louisiana Baptist Theological Seminary.
Ray Carter, J.D.
Board Member
Rose Walker
Board Member
Retired Professional Development Officer.
Our Mission Focus
We provide accessible, trauma-informed coaching and technical assistance that help people stabilize life, secure meaningful work, and strengthen small businesses and nonprofits.
Our Vision For Communities
We envision thriving communities across the United States where under-resourced individuals, entrepreneurs, and organizations achieve stability, quality employment, and sustainable enterprises.